The G20 (Group of Twenty) is a global platform of nineteen countries alongside the European Union. The collective economic strength of its members accounts for approximately 80% of the world’s economic output while encompassing two thirds of the global population. Formed in 1999, the G20 was founded to advance international financial stability and foster sustainable economic growth.
An integral component of the G20 structure is its annual summits when leaders from the member nations convene to engage in comprehensive discussions concerning worldwide economic matters. During these summits, strategic decisions are made regarding policies and measures. Remarkably, the privilege of hosting the summit rotates among the member countries every year.
At present, India holds the esteemed presidency of the G20 and is committed to shaping global economic policies and contributing to the forum’s pivotal role in ensuring a stable and prosperous global economic landscape.
With more than 65% of the nation’s population residing in rural regions where the poverty rate stands at a significant 32.75%, in contrast to the 8.81% in urban areas*(2), a crucial necessity is an unwavering commitment to prioritize rural development. This blog illuminates why and how this collective effort is essential to unlock India’s authentic growth potential and uplift its entire populace.
The G20 Agenda Can Influence Rural India
While the G20 primarily addresses macroeconomic and international financial issues that might not be immediately evident, its decisions and initiatives have ripple effects on rural areas. Initiatives taken globally will create an enabling environment that indirectly benefits rural communities.
A few ways:
Agriculture and Food Security. G20 discussions on agriculture, trade, and food security affect rural India’s agricultural practices and livelihoods. Policies related to subsidies, trade regulations, and investment in agriculture influence the income and well-being of rural farmers.
Rural Employment. G20 efforts to promote economic growth and job creation indirectly impact rural India by creating demand for products manufactured in rural areas. Enhanced economic conditions stimulate rural employment opportunities and boost local industries.
Infrastructure Development. G20 discussions on infrastructure investment lead to funding and projects that improve rural infrastructure, such as roads, electricity, and connectivity. Improved infrastructure attracts businesses to rural areas and improves overall living conditions.
Climate Change and Environment. G20 commitments to climate change mitigation and environmental sustainability positively affect rural India. Initiatives promoting renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and ecological conservation directly benefit rural communities.
Financial Inclusion. G20 discussions on financial inclusion and digitalization promote access to financial services for rural populations. This improves rural individuals’ and businesses’ credit, savings, and insurance access.
Health and Education. While not directly related to G20’s economic agenda, overall economic improvement indirectly influences rural health and education. Increased resources and investments in these sectors lead to better healthcare facilities and educational opportunities in rural areas.
Reduced Inequalities. G20’s emphasis on reducing inequalities in economic growth indirectly benefit rural India by addressing urban-rural disparities. Policies and initiatives that promote equitable growth improve the standard of living and opportunities in rural regions.
Trade and Exports. G20 discussions on trade policies and global economic cooperation impact rural India’s export-oriented industries. Favorable trade conditions boost exports of agricultural products and handicrafts from rural areas.
Reduce Digital Divide. G20 initiatives promoting technology transfer and innovation lead to adopting advanced agricultural practices and rural technologies. This enhances productivity and income in rural communities.
Social Safety Nets. G20 discussions on social safety nets and poverty reduction influence policies and programs that target vulnerable populations in rural India. Efforts to improve social protection systems provide a safety net for rural individuals and families.
NGOs function as strategists and executors of developmental initiatives. These organizations also act as intermediaries between the populace and the government, serving as conduits for effective communication and collaborations such as the one mentioned above. They play a pivotal role in harnessing local resources for constructive purposes. By aiding in the creation of self-sufficient and enduring communities, NGOs contribute to the establishment of a self-reliant and sustainable societal framework.
S M Sehgal Foundation
Since 1999, S M Sehgal Foundation (Sehgal Foundation) has been enhancing the living standards of rural communities in India. As the top rural development NGO, S M Sehgal Foundation has a devoted team that conceptualizes and implements sustainable programs that tackle the most urgent challenges faced by rural India. Their overarching objective is to fortify community-driven development endeavors to facilitate constructive social, economic, and environmental transformations across rural regions of the country.
Farm Mechanization – Reinventing Agriculture With New Farming Practices
Contrary to the common belief that small landholding farmers don’t benefit from mechanization, S M Sehgal Foundation team has proven that successful mechanization is achievable through proper training and shareable infrastructure. One highlighted practice is direct-seeded rice (DSR), a cost-effective method that eliminates the need for constant transplanting and excessive water usage. Zero tillage machines are pivotal, allowing for efficient direct seeding and saving time, labor, and costs. The foundation educates and trains farmers to utilize these modern practices for maximum impact.
Addressing The Digital Divide In Education
S M Sehgal Foundation has an innovative model called “Transform Lives, one school at a time”
Empower The Community Toward The Education Of Children
Community empowerment is a vital component of this model that encompasses multifaceted initiatives beginning with training the School Management Committee (SMC), nurturing community champions within the Village Development Committee (VDC), and empowering adolescent schoolchildren as youth champions. The continuity of school improvement efforts is assured by fostering an empowered panchayat.
The results of this transformative endeavor are evident and impressive. Approximately 70% of schools have sustained their enhanced infrastructure. The impact of this initiative is exemplified by the enduring maintenance of the first renovated school in Santhawadi, Nuh district, Haryana, even eleven years after its 2009 refurbishment. The VDC and SMC continue to convene regular meetings, addressing school-related concerns long after S M Sehgal Foundation’s direct involvement. The cadre of youth champions actively engages in community initiatives such as immunization and school enrollment drives. Moreover, trained SMCs now formulate annual school development plans for submission to district education officers. Notably, Bukharkha School in Nuh district, Haryana, received funding beyond the allocated amount due to the government’s deep appreciation of their exceptional work.
The profound impact of the Transform Lives one school at a time initiative is substantiated by notable statistics. Schools benefiting from this program have witnessed an enrollment increase of approximately 12% and a commendable reduction of about 10% in absenteeism. These outcomes underscore the model’s success in improving educational accessibility and quality for rural communities.
Contact us 
Sign up for