Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday presented India’s roadmap for several major G20-led initiatives at the 20th G20 Summit in Johannesburg. He called on member nations to act together against drug-linked terrorism, strengthen global health preparedness, and boost skill development across Africa.

Speaking during the first plenary session on inclusive and sustainable growth, Modi emphasised that countries must dismantle the links between illegal drugs and terror funding. “To overcome the challenge of drug trafficking, especially the spread of extremely dangerous substances like fentanyl, India proposes a G20 Initiative on Countering the Drug–Terror Nexus. Let us weaken the wretched drug-terror economy,” he said.

To overcome the challenge of drug trafficking, especially the spread of extremely dangerous substances like fentanyl, India proposes a G20 Initiative on Countering the Drug–Terror Nexus. Let us weaken the wretched drug-terror economy!

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 22, 2025

Plan to Break Drug–Terror Networks

Modi’s proposed initiative aims to merge financial, governance and security tools so that countries can disrupt narcotics networks that supply terrorism. The idea is to create a shared global effort rather than separate national actions.

Call for a Global Healthcare Response Team

Modi also recommended forming a G20 Global Healthcare Response Team. The group would bring together highly trained medical experts from G20 nations who can be quickly deployed during pandemics, disasters or health emergencies. He explained, “We are stronger when we work together in the face of health emergencies and natural disasters.”

Strong Focus on Africa’s Development

Reaffirming India’s long-standing partnership with Africa, Modi said Africa’s advancement is essential for global progress. He reminded the gathering that India had championed Africa’s entry into the G20 last year.
“India has always stood in solidarity with Africa. I am proud of the fact that it was during India’s G20 Presidency that the African Union became a permanent G20 member,” he said.

To build skills across the continent, Modi proposed a G20-Africa Skills Multiplier Initiative. The goal, he said, should be to train “1 million certified trainers in Africa within the next decade.”

Traditional Knowledge Repository Proposed

Modi further suggested creating a G20 Global Traditional Knowledge Repository. He highlighted that India’s civilisational heritage includes rich traditional knowledge. “India has a rich history in this regard. This will help us pass on our collective wisdom to further good health and wellbeing,” he said.

Revisiting Development Models

In his opening remarks, Modi wrote on X that “NOW is the right moment for us to revisit our development parameters and focus on growth that is inclusive and sustainable.” He added that India’s principle of Integral Humanism “offers a way forward.”
He said he had shared “a few actionables to realise our dream of all-round growth,” beginning with the traditional knowledge repository to help nations strengthen well-being through shared ancient systems.