Book Review: ‘How India Scaled MT G20’ by Amitabh Kant

Book Title: How India Scaled MT G20: The Inside Story of The G20 Presidency
Author: Amitabh Kant
Publisher: Rupa Publications India
Number of Pages: 256
ISBN: 978-9361568381
Date Published: Jan. 1, 2025
Price: INR 449

Book Review

Amitabh Kant’s insightful new book – “How India Scaled MT G20: The Inside Story of The G20 Presidency” offers an interesting account of India’s tenure as G20 president, highlighting its pivotal role in reshaping global governance amidst geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainties, and climate challenges. Framed under the guiding principle of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’—“One Earth, One Family, One Future”—the book underscores India’s commitment to inclusivity, particularly for the Global South. Kant details India’s diplomatic triumphs, from hosting the Voice of Global South Summit to securing the African Union’s full membership, positioning the nation as a leading advocate for equitable global dialogue. Through meticulous research and firsthand experiences, he illustrates how Prime Minister Modi’s leadership steered India toward landmark agreements such as the Green Development Pact, emphasizing sustainable progress and strategic global partnerships.

The book delves into India’s proactive initiatives in sustainable development, digital transformation, and economic resilience, offering an in-depth look at the negotiations that reinforced its global influence. Kant provides a behind-the-scenes perspective on the intricate diplomacy that defined India’s G20 presidency, particularly in the wake of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. His analysis sheds light on India’s balancing act—asserting its diplomatic independence while fostering international cooperation. By weaving together historical context and contemporary developments, Kant not only documents India’s achievements but also presents a forward-looking vision for cooperative governance in an increasingly interconnected world.

Amitabh Kant also unpacks the structural mechanisms of the G20, explaining the roles of the Sherpa Track, Finance Track, and working groups that address pressing global challenges. Unlike other multilateral organizations that rely on voting, the G20 operates on consensus-building, a process that requires strategic negotiations and diplomatic finesse. India’s presidency expanded the scope of these discussions, bringing critical issues like climate change, digital transformation, and inclusive economic growth to the forefront. As the book reveals, India’s emphasis on cultural diplomacy and grassroots engagement ensured that its presidency was not merely about high-level summits but also about amplifying diverse voices and fostering local-global connections.

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A defining feature of India’s G20 leadership, as Kant illustrates, was its ability to blend tradition with modernity, combining ancient philosophies with contemporary policy frameworks. Through a series of large-scale events across 60 cities, cultural programs, and grassroots participation, India projected an image of inclusive governance and global responsibility. The book captures the spirit of this transformative moment, emphasizing India’s shift from a participant in global affairs to a key architect of international cooperation. With rich anecdotes and sharp analysis, “How India Scaled MT G20: The Inside Story of The G20 Presidency” serves as an essential read for those seeking to understand India’s evolving role on the world stage and its commitment to shaping a more balanced and harmonious global order.

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