New Delhi: As the G20 summit brings together the world’s most influential leaders in New Delhi, India is leaving no stone unturned in its preparations.
Fighter jets have been stationed around the capital, vibrant murals now adorn underpasses, and efforts have been made to deter packs of monkeys from government buildings.
This marks a significant moment for India, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi aims to present the nation as an emerging superpower capable of addressing global geopolitical tensions, economic challenges, and the rise in food and energy prices. This weekend, he will put this vision to the test as he welcomes leaders like US President Joe Biden and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for one of the year’s most crucial international gatherings.
However, orchestrating a successful G-20 summit entails more than just diplomatic finesse. Indian authorities have spent months strategizing how to secure Delhi, a sprawling metropolis of over 20 million residents. At the center of this operation is the fortification of the New Delhi district, where the summit will be held over the course of Saturday and Sunday. This area is renowned for its lush parks, historic sandstone monuments, and grand residences.
To alleviate traffic congestion, schools, banks, most private businesses, and all government offices have been instructed to close their doors. Border crossings to neighboring states will also be sealed, with a deployment of over 100,000 police and security personnel expected to maintain order on the city streets.
Among the resources at their disposal are heavy artillery, sophisticated AI-powered cameras, signal interference devices, and highly trained sniffer dogs.
“There’s a tremendous amount at stake for Modi with this G-20 summit,” said Michael Kugelman, director of the South Asia Institute at the Washington-based Wilson Center.
In the end, orchestrating a successful summit could enhance PM Modi’s image as an effective leader, potentially strengthening the BJP’s prospects in five upcoming state elections this year and the 2024 general elections.
“New Delhi takes its presidency extremely seriously, and it has linked it not only to core national interests and foreign policy objectives, but also, even if indirectly, to domestic politics,” Kugelman said.
This year’s G-20 summit venue is nothing short of magnificent. World leaders are convening at a revamped convention and exhibition center that surpasses the size of Australia’s iconic Sydney Opera House. Designed by the renowned international firm Aedas, responsible for the creation of Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands, the extensive renovation project spanned four and a half years, with a staggering cost of ₹ 2,700 crore.
Delhi is saturated with reminders of the impending summit. Streets are adorned with posters featuring PM Modi alongside the G-20 logo.
Sculptures, fountains, and flower arrangements embellish roundabouts, while officials have adorned trees with lights to illuminate the city at night. Even flyovers and railway bridges have received vibrant makeovers, featuring murals portraying Hindu deities and various dance and craft traditions.
In anticipation of the summit, PM Modi extended his apologies to the residents of Delhi for the inconveniences caused by the numerous restrictions. Nevertheless, for many Indians, the abstract goals of the G-20 summit signify exciting proof that their country is an undeniable influencer in shaping global affairs.
“The hosting of the G-20 summit is a responsibility of the entire country,” PM Modi said in a speech late last month. “We need to show the world that Delhi can handle this responsibility without any glitches.”
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