India-UN Development Fund hailed as epitome of South-South cooperation

United Nations, November 30: The India-United Nations Development Fund (IUNDPF), which has sponsored 76 projects in 54 countries, embodies New Delhi’s ethos of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (the world is one family) and South-South cooperation. Throws light on the potential of. , as expressed by Deputy Secretary General Amina Mohammed.

During the celebration of the sixth anniversary of UNDPF at the UN Headquarters, Mohammed stressed India’s long-term commitment to South-South cooperation and the global pursuit of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He underlined the Fund’s ability to demonstrate remarkable achievements when developed and developing countries cooperate within the United Nations framework.

Mohammed cited specific achievements of UNDPF, such as the installation of solar water pumping systems for clean water and better agricultural irrigation in Haiti. In Moldova, the Fund strengthened national statistical systems, while in Zimbabwe, it provided drought-resistant seeds, technical training, and post-harvest assistance to small farmers.

Denis Francis, President of the General Assembly, praised UNDPF’s important contributions around the world, especially considering the current challenges of constrained fiscal resources due to recent global shocks, including the pandemic. He highlighted that 28 of the 76 projects are in small island developing states, with a particular focus on CARICOM, the Caribbean Community.

Reflecting on India’s role, India’s Permanent Representative Ruchira Kamboj positioned the country as an icon of leadership and advocacy for the Global South. Citing the country’s active participation in various development partnerships over the past decade, Kamboj stressed that India’s commitment to the principle of “leaving no one behind” goes beyond rhetoric. These partnerships span 78 countries and include 600 projects, demonstrating India’s dedication to being a global source of hope and support.