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Tomorrow i.e. 9th September 2023 will witness the delegates from G-20 gathered in India’s capital, New Delhi. The images of golden, and silver utensils are floating around on the internet, projecting India’s (over) preparation for World’s most influential leaders. At the same time, there are images of the entire Delhi covered with green cloth hiding the undeniable fact of the country: poverty.
As per TMC’s MP in Rajya Sabha, Saket Gokhale, India has spent 7 times more than Germany in hosting the G20 summit. As per The Indian Express report, 4100 crores are spent in organised in submit in Delhi, alone. At the same time, the above-mentioned doesn’t include some direct costs, even the impact on the economy for three days shutdown. Importantly, there is a significant cost in organising other events in various parts of the country for months. That is also not included.
How much have other countries spent on G20?
As per an Outlook article, Canada spent a Canadian dollar 715 million on the 2010 summit in Toronto. In 2017, Germany spent $72 million on the preparations for the Hamburg summit. Furthermore, Argentina spent $112 million for the 2018, Buenos Aires summit.
This is all the data which is available. In the case of India, the allocated funds for the event were 990 crores in the Union Budget 2023-24.
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Cost breakdown for the Delhi event
Major promotion of the cost is spent by the central government, as the events are being organised in Luyten’s Delhi. This portion of Delhi is managed by the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC). Central government agency India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) spent the most 3600 crore. And, the Delhi Police spent a significant chunk on the security arrangements.
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As per the official, ITPO’s investment is in assets. Hence, would be useful post the G-20 submission. This is the same agency which organises India Trade Fair in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. The Bharat Mandapam on the same premises would be useful, therefore.
Bharat Mandapam which would host the summit is made at the lavish cost of 2700 crore, and is spread across 123 acres.
Conclusion
Three-days of complete lockdown in the nation capital is about to commence. The world leaders have started arriving. Most pertaining global issues from Climate change, energy security to trade relations-based discussion would be on the table. Hence, we can't deny the importance the summit, and India's presidency. But, we shouldn't blow it out of proportions also, and spent tax payers' money.
While we may 'create' a great impression at the global stage. Although, with forced evictions, and demolitions the reality of the people in India has come forth.
Keep reading
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