Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday outlined seven key pillars of cooperation between India and Caribbean nations as he participated in the India-CARICOM Summit in Georgetown, Guyana.
He proposed that the acronym “CARICOM,” which stands for Caribbean Community, could be reinterpreted as a framework for a seven-pillar program aimed at deepening collaboration between India and the Caribbean countries.
CARICOM – The 7 pillars of cooperation
“C” stands for Capacity Building. PM Modi announced 1,000 information technology scholarships and proposed expanding the technology centre India is establishing in Belize to include all CARICOM members. He also suggested a forensic centre for the region and online training for civil servants.
“A” represents Agriculture and Food Security. India can share its advancements in agricultural technology, such as deploying drones, and promote millet cultivation to enhance nutrition.
“R” signifies Renewable Energy and Climate Change. PM Modi invited CARICOM nations to join initiatives spearheaded by India, including the International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, Mission Life for Sustainable Lifestyles, and the Global Biofuel Alliance.
“I” stands for Innovation and Technology. India’s technological advancements, such as the “Stack” infrastructure and the Universal Payment Interface (UPI) for digital payments, can be extended to CARICOM countries. Additionally, India’s eMarketplace can benefit small and medium enterprises.
“C” also stands for Cricket and Culture. PM Modi proposed using cricket as a tool for women’s empowerment by offering 11 scholarships to each CARICOM nation for women’s cricket coaching. He also suggested cultural exchanges, Festivals of India, and Bollywood film festivals to deepen cultural ties.
“O” denotes Ocean Economy and Maritime Security. PM Modi emphasized viewing Caribbean nations as “large ocean countries” with untapped resources. India can assist in developing these resources, enhancing regional connectivity through cargo ships and ferries, and supporting security initiatives against piracy, drug trafficking, and human smuggling.
“M” represents Medicines and Healthcare. India prioritizes healthcare in CARICOM nations and offers affordable solutions through its Janaushadi scheme. India can help establish similar centres and share telehealth programmes and advanced cancer treatment technologies. Adopting the Indian Pharmacopeia could further reduce healthcare costs for CARICOM countries.
(Inputs from IANS)
