India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar countered a US senator's claim that democracy does not put food on the table, citing India's PMGKAY program which provides food to 800 million people. Jaishankar argued that different parts of the world have different experiences with democracy and that the model of globalization has contributed to issues with democracy in some regions. He emphasized that India's democratic system effectively delivers food security, highlighting the PMGKAY program as an example.
Jaishankar said that India is a democratic society and gives nutrition support to 800 million people. He noted that there are parts where democracy is working well and there could be parts where it is not. However, he underscored that it is should not considered a universal phenomenon.
India's trade with Nordic countries stands at over USD 5 billion (2020-21) and a cumulative FDI of over USD 3 billion (April 2000- March 2021).
Ganapathi, secretary (West), ministry of external affairs, has been tasked to once again take up the matter and convey the government's views on the issue to the Norwegian authorities, official sources said.
External Affairs Minister S M Krishna on Sunday instructed Indian Ambassador to Norway R K Tyagi to speak to the Norwegian foreign ministry to ensure the release of two children, who were separated from a Non-resident Indian couple by the Norwegian Childcare Services.
Norway had in the past expressed its wish to mediate between India and Pakistan and was willing to do so if both sides wanted it.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a three-day visit to Germany, Denmark and France from May 2 to 4 to further expand bilateral ties in diverse areas.
© 2026 Rediff.com - Investor Information - Advertise with us - Disclaimer - Privacy Policy - Sitemap - Feedback - About us - Terms of use - Grievances