Amitabh Kant's appointment comes ahead of India assuming the G-20 presidency later this year. India will hold the presidency from December 1, 2022 to November 30, 2023, and the need for a full-time Sherpa for this duration is being cited as one of the reasons for the change.
The former NITI Aayog CEO emphasised that India s G20 presidency is crucial in promoting the growth of the Global South, which is a priority for the government.