How is India's People-Centric Approach as BRICS Chair Being Received?
Synopsis
India's recent presentation of its priorities for the BRICS chairmanship in 2026 underlines a commitment to resilience and cooperation. With a focus on a people-centric approach, the country aims to enhance collaboration across various sectors. This meeting marks a significant step toward impactful international relations.
Key Takeaways
India's chairmanship theme emphasizes resilience, innovation, cooperation, and sustainability.
The meeting showcased India's priorities across multiple sectors .
Collaboration in areas like health, agriculture, and climate change was highlighted.
A focus on a people-centric agenda aims to strengthen ties among BRICS nations.
Regular meetings will ensure continued coordination among BRICS representatives.
New Delhi, Feb 11 (NationPress) India outlined its priorities for the BRICS chairmanship in 2026 under the theme of 'Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability' during the inaugural meeting of BRICS Sherpas and Sous Sherpas on February 9-10 in New Delhi, according to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
The meeting was presided over by MEA Secretary (Economic Relations) and India's BRICS Sherpa, Sudhakar Dalela, alongside Joint Secretary (Multilateral Economic Relations) Shambhu L. Hakki, who serves as India's BRICS Sous Sherpa.
Delegates from Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and the UAE were present. The BRICS Sherpas and Country Representatives also had a joint meeting with External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Tuesday.
As per MEA's report, various Indian ministries and departments showcased India's priorities and proposed initiatives across several BRICS thematic areas, focusing on collaboration in health, agriculture, labor and employment, disaster risk reduction, environmental concerns, climate change, energy, innovation, ICT, security, counter-terrorism, and economic and financial matters. Additionally, there was a constructive dialogue regarding the institutional progress of the BRICS coalition.
Emphasizing a “people-centric” approach to chairmanship, discussions also covered cooperation in sports, youth engagement, cultural activities, the BRICS Academic Forum, BRICS Think Tank Council, BRICS Civil Forum, as well as the BRICS Business Council and the BRICS Women's Business Alliance.
According to MEA, representatives from BRICS Partner countries appreciated India's theme and priorities, which build upon cooperative efforts from previous BRICS chairmanships, furthering objectives of resilience, innovation, cooperation, and sustainability.
During the visit, delegates toured the National Crafts Museum and Hastakala Academy, as well as the Akshardham Temple. The BRICS Sherpas and Sous Sherpas are scheduled to meet regularly throughout the year to align efforts across various thematic tracks, as stated by MEA.
During his meeting with the visiting BRICS 2026 Sherpas and Country Representatives in New Delhi, EAM Jaishankar expressed gratitude for the insights shared by different delegations to promote BRICS 2026's goals of resilience, innovation, cooperation, and sustainability.
“It was a pleasure to engage with BRICS 2026 Sherpas and Country Representatives. As BRICS marks 20 years, it remains a pivotal forum for international cooperation, consultation, and coordination, furthering its people-centric agenda,” EAM Jaishankar remarked on X.
“We value the contributions and perspectives from various delegations to advance the BRICS 2026 priorities,” he concluded.
Point of View
It's imperative to recognize India's proactive approach in shaping its BRICS chairmanship. The emphasis on a people-centric agenda not only reflects a commitment to collaboration but also positions India as a leader in addressing global challenges. The gathering of diverse nations underlines the importance of cooperation, making it a pivotal moment in international relations.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are India's priorities for BRICS 2026?
India's priorities include resilience, innovation, cooperation, and sustainability, focusing on themes such as health, agriculture, and climate change.
Who chaired the BRICS meeting in New Delhi?
The meeting was chaired by MEA Secretary (Economic Relations) Sudhakar Dalela, along with Sous Sherpa Shambhu L. Hakki.
Which countries participated in the BRICS Sherpas meeting?
Countries such as Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and the UAE participated in the meeting.
What was discussed regarding a people-centric approach?
The meeting included discussions on sports, youth engagement, and cultural activities to foster a people-centric approach among BRICS nations.
How will the BRICS Sherpas coordinate their efforts?
The BRICS Sherpas and Sous Sherpas will hold regular meetings throughout the year to align their work across various thematic tracks.
