India Begins BRICS Chairship 2026
India Leads First BRICS Sherpas Meeting 2026: India formally launched its BRICS Chairship 2026 by hosting the first BRICS Sherpas and Sous Sherpas Meeting in New Delhi on February 9–10, 2026. This meeting initiated the year-long diplomatic and economic coordination process under India’s leadership.
The meeting was chaired by Sudhakar Dalela, India’s BRICS Sherpa and Secretary (Economic Relations), with support from Shambhu L. Hakki, India’s Sous Sherpa. Delegations from member and partner countries participated, reflecting the expanded nature of BRICS cooperation.
Static GK fact: The term BRIC was coined in 2001 by economist Jim O’Neill, and South Africa joined in 2010, making it BRICS.
Theme Reflecting India’s Strategic Vision
India announced its Chairship theme as “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.” This theme highlights India’s focus on strengthening economic stability, innovation, and climate action among member nations.
The theme also emphasizes inclusive global governance, aiming to enhance the role of developing countries in global decision-making. India’s leadership reflects the broader vision of empowering the Global South.
Static GK Tip: BRICS countries collectively account for about 42% of the global population and nearly 23% of global GDP, making it a major economic bloc.
Key Priority Areas of Cooperation
India outlined several critical areas of cooperation during the Sherpas meeting. These included health cooperation, climate change mitigation, energy security, agriculture, and disaster risk reduction.
Economic and financial coordination was another major focus, particularly strengthening trade partnerships and reducing dependency on traditional Western financial systems. Discussions also included innovation, digital technology, and ICT cooperation.
Security cooperation was emphasized through discussions on counter-terrorism and global peace efforts, highlighting BRICS’ growing geopolitical importance.
Institutional Development and Expansion
The meeting addressed the institutional strengthening of BRICS following its recent expansion. New members such as Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Indonesia participated actively in discussions.
This expansion reflects the increasing relevance of BRICS as an alternative platform for global governance. India emphasized improving coordination mechanisms and strengthening institutional frameworks.
Static GK fact: The first official BRICS Summit was held in Yekaterinburg, Russia, in 2009, marking the formal establishment of the grouping.
Focus on People-Centric Cooperation
India highlighted a people-centric approach during its Chairship. This included strengthening platforms such as the BRICS Academic Forum, Business Council, Think Tank Council, Civil Forum, and Women’s Business Alliance.
India also emphasized cooperation in youth engagement, cultural exchanges, and sports diplomacy. These initiatives aim to deepen cooperation beyond government-level interactions.
Such efforts enhance grassroots connections and promote stronger social and economic collaboration among member nations.
Cultural Diplomacy and Soft Power
India incorporated cultural diplomacy into the Chairship program by organizing visits for delegates to important cultural sites such as the National Crafts Museum and Akshardham Temple.
These initiatives showcase India’s cultural heritage and strengthen diplomatic goodwill. Cultural engagement plays a key role in enhancing trust and cooperation among member nations.
Static GK Tip: India has previously chaired BRICS in 2012, 2016, and 2021, reflecting its active leadership role in the grouping.
Strategic Importance of India’s Chairship
India’s BRICS Chairship 2026 comes at a time of shifting global power dynamics. The focus on resilience, sustainability, and innovation strengthens cooperation among emerging economies.
India’s leadership aims to promote economic growth, technological advancement, and inclusive global governance. This Chairship reinforces India’s growing role as a global diplomatic and economic leader.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
India Leads First BRICS Sherpas Meeting 2026:
| Topic | Detail |
| Event | First BRICS Sherpas Meeting under India’s Chairship 2026 |
| Location | New Delhi, India |
| Date | February 9–10, 2026 |
| Chairperson | Sudhakar Dalela |
| Chairship Theme | Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability |
| Key Focus Areas | Health, climate change, energy security, economic cooperation |
| Expanded Members | Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Indonesia |
| First BRICS Summit | 2009, Yekaterinburg, Russia |
| Global Significance | Represents 42% population and 23% global GDP |
| India’s Role | Promoting Global South cooperation and inclusive governance |
