Prime Minister Narendra Modi has promised that during India’s presidency of BRICS in 2026, the forum will take a decidedly people-centric approach, guided by the philosophy of “humanity first.” In his speech at the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to reframing BRICS as “Building Resilience and Innovation for Cooperation and Sustainability.”
He emphasized that, much as India stressed inclusivity and the concerns of the Global South during its G20 presidency, it will also push BRICS with a focus on people and collective well-being.
PM Modi lauded Brazil’s leadership in addressing the environment and health security during its BRICS chairmanship, stating that these issues are inextricably linked and critical to humanity’s future. With COP-30 being held in Brazil, talks about environmental preservation are particularly pertinent. Modi emphasized India’s longstanding regard for nature, as well as the country’s continuous shift in thinking and lifestyle to balance life with environmental stewardship.
- Major Indian initiatives are highlighted.
India’s proactive environmental and development activities were highlighted, including:
Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for the Environment): Promoting sustainable living.
Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam: Encourages tree planting in honor of Mother Earth.
International Solar Alliance: Increasing solar energy adoption.
The Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure aims to strengthen infrastructure against climate threats.
Green Hydrogen Mission and the Global Biofuels Alliance are accelerating renewable energy transitions.
Big Cats Alliance: Focusing on wildlife conservation.
These initiatives underscore India’s commitment to the “People, Planet, and Progress” triad.
PM Modi highlighted India’s accomplishments during its G20 presidency, particularly the agreement on the Green Development Pact and the establishment of the Green Credits Initiative to encourage environmentally beneficial behavior. He emphasized that India is the first large country to meet its Paris Agreement commitments ahead of schedule and is making rapid progress toward its Net Zero target of 2070. Over the last decade, India has experienced a 4000% increase in installed solar energy capacity, laying the groundwork for a sustainable future.
India sees climate justice as a moral obligation, emphasizing the importance of technology transfer and affordable financing for underdeveloped countries. Modi urged wealthy nations to close the gap between climate ambition and financing, noting that sustainable development cannot be accomplished if double standards exist. He praised the release of the “Framework Declaration on Climate Finance” as a step toward more fair climate action.
Recognizing the interconnectedness of planetary and human health, PM Modi emphasized the lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic and the significance of collective action. He cited the BRICS Vaccine R&D Centre, which will open in 2022, as a watershed moment in global health collaboration. India’s “One Earth, One Health” mantra has fueled increased international engagement, and the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme now covers more than 500 million people. Furthermore, India has created an environment for traditional medicine and pushed digital health services to rural and isolated areas.
The 17th BRICS Summit, chaired by Brazil, brought together leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and new members Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, and Indonesia. Discussions included a wide range of topics, including:
Amplifying the voice of the global south
Promoting Peace and Security
Strengthening multilateralism
Addressing Development Challenges
Harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence.
As India prepares to take over the BRICS presidency in 2026, it intends to drive the conference with a renewed focus on inclusivity, sustainability, and collaborative progress. By promoting a people-centric approach and the attitude of “humanity first,” India hopes to keep BRICS a dynamic platform for addressing the major issues of the twenty-first century, from climate change and health security to fair development and global collaboration.
