BRICS Summit 2026: India showcases cultural diplomacy and sustainable practices

Hindustan Times - India · 13 Sept 2026 · 1 min read
Prelims · International relations Mains · GS2 International relations High relevance

India hosted the BRICS Summit 2026 in New Delhi, featuring cultural performances and sustainable practices like bus travel for ministers, highlighting its soft power and commitment to environmental responsibility.

Key points

BRICS Summit 2026 was hosted by India at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, attended by leaders from Russia, China, Iran, South Africa, and other partner countries.

Cultural Diplomacy: Over 100 artists performed 'BRICS Symphony' featuring classical dance forms like Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, Odissi, and Kathak, organized by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR).

Sustainable Practices: Union ministers and BJP CMs, including Amit Shah and Yogi Adityanath, travelled to the venue by bus, showcasing India's commitment to reducing carbon footprint during international events.

Bharat Mandapam, the venue, also hosted a tree-planting ceremony by world leaders, emphasizing environmental consciousness.

[GS2-International Relations] The summit reinforced India's role in BRICS, focusing on economic cooperation, cultural exchange, and sustainable development among member nations.

[GS3-Environment] The use of buses and tree planting align with India's climate commitments under the Paris Agreement and its Net Zero targets.

Way Forward: India should institutionalize sustainable practices for all international summits, enhance cultural diplomacy through more such performances, and leverage BRICS for greater economic and environmental collaboration.

Key terms

Bharat Mandapam

A premier convention center in New Delhi, India, designed to host international summits and events. It symbolizes India's growing stature as a global venue for high-profile diplomatic and cultural engagements.

Cultural Diplomacy

The use of cultural exchanges to foster mutual understanding and strengthen international relations. India's ICCR plays a pivotal role in promoting Indian culture globally through performances, exhibitions, and educational programs.

Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR)

An autonomous organization under the Ministry of External Affairs, responsible for India's cultural relations with other countries. It organizes cultural events, scholarships, and exchanges to promote India's soft power globally.

BRICS

An association of five major emerging economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. It aims to enhance economic cooperation and political dialogue among member nations, representing over 40% of the global population and 25% of global GDP.