Prime Minister Narendra Modi, at the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, made a strong appeal for BRICS to become a guiding force in global governance, urging the bloc to meet the growing aspirations of the Global South. Addressing the Outreach Session on Multilateralism, Economic-Financial Affairs, and AI, Modi said BRICS must first strengthen its internal systems to gain credibility globally.

“The diversity of the BRICS group and our firm belief in multipolarity are our greatest strengths,” Modi emphasized.

“To reflect credibility, we must lead by example.”

Key Highlights from PM Modi’s Address

1. BRICS must focus on credibility and internal reform

• PM Modi stressed that reformed multilateralism starts from within.
  
• Called for demand-driven decision-making within the New Development Bank (NDB).
  
• Emphasized long-term financial sustainability and a healthy credit rating.

2. India’s leadership in agricultural innovation

• Cited the BRICS Agricultural Research Platform (ARP) set up in India.
  
• Shared focus areas:
  
  • Agri-biotech
    
  • Precision farming
    
  • Climate adaptation

3. Proposed BRICS Science and Research Repository

• To share scientific knowledge and innovation with other developing nations.

India’s Vision for Inclusive Global Development

1. Global South and critical resources

• Modi warned against the weaponization of critical minerals and tech.
  
• Advocated for equitable access and responsible usage in supply chains.

2. Call for global AI governance

• India’s mantra: “AI for All”
  
• Urged BRICS to prioritize both AI safety and innovation equally.
  
• Announced that India will host the AI Impact Summit in 2026.

“AI should be governed with human-centric values. We must collaborate, not compete,” he stated.

The Bigger Picture – India Rising in BRICS?

• The Rio Summit underscored India’s assertive role in shaping the future of BRICS.
  
• From climate-resilient agriculture to AI ethics, India is promoting models that benefit emerging economies.
  
• Modi’s repeated invocation of the Global South signals India’s ambition to be a trusted leader for developing nations navigating a complex multipolar world.

Final Thoughts

As BRICS expands its ambitions beyond economic cooperation, India is emerging as a thought leader, championing inclusive governance, sustainable development, and technological equity. Whether it’s through institutional reforms or digital transformation, New Delhi’s message is clear: Global leadership must start with credible, collaborative action — and BRICS must lead from the front.

By – Nikita