Dhanush Howitzer Draws Strong Interest From African Nations As India Eyes Major Export Breakthrough

India's indigenous Dhanush 155 mm artillery gun has attracted significant interest from several African countries, highlighting the growing international appeal of the country's domestically developed military equipment.

The interest emerged during the Africa Aerospace and Defence 2026 exhibition, where Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited (AWEIL) showcased the Dhanush howitzer alongside a range of other military platforms.

According to industry reports, military delegations from multiple African nations expressed interest in the artillery system and initiated preliminary discussions regarding potential procurement opportunities.

AWEIL is seeking to expand its presence in Africa through long-term strategic partnerships rather than pursuing conventional export sales alone. The company is also exploring opportunities involving local assembly, component manufacturing, technology transfer and joint production arrangements with African partners.

South Africa has emerged as one of the countries of interest for potential industrial collaboration due to its established defence manufacturing ecosystem.

The Dhanush artillery gun has already been inducted into the Indian Army and is regarded as one of the key outcomes of India's drive for defence self-reliance.

Manufactured at the Gun Carriage Factory in Jabalpur, the howitzer incorporates more than 80 per cent indigenous content.

The weapon is an upgraded version of the original Bofors design and has been modernised extensively with advanced fire-control systems, improved navigation capabilities and enhanced firing performance.

The 155 mm/45-calibre gun can engage targets at long ranges and is designed for operations across diverse terrain, including deserts, semi-arid regions, mountainous areas and open battlefields.

Its ability to deliver rapid and accurate fire support has made it attractive to armed forces seeking modern artillery systems without the higher acquisition costs associated with certain Western alternatives.

AWEIL officials reported receiving an encouraging response from African military representatives during the exhibition.

Interested countries are expected to be invited to observe live firing demonstrations to evaluate the gun's operational capabilities and performance. The growing overseas attention comes as production of the Dhanush platform gathers momentum in India.

The Indian Army initially ordered 114 Dhanush guns, with more than 70 already delivered.

The remaining systems are expected to complete the original order, marking a major milestone for India's indigenous artillery manufacturing sector. The project experienced quality-control challenges and production delays during its early years.

However, design refinements, stricter quality assurance measures and improvements in manufacturing processes helped stabilise the programme and restore confidence in the weapon system.

The Dhanush is now expected to play a far larger role within the Indian Army.

India has approved plans for an additional procurement of around 300 Dhanush howitzers, a move that could significantly expand the Army's artillery capability. The proposed acquisition is expected to support the raising of numerous new artillery regiments and strengthen firepower along critical operational sectors.

Industry estimates indicate that such a contract could be worth several thousand crore rupees, making it one of the largest domestic artillery procurements in recent years.

For African nations, the Dhanush offers an opportunity to acquire a combat-proven artillery platform backed by increasing indigenous production and potential industrial cooperation.

The interest generated at the Africa Aerospace and Defence exhibition reflects India's broader ambition to become a major exporter of defence equipment and a long-term technology partner for developing military markets.

With African countries continuing to modernise their armed forces and expand domestic manufacturing capabilities, the Dhanush howitzer could emerge as one of India's most promising defence export products in the coming years.

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Indian Origin Jurist Navanethem ‘Navi’ Pillay Wins Nobel Peace Prize 2026 For Advancing International Law

Navanethem ‘Navi’ Pillay, a South African jurist of Indian-Tamil origin, has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize 2026 for her lifelong efforts to promote peace, justice and the rule of international law.

The 85-year-old legal pioneer was honoured by the Norwegian Nobel Committee for expanding the influence and reach of international law and for helping strengthen global legal institutions during a period of growing international instability.

Announcing the award in Stockholm, Norwegian Nobel Committee Chair Jørgen Watne Frydnes described Pillay as a figure who has significantly broadened the scope and impact of international law. He said her work has helped build a more comprehensive global legal order and remains a source of hope for those striving for a more peaceful world.

The committee emphasised that the award comes at a time when wars and conflicts are increasing worldwide and when courts and institutions responsible for upholding international law face mounting political pressure. It stressed that peaceful conflict resolution depends on respect for international legal frameworks and accountability for war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide.

Born in Durban, South Africa, in 1941, Pillay is the daughter of Narrainsamy Naidoo and Santhama Naidoo. Her grandparents arrived in South Africa from India as indentured labourers during the 1890s to work on sugar plantations.

Raised in modest circumstances during apartheid, Pillay confronted racial discrimination from an early age. The daughter of a bus driver, she went on to become one of South Africa’s most distinguished legal figures and human rights advocates.

In 1967, she became the first woman to establish a law practice in South Africa’s Natal Province. She later became the first non-white woman to found her own law firm and the first non-white woman appointed to South Africa’s High Court.

Throughout her legal career, Pillay defended opponents of apartheid and championed the rights of marginalised communities. Her early work included representing anti-apartheid activists and challenging discriminatory policies in South Africa.

In 1995, she was appointed to the High Court of South Africa. Four years later, she joined the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, where she eventually served as both judge and president.

Her work at the Rwanda tribunal helped establish landmark legal precedents, including recognition that sexual violence, rape and incitement through propaganda could constitute crimes against humanity and acts of genocide.

Pillay later served as a judge at the International Criminal Court before becoming the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights from 2008 to 2014.

She also chaired the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory and played a prominent role in major international investigations involving alleged human rights violations.

Currently, Pillay serves as a judge at the International Court of Justice in proceedings concerning allegations of genocide against Myanmar.

The Nobel Committee praised her judicial independence, integrity, expertise and courage, stating that her career demonstrates how legal institutions can help prevent violence, protect victims and promote lasting peace.

The Nobel Peace Prize, widely regarded as one of the world’s most prestigious honours, marks its 125th anniversary this year. The Norwegian Nobel Committee considered 287 nominations for the 2026 award, slightly more than a quarter of which were organisations.

The committee traditionally evaluates candidates on their contribution to lasting peace, international co-operation and the strengthening of institutions that support those objectives.

Last year’s Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado for her efforts to advance democratic change in Venezuela and sustain democratic values during a period of political turmoil.

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Beyond Bullets, Guns And Tech: India’s New Playbook For Africa’s Defence Market

India is stepping up its engagement with Africa’s growing defence sector, positioning itself not only as a supplier of military equipment but also as a long-term industrial and technology partner, Business Insider Africa reported.

The move reflects New Delhi’s wider effort to strengthen defence ties across the continent while supporting the development of local manufacturing capabilities.

At the Africa Aerospace and Defence 2026 exhibition, Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited and Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited (AWEIL) signalled their intention to expand their presence in African markets through strategic partnerships, local content integration and broader industrial cooperation.

According to AWEIL Joint General Manager Pankaj Kumar Dubey, many African nations are simultaneously enhancing their military capabilities and building domestic defence-industrial ecosystems. He said the company sees an opportunity to collaborate with African partners beyond traditional equipment sales, subject to government approvals and export regulations.

The company showcased a range of products at the exhibition, including assault rifles, carbines, machine guns, tank guns and anti-aircraft guns. AWEIL also highlighted its flagship Dhanush 155 mm artillery gun, designed to support target recognition and fire operations across varied operational environments.

Dubey noted that the artillery system is particularly suited to open terrain, semi-arid regions, mountainous areas and long-distance operational sectors where mobility, rapid deployment and reliable fire support are important considerations.

AWEIL’s manufacturing network comprises eight production units with expertise in advanced machining, barrel production, forging, heat treatment and precision inspection. The company believes these capabilities can form the foundation of deeper industrial partnerships across Africa.

The firm is also exploring opportunities for local assembly, component manufacturing, technology transfer, technical cooperation and joint production arrangements where regulatory and commercial conditions allow. Such partnerships would combine India’s weapon design and manufacturing expertise with African industrial infrastructure, skilled labour, market knowledge and proximity to end-users.

South Africa has emerged as a particularly important target market because of its well-developed defence-industrial base, strong engineering capabilities and strategic position within the wider African market.

India’s interest in Africa’s defence landscape comes at a time when the continent remains heavily influenced by established suppliers such as Russia, the United States, France, China and Türkiye. New Delhi is seeking to differentiate itself through industrial collaboration, training, maintenance support and technology-sharing initiatives.

India has also been strengthening government-to-government defence relationships across Africa. In July, India and Rwanda held the second meeting of their Joint Defence Cooperation Committee in New Delhi, where senior officials discussed military cooperation and reviewed opportunities for deeper engagement.

The Rwandan delegation visited an Army hospital involved in the medical cooperation program, met India’s Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and received briefings on domestically developed Indian defence equipment.

In September, India and Morocco advanced discussions on expanding bilateral military cooperation during the inaugural session of their newly established Joint Defence Committee in New Delhi. The meeting institutionalised regular defence dialogue between the two countries and underscored growing strategic ties.

Talks between Indian and Moroccan officials covered joint military training, peacekeeping activities, cyber security cooperation and medical collaboration. Both sides also agreed to explore opportunities in joint ventures, co-production, defence technology development and equipment maintenance.

These developments form part of India’s broader strategy to increase its defence exports, deepen strategic partnerships and establish a stronger presence in Africa’s evolving defence market through industrial cooperation rather than purely conventional arms sales.

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IBSA Foreign Ministers Urge UNSC Reforms, Energy Security, Condemn Pahalgam Attack And Push Digital AI Growth

In a significant diplomatic engagement on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, the foreign ministers of India, Brazil and South Africa convened for the trilateral IBSA Foreign Ministers' Meeting.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar represented India during the high-level talks on Thursday, engaging in extensive deliberations alongside South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola and Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira.

The three prominent nations from the Global South formally adopted a comprehensive Joint Media Statement outlining their collective positions across vital areas including multilateralism, global security, economic governance, digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, climate action and sustainable development.

Sharing details of the gathering in a post on X, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar noted that the trilateral interaction at the United Nations General Assembly highlighted the enduring partnership among the three major democracies.

According to the External Affairs Minister, the joint statement reaffirmed the three countries' unwavering commitment to the principles of the United Nations Charter, international law and a strengthened, more effective multilateral system.

A central pillar of the multilateral framework advocated by the ministers was the urgent necessity for comprehensive reform of the United Nations Security Council to make the body more democratic, representative, legitimate and reflective of contemporary geopolitical realities.

The ministers articulated profound concern regarding the expanding repercussions of ongoing conflicts across the world, particularly highlighting the adverse spillover effects visited upon nations in the Global South.

They noted with worry that such international conflicts are aggravating food and energy insecurity, fueling inflationary pressures and imposing severe fiscal strains on developing economies struggling to achieve sustainable growth.

Firmly addressing global security and counter-terrorism challenges, India, Brazil and South Africa issued a strong condemnation of the April 22, 2025 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which tragically claimed the lives of 26 people.

Reiterating their zero-tolerance stance towards terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, the three member states reaffirmed their firm opposition to terror activities across the world.

Addressing global trade and economic relations, the IBSA foreign ministers stressed the paramount importance of safeguarding balanced, fair and mutually beneficial trade arrangements aimed at fostering equitable economic growth, inclusive development and higher systemic resilience.

Regarding the governance of global economic institutions, the ministers reiterated the need for deep-seated reforms that guarantee a more effective, equitable and representative participation for developing nations and emerging market economies.

The delegation also focused extensively on digital transformation and emerging technology, emphasizing a shared commitment to universal, meaningful digital connectivity and the wider deployment of robust digital infrastructure across nations.

Recognising the transformative nature of technology, the three countries acknowledged the immense potential of artificial intelligence to act as a powerful engine for economic growth and sustainable development while simultaneously keeping broader development priorities in focus.

Addressing environmental priorities, climate action and sustainable development formed another pivotal dimension of the joint declaration, with ministers calling for immediate and decisive global intervention to tackle climate and development hurdles.

The joint media statement specifically spotlighted pioneering multilateral platforms and sustainability frameworks, including Mission LiFE, the Global Biofuels Alliance, the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.

The leaders drew attention to the burgeoning threat posed by climate-related natural disasters and environmental shocks, which directly imperil hard-won development gains in vulnerable regions. To accelerate the energy transition, the IBSA grouping threw its weight behind ambitious targets, including tripling renewable energy capacity across the Global South and doubling the global average rate of energy-efficiency improvements.

They further backed the expansion of sustainable fuel alternatives, specifically advocating for greater adoption of biofuels, biogases and low-emission hydrogen programs to drive cleaner industrial growth.

The meeting also gave prominent attention to social equity and gender justice, with India, Brazil and South Africa underlining their full commitment to empowering women and girls by systematically removing systemic social and economic barriers.

This high-level dialogue unfolded against a challenging global macroeconomic backdrop where developing nations are grappling with severe economic headwinds resulting from international supply disruptions, volatile commodity prices and constrained public finances.

The strategic trilateral meeting provided a valuable platform for India, Brazil and South Africa to coordinate their diplomatic stances on key institutional reforms and advocate effectively for the common priorities of the Global South.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's participation forms part of India's expansive diplomatic outreach during the High Level Week of the 81st United Nations General Assembly session, where he is conducting a series of bilateral and multilateral engagements with global leaders.

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India's Accord Software Makes Global Debut At Africa Defence Expo With Advanced Anti-Drone And GNSS Jamming Systems

India’s Accord Software and Systems has made its debut at the Africa Aerospace and Defence Expo 2026, held at Waterkloof Air Force Base in South Africa.

With the destructive capabilities of drones dominating current conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, the spotlight has shifted to counter-uncrewed aircraft systems, and Accord’s participation marks a significant milestone in this evolving domain.

The Bangalore-based company showcased its electronic warfare systems, including long-range Global Navigation Satellite System jammers and wideband anti-drone technology.

Senior Vice President Jitendra Sethi emphasised that Accord possesses a very large product line in the GNSS domain, primarily GNSS receivers for strategic applications in Indian missiles and satellites for land and naval systems.

The company has now diversified into electronic warfare, focusing on GNSS jamming of constellations such as GPS from the United States, GLONASS from Russia, BeiDou from China, and Galileo from the European Union.

Sethi explained that effective counter-drone operations require GNSS jamming, RF jamming, electro-optical capability, and radar. Accord currently specialises in RF jamming and GNSS jamming. Their systems can detect RF signals up to 12 km and jam them up to 10 km. In the GNSS domain, they can jam signals up to 80 km using directional antennas, ensuring that targets within the beam are completely neutralised.

He highlighted that with omni-directional antennas, Accord can create a GPS bubble or GNSS firewall, jamming drones from any direction. This dome has a radius of about 10 km and is fully effective provided there is a clear line of sight.

Weather conditions do not affect GNSS or RF jamming. The equipment can be deployed at fixed ground installations, mounted on vehicles for mobility, or integrated onto naval vessels, offering versatile operational flexibility.

Sethi also noted that if Accord were to enter into a deal with a foreign country, they would establish a product support line with a local partner. He stressed that as drones evolve, Accord is continuously upgrading its technology in GNSS and RF jamming, backed by a ten-year roadmap to stay ahead in the technological race.

Accord’s debut at the Africa Aerospace and Defence Expo underscores India’s growing footprint in global defence exhibitions and highlights the country’s private sector contribution to electronic warfare and counter-drone technologies.

The company’s presence reflects India’s ambition to position itself as a key player in advanced defence systems, aligning with the broader Atmanirbhar Bharat vision and strengthening international defence collaborations.

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MEA Warns Against Misleading Social Media Claims On Jinping, Ramaphosa BRICS Leaders' Health

The Ministry of External Affairs has issued a strong caution against misleading and malicious social media posts concerning the health of world leaders who attended the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. The warning was prompted by unverified claims circulating online about Chinese President Xi Jinping and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.

In a post on X, the MEA categorically dismissed such rumours, stating, ‘Misleading! We caution against such malicious posts on social media platforms!’ The ministry emphasised that these claims were unfounded and potentially harmful.

The controversy arose after several social media accounts alleged that President Xi had fainted during the summit and suffered a stroke before being flown back to Beijing for treatment. These allegations gained traction when reports noted his absence from the summit dinner. However, there has been no official confirmation of any medical emergency involving the Chinese leader.

The MEA’s remarks coincided with a statement from the South African Presidency, which confirmed that President Cyril Ramaphosa had withdrawn from public engagements following his return from India. The statement clarified that the 73-year-old leader was advised by doctors to rest due to ill health. It further noted that, where possible, ministers would represent him at scheduled events.

Ramaphosa’s office stressed that his temporary withdrawal was precautionary and aimed at ensuring his recovery. His absence from public duties has added to speculation, but the official communication sought to dispel rumours by providing clarity on his condition.

The BRICS Summit, held in New Delhi from 12 to 13 September under India’s chairship, brought together leaders of the expanded 11-member grouping. The summit was convened under the theme ‘Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.’ It underscored India’s role in steering the agenda towards practical cooperation across economic development, technology, governance, and global challenges.

India’s hosting of the summit came at a time when the grouping continues to expand its membership and influence. The summit sought to build consensus among diverse nations while addressing pressing issues of economic cooperation, technological advancement, and sustainable development. The gathering reaffirmed BRICS’ commitment to strengthening global governance and promoting resilience in the face of geopolitical and economic uncertainties.

The MEA’s intervention highlights the growing challenge of misinformation in the digital age, particularly during high-profile international events. By cautioning against malicious claims, India underscored the importance of responsible communication and the need to safeguard the credibility of global forums such as BRICS.

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DRDO Showcases Indigenous Defence Systems At Africa Aerospace And Defence Expo 2026

DRDO has begun showcasing its latest indigenous defence technologies at the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2026 Expo in Tshwane, South Africa, marking India’s growing presence in the global defence market.

The exhibition highlights advanced systems such as ASTRA MK-1, Akash-NG, AEW&C, and maritime reconnaissance platforms, while simultaneously unveiling new industry synergy initiatives back in New Delhi.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is participating in the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2026 Exhibition from 16–20 September at Hangar 2, Stall 2W 15 in Tshwane, South Africa. The organisation emphasised that its participation underscores India’s indigenous defence capabilities and its commitment to strengthening international defence cooperation.

DRDO is showcasing its advanced weapons systems and cutting-edge technologies at the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2026 Exhibition in Hangar 2, Stall 2W 15, being held from 16–20 September 2026 at Tshwane, South Africa.

The participation highlights India’s indigenous… pic.twitter.com/bEsuAUJ3LP

— DRDO (@DRDO_India) September 16, 2026

The major systems on display include the Medium Range Maritime Reconnaissance (MRMR), the Airborne Early Warning & Control System (AEW&C), the Wheeled CBRN Reconnaissance Vehicle, and the PDDS-X Portable Diver Detection Sonar. These platforms demonstrate India’s ability to deliver advanced surveillance, detection, and reconnaissance solutions across multiple domains.

The exhibition also features the ASTRA MK-1 Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile, the Akash-NG Surface-to-Air Missile, the Low Frequency Variable Depth Sonar (LFVDS), and technologies for an Active Protection System. These systems highlight India’s growing expertise in missile technology, air defence, and naval warfare solutions.

AAD is Africa’s only aerospace and defence expo that combines a trade exhibition with an air show. Held biennially in Tshwane, it attracts delegations from over 30 countries, with more than 250 exhibitors and tens of thousands of visitors. The event is regarded as a national asset for South Africa, contributing significantly to its economy during show years.

Alongside DRDO’s participation in South Africa, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh unveiled key policy initiatives in New Delhi during ‘VIMARSH’, a DRDO-Industry Synergy Meet. These initiatives include a comprehensive framework to lower technical and financial entry barriers for MSMEs and deep-tech Start-Ups, offering direct funding, incubation support, and access to DRDO testing facilities.

A secure framework for sharing DRDO-developed software source codes with licensee industries was also launched to accelerate software-defined defence capabilities and manage obsolescence.

Nine Licensing Agreements for Transfer of Technology (LAToTs) were handed over to 13 manufacturing partners, enabling commercial production of state-of-the-art systems. Strategic MoUs were exchanged with the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM) and Laghu Udyog Bharati (LUB) to expand industry outreach and foster grassroots participation.

DRDO also signed a contract with the Quality Council of India for the System for Advanced Manufacturing Assessment and Rating (SAMAR) version 2.0, which will benchmark the manufacturing maturity of domestic defence enterprises. This initiative aims to strengthen India’s defence industrial base and ensure quality standards across production.

In his address, Rajnath Singh emphasised that DRDO-Industry collaboration must extend beyond production to encompass research, design, testing, certification, and manufacturing.

He stated that DRDO brings knowledge and technology, industry provides scale, Start-Ups contribute innovation, and youth embody the vision of a New India. Together, these forces can achieve seemingly impossible goals.

He underlined that the vision of Viksit Bharat is not only to build an economically strong nation but also to make it technologically self-reliant, socially inclusive, environmentally sustainable, and strategically secure. By 2047, India aims to achieve Aatmanirbharta in critical technologies, significantly increase indigenous content, expand defence exports, and establish a robust presence in global supply chains.

This dual effort—showcasing indigenous systems abroad while strengthening industry collaboration at home—demonstrates India’s determination to position itself as a global hub for defence manufacturing and innovation.

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India Emerges As Consensus Builder In A Fractured World

India’s diplomatic achievement at the BRICS Summit 2026 was underscored by the unanimous adoption of the New Delhi Declaration.

This was not just another communiqué but a demonstration of India’s ability to bring sharply divided powers together at a time when wars are widening, blocs are hardening and trust between major powers is under strain.

The expanded 11-member BRICS grouping, which now includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran and the UAE, unanimously adopted the declaration on the very first day of the summit at Bharat Mandapam after four days of intense negotiations.

The most difficult discussions centred on the language relating to the war in West Asia, making the consensus itself the story.

The challenge was acute because BRICS now includes Iran, directly involved in the West Asian conflict, and the UAE, which maintains close ties with Washington. Russia and China have their own competing interests, while India balances relationships across Western and non-Western worlds.

Yet the final text expressed deep concern over the escalation in West Asia, called for maximum restraint, urged disputes to be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy, and stressed the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, including nuclear facilities. For India, consensus meant bridging differences through diplomacy rather than starting from identical positions.

One of the most consequential elements for India was the explicit condemnation of the April 22, 2025 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 people.

The declaration condemned terrorism in all forms and specifically named the Pahalgam attack, reiterating the bloc’s commitment to combating cross-border terrorism, terror financing and safe havens. It insisted that perpetrators and supporters must be held accountable under national and international law.

This reference placed India’s core security concern firmly within a major multilateral declaration, giving it wider international diplomatic weight. It reinforced India’s longstanding argument that terrorism cannot be selectively defined according to geopolitical convenience.

The BRICS outcome also reinforced a pattern in Indian diplomacy. In 2023, during its G20 presidency, India secured consensus despite divisions over the Russia-Ukraine war. In 2026, India achieved another difficult consensus inside an expanded BRICS amid an active West Asian conflict.

The significance lies not only in hosting two major summits but in India’s role as a diplomatic bridge between competing worlds. India can speak to Washington and Moscow, Beijing and the Gulf, Tehran and the West. It engages China amid competition, maintains ties with Russia while expanding relations with the US and Europe, and positions itself as a leading voice of the Global South. This is strategic autonomy in practice.

At the heart of India’s BRICS chairship is the proposition that the international system cannot remain structured around outdated institutions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted that the Global South often stands in the front row of crises but the back row of decision-making. India’s answer is to transform the pyramid of privilege into a platform of partnership.

The declaration backed greater representation for emerging markets and developing countries, called for reforms of the United Nations and its Security Council, and supported reforms of Bretton Woods institutions to reflect contemporary realities.

It also backed the aspirations of India and Brazil for a greater role in the UN. India’s strategy is not just about securing a seat at the table but redesigning the table itself.

Another important feature was Modi’s proposal for a BRICS Continuity and Implementation Mechanism, using the Troika to maintain institutional momentum when chairmanship changes annually. India’s chairship involved more than 350 meetings across nearly 30 cities, and the ambition is to ensure that the work survives beyond India’s year as chair.

The declaration itself covered a broad agenda including global governance, terrorism, health, food and energy security, critical minerals, technology, supply chains, trade, financial cooperation and sustainable development.

On health, BRICS welcomed a sub-working group to advance an Integrated Early Warning System for Mass Infectious Diseases. On critical minerals, it called for reliable and resilient supply chains while recognising sovereign rights of resource-rich countries. On technology, India emphasised that future-defining technologies must not become instruments of coercion.

Perhaps most importantly, Modi stressed that BRICS is not an anti-Western alliance. India’s vision is for BRICS to be a platform through which developing economies gain a stronger voice in global rule-making. New Delhi does not want BRICS to replace one dominant bloc with another but to create a more representative system where power is distributed broadly and developing countries shape institutions, standards, rules and security architecture. This is why multi-alignment, strategic autonomy and Global South leadership are central to India’s worldview.

The New Delhi Declaration is therefore more than a diplomatic document. It is a snapshot of a transitioning international system and India’s evolving role within it. India is no longer just participating but convening, shaping agendas and creating space for competing powers to find common ground.

It is not merely demanding reform but proposing mechanisms and roadmaps for the future. The unanimous declaration, achieved despite profound differences, difficult negotiations over West Asia, condemnation of the Pahalgam attack and an ambitious reform agenda, marks a significant diplomatic moment.

After the G20 consensus of 2023, India has delivered another major multilateral consensus. In a fractured world, India is emerging as a consensus-builder, agenda-setter and rule-shaper for the Global South.

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PM Modi And President Xi Offer To Assist In Ukraine Peace Efforts During BRICS Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping offered to help find a solution to the Russia-Ukraine war during their meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in New Delhi, according to the Kremlin.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Putin welcomed the readiness of both leaders to assist in efforts to resolve the conflict and briefed them on the situation in Ukraine.

Peskov stated that during their bilateral meetings, Modi and Xi took a keen interest in the Ukraine settlement and actively offered their good offices to help find a solution. He emphasised that both leaders expressed their willingness to contribute to peace efforts.

The comments came a day after Modi and Putin held bilateral talks on the sidelines of the BRICS summit. The Ministry of External Affairs reported that the two leaders discussed bilateral ties and exchanged views on regional and global issues, including conflicts in West Asia and the Black Sea region.

Modi reiterated India’s position that dialogue and diplomacy remain the way forward in resolving conflicts. He said India was ready to assist in peace efforts, maintaining New Delhi’s consistent call for a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict while preserving relations with both Russia and Ukraine.

During his meeting with Putin at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Bishkek on August 31, Modi urged the Russian leader to move from “endless war” towards an “end to the war.” This reinforced India’s stance of encouraging dialogue rather than confrontation.

India has also highlighted the wider economic impact of the conflict, particularly on energy supplies, shipping and trade. These concerns have been repeatedly raised by New Delhi in international forums, reflecting the global consequences of the prolonged war.

The Kremlin statement comes as US efforts to revive negotiations between Russia and Ukraine have failed to produce a breakthrough. US President Donald Trump has pushed for an end to the nearly five-year-old conflict and recently held talks with Putin.

US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner also travelled to Moscow and Kyiv as part of efforts to restart negotiations.

Despite the renewed diplomatic push, fighting has continued, with both Russia and Ukraine reporting fresh attacks. The Kremlin’s statement does not indicate that India has launched a formal mediation initiative. Instead, New Delhi has positioned its role as one of encouraging dialogue and diplomacy.

At the BRICS summit, the New Delhi Declaration also stressed the importance of resolving conflicts through dialogue, consultation and diplomatic means. The declaration reflected the collective stance of BRICS members on prioritising peaceful solutions to global disputes.

This development underscores India’s balancing act in global diplomacy, maintaining strategic ties with Russia while also engaging with Western nations.

It also highlights China’s parallel interest in playing a role in conflict resolution, signalling a broader push by major powers within BRICS to influence the trajectory of the Ukraine war.

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'PM Modi Warns Against Weaponisation of Technology And Minerals At BRICS Summit'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday addressed the open session of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, focusing on the theme ‘Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability: Shaping the Future for Inclusive Global Growth’.

He warned that the weaponisation of technology and critical minerals could obstruct shared progress across nations. His remarks came during a gathering of leaders and representatives from BRICS member states and partner nations, where he stressed the importance of inclusivity and cooperation in global growth.

The Prime Minister underlined that India has advanced the spirit of friendship, partnership, and cooperation through the BRICS platform. He explained that BRICS cooperation should not remain confined to governments alone, but must involve entrepreneurs, farmers, researchers, women, youth, and ordinary citizens as active participants.

He emphasised that the strength of BRICS lies in diversity and cooperation, noting that the trust of Global South nations in the grouping has grown because their voices are heard, their experiences respected, and solutions crafted with them rather than for them.

In his closing remarks, Modi highlighted that BRICS diversity is its identity, cooperation its inspiration, and progress its contribution to humanity.

He stated that although member nations are rooted in different realities, they rise together through cooperation and blossom for humanity. He urged that diversity must remain the identity of BRICS, cooperation its guiding force, and progress a benefit for all of humanity.

The Prime Minister’s warning about the weaponisation of technology and critical minerals drew particular attention, especially with Chinese President Xi Jinping present at the session. Modi stressed that such practices could hinder shared progress and reiterated the need for inclusivity in the adoption of technology.

His comments were significant in the context of China’s past restrictions on rare earth exports during its trade war with the United States. Although China has eased some of those restrictions, it continues to process around 90 per cent of the world’s rare earths, which are critical for manufacturing advanced technologies ranging from solar panels to smartphones.

Modi also pointed out that conflicts and tensions across the world are continuously increasing, with widespread negative impacts on ordinary people.

He noted that pandemics, climate disasters, and supply chain disruptions have demonstrated that in an interconnected world, no crisis can remain confined to a single region. His remarks reinforced the need for collective resilience and cooperation in addressing global challenges.

The session underscored India’s commitment to ensuring that the Global South is heard and included in shaping the future of global growth.

PM Modi’s speech reflected India’s broader agenda of promoting inclusivity, cooperation, and sustainability through the BRICS platform, while cautioning against practices that could undermine shared progress.

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Xi Jinping’s India Visit With Power Team Signals High‑Stakes Diplomacy

Chinese President Xi Jinping has landed in New Delhi for the 18th BRICS Summit, accompanied by two of his most powerful aides — Cai Qi and Wang Yi — signalling the high diplomatic weight of his visit.

This marks Xi’s first trip to India in nearly seven years, with a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi set to be closely watched for its impact on India‑China relations.

Xi Jinping arrived in New Delhi on Saturday morning at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He was received by Union Minister of State Jitin Prasada, underscoring the ceremonial importance of the visit. This is Xi’s first India trip since 2019, when he met Modi in Mamallapuram, and his fourth overall since 2014.

Travelling with Xi are Cai Qi and Wang Yi, two of China’s most senior officials. Cai Qi is a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and serves as director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee.

He is widely regarded as Xi’s right‑hand man and China’s second‑most powerful leader, having risen rapidly through the party ranks. His presence highlights the strategic importance Beijing attaches to Xi’s engagements in India.

Wang Yi, China’s Foreign Minister and a member of the CPC Political Bureau, is another key figure in the delegation. He has been deeply involved in India‑China diplomatic exchanges, particularly on the boundary issue.

Just weeks before Xi’s visit, Wang held extensive talks with India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval in Beijing during the 25th round of Special Representatives’ discussions. The two sides reached an eight‑point consensus, including advancing talks on boundary delimitation and border management, aiming for what both termed an “early and substantial harvest.”

Xi’s meeting with Modi is expected to be pivotal. It will be the third consecutive year the two leaders have met, following interactions in Kazan and Tianjin. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning emphasised that Beijing seeks to act on the strategic guidance of the two leaders, handle relations from a long‑term perspective, step up communication, enhance cooperation, and properly manage differences.

She described China and India as “friends enjoying good‑neighbourliness and partners helping each other succeed.”

Xi will also address the BRICS Summit, engaging in in‑depth exchanges with other leaders on pressing issues such as the international situation, BRICS institutional development, and practical cooperation. He is expected to put forward new Chinese initiatives to chart the course for deeper BRICS collaboration.

The summit is taking place against the backdrop of the Iran‑US conflict and the Russia‑Ukraine war, with China advocating a common, cooperative and sustainable approach to security.

Mao Ning stressed that Beijing is committed to promoting political settlements of hotspot issues through dialogue and looks forward to working with BRICS partners to safeguard regional and global peace.

The Modi‑Xi meeting will be closely scrutinised for signals on the future of India‑China relations, particularly regarding the border dispute and wider bilateral engagement.

The visit comes amid cautious efforts to stabilise ties following the deadly Galwan clashes of 2020 and years of strained relations. Xi’s presence, alongside Cai Qi and Wang Yi, underscores Beijing’s intent to elevate the diplomatic significance of this engagement.

India is hosting the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on 12 and 13 September. After the summit, China will assume the rotating BRICS chairmanship, further shaping the grouping’s agenda in the coming year.

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PM Modi Joins BRICS Leaders For Business Forum Family Photo

Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined BRICS leaders, the Chairs of the BRICS Business Council and the BRICS Women's Business Alliance for a family photograph in New Delhi on the occasion of the BRICS Business Forum 2026.

The group photograph featured PM Modi alongside Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, among other dignitaries.

The BRICS Business Forum is recognised as the flagship private sector platform of the BRICS grouping. It is convened annually in the Summit host country on the eve of the Leaders' Summit.

The Forum brings together business leaders, Ministers and Heads of State to deliberate on trade, investment, finance, technology and development challenges that shape the BRICS economic agenda.

The Forum also serves as a platform where key ideas and suggestions from the Council are presented and discussed. It plays a strong agenda-setting role, with its conclusions and the Business Council's recommendations regularly reflected in BRICS Summit declarations and follow-up work plans.

These areas of deliberation include intra-BRICS trade, investment, digital economy, MSMEs, standards cooperation and value chain integration.

The BRICS Business Forum is being held as India hosts the 18th BRICS Summit under its 2026 chairship. India's chairship is guided by the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”, with development, sustainability and innovation forming key areas of focus.

BRICS has emerged as an important platform for coordination among major emerging economies and for advancing the interests of the Global South in multilateral institutions. Its agenda spans development, finance, technology, trade and people-to-people exchanges.

The grouping currently comprises 11 countries — Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and the UAE.

According to background information on India's 2026 chairship, BRICS members collectively account for around 49.5 per cent of the global population, 40 per cent of global GDP and 26 per cent of global trade.

India's BRICS chairship comes at a time of global economic fragmentation, technological disruption, geopolitical uncertainty, climate change and resource pressures. For India, the 2026 chairship is focused on translating the expanded representation of BRICS into meaningful cooperation and tangible outcomes, while building consensus among its diverse members and strengthening the effectiveness of existing mechanisms.

The Business Forum, with the participation of business leaders, Ministers and Heads of State, therefore forms an important component of India's BRICS chairship as the grouping discusses priorities spanning trade, investment, finance, technology and development.

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Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira Joins Global Leaders In New Delhi For 18th BRICS Summit

Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira has arrived in New Delhi to participate in the 18th BRICS Summit, which will be held this weekend at Bharat Mandapam under India’s chairship.

His presence comes as he represents Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who remains in Brazil due to his ongoing election campaign.

The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed Vieira’s arrival and extended a warm welcome, emphasising the strong bilateral ties between India and Brazil. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, in a post on X, highlighted the enduring friendship between the two nations and their shared commitment to advancing cooperation across the Global South.

Earlier in the day, South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, also reached New Delhi ahead of the summit. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is scheduled to attend the two-day leaders’ meeting at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In addition, the Foreign Ministers of Ethiopia and Burundi arrived in the Indian capital on Thursday. Edouard Bizimana of Burundi and Gedion Timothewos of Ethiopia landed in New Delhi in the morning, further strengthening the diverse representation at the summit.

This marks the fourth time New Delhi will host the BRICS Summit, underscoring India’s growing role in shaping the bloc’s agenda. India’s chairship of the 18th BRICS Summit is guided by the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”, which reflects a human-centric approach across the organisation’s core pillars. The focus is on reinforcing institutional strength and supporting sustainable growth.

The upcoming summit follows the 17th BRICS Summit held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on July 6-7, 2025, under Brazil’s chairship. That meeting concentrated on Global South cooperation, inclusive governance, global health, climate action, artificial intelligence governance, trade, and financial mechanism efficiency. It was also the first high-level assembly of the expanded grouping.

For India, the 2026 chairship marks its fourth tenure leading BRICS, following earlier terms in 2012, 2016, and 2021. India last chaired the bloc in 2021, hosting the 13th BRICS Summit virtually on September 9 under the theme “BRICS@15: Intra-BRICS Cooperation for Continuity, Consolidation and Consensus.”

During the 2021 chairship, New Delhi organised over 150 ministerial and sector-specific events. These focused on reforming the multilateral system, strengthening counter-terrorism cooperation, deploying digital tools for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, and enhancing people-to-people exchanges. The New Delhi Declaration adopted at the 13th summit enshrined these priorities.

India’s 2026 presidency builds on this legacy by bridging established reform goals with expanded priorities. Resilience, innovation, and sustainability are placed at the heart of the bloc’s collective agenda as leaders gather in New Delhi to assess BRICS’ evolving global role and chart its future trajectory.

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South Africa Recalls High Commissioner To India Amid Zuma And Gupta Controversy

The South African Government has recalled its High Commissioner to India, Anil Sooklal, for further consultations following reports of his association with former president Jacob Zuma and Indian-origin businessman Ajay Gupta.

The announcement was made by Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola during a press conference in Pretoria, where he confirmed that Sooklal had been summoned back to headquarters.

Lamola explained that the government was working on a new framework to regulate protocol and diplomatic support provided to former presidents and deputy presidents during international travel. He stated that recommendations had already been submitted to Parliament and the presidency for consideration.

The proposed framework includes a mandatory disclosure mechanism requiring former leaders to provide full details of their travel purposes, programs, activities, sources of funding, principal hosts, key engagements, and the capacity in which they will be travelling.

The minister emphasised that the mechanism was designed to assess reputational, political, diplomatic, and security risks. He stressed that the move was intended to prevent situations where former leaders might be perceived as representing South Africa’s foreign policy without authorisation from the sitting president. Lamola underlined that only the current head of state is mandated to represent the country’s foreign policy.

Anil Sooklal, who is of Indian origin, has previously served as South Africa’s G20 sherpa and BRICS sherpa before being appointed as High Commissioner to India. His recall follows questions raised over his engagements with Zuma and Ajay Gupta during Zuma’s visit to Haridwar in June.

During this visit, Zuma and Sooklal met Niranjani Akhara Mahamandaleshwar Swami Kailashanand Giri at the Siddhpeeth Shri Dakshin Kali Mandir. Swami Kailashanand Giri told the media that Ajay Gupta, a disciple and member of the ashram family, was a friend of Zuma.

The Gupta family has long been at the centre of South Africa’s state capture investigations. Allegations surfaced that they exploited their close relationship with Zuma to influence government decisions and secure lucrative state contracts. The Gupta brothers fled South Africa in 2018 after a judicial commission began probing widespread corruption and undue influence during Zuma’s presidency.

The recall of Sooklal highlights Pretoria’s sensitivity to reputational risks associated with former leaders and controversial figures. It also underscores the government’s determination to establish stricter controls over diplomatic engagements involving past presidents and deputy presidents.

The new framework, once adopted, is expected to bring greater transparency and accountability to such interactions, ensuring that South Africa’s foreign policy remains firmly under the authority of the sitting president.

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South Africa’s India Envoy Anil Sooklal Asked Not Recalled

South Africa’s High Commissioner to India, Anil Sooklal, has not been recalled but has instead been asked to attend a meeting with Zane Dangor, Director-General of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), for consultations and clarifications.

The matter concerns his presence at a religious event in Haridwar attended by former President Jacob Zuma and Indian-origin businessman Ajay Gupta.

Diplomatic sources confirmed that Sooklal will meet Dangor to provide clarifications regarding the event. They emphasised that he remains South Africa’s envoy to India and has not been recalled. This clarification followed earlier remarks by Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola, who had stated that Sooklal was recalled for further consultations.

Lamola explained that the government is reviewing the framework governing protocol and diplomatic support extended to former presidents and deputy presidents during international travel. He confirmed that recommendations have been submitted to Parliament and the presidency to establish a new framework.

This framework would include mandatory disclosure requirements for former leaders seeking diplomatic assistance, covering details such as the purpose of travel, programs, activities, sources of funding, hosts, key engagements, and the capacity in which they travel.

The minister stressed that such measures are necessary to assess reputational, political, diplomatic, and security risks. He noted that this would prevent situations where former presidents appear to represent South Africa’s foreign policy without authorisation from the sitting head of state.

Sooklal, who is of Indian origin, previously served as South Africa’s G20 sherpa and BRICS sherpa before being appointed High Commissioner to India. The controversy arose after his presence during Zuma’s visit to Haridwar in June, where Zuma met Ajay Gupta at Siddhpeeth Shri Dakshin Kali Mandir. During the visit, Zuma and Sooklal met Niranjani Akhara Mahamandaleshwar Swami Kailashanand Giri, who described Gupta as a disciple and member of the ashram family, and a friend of Zuma.

The Gupta family has long been at the centre of South Africa’s “state capture” investigations. Allegations claimed they exploited their close relationship with Zuma to influence government decisions and secure lucrative state contracts.

The brothers fled South Africa in 2018 after a judicial commission began probing widespread corruption and undue influence during Zuma’s presidency.

The incident has reignited debate in South Africa about the role of former leaders in international engagements and the need for stricter oversight. It also highlights the sensitivity surrounding the Gupta family’s legacy and their association with Zuma, which continues to cast a shadow over South Africa’s political and diplomatic landscape.

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