Modi Calls for BRICS Cooperation to Reach Entrepreneurs, Farmers, Youth and Citizens

Source: Loksatta | Original Published At: 2026-09-13 22:11:08 UTC

Key Points

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi said BRICS cooperation should not remain limited to governments and should benefit entrepreneurs, farmers, youth and ordinary citizens.
• A BRICS Startup Innovation Fund was proposed, along with a network connecting startups and incubation centres across BRICS countries.
• Digital agriculture initiatives were discussed to use artificial intelligence, geospatial technology and digital public infrastructure to address farmers' needs.
• A BRICS Digital Excellence Centre was established for smart grids and energy storage, with emphasis on clean energy and sustainable development.
• Modi paused his speech to ask Chinese President Xi Jinping whether he was okay after Xi appeared uncomfortable; no official information was released on his health.
• Xi did not attend Modi's dinner for BRICS leaders, reportedly returning to his hotel to rest, while Russian President Vladimir Putin attended.
• Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khalid bin Mohammed also did not attend the dinner, having left after the summit.