External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Tuesday launched the official logo and website for BRICS 2026, formally marking the beginning of India’s chairmanship of the multilateral grouping. India assumed the chair on January 1, taking over from Brazil, and will host the 18th BRICS Summit later this year—a milestone event that coincides with the forum’s 20th anniversary.
Outlining New Delhi’s approach to the chairmanship, Jaishankar emphasised a people-first and inclusive vision for the grouping. “India approaches its chairship with a humanity-first and people-centric approach, inspired by the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Our theme — Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability — reflects our belief that cooperation among BRICS members can help address shared challenges in a balanced and inclusive manner,” he said.
BRICS, originally formed in 2006 by Brazil, Russia, India, and China, expanded with South Africa’s entry in 2011. The grouping has seen significant expansion in recent years, with Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE joining as full members in 2024, followed by Indonesia in 2025. Partner countries currently include Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan. Together, the 11-member bloc accounts for nearly half of the world’s population, around 40% of global GDP, and approximately 26% of international trade.
The newly unveiled BRICS 2026 logo draws inspiration from the lotus, symbolising India’s heritage, resilience, and continuity. Its multicoloured petals reflect the diversity of the member nations, while the central Namaste gesture represents mutual respect and collaboration. “The logo draws strength from the collective contributions of its members while respecting their distinct identities,” Jaishankar noted.
The official BRICS India 2026 website has been positioned as a central digital platform to share information on summits, initiatives, and official documents. Designed to improve transparency and engagement, the portal will facilitate timely coordination and communication among member countries.
Reflecting on the global context, Jaishankar said, “The world faces complex, interlinked challenges, geopolitical uncertainties, economic volatility, climate-related risks, technological shifts, and persistent development gaps. In this context, BRICS remains an important forum for dialogue, cooperation, and practical solutions that respect national priorities.”
He also underlined the role of people-to-people engagement during India’s tenure, including initiatives across youth, culture, education, sports, tourism, and academia. “These interactions build mutual understanding and lay the foundation for long-term cooperation, strengthening the sense of community within BRICS,” he added.
India’s BRICS chairmanship is expected to focus on strengthening cooperation among emerging economies while advancing inclusive growth, resilience, and sustainable development.
