India actively participated in the 9th BRICS Industry Ministers’ Meeting held on May 21, 2025, in Brasília, Brazil, under the theme “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance.” The meeting brought together Industry Ministers and representatives from the original BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—along with newly included members Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
A significant highlight was the launch of the BRICS Startup Knowledge Hub by India earlier this year, designed to foster greater cross-border collaboration among startup ecosystems in BRICS countries. This pioneering platform aims to facilitate the exchange of policy ideas, innovations, and best practices to strengthen startups collectively.
India also emphasized the vital role of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in economic growth and job creation. With nearly 6 crore registered MSMEs employing over 25 crore people and contributing almost half of India’s exports in 2023–24, the sector remains a backbone for inclusive development and resilience, both nationally and within the BRICS community.
The ministers at the meeting underscored the importance of industrial cooperation focused on sustainable and inclusive growth, highlighting digital technologies and Industry 4.0 innovations as key drivers. India shared its vision of a future-ready, digitally empowered industry aligned with the ongoing Fourth Industrial Revolution. The success of India’s Digital India campaign was noted, which has expanded internet connectivity to over 950 million users, making it the world’s largest digitally connected democracy.
Closing its remarks, India called for continued cooperation based on principles of collaboration, harmony, inclusiveness, and consensus—values it hopes will guide the BRICS partnership toward a more equitable and sustainable future. The meeting reaffirmed a shared commitment among BRICS nations to support open, fair, and resilient global governance in a rapidly changing world.