India to host 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum in New Delhi on 26 October

What is happening in New Delhi

India will host the 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum on 26 and 27 October in the Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan, marking another step in the country's growing parliamentary diplomacy and international leadership.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla announced the schedule during a press conference at Parliament House, describing the forum as a new chapter in India's diplomatic outreach. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will grace the inauguration on 26 October and meet leaders of visiting parliamentary delegations.

Presiding officers and parliamentary delegates from BRICS member and partner nations will attend, along with Union Ministers, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh, state legislature presiding officers, and members of parliament.

What is on the agenda

The overarching theme of the two-day event is "Strengthening Parliaments for People-Centric Development." Discussions will span four high-level thematic sessions designed to build consensus among member nations.

A preparatory meeting of delegation secretaries will take place on 25 October to finalise the Joint Statement. Additionally, chairpersons of the international affairs committees from BRICS parliaments will hold a special session focused on capacity building, exchange of best practices, and legislative coordination.

Why this forum matters

The gathering underlines India's expanding role in shaping international governance and strengthening democratic institutions across member nations. Beyond official sessions, visiting representatives will participate in bilateral and multilateral interactions with Indian lawmakers and parliamentary friendship groups.

The Vice-President of India will host an official banquet for the foreign dignitaries, who will also undertake cultural visits across New Delhi during their stay. The forum will formally conclude on 27 October.