Current Affairs of 12 September 2026

by Vajiram & Ravi - 12 September 2026

Vajiram and Ravi provide Current Affairs of 12 September 2026 for UPSC aspirants. We cover all relevant news and important events crucial for the exam, helping you stay updated and well prepared.

Schizopygopsis waddellii

September 12, 2026
Schizopygopsis waddellii

Schizopygopsis waddellii Latest News

Scientists recently recorded Schizopygopsis waddellii, a rare fish species for the first time from a natural lake in Tawang, at around 12,800 feet above sea level.

About Schizopygopsis waddellii

  • It is a rare species of high-altitude Himalayan fish.
  • It was recorded in India for the first time from the Pangkang Teng Tso Lake, a natural high-altitude lake located at 12,800 feet in Arunachal Pradesh’s Tawang district.
  • It was previously known only from the Tibetan and China Plateau region, including Yamdrok Lake in Tibet. 
  • The present record expands its known distribution range and adds a new species to India’s freshwater fish fauna. 
  • The fish belongs to the Cyprinidae family and is adapted to the harsh conditions of high-altitude freshwater ecosystems. 
  • The fish has an elongated, cylindrical body, a dark greyish to olive-coloured upper side, and a lighter, silvery to creamy-white underside. 
  • It also has a complete lateral line, a blunt snout, a distinctive hard plate-like structure around the lower lip and snout, a subterminal mouth, and a deeply forked caudal fin.

News: NOA

Schizopygopsis waddellii FAQs

Q1: What is Schizopygopsis waddellii?

Ans: It is a rare species of high-altitude Himalayan fish.

Q2: Where was Schizopygopsis waddellii recorded in India for the first time?

Ans: Pangkang Teng Tso Lake in Arunachal Pradesh.

Q3: Where was Schizopygopsis waddellii previously known from?

Ans: The Tibetan and China Plateau region.

Q4: What is the general shape of the body of Schizopygopsis waddellii?

Ans: Elongated and cylindrical.

BRICS Counter-Terrorism Action Plan, Objectives, Features and Significance

September 12, 2026
BRICS Counter-Terrorism Action Plan

The BRICS Counter-Terrorism Action Plan was adopted in 2021 under India’s BRICS Chairship and endorsed at the 13th BRICS Summit on 9 September 2021. It provides a framework for strengthening cooperation among BRICS countries to prevent and combat terrorism through information sharing, capacity building and coordinated action. The plan reflects the shared commitment of member countries to enhance international cooperation and contribute to a safer and more secure global environment. 

BRICS Latest News

  • BRICS has emerged as an important platform for cooperation among major emerging economies, particularly on economic policy and global governance.
  • BRICS has also become an important platform for advancing the interests and aspirations of the Global South through continued dialogue and cooperation.
  • Its areas of cooperation cover development, finance, technology, trade and people-to-people exchanges.
  • The grouping reflects the growing economic importance and global aspirations of emerging economies and provides members an opportunity to share experiences and address common challenges.
  • Under its 2026 Presidency, India is hosting the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on 12-13 September 2026.
  • The 2026 Summit will mark India’s fourth Chairship of BRICS. India’s Chairship is guided by the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.”
  • The theme focuses on strengthening BRICS’ existing achievements and improving its institutional effectiveness, while placing greater emphasis on development, sustainability and innovation.
  • India also aims to highlight the aspirations of the Global South and strengthen BRICS as a constructive and solutions-oriented forum.
  • BRICS currently comprises 11 countries: Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and the UAE.
  • Collectively, these countries account for around 49.5% of the global population, 40% of global GDP and 26% of global trade, highlighting the grouping’s significant demographic and economic weight.
  • The expanded membership has increased BRICS’ geographical reach across Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Latin America.

History of Adoption of the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Action Plan

  • At the 12th BRICS Summit in November 2020, BRICS leaders endorsed the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Strategy, which provided the broader framework for counter-terrorism cooperation.
  • The Strategy envisaged the preparation of a Plan of Action with specific measures for its effective implementation.
  • Accordingly, the 6th BRICS Counter-Terrorism Working Group (CTWG), held virtually on 28-29 July 2021 under India’s Chairship, finalized the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Action Plan.
  • The Action Plan was adopted at the BRICS National Security Advisers’ meeting on 24 August 2021 and subsequently endorsed at the 13th BRICS Summit on 9 September 2021.
  • It seeks to strengthen result-oriented cooperation among BRICS countries in areas such as terrorism financing, radicalisation, misuse of the internet, border control, information sharing, capacity building and international and regional cooperation.

BRICS Counter-Terrorism Action Plan Key Objectives

The BRICS Counter-Terrorism Action Plan provides a framework for strengthening cooperation among BRICS countries to deal with terrorism and related security threats. It was prepared under the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Strategy, endorsed by BRICS Leaders in 2020. The plan focuses on coordinated action, information sharing, capacity building and cooperation with international organisations.

  • Strengthen counter-terrorism cooperation: The Action Plan aims to improve cooperation among BRICS countries to understand, identify and respond collectively to both existing and emerging terrorist threats.
  • Improve coordination among agencies: It promotes closer cooperation between the intelligence, law enforcement and security agencies of BRICS countries for more effective counter-terrorism action.
  • Combat terrorism in all forms: BRICS countries reaffirm their commitment to oppose terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, irrespective of who carries it out, where it occurs or what motive is given for it.
  • Prevent the use of territory by terrorists: Countries are encouraged to prevent their territories from being used for establishing terrorist bases or planning and carrying out attacks against other countries or their citizens.
  • Counter radicalisation and extremism: The plan focuses on preventing the spread of extremist ideas, terrorist propaganda and radicalisation, particularly through the internet and social media.
  • Stop terrorist financing: It seeks stronger cooperation to identify illegal financial channels, prevent the movement of terrorist funds and freeze terrorist assets.
  • Prevent terrorist travel: The Action Plan aims to restrict the movement of terrorists through stronger immigration controls, border management and information exchange.
  • Build counter-terrorism capacity: Training, expert meetings, joint exercises, workshops, research and sharing of best practices are encouraged to improve the capabilities of security and law enforcement agencies.
  • Address conditions conducive to terrorism: BRICS countries also seek to exchange best practices related to education, socio-economic development, employment, skill development, poverty reduction and rehabilitation, while recognising that such conditions cannot justify terrorism.

Major Features of the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Action Plan

The Action Plan covers multiple areas, ranging from combating terrorism and radicalisation to terrorist financing, border security, online threats and intelligence sharing.

  • Combating terrorism: BRICS countries will strengthen their national legal frameworks in line with relevant UN resolutions and improve cooperation in the investigation and prosecution of terrorists and crimes linked to terrorism.
  • Preventing radicalisation: The plan promotes cooperation against terrorist narratives, propaganda, recruitment and radicalisation. Special attention is given to the misuse of the internet and social media for influencing young people.
  • Countering online terrorist threats: BRICS members will share information and best practices on terrorist use of social media, dark web, encrypted services, anonymity tools and other ICT platforms. They will also strengthen cyber and digital forensic capabilities.
  • Countering terrorism financing: Cooperation will focus on preventing illegal movement of funds, freezing terrorist assets and identifying sources of financing. This includes suspicious hawala operators, travel agencies and money changers, as well as newer methods such as online crowdfunding, digital payments, dark web and cryptocurrencies.
  • Preventing terrorist travel: Countries will exchange best practices on immigration controls and the use of Advance Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) systems to identify and disrupt terrorist movement.
  • Strengthening border management: The plan calls for stronger border and customs controls to prevent the movement of terrorists and detect activities such as trafficking in persons, illicit trade in natural resources, wildlife trafficking and movement of materials that may be used for terrorist purposes.
  • Capacity building: BRICS countries will conduct counter-terrorism training, joint exercises and expertise-sharing programmes. Training will also cover digital evidence, cyber attacks, dark web investigations and encrypted terrorist communications.
  • Protecting soft targets: The plan supports the development of good practices for protecting religious centres, public places and other high-footfall locations from terrorist attacks.
  • Information and intelligence sharing: BRICS countries will strengthen mechanisms to exchange intelligence related to terrorist organisations and individuals, including information on their movement, financial activities and assets.
  • International and regional cooperation: The Action Plan supports cooperation through the United Nations, G20, INTERPOL and other regional and multilateral organisations. It also calls for early finalisation and adoption of the UN Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism.
  • Implementation mechanism: The BRICS Counter-Terrorism Working Group (CTWG) and its sub-groups will identify activities, prepare an annual activity calendar and review implementation. Each BRICS country will also designate a nodal agency and focal points, with implementation carried out according to national legal frameworks.

Challenges in Implementing the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Action Plan

  • Different legal frameworks: BRICS countries have different national laws and legal systems. Since implementation has to follow each country's legal framework, applying common measures can be challenging.
  • Different approaches to terrorism: Member countries may have different national priorities and approaches towards terrorism, extremism and security issues. This can sometimes make coordinated action difficult.
  • Cross-border nature of terrorism: Terrorist organisations can operate across national boundaries. This makes cooperation on intelligence, investigation, prosecution, terrorist movement and financial flows particularly important.
  • Changing online threats: Terrorist groups increasingly use social media, encrypted platforms, dark web networks and emerging technologies for propaganda, recruitment and radicalisation. Keeping pace with these methods requires continuous technological and institutional improvement.
  • Complex terrorism financing: Terrorist organisations can use several channels to raise and transfer funds, including illegal trade, digital payments, crowdfunding and cryptocurrencies. Tracking these changing financial methods can be difficult.
  • Coordination among agencies: Effective implementation requires regular coordination between intelligence, law enforcement, security, immigration, customs and financial authorities across BRICS countries.
  • Implementation at the national level: The Action Plan depends on designated national agencies and focal points for implementation. Differences in institutional capacity and national priorities may affect how effectively individual measures are carried out.

BRICS Counter-Terrorism Action Plan Significance

  • Promotes result-oriented cooperation: The Action Plan converts the broad objectives of the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Strategy 2020 into specific areas and activities for cooperation among member countries.
  • Creates a common framework: It provides a structured approach for BRICS countries to work together against terrorism, radicalisation, terrorist financing, cyber threats and terrorist movement.
  • Improves intelligence sharing: Greater exchange of information and best practices can help countries identify terrorist organisations, track their activities and respond to threats more effectively.
  • Strengthens border security: Cooperation on immigration controls, API and PNR systems, customs and border management can help prevent the movement of terrorists across countries.
  • Addresses emerging forms of terrorism: The focus on online propaganda, radicalisation, encrypted communication, dark web activities, digital payments and cryptocurrencies makes the Action Plan relevant to changing terrorist threats.
  • Strengthens institutional capacity: Joint training, exercises, research, expert meetings and sharing of case studies can improve the capabilities of security, intelligence and law enforcement agencies.
  • Protects vulnerable public spaces: The focus on soft targets, including religious centres and high-footfall public places, supports preventive security measures against terrorist attacks.
  • Supports a comprehensive approach: The Action Plan combines security measures with efforts to promote social resilience and address conditions conducive to terrorism through education, socio-economic development, employment, skill development, poverty reduction and rehabilitation.

India’s Measures to Counter Terrorism

  • Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967: The UAPA is a key legal framework for dealing with terrorism and unlawful activities. It provides for the designation of terrorist organisations and individuals and measures for dealing with terrorist activities and related assets.
  • National Investigation Agency (NIA): Established under the NIA Act, 2008, the NIA is India’s premier central agency for investigating and prosecuting scheduled offences, including terrorism-related cases and terrorist financing.
  • Other Legal Measures: Laws such as the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) support action against terrorist financing and related criminal activities.
  • Multi-Agency Centre (MAC): Operating under the Intelligence Bureau, MAC facilitates real-time intelligence sharing and coordination among central and state security agencies to strengthen counter-terrorism efforts.
  • National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID): NATGRID connects approved security and law-enforcement agencies with designated data providers to improve intelligence gathering and counter-terrorism capabilities.
  • National Security Guard (NSG): The NSG is the nodal national counter-terror force under the Ministry of Home Affairs for assisting state forces during major terror attacks, along with supporting capacity building.
  • CCTNS and State ATS: The Crime and Criminal Tracking Network & Systems (CCTNS) strengthens crime-data sharing, while State Anti-Terrorism Squads (ATS) investigate and respond to terrorism-related threats at the state level.
  • Border Security Measures: India uses integrated border management, surveillance systems and technological tools to strengthen border security and prevent infiltration and cross-border movement linked to terrorism.
  • Whole-of-Government Approach: Counter-terrorism involves coordination among central agencies, state police, CAPFs, intelligence agencies and specialised forces, enabling faster intelligence sharing and coordinated responses.
  • PRAHAAR - National Counter-Terrorism Policy and Strategy: Launched in February 2026, PRAHAAR provides India’s first comprehensive national framework for preventing and responding to terrorism and radicalisation. It emphasises a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, along with human rights and rule of law.
  • No Money for Terror (NMFT): India hosted the 3rd Ministerial Conference on Countering Financing of Terrorism in New Delhi in November 2022 and has continued to participate in the NMFT process to strengthen international cooperation against terrorist financing.
  • FATF Cooperation: India has been a FATF member since 25 June 2010 and participates in international efforts to strengthen standards against money laundering and terrorist financing.
  • International Cooperation and CCIT: India works through the United Nations, FATF, INTERPOL, SCO and other international platforms to strengthen counter-terrorism cooperation. It also continues to support the adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT), which India proposed at the UN in 1996.

International Efforts to Counter Terrorism

The international community has developed several global and regional mechanisms to prevent terrorism, disrupt terrorist financing, strengthen national capacities and promote cooperation among countries. 

  • United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy (GCTS): Adopted by the UN General Assembly in 2006, it provides a common framework for international counter-terrorism efforts based on four pillars: addressing conditions conducive to terrorism, preventing and combating terrorism, building state capacity and protecting human rights and the rule of law.
  • UN Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT): Established in 2017, it coordinates UN counter-terrorism efforts and supports Member States in implementing the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy.
  • UN Security Council Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC): Established to monitor the implementation of UNSC Resolution 1373 (2001) and strengthen international cooperation against terrorism.
  • UN Countering Terrorist Travel Programme: Helps countries strengthen their ability to detect and prevent terrorist travel through the effective use of Advance Passenger Information (API), Passenger Name Record (PNR) and international databases.
  • Global Counterterrorism Forum (GCTF): An informal multilateral platform that promotes the sharing of expertise, good practices and capacity-building approaches among countries to counter terrorism.
  • Financial Action Task Force (FATF): An inter-governmental body that sets global standards to combat money laundering and terrorist financing and helps countries strengthen measures against illicit financial flows.
  • SCO Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS): Promotes cooperation among SCO members to combat terrorism, separatism and extremism, including through information sharing and coordination.
  • Global Terrorism Index (GTI): Published by the Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP), it measures the global impact of terrorism and provides data on terrorism trends to support policy analysis.
  • Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT): Proposed by India in 1996, it seeks to create a comprehensive international legal framework to deal with terrorism, including issues related to terrorist financing and safe havens. The convention is yet to be adopted.

BRICS Counter-Terrorism Action Plan FAQs

Q1: What is the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Action Plan?

Ans: It is a framework for cooperation among BRICS countries to prevent and combat terrorism.

Q2: When was the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Action Plan adopted?

Ans: It was adopted on 24 August 2021 at the BRICS National Security Advisers meeting and endorsed at the 13th BRICS Summit.

Q3: What are the main objectives of the Action Plan?

Ans: It aims to strengthen cooperation, information sharing, capacity building and joint efforts against terrorism.

Q4: What are the key areas covered by the Action Plan?

Ans: It covers terrorist financing, radicalisation, terrorist travel, online terrorism, border security and information sharing.

Q5: What is the role of the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Working Group?

Ans: The BRICS CTWG coordinates counter-terrorism cooperation and supports the implementation of the Action Plan.

Solani River

September 12, 2026
Solani River

Solani River Latest News

The Uttar Pradesh government submitted a report to National Green Tribunal(NGT) on the floodplain demarcation of the Solani river using a one-metre digital elevation model and a 100-year return period.

About Solani River

  • Origin: It originates in the Himalayan foothills near Dehradun in Uttarakhand.
  • Course: It flows through Saharanpur and Muzaffarnagar districts in Uttar Pradesh, and joins the Banganga river upstream of Shukratal.
  • It is located at an elevation of 214 meters above sea level.
  • Climate: The basin experiences an average annual rainfall between 1,170 mm and 1,500 mm. Soils in the catchment are predominantly loamy.
  • Major Landmarks
    • Solani Aqueduct: It is located near Roorkee, which is a historic 19th-century masonry structure that carries the Upper Ganga Canal safely over the Solani River.

What is the National Green Tribunal?

  • It was established in 2010, under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010.
  • It is a specialised body that fast-tracks environmental justice in India.
  • Functions: It handles cases related to environmental protection, forest conservation, and environmental rights, offering compensation for damages caused by environmental violations.
  • Composition
    • Chairperson: A retired Supreme Court judge or Chief Justice of a High Court, appointed by the Central Government in consultation with the Chief Justice of India, serving for five years or until age 70.
    • Judicial Members: Between 10 to 20 former Supreme Court or High Court judges appointed by the Central Government based on merit, serving for five years or until age 67 (for High Court judges) or 70 (for Supreme Court judges).
    • Expert Members: Includes 10 to 20 members with a Master’s degree in Science, Engineering, or Technology and relevant environmental experience, appointed by the Central Government, serving for five years or until age 65.

Source: DTE

Solani River FAQs

Q1: Where does Solani River originates?

Ans: It originates in the Himalayan foothills near Dehradun in Uttarakhand.

Q2: Solani River joins which river?

Ans: Banganga river

Proteome

September 12, 2026
Proteome

Proteome Latest News

Proteomic signatures detectable in children may predict an increased risk for cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic disease (CKMD) in later life, offering a potential precision prevention approach to address cardiometabolic diseases at the earliest opportunity.

About Proteome

  • A proteome is a set of proteins produced in an organism, system, or biological context. 
  • We may refer to, for instance, the proteome of a species (for example, Homo sapiens) or an organ (for example, the liver). 
  • The proteome is not constant; it differs from cell to cell and changes over time. 
  • The proteome of any given individual will be unique, as protein expression patterns are determined by an individual’s genes.
  • The proteome is always significantly larger than the number of genes in an individual due to a number of factors:
    • Gene sequences may be alternatively spliced following transcription to generate multiple protein variants from a single gene.
    • Proteins may be modified (e.g. glycosylated, phosphorylated, etc.) following translation to promote further variations.
  • Proteomics is the large-scale study of proteomes. 
  • With each protein playing distinct roles and functions, proteomics provides valuable insights into cellular processes, signaling pathways, and disease mechanisms. 
  • Scientists typically study the proteome using techniques like mass spectrometry or traditional protein sequencing.
  • Proteomics is used to investigate:
    • when and where proteins are expressed
    • rates of protein production, degradation, and steady-state abundance
    • how proteins are modified (for example, post-translational modifications (PTMs) such as phosphorylation)
    • the movement of proteins between subcellular compartments
    • the involvement of proteins in metabolic pathways
    • how proteins interact with one another
  • Understanding the proteome can shed light on disease mechanisms, help identify potential drug targets, and develop novel therapeutic interventions.

News: IPM

Proteome FAQs

Q1: What is a proteome?

Ans: A proteome is the set of proteins produced in an organism, system, or biological context.

Q2: Is the proteome constant?

Ans: No, the proteome is dynamic and changes over time.

Q3: Why does the proteome differ from cell to cell?

Ans: Different cells express different sets of proteins according to their functions and biological conditions.

Q4: Why is an individual's proteome considered unique?

Ans: Protein expression patterns are influenced by an individual's genes, making the proteome unique.

Q5: What is proteomics?

Ans: Proteomics is the large-scale study of proteomes.

Medical Tourism in India, Initiatives, Benefits & Challenges

September 12, 2026
Medical Tourism in India

India is emerging as an important destination for Medical Value Travel (MVT) because of its combination of advanced healthcare, skilled medical professionals, comparatively lower treatment costs and traditional wellness systems such as Ayurveda and Yoga.

Medical tourism is no longer limited to patients travelling to India for surgery. It increasingly includes the entire healthcare journey, from diagnosis and treatment to rehabilitation, wellness and post-treatment care. Government initiatives such as the Heal in India platform, Ayush Visa and the proposed five Regional Medical Hubs are aimed at strengthening this ecosystem. 

What is Medical Tourism?

Medical tourism refers to the practice of travelling from one country to another to obtain medical treatment, surgery, healthcare services or wellness therapies.

The broader term Medical Value Travel (MVT) includes not only treatment but also the associated services required during a patient's journey.

Why is Medical Tourism Growing in India?

India’s medical tourism sector is growing due to affordable treatment, skilled healthcare professionals, advanced infrastructure and increasing government support. Better connectivity and the integration of healthcare with wellness and tourism are further strengthening India’s position.

  • Affordable Treatment: Medical procedures are generally more cost-effective than in many developed countries.
  • Skilled Doctors: India has experienced doctors and specialists across cardiology, oncology, orthopaedics, fertility and other fields.
  • Advanced Infrastructure: Modern hospitals offer advanced diagnostics, minimally invasive procedures and specialised treatments.
  • Shorter Waiting Periods: Patients can often access consultations and planned treatments faster than in countries with long waiting lists.
  • Government Initiatives: Heal in India, medical visas and Regional Medical Hubs are improving the medical travel ecosystem.
  • AYUSH and Wellness: Ayurveda, Yoga and other traditional systems attract patients seeking wellness, rehabilitation and holistic care.
  • Better Connectivity: International airports, hospitality facilities and digital healthcare services make India more accessible to foreign patients.

Government Initiatives to Promote Medical Value Travel

The Indian government has introduced several measures to make India a more accessible, organised and competitive destination for Medical Value Travel. These initiatives focus on easier travel, quality healthcare, digital facilitation, wellness and integrated medical services.

  • Heal in India Initiative: Promotes India as a global healthcare destination and aims to simplify the journey of international patients.
  • Medical and e-Medical Visas: Dedicated visa facilities for patients and attendants make it easier for foreign nationals to travel to India for treatment.
  • National Strategy for Medical and Wellness Tourism: Provides a framework to strengthen infrastructure, branding, digital services, accessibility and institutional coordination.
  • National Medical & Wellness Tourism Board: Works as an institutional platform for promotion, facilitation, networking and development of medical and wellness tourism.
  • Ayush Visa: Introduced for foreign nationals seeking treatment through recognised AYUSH systems, including Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy.
  • Regional Medical Hubs: The Union Budget 2026–27 proposed five regional medical hubs integrating hospitals, diagnostics, AYUSH centres, rehabilitation and Medical Value Travel facilitation.
  • Digital Medical Travel Services: Online platforms and digital systems are being developed to provide information and facilitate international patients with hospitals, treatment and travel-related services.

Role of AYUSH in Medical Tourism in India

AYUSH strengthens India’s medical tourism sector by combining traditional healthcare systems with wellness, preventive care and rehabilitation. Ayurveda, Yoga and other AYUSH systems attract international visitors seeking holistic and long-term approaches to health.

  • Ayurveda and Wellness: Ayurveda attracts foreign visitors seeking therapies for wellness, lifestyle management and rehabilitation.
  • Holistic Healthcare: AYUSH offers approaches that focus on physical, mental and overall well-being.
  • AYUSH Visa: The government has introduced dedicated AYUSH Visa categories for foreign nationals seeking treatment through recognised AYUSH institutions.
  • Global Promotion: India is promoting AYUSH systems through international collaborations, summits and wellness tourism initiatives.
  • Medical Rehabilitation: Yoga, Ayurveda and other AYUSH therapies can complement rehabilitation and post-treatment care.
  • Quality and Standardisation: Initiatives such as the Ayush Quality Mark aim to improve quality standards and build international trust.
  • Medical Value Travel Hubs: The proposed Regional Medical Hubs are expected to integrate AYUSH centres with modern healthcare, diagnostics, rehabilitation and Medical Value Travel facilities.

Economic and Strategic Importance of Medical Tourism

Medical tourism contributes to India’s economy by generating foreign exchange, creating employment and strengthening the healthcare sector. Strategically, it enhances India’s global healthcare reputation and supports stronger international cooperation.

  • Foreign Exchange Earnings: International patients bring foreign currency into the country through healthcare, accommodation, travel and related services.
  • Employment Generation: It creates jobs for doctors, nurses, technicians, caregivers, hospitality workers, translators and travel facilitators.
  • Healthcare Infrastructure: Growing demand encourages investment in hospitals, diagnostics, medical technology and specialised healthcare facilities.
  • Services Export: Medical tourism strengthens India’s healthcare and services exports and expands its presence in the global healthcare market.
  • Regional Development: Medical hubs and improved healthcare facilities can promote investment and employment beyond major metropolitan cities.
  • Global Healthcare Reputation: High-quality and cost-effective treatment strengthens India’s position as a trusted international healthcare destination.
  • Medical Diplomacy: Healthcare cooperation, treatment of foreign patients and knowledge exchange can strengthen India’s diplomatic and people-to-people relations.

Challenges Associated with Medical Tourism in India

Despite its strong potential, India’s medical tourism sector faces challenges related to quality, regulation, infrastructure and patient safety. Addressing these issues is essential for building long-term international trust.

  • Uneven Quality Standards: Healthcare quality and accreditation vary across hospitals and regions.
  • Lack of Transparent Pricing: Unclear treatment costs can create confusion and reduce patient confidence.
  • Limited Data: Comprehensive data on international patients, revenue and treatment outcomes remains limited.
  • Regional Concentration: Advanced medical tourism facilities are concentrated mainly in major cities.
  • Unregulated Facilitators: Unreliable agents and intermediaries can misguide patients or charge excessive fees.
  • Post-Treatment Care: International patients may face difficulties with follow-up treatment, rehabilitation and continuity of care after returning home.
  • Ethical and Patient-Safety Concerns: Informed consent, data privacy, medical negligence and ethical treatment practices require strong oversight.

Way Forward

India can strengthen its position in global Medical Value Travel by focusing on quality, transparency, patient safety and better coordination between healthcare and tourism sectors.

  • Improve Quality Standards: Expand accreditation and quality certification across hospitals and healthcare facilities.
  • Create Transparent Pricing: Develop clear and standardised treatment packages to improve patient trust.
  • Strengthen Regional Hubs: Develop the proposed Regional Medical Hubs beyond major cities to spread medical tourism opportunities.
  • Improve Digital Services: Strengthen online platforms for hospital selection, visa support, appointments, treatment tracking and follow-up care.
  • Regulate Facilitators: Establish clear standards for medical tourism agents and patient facilitators to prevent exploitation.
  • Strengthen Post-Treatment Care: Develop better systems for rehabilitation, teleconsultation and follow-up after international patients return home.
  • Promote India Globally: Use medical diplomacy, international partnerships and targeted campaigns to showcase India’s healthcare expertise and AYUSH systems.

Medical Tourism in India FAQs

Q1: What is medical tourism?

Ans: Medical tourism refers to travelling to another country to obtain medical treatment, surgery, diagnosis, rehabilitation or related healthcare services.

Q2: Why is India a popular destination for medical tourism?

Ans: India offers relatively affordable treatment, skilled healthcare professionals, advanced medical facilities, shorter waiting periods and a combination of modern medicine and AYUSH services.

Q3: What is Medical Value Travel?

Ans: Medical Value Travel is a broader concept that includes medical treatment along with diagnosis, wellness, rehabilitation, accommodation, travel and other patient-support services.

Q4: What are the major government initiatives for medical tourism?

Ans: Major initiatives include Heal in India, medical and e-medical visas, the National Strategy and Roadmap for Medical and Wellness Tourism, the Ayush Visa and proposed Regional Medical Hubs.

Q5: What is the role of AYUSH in medical tourism?

Ans: AYUSH systems such as Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy support wellness, preventive healthcare, rehabilitation and holistic health services.

BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation, Features, Significance

September 12, 2026
BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation

The BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation is a space cooperation initiative for sharing satellite data among BRICS countries. It aims to improve access to remote sensing information for natural resource management, disaster management, climate monitoring and environmental protection. The cooperation began with consultations in 2017 and gained a formal framework through an agreement signed by BRICS space agencies on August 18, 2021.

What is BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation?

The BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation is a virtual network of remote sensing satellites contributed by BRICS space agencies. The system allows participating countries to access satellite data through their respective ground stations. Its proposed development has two phases, beginning with a virtual constellation and moving towards a real satellite constellation.

BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation Objectives

The BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation initiative focuses on better satellite data sharing and stronger space cooperation among BRICS members. It also supports practical uses of remote sensing data for disasters, natural resources, climate change and environmental protection.

  • Improve satellite data access: The virtual constellation provides BRICS countries with wider access to remote sensing data from satellites contributed by participating space agencies.
  • Resource sharing: The initiative promotes sharing of satellite resources among BRICS members to improve the efficiency and usefulness of satellite observations.
  • Natural resource management: Remote sensing information can support the management and monitoring of natural resources across participating countries.
  • Disaster management: Shared satellite observations can help countries monitor major disasters and support better disaster management activities.
  • Climate cooperation: The constellation strengthens multilateral space cooperation for addressing global climate change and improving access to relevant satellite observations.
  • Environmental protection: Satellite data sharing can support environmental monitoring and cooperation on challenges affecting ecosystems and human societies.
  • Strengthen relations: The initiative aims to intensify cooperation among BRICS members and promote stronger bilateral and multilateral relations through space technology.

BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation Features

The BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation initiative combines existing satellite capabilities and ground infrastructure of BRICS countries. Its development has been discussed through consultations, technical meetings and cooperation between national space agencies.

  • First consultation forum: The 1st BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Consultation Forum was held in Brazil in 2017 to advance cooperation on remote sensing and satellite data sharing.
  • 2021 cooperation agreement: On August 18, 2021, heads of BRICS space agencies signed an agreement for cooperation in remote sensing satellite data sharing during India's BRICS Chairship.
  • Signatories: Dr. K. Sivan, Mr. Zhang Kejian, Dr. Val Munsami, Mr. Carlos Augusto Teixeira De Moura and Dr. Dmitry Rogozin signed the agreement for their respective space agencies.
  • Virtual constellation: Phase 1 involves a virtual satellite constellation that combines selected remote sensing satellites and enables participating countries to access their observations through respective ground stations.
  • Two phase development: The proposed constellation is planned in two stages. Phase 1 focuses on a virtual constellation, while Phase 2 proposes development of a real satellite constellation.
  • Existing satellites: The virtual system integrates existing national satellites, including India's Resourcesat and China's Gaofen, to support wider remote sensing data sharing.
  • Wider participation: Heads of space agencies from all 11 BRICS nations met in Bengaluru for discussions on expanding the Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation for climate and disaster monitoring.
  • Space governance: Participants proposed a BRICS Space Council to establish rules and an institutional structure for continuing cooperation in space activities.
  • Responsible space use: Discussions also highlighted responsible space missions and national rules to reduce risks associated with space junk.
  • Private sector role: Indian private space companies showcased capabilities in rocket launching and geospatial data services through IN-SPACe during the Bengaluru meeting.

BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation Significance

The BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation can improve regional access to satellite observations without requiring every country to develop an entirely new satellite system. It can strengthen cooperation in climate, disasters and resource management.

  • Multilateral cooperation: The initiative creates a practical platform for BRICS space agencies to cooperate through satellite data sharing, technical coordination and common applications.
  • Disaster response: Shared observations from remote sensing satellites can provide useful information during major disasters and support monitoring and management activities.
  • Climate monitoring: The constellation can strengthen the ability of participating countries to use satellite observations for understanding climate related changes and environmental challenges.
  • Strategic space cooperation: The initiative expands BRICS cooperation beyond economic matters into space technology, satellite applications, geospatial services and responsible space activities.

BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation FAQs

Q1: What is the BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation?

Ans: It is a virtual network of remote sensing satellites from BRICS countries created to share satellite data through their respective ground stations.

Q2: When was the BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite agreement signed?

Ans: BRICS space agency heads signed the remote sensing satellite data sharing agreement on August 18, 2021, during India's BRICS Chairship.

Q3: What is the main objective of the BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation?

Ans: Its main objective is to improve satellite data sharing for natural resource management, disaster management, climate monitoring and environmental protection.

Q4: What are the phases of the BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation?

Ans: The initiative has two proposed phases. Phase 1 is a virtual satellite constellation, while Phase 2 aims to develop a real satellite constellation.

Q5: Which satellites are part of the BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation?

Ans: The virtual constellation uses existing satellites from member countries, including India's Resourcesat and China's Gaofen, for wider remote sensing data sharing.

BRICS Local Currency Settlement, Meaning, Benefits & Challenges

September 12, 2026
BRICS Local Currency Settlement

BRICS Local Currency Settlement refers to the use of the national currencies of BRICS member countries for settling cross-border trade and financial transactions instead of routing every transaction through the US dollar. The issue has gained fresh importance during India's BRICS Chairship in 2026, with cross-border payments, national currencies and digital payment connectivity emerging as important areas of discussion.

BRICS Local Currency Settlement What Is It?

Local currency settlement means that two countries can settle trade payments using their own national currencies rather than using the US dollar as an intermediary currency.

For example, an Indian importer purchasing goods from another BRICS country could potentially make payment in Indian rupees, while the exporter receives its own national currency through an agreed banking and payment arrangement.

The idea is not to create a single BRICS currency. Instead, it aims to provide more options for international trade and payments.

How Does Local Currency Settlement Work?

The basic mechanism involves an importer, exporter and their respective banks settling a transaction in national currencies.

For example, consider a hypothetical India–Russia trade transaction:

  1. An Indian company purchases goods from a Russian company.
  2. The Indian buyer makes payment in Indian rupees through the agreed banking mechanism.
  3. The Russian exporter receives the equivalent value in Russian roubles.
  4. Participating banks or financial institutions facilitate the currency conversion and settlement.
  5. The transaction can avoid the need to first convert the rupee into US dollars and then convert dollars into roubles.

This requires compatible payment infrastructure, participating banks, adequate foreign-exchange liquidity and arrangements for managing exchange-rate risks.

Role of Digital Payments

The 2026 BRICS discussions have given greater importance to digital payment connectivity. India has been advocating the wider use of its Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and stronger links between national payment systems.

Reports from the New Delhi Summit indicate that BRICS countries are discussing cross-border integration of domestic instant-payment systems, while India is particularly interested in using digital payment infrastructure to make international transactions easier.

India's central bank had also proposed linking central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) of BRICS countries to facilitate cross-border trade and tourism payments.

BRICS Initiatives to Promote Local Currency Trade

BRICS has taken several steps to encourage local currency trade, improve cross-border payments and reduce dependence on a single intermediary currency.

  • BRICS Cross-Border Payments Initiative (BCBPI): Aims to make cross-border payments faster, cheaper, safer and more transparent while facilitating transactions in national currencies.
  • Local Currency Settlement: BRICS members are encouraged to use national currencies for bilateral trade wherever feasible, reducing the need for dollar-based settlement.
  • Interoperability of Payment Systems: Efforts are being made to connect and improve interoperability between national payment systems of member countries.
  • BRICS Payment Task Force: Works on technical and practical solutions for improving cross-border payment connectivity among BRICS economies.
  • New Development Bank (NDB): Promotes local-currency financing for development projects, helping reduce exposure to foreign-currency borrowing.
  • CBDC Cooperation: BRICS countries are exploring the potential of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) and their interoperability for faster cross-border transactions.
  • BRICS Clear: Discussions around BRICS Clear seek to explore alternative cross-border settlement and financial-market infrastructure among member countries.

Benefits of BRICS Local Currency Settlement for India

BRICS Local Currency Settlement can help India diversify its international payment options, reduce transaction costs and strengthen the role of the Indian rupee in cross-border trade.

  • Reduces dollar dependence: Less reliance on the US dollar for bilateral trade can diversify India's payment mechanisms.
  • Promotes rupee internationalisation: Greater acceptance of the Indian rupee in trade can expand its international use.
  • Lowers transaction costs: Direct settlement in local currencies can reduce costs associated with multiple currency conversions.
  • Reduces exchange-rate risk: Businesses can potentially avoid some risks arising from fluctuations between the rupee and a third currency.
  • Strengthens financial resilience: Multiple payment channels can provide greater flexibility during global financial disruptions.
  • Boosts digital payments: Greater connectivity between systems such as UPI and partner-country payment networks can support cross-border digital transactions.
  • Supports trade diversification: Easier local-currency settlement can facilitate stronger trade with BRICS economies.

About BRICS

BRICS is a grouping of major emerging economies that aims to promote economic cooperation, trade, development and greater representation of developing countries in global institutions. It has evolved into an important platform for discussions on global governance, finance, trade and development.

  • Origin: BRIC was formed in 2009 by Brazil, Russia, India and China; South Africa joined in 2010, making it BRICS.
  • Members: The expanded BRICS grouping includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, UAE, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia.
  • India's Role: India is a founding member of BRIC and has played an active role in promoting Global South cooperation and reforms in global governance.
  • Key Areas: Trade, finance, investment, sustainable development, technology, energy and global governance.
  • New Development Bank: BRICS established the New Development Bank (NDB) to finance infrastructure and sustainable-development projects.
  • 2026 Chairship: India holds the BRICS Chairship in 2026, with the 18th BRICS Summit being hosted in New Delhi.
  • Major Focus: India's 2026 BRICS agenda includes strengthening cooperation among developing countries, improving cross-border payments, promoting local currencies and advancing practical cooperation among members.

BRICS Local Currency Settlement FAQs

Q1: What is BRICS Local Currency Settlement?

Ans: BRICS Local Currency Settlement refers to settling trade and investment transactions using the national currencies of BRICS countries, reducing the need to use the US dollar as an intermediary currency.

Q2: Does BRICS have a common currency?

Ans: No. BRICS does not currently have a common currency. In 2026, India has focused more on linking national payment systems and exploring CBDC interoperability rather than creating a single BRICS currency.

Q3: What is the objective of local currency settlement?

Ans: The key objectives are to reduce transaction costs, improve cross-border payment efficiency, promote national currencies and diversify international payment options. BRICS finance officials in 2026 have supported practical solutions for faster, low-cost and secure cross-border payments.

Q4: How can BRICS Local Currency Settlement benefit India?

Ans: It can support rupee internationalisation, reduce dependence on third-currency settlement, strengthen India's digital payment ecosystem and provide greater flexibility in international trade.

Q5: What role does UPI play in BRICS payment cooperation?

Ans: India is promoting greater cross-border connectivity of digital payment systems, including UPI. Discussions in 2026 have focused on linking national fast-payment systems and improving interoperability between BRICS members.

International Criminal Court – Withdrawals & Challenges to Global Justice

September 12, 2026
International Criminal Court

International Criminal Court Latest News

  • The International Criminal Court (ICC) is facing growing institutional and political pressure as five countries- Venezuela, Chad, Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger- have announced plans to withdraw from the court within the past year. 

International Criminal Court: Background

  • The ICC was established under the Rome Statute, which came into force in 2002. 
  • Headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands, it is a court of last resort for prosecuting individuals accused of the most serious international crimes.
  • Its jurisdiction covers four core crimes: Genocide, Crimes against humanity, War crimes, & Crime of aggression. 
  • The principle of complementarity is central to the ICC. The court generally intervenes when national authorities are unable or unwilling to genuinely investigate or prosecute serious crimes.
  • Unlike a domestic criminal court, the ICC does not have its own police force. Its ability to investigate, arrest and prosecute suspects therefore depends significantly on cooperation from states.

Current Crisis Facing the ICC

  • Growing U.S. Pressure
    • The United States has significantly increased pressure on the ICC. In July 2026, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced what he described as a campaign to dismantle the threat posed by the court to U.S. sovereignty.
    • The U.S. administration has also sanctioned ICC personnel and organisations associated with the court. The measures followed ICC actions involving arrest warrants against senior Israeli officials concerning the Gaza conflict and investigations involving U.S. personnel in Afghanistan. 
    • Washington has also encouraged ICC member states that benefit from U.S. security arrangements to reconsider their membership.
  • Countries Announcing Withdrawal
    • The recent withdrawals have involved countries with different political circumstances.
    • Chad specifically cited U.S. pressure in announcing its decision to withdraw. 
    • According to its Foreign Minister, a U.S. official had expressed concerns regarding the ICC and requested that Chad reconsider its membership shortly before the withdrawal announcement. 
    • Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, all governed by military juntas, have instead accused the ICC of selective justice and neo-colonialism.
    • Venezuela has similarly criticised what it described as the instrumentalization of the court against national sovereignty and self-determination. 

News Summary

  • The ICC's present challenges are not limited to the United States. Some governments have long criticised the institution for disproportionately focusing on African conflicts.
  • Burundi became the first country to leave the ICC in 2017, after the court opened an investigation into the country. South Africa and Gambia also announced withdrawals that year but subsequently reversed their decisions. 
  • The recent departures, however, raise a broader concern: whether states are prepared to bear political and diplomatic costs to preserve an international system of accountability.
  • The ICC's jurisdiction also does not automatically end when a country withdraws. Withdrawal from the Rome Statute is not retroactive. Consequently, the court can continue investigating crimes committed while a country was a member or otherwise within the court's jurisdiction.
  • This principle is particularly relevant to the Philippines. Although the country withdrew from the ICC in 2019, the court's investigation into alleged crimes associated with former President Rodrigo Duterte's anti-drug campaign continued. 
  • Duterte is currently in ICC detention in the Netherlands and faces charges of crimes against humanity. 
  • Similarly, the ICC's investigation into alleged crimes by Venezuelan security forces under former President Nicolás Maduro will continue despite Venezuela's announced withdrawal. 

New Members and Continuing Relevance

  • Despite the withdrawals, the ICC continues to attract countries seeking international accountability.
  • Ukraine joined the ICC in 2025, having previously accepted the court's jurisdiction over crimes committed on its territory following the outbreak of hostilities with Russia in 2014. 
  • Ukraine has presented ICC membership as part of its effort to ensure accountability for serious international crimes. 
  • This demonstrates the contradictory pressures facing the ICC: while some governments are moving away from the institution, others view it as an important mechanism for addressing grave violations of international law.

Significance and Challenges

  • The ICC represents an important development in international criminal law, particularly the principle that individuals, including political and military leaders, can potentially be held accountable for international crimes.
  • However, its effectiveness is constrained by:
    • Dependence on state cooperation for arrests and evidence
    • Non-universal membership
    • Political opposition from powerful states 
    • Allegations of selective enforcement
    • Limited independent enforcement capacity 
  • The present crisis therefore highlights a fundamental tension between state sovereignty and international accountability.

Way Forward

  • Strengthening the ICC requires greater consistency in the application of international criminal law, stronger cooperation among member states and greater transparency in institutional decision-making.
  • At the same time, concerns regarding selectivity need to be addressed through uniform legal standards and credible, independent investigations, irrespective of the political identity or geographical location of the accused.

Source: PBS

International Criminal Court FAQs

Q1: What is the International Criminal Court?

Ans: The ICC is a permanent international court that prosecutes individuals for genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and the crime of aggression.

Q2: What is the Rome Statute?

Ans: The Rome Statute is the treaty that established the International Criminal Court and entered into force in 2002.

Q3: Why are some countries withdrawing from the ICC?

Ans: Some countries have cited U.S. pressure or criticised the ICC for alleged selective justice and interference with national sovereignty.

Q4: Is ICC jurisdiction automatically terminated when a country withdraws?

Ans: No, withdrawal is not retroactive and the court can continue dealing with crimes committed while its jurisdiction applied.

Q5: Which country most recently joined the ICC?

Ans: Ukraine joined the ICC in 2025 after previously accepting its jurisdiction over crimes committed on its territory.

BRICS – From Anti-Western Bloc to Platform for Reforming Global Order

September 12, 2026
BRICS

BRICS Latest News

  • As India presides over the BRICS Summit in Delhi, its central diplomatic challenge is to project the grouping as a platform for reforming and democratising the international order.
  • As both supporters and critics often interpret BRICS through an anti-Western lens, the perception that BRICS seeks to overthrow the US-led global system must be dispelled.
  • There exists significant differences among BRICS members, and their objectives range from accommodation with the West and strategic autonomy to demands for greater parity and, in some cases, direct confrontation.

BRICS Is Not a Unified Anti-Western Alliance

  • India and Brazil particularly oppose transforming BRICS into an anti-Western bloc.
    Both seek a larger role in an international system that can provide greater trade, technology, investment and diplomatic influence.
  • The political orientation of BRICS members towards the West exists on a spectrum -
    • Iran lies closest to the anti-Western pole, with resistance to US influence deeply embedded in its foreign-policy identity.
    • Russia and China are in strategic competition with the West but continue to seek recognition, influence and a greater role in shaping the international order.
    • India, Brazil and several newer members favour strategic autonomy, institutional reform and greater representation rather than confrontation with the West.
  • Thus, BRICS is better understood as a coalition seeking greater agency for emerging and developing powers than as a coherent anti-Western alliance.

Brazil - Reforming the Order from Within

  • Brazil provides the clearest example of why the “West vs Global South” binary is inadequate.
  • Although Brazil is a leading Global South power and strongly advocates reform of global institutions, its historical, cultural and institutional foundations are deeply connected to the Iberian and Euro-Atlantic world. 
  • Its constitutional democracy, legal traditions and diplomatic emphasis on international law and multilateralism reinforce this connection.
  • Brazil therefore does not seek to overthrow the existing order from outside. Its approach towards the major powers is driven primarily by national interest rather than ideology. 
  • For instance, Brazil supports faster and cheaper bilateral payment mechanisms, including settlements in national currencies where beneficial. 
  • However, it does not support making de-dollarisation or a common BRICS currency the central objective of the grouping.
  • A common currency would require substantial political trust, economic convergence and institutional integration, which BRICS currently lacks.

India - Non-Western Does Not Mean Anti-Western

  • As a post-colonial developing country, India seeks strategic autonomy and does not want to become a geopolitical appendage of the US or Europe. 
  • At the same time, India's partnerships with the US, Europe, Japan and Australia have expanded significantly in trade, technology, defence and other areas.
  • India's simultaneous participation in BRICS and the Quad reflects this multi-alignment.
  • For New Delhi, BRICS derives value from its diversity. However, its utility would decline if it evolved into a China-led alliance against the West. 
  • India therefore has an interest in keeping BRICS focused on reforming global governance rather than constructing geopolitical confrontation.

Russia and China - Competition with the West, Not Complete Separation

  • Russia's conflict with the West has become deep and structural, particularly due to the Ukraine war, NATO's role in European security and Western sanctions. 
    • Yet Moscow continues to seek recognition as a major power and a meaningful role in shaping European and global security arrangements.
  • China presents a different contradiction. Beijing challenges US primacy in Asia, seeks to reduce vulnerabilities arising from Western technology restrictions and supports a more representative international order. 
    • However, China's economic rise itself was closely connected with Western markets, capital and technology.
    • China therefore seeks not necessarily to exit the existing international system, but to obtain a more equal role in shaping it, including greater influence relative to the United States.

New Members Complicating the Anti-Western Narrative

  • The newer BRICS members also weaken the idea of a unified anti-Western bloc -
    • Egypt maintains important security ties with the US.
    • UAE has extensive economic and strategic relations with the US and Europe.
    • Indonesia follows a “free and active” foreign policy, preserving strategic manoeuvring space among competing major powers.
  • These countries seek strategic autonomy, stronger ties with China and a greater Global South voice, but do not necessarily seek membership in an anti-Western alliance.
  • Iran remains the major exception, as resistance to US and Israeli influence is central to the Islamic Republic's political identity. 
    • For Tehran, BRICS provides diplomatic legitimacy and an avenue to counter US-led isolation. 

Way Forward for India

  • India's diplomatic task at the summit is to ensure that autonomy from the United States is not equated with antagonism towards it.
  • New Delhi should position BRICS as -
    • A platform for reforming global governance, rather than dismantling it.
    • A mechanism for enhancing the voice and representation of the Global South.
    • A forum for multipolarity and strategic autonomy, rather than bloc politics.
    • A vehicle for cooperation in areas such as development finance, technology, trade and alternative payment mechanisms, without forcing ideological uniformity.
    • A complement to India's other partnerships, including the Quad, rather than their geopolitical counterweight.

Conclusion

  • BRICS is united less by opposition to the West than by dissatisfaction with the unequal distribution of power in the existing international system. 
  • Its members have divergent strategic interests and varying relationships with the West.
  • India can best advance its interests by promoting BRICS as a reformist, inclusive and multipolar platform—one that seeks a more representative international order without turning strategic autonomy into anti-Western confrontation.

Source: IE

BRICS

Q1: Why cannot BRICS be simply characterised as an anti-Western alliance?

Ans: Because BRICS members have diverse objectives ranging from strategic autonomy and institutional reform.

Q2: How does Brazil challenge the conventional “West vs Global South” binary?

Ans: Brazil combines its Global South identity with deep Euro-Atlantic institutional roots.

Q3: Why does India's “non-Western” identity not imply an “anti-Western” foreign policy?

Ans: India pursues strategic autonomy, simultaneously deepening ties with both the BRICS and the Quad members.

Q4: Why does India oppose the transformation of BRICS into a China-led anti-Western bloc?

Ans: Such a transformation would undermine India’s interests in multipolarity, diversified partnerships, technology access, etc.

Q5: What should be India’s principal diplomatic objective as chair of BRICS?

Ans: India should project BRICS as a platform for democratising global governance, strengthening the Global South’s voice, etc.

Trump’s Threat to the Fed: What It Means for India’s Economy

September 12, 2026
Trump’s Threat to the Fed

Trump’s Threat to the Fed Latest News

  • After months of using tariffs to pressure allies and rivals into lopsided trade deals, US President Donald Trump has gone a step further. 
  • Recently, he warned the Federal Reserve (Fed) to cut interest rates, failing which the US would stop trading with countries with which it runs a trade deficit. 
  • The threat has raised eyebrows in policy circles worldwide.

A Pattern of Pressure on the Fed

  • This is not the first time Trump has sought to influence the Fed through extreme demands. 
  • During his first term, he routinely pushed for lower rates. 
  • In September 2019, he suggested the Fed bring interest rates down to "zero or less" so that the US could start to "refinance its debt". 
  • The latest warning fits this pattern but is far more aggressive.

The Debt and Deficit Problem Driving the Threat

  • Trump's escalating warnings stem from growing anxiety over US debt and trade deficits. 
  • Key figures:
    • US national debt has crossed a record $40 trillion.
    • The trade deficit has widened despite a slew of tariffs on trading partners.
    • Rising oil prices due to the US-Iran war have made investors nervous, pushing the US 10-year bond yield, a benchmark for global borrowing costs, towards 5 per cent.
    • The US government is estimated to spend just over $1 trillion this fiscal year on interest payments alone, roughly equal to its national defence spending.
    • The US debt-to-GDP ratio has reached 125 per cent. By comparison, borrowing to finance World War II pushed the ratio only to 106 per cent.
  • These uncomfortable numbers explain why Trump is targeting even close trade partners to narrow the trade gap while pushing for cheaper borrowing.

Trade Partners at the Crossroads

  • The US has already narrowed its trade deficit with China to its lowest in two decades. 
  • It is now pressuring other partners to follow suit:
    • Recently, the US banned a broad range of Canadian alcoholic beverages, motorcycles and dairy products after trade ties with Canada escalated.
    • The US has renegotiated its existing deal with Mexico.
    • It has imposed one of two broad Section 301 tariffs on countries globally.

Three Fronts of Pressure on India

  • For India, US pressure is playing out on three fronts:
    • Market access: Steep demands under trade deals for greater access to Indian markets.
    • Investment outflow: Pressure that encourages investment to flow from India to the US.
    • Reducing China dependence: Pressure to cut reliance on input items originating from China. 
      • Washington believes China operates a "shadow transhipment network" that widens the effective US trade deficit, displaces domestic production, lowers GDP growth and reduces federal tax receipts.

The Interim Trade Agreement and Farmers' Concerns

  • India and the US have been negotiating a bilateral trade agreement since February 2025. 
  • In February 2026, the two countries announced a framework for an Interim Agreement. This has created considerable tension, especially among farmers.
  • Trade experts warn that lowering customs duties on US imports would directly threaten the livelihoods of Indian farmers growing apples, cotton, grapes, oranges, soybeans, walnuts and other crops. 
  • These fears are heightened by the fact that the US has for years challenged India's Minimum Support Price (MSP) on rice and wheat at the World Trade Organisation.
  • There is also concern that the Interim Agreement could compel India to set aside its domestic laws and mandatorily allow US imports if consignments carry certificates from US authorities. 
  • Experts warn this could open a backdoor for genetically modified products from the US.

Steps India Has Already Taken

  • To ease US concerns amid tariff worries, India has taken several accommodating measures:
    • Stepped up energy imports from the US.
    • Lowered tariffs on a broad range of products of US interest, from motorcycles to whiskey.
    • Announced tax holidays for data centres and for items needed to boost nuclear power production.
  • The shift in energy sourcing is striking. The US share in India's LPG imports has surged to over 50 per cent in the six months since the West Asia crisis began, up from less than 10 per cent in the preceding six months. 
    • Before the war, India's LPG imports were dominated by Gulf suppliers such as the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.

Impact on the Textile Sector

  • The US has introduced forced labour-related Section 301 tariffs. In response, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) explicitly prohibited imports of goods produced using forced labour. 
  • Fear of US scrutiny, especially restrictions on cotton from China's Uyghur region, is pushing cotton prices higher.
  • India has advised exporters to maintain detailed employee data such as wage records, age verification and supplier declarations. It warned that strong labour and supply chain documentation is now a "commercial necessity" for accessing the US market.

Conclusion

  • Trump's threat to the Fed reflects deep anxiety over record US debt and persistent trade deficits. 
  • For India, the fallout is real: pressure on farmers through the Interim Agreement, rising input costs for textiles, shifting energy dependence and heavier compliance burdens for exporters. 
  • India must balance accommodation with protection of its core economic interests.

Source: IE

Trump’s threat to the Fed FAQs

Q1: What is behind Trump’s threat to the Fed?

Ans: Trump’s threat to the Fed is driven by concerns over record US debt, persistent trade deficits, rising borrowing costs and pressure for cheaper financing.

Q2: What does Trump want the Federal Reserve to do?

Ans: Trump wants the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates, linking monetary easing with his broader efforts to address US economic and trade pressures.

Q3: How does Trump’s threat to the Fed affect India?

Ans: Trump’s threat to the Fed adds pressure on India through demands for market access, investment shifts, reduced China dependence and tougher export requirements.

Q4: How could US trade pressure affect Indian farmers?

Ans: US trade pressure could expose Indian farmers producing apples, cotton, grapes, oranges, soybeans and walnuts to greater competition from American imports.

Q5: Why are compliance requirements becoming important for Indian exporters?

Ans: US scrutiny requires Indian exporters, particularly textiles, to maintain detailed labour and supply-chain documentation, making compliance increasingly essential for market access.

China-India Ties and BRICS Summit: How Bilateral Tensions Shape BRICS

September 12, 2026
China-India ties

China-India ties Latest News

  • Chinese President Xi Jinping is arriving in India to attend the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi. This is his third visit since becoming President and his first in seven years. 
  • While the stated purpose is the summit, the visit carries deep bilateral significance because of the 2020 border standoff that pushed relations to a low point. 
  • Experts argue that the China-India fault line, combined with a turbulent global environment, will heavily influence the summit's outcome.

The Uneven Journey of BRIC Members

  • The term "BRIC" was coined in 2001 when Goldman Sachs analysts identified Brazil, Russia, India and China as the world's emerging economies. 
  • The grouping took shape in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks. Twenty-five years later, the members have followed very different paths:
    • China has surged ahead to become the world's second-largest economy after the US.
    • India has grown at a modest pace but has been outpaced by China by a wide margin.
    • Russia has faced challenges due to wars of its own making.
    • Brazil has struggled amid frequent regime changes and scandals.
    • South Africa, a later entrant, has not lived up to expectations.
  • Since the first leaders' summit in 2009, held in the shadow of the global financial crisis, China has emerged stronger, having weathered the crisis better than many Western nations.

China's Rising Assertiveness

  • China's rise is not just economic. It has grown militarily with ambitions to displace the US as the leading global power. This is reflected in its aggressive posture in the South China Sea, the Indo-Pacific and along its border with India. 
  • India has borne the brunt of repeated border confrontations. After the 1962 war and the 1967 clashes in Sikkim, major standoffs include:
    • 2013: Depsang, Ladakh
    • 2014: Chumar, Ladakh
    • 2017: Doklam
    • 2020 onwards: Eastern Ladakh, still ongoing with about 50,000 Indian troops deployed along the Line of Actual Control (LAC)
      • The June 2020 clashes killed 20 Indian defence personnel, including a Colonel-rank officer, and at least four Chinese personnel.

Partial Thaw, Persistent Distrust

  • Years of diplomatic and military talks led to troop disengagement in 2024. Since then, incremental steps have stabilised ties:
    • Resumption of direct flights
    • Easing of visa restrictions
    • Restarting the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
    • Relaxation of restrictions on Chinese investments
  • Yet structural differences remain. India runs a massive trade deficit with China and has repeatedly flagged the lack of market access for Indian businesses. India is also acting against Chinese firms for tax evasion.
  • Most importantly, strategic and political trust has been badly damaged by the border standoff, now in its seventh year. 
  • China's collusion with Pakistan during Operation Sindoor further deepened the crisis of trust and credibility.

The Global Backdrop to the Summit

  • The summit, attended by leaders of over 30 countries and groupings, takes place amid major global shifts:
    • US tariffs: President Donald Trump's arbitrary tariff moves have cornered countries worldwide, including China and India. The two now find themselves on the same side in trying to counter the effects.
    • War on Iran: Trump's military action against Iran has raised questions about powerful nations violating territorial integrity and sovereignty. However, China and Russia are guilty of the same in their own neighbourhoods.
    • Economic cost of the West Asia war: Energy prices and inflation have risen, and BRICS countries, as part of the Global South, are bearing the brunt.
  • The key question is whether this moment of shared concerns between India and China can become an opportunity to improve ties and unite developing countries on common issues. 
  • Xi's visit is seen as a positive signal, but only to a degree.

The Iran-UAE Polarisation

  • The West Asia war has split the grouping. Iran is attacking US military bases in the region, while the UAE hosts several such bases and personnel. 
  • Here, India needs China's weight to push the two members towards cooperation and present a more unified front. 
  • Whether India and China can reach consensus on such matters, and build on recent gains, will shape not only their bilateral relationship but also the effectiveness of BRICS itself.

Competing Visions of BRICS

  • Beijing has long viewed itself as "first among equals" within BRICS. It backed expansion from the original five members, aiding the 2023 decision that brought the grouping to its current strength of 11.
  • A deeper divergence lies in purpose. China and Russia frame BRICS as an "anti-West" grouping, while India sees it as a "non-Western" grouping. 
  • This is complicated by US actions against fellow members, such as tariffs on Brazil and political disagreements with South Africa.
  • India is decidedly not anti-West. It has built robust ties with the US over 25 years and is pursuing closer partnerships with Europe, Australia, Canada and other Western nations. 
  • India relies on the West for capital, technology and as a destination for its people far more than on China or Russia.

India's Strategic Signalling

  • By hosting the summit, India also signals to the US that it has alternative partners in areas ranging from technology to fuel security:
    • The UAE and Saudi Arabia are investing in the Indian economy.
    • Russia has stepped in as an energy supplier amid the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
    • Brazil is ready to partner on critical minerals.

Conclusion

  • Xi Jinping's visit offers a cautious opening for India-China ties, driven by shared pressures from US tariffs and the West Asia conflict. 
  • Yet deep distrust over the border, trade imbalances and China-Pakistan collusion persists. The summit's success depends on whether the two Asian giants can set aside rivalry to keep BRICS coherent and functional.

Source: IE

China-India ties FAQ

Q1: How will China-India ties influence the BRICS Summit?

Ans: China-India ties will significantly shape the summit as border distrust, trade imbalances and differing visions of BRICS influence their ability to build consensus.

Q2: What caused the deterioration in China-India ties?

Ans: China-India ties deteriorated sharply after the 2020 Eastern Ladakh border standoff, which damaged strategic trust and created prolonged military and diplomatic tensions.

Q3: Have China-India ties improved since the 2020 border standoff?

Ans: China-India ties have witnessed limited improvement through troop disengagement, resumed flights, eased visa restrictions, renewed Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and relaxed investment restrictions.

Q4: How do India and China differ over BRICS’s purpose?

Ans: China and Russia view BRICS as an anti-West grouping, while India considers BRICS non-Western and maintains strong strategic and economic partnerships with Western countries.

Q5: Why are China-India ties important for BRICS cohesion?

Ans: China-India ties matter because cooperation between the two major Asian members could help BRICS address divisions and maintain effectiveness amid geopolitical conflicts.

India-Iran Relations, Area of Cooperation, BRICS Discussions 2026

September 12, 2026
India-Iran Relations

India-Iran Relations share one of the oldest civilisational relationships in the world, rooted in centuries of cultural exchange, trade and political interaction. The connection dates back to the Indus Valley and Mesopotamian civilizations when maritime trade flourished across the Persian Gulf and Arabian Sea. Over time, diplomatic engagement, energy cooperation, and strategic connectivity projects have strengthened ties.

India-Iran Relations 2026 Latest News

India-Iran Relations 2026 Latest News shows renewed diplomatic engagement between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. Their second meeting in less than two weeks took place in New Delhi on September 11, 2026, before the BRICS Summit. India stressed dialogue, regional stability, secure sea lanes, open commerce and safety of seafarers amid continuing West Asian tensions.

India-Iran Relations 2026 Discussion During BRICS 2026

India-Iran Relations 2026 gained importance as the BRICS meeting highlighted maritime security, energy supplies, trade routes and regional stability.

  • Modi-Pezeshkian Meeting: Narendra Modi and Masoud Pezeshkian discussed bilateral relations and recent West Asia developments. Modi called for resolving all issues through dialogue and diplomacy while protecting navigation and commerce.
  • Maritime and Energy Security: Vessel transits through the Strait of Hormuz fell to seven on September 10 from about 125 daily before the conflict. Around 55% of India’s crude imports previously used Hormuz, while about 90% of LPG imports traditionally arrived through it.
  • Strategic Importance: India-Iran Relations 2026 also covers connectivity and strategic cooperation. Chabahar provides India access towards Afghanistan and Central Asia, while the INSTC links India with Iran, the Caucasus, Russia and Europe. Iran’s BRICS participation supports wider Global South cooperation.

India-Iran Relations 2026

India-Iran Relations formally began after India’s independence with the establishment of diplomatic ties on 15 March 1950. Since then, cooperation has expanded across trade, energy, connectivity, and regional security. Political visits, agreements such as the Tehran Declaration, and strategic projects like Chabahar Port and the INSTC have strengthened bilateral engagement despite occasional geopolitical constraints.

India-Iran Relations Area of Cooperation

India-Iran Relations cooperate across multiple strategic sectors including politics, energy, trade, culture, connectivity, and regional security frameworks.

  • Political Engagement: India and Iran formally established diplomatic relations on 15 March 1950. High-level political exchanges strengthened ties over decades, including Prime Minister Narasimha Rao’s visit to Iran in 1993 and President Rafsanjani’s visit to India in 1995. The relationship advanced significantly during Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s Tehran visit in April 2001, when the “Tehran Declaration” was signed outlining cooperation areas and emphasizing dialogue among civilizations.
  • Strategic Partnership: The “New Delhi Declaration” further articulated a long term strategic partnership framework between the two countries. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh attended the 16th Non-Aligned Movement Summit in Tehran in 2012. In 2016, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Iran and released a joint statement titled “Civilizational connect, contemporary context,” reaffirming the depth of bilateral ties.
  • Agreements during Iranian President Hassan Rouhani’s Visit: During Iranian President Hassan Rouhani’s visit to India in February 2018, both sides signed nine agreements covering several sectors. These included avoidance of double taxation, easing visa norms, cooperation in traditional medicine, and an extradition treaty. The countries also concluded a lease agreement related to Phase-1 of Shahid Beheshti Port at Chabahar.
  • Trade and Commercial Relations: Economic engagement has traditionally revolved around India’s import of Iranian crude oil. During 2016-17, bilateral trade reached about USD 12.89 billion. India imported around USD 10.5 billion worth of goods mainly crude oil while exporting about USD 2.4 billion. Major Indian exports included rice, tea, iron and steel, pharmaceuticals, electrical machinery and organic chemicals.
  • Oil Trade Dynamics: Before international sanctions intensified, Iran was among India’s largest energy suppliers. In 2018-19 India imported crude oil worth about USD 12.11 billion from Iran. Earlier, during April-June 2018, India was the second largest buyer of Iranian crude after China. Iran was also the second largest crude supplier to India during that period.
  • Currency Settlement Mechanism: To address payment challenges arising from international sanctions, the Reserve Bank of India and Iran’s central bank introduced a currency swap arrangement allowing India to pay for Iranian oil using the Indian rupee. This mechanism reduced reliance on US dollar transactions and helped India preserve foreign exchange reserves while maintaining trade flows.
  • Energy Cooperation and Investment: Indian companies expressed willingness to invest nearly USD 20 billion in Iran’s oil, gas, petrochemical, and fertilizer sectors. India has also explored the possibility of establishing petrochemical plants and fertilizer units in the Chabahar Special Economic Zone to strengthen long term energy collaboration.
  • Farzad-B Gas Field: The Farzad-B gas field in the Persian Gulf was discovered by an Indian consortium led by ONGC Videsh Limited in 2008. Negotiations have continued over its development, and discussions were pursued by Indian officials during visits to Iran. The gas reserves in Farzad-B are believed to be significantly larger than many gas reserves discovered within India.
  • Chabahar Port: Chabahar Port in southeastern Iran is located in Iran’s Sistan-Balochistan province on the Gulf of Oman. It is Iran’s only oceanic port with direct access to open seas. In May 2016, India and Iran signed a historic agreement allowing India to develop and operate two terminals and five berths of the port for ten years.
  • Chabahar-Zahedan Railway Project: Alongside port development, India committed to provide services and financing support worth about USD 1.6 billion for the Chabahar-Zahedan railway line. This rail corridor is intended to connect the port with Iran’s inland transport network and improve access toward Central Asia and Afghanistan.
  • International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC): India, Iran and Russia signed the INSTC agreement in 2000 to develop a 7,200 kilometre multi-modal transport network combining ship, rail and road routes. The corridor aims to connect Mumbai with cities such as Tehran, Baku, Astrakhan and Moscow. It is expected to reduce cargo transit time from around 40 days to nearly half while lowering transport costs by roughly 30%.
  • Ashgabat Agreement: India’s accession to the Ashgabat Agreement strengthened connectivity with Central Asia through a multimodal transport corridor involving Iran, Oman, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan. The agreement facilitates transport of goods between Central Asia and the Persian Gulf region.
  • Cultural Exchanges: Cultural centres operate in both countries including an Indian Cultural Centre in Tehran and Iranian cultural institutions in Delhi, Hyderabad and Mumbai. A Hindi language chair was established at Tehran University. Institutions such as the National Archives of India and the National Library and Archives Organisation of Iran have also entered collaborative arrangements to preserve historical documents and research materials relating to shared heritage.
  • Counter-Terrorism Cooperation: Both countries face threats from extremist organisations such as Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State. Security cooperation therefore includes dialogue on counter-terrorism strategies and regional stability, particularly regarding developments in Afghanistan and West Asia.

India-Iran Relations Significance

The India-Iran Relations carries major strategic importance in energy security, regional connectivity, geopolitical balance and economic engagement.

  • Iran occupies a crucial geographic position connecting South Asia with the Middle East, Central Asia and the Caucasus region. Through Iran, India can access landlocked Central Asian republics and Eurasian markets. Connectivity projects linking the Indian Ocean to the Caspian Sea allow India to expand trade routes beyond traditional maritime channels.
  • Chabahar Port provides India an alternative route to Afghanistan and Central Asia that bypasses Pakistan. Pakistan does not permit Indian goods to transit through its territory to Afghanistan. By using a sea-land corridor through Chabahar, India can transport goods efficiently to Afghan and Central Asian markets.
  • The distance between Kandla Port in Gujarat and Chabahar Port is shorter than the distance between Delhi and Mumbai. This geographic proximity provides logistical advantages for trade operations. Reduced transportation costs and faster shipping make Chabahar a strategically valuable trading gateway for India.
  • China is developing the Gwadar Port in Pakistan under its broader regional infrastructure strategy. Gwadar lies less than 100 kilometres from Chabahar by sea. India’s presence in Chabahar strengthens its strategic visibility in the Arabian Sea and helps balance Chinese maritime influence in the region.
  • The INSTC provides a faster and cheaper trade route linking India with Russia and Europe through Iran and the Caspian region.
  • Iran possesses the world’s second largest reserves of natural gas and substantial oil reserves. For India, cooperation with Iran provides an opportunity to diversify energy sources. 
  • India has used Iranian crude oil supplies to strengthen its Strategic Petroleum Reserves. Maintaining reserves equivalent to around 90 days of consumption helps India manage supply disruptions and energy security risks during geopolitical crises or market volatility.
  • The proposed undersea gas pipeline project connecting Iran to India through the Oman Sea and Indian Ocean is expected to transport approximately 31.5 million standard cubic metres of gas per day.
  • India is one of Iran’s major suppliers of basmati rice. Other important exports include tea, pharmaceuticals and agricultural products.
  • Both India and Iran have shared concerns regarding extremist groups operating in Afghanistan. Cooperation between the two countries has previously included support for the Northern Alliance during the 1990s. Continued engagement can contribute to regional security and stability in Afghanistan.
  • Through projects like INSTC and the Ashgabat Agreement corridor, India can access markets across Eurasia by connecting to cities such as Moscow, Tehran, Baku and Astrakhan.
  • India is one of the world’s largest economies with a vast consumer base and demographic advantage. For Iran, economic cooperation with India provides access to a large nearby market for energy exports and investment partnerships.

India-Iran Relations Challenges

Despite strong historical ties, several geopolitical and economic factors continue to create difficulties in the bilateral India-Iran Relations.

  • Impact of US Sanctions: The United States withdrew from the Iran nuclear agreement in May 2018 and re-imposed sanctions. These measures forced India to stop importing Iranian crude oil after May 2019. The sanctions significantly disrupted energy trade and affected India’s access to an important supplier.
  • Banking and Payment Difficulties: Financial sanctions complicated payment mechanisms between the two countries. Earlier, India used the Asian Clearing Union system for payments, but the Reserve Bank of India discontinued it in 2010 citing lack of transparency. Alternative banking channels also collapsed due to European Union sanctions, creating payment delays.
  • Accumulated Trade Debt: Because of payment restrictions, Indian companies accumulated nearly USD 5 billion in unpaid oil bills to Iran during the early 2010s. Negotiations were required to settle these liabilities gradually and restore commercial confidence between the two countries.
  • Iran-Pakistan-India Gas Pipeline Issues: The proposed Iran-Pakistan-India pipeline was designed to transport gas from Iran’s South Pars field to both countries with a capacity of about 60 million standard cubic metres per day. India withdrew from the project in 2009 due to concerns about security, pricing and transit through Pakistan.
  • Delay in Farzad-B Gas Field Development: Although Indian companies discovered the Farzad-B gas field, Iran has not yet awarded the development rights to ONGC Videsh Limited. Instead, Tehran entered preliminary discussions with Russia’s Gazprom for exploration. This has created uncertainty regarding India’s future participation in the project.
  • Chabahar Railway Project Disagreement: Iran decided to proceed independently with the Chabahar-Zahedan railway project due to delays in Indian financing and implementation. This decision temporarily slowed progress in the connectivity initiative linked to the Chabahar port project.
  • Regional Geopolitical Rivalries: India maintains strong relations with Gulf countries such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates while also engaging with Iran. Rivalry between Iran and Gulf states complicates India’s diplomatic balancing in West Asia, particularly during conflicts affecting shipping routes and energy markets.
  • Iran-Israel Dynamics: India enjoys close strategic relations with Israel, whereas Iran has been strongly critical of Israeli policies. Managing relations with both countries requires careful diplomatic balancing to ensure that cooperation with one partner does not adversely affect ties with the other.
  • Iran’s Strategic Partnership with China: Iran has strengthened economic and strategic relations with China, including a long term cooperation agreement linked to the Belt and Road Initiative. India has opposed certain aspects of China’s infrastructure initiatives, creating potential competition in regional connectivity projects.
  • Statements on Kashmir Issue: Iran’s leadership has occasionally made statements regarding the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, including comments by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei. Such remarks have been viewed critically by India, which considers Kashmir an internal matter and rejects external commentary.
  • Decline in Bilateral Trade Volumes: Due to sanctions and financial restrictions, India’s imports from Iran dropped sharply from about USD 13.53 billion in 2018-19 to roughly USD 1.4 billion in 2019-20. 
  • Rupee Reserve Depletion Issue: Iran’s rupee reserves accumulated in Indian banks have reduced significantly, affecting its capacity to import Indian goods such as basmati rice and tea. This issue has highlighted the need for more stable financial arrangements to sustain trade relations.
  • Dependence on Global Political Environment: India-Iran Relations are heavily influenced by international politics, particularly sanctions regimes and nuclear negotiations. Changes in the global diplomatic environment often determine the pace and depth of economic engagement between the two countries.

India-Iran Relations FAQs

Q1: When were diplomatic India-Iran Relations established?

Ans: India and Iran formally established diplomatic relations on 15 March 1950 after India’s independence, marking the beginning of modern bilateral engagement.

Q2: Why is the Chabahar Port important for India-Iran Relations?

Ans: Chabahar Port in southeastern Iran provides India direct access to Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan and improving trade connectivity.

Q3: What is the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC)?

Ans: INSTC is a 7,200 km multimodal transport network connecting India, Iran, Russia and Eurasian countries to reduce transit time and trade costs.

Q4: Why is India-Iran Relations important for India’s energy security?

Ans: Iran has one of the world’s largest oil and natural gas reserves and historically supplied large volumes of crude oil to India.

Q5: What are the major challenges in India-Iran Relations?

Ans: Key challenges include US sanctions on Iran, banking restrictions, regional geopolitical tensions, and delays in projects like Farzad-B gas field and Chabahar railway line.

Lipulekh Pass

September 12, 2026
Lipulekh Pass

Lipulekh Pass Latest News

The centuries-old India-Tibet trade route through Lipulekh Pass has reopened recently, with a 17-member Indian delegation entering Taklakot in Tibet after China cleared cross-border trade.

About Lipulekh Pass

  • It is a high-altitude mountain pass located in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, in India's Kumaon region. 
  • It sits at the intersection of three international borders: India to the south and west, China (Tibet Autonomous Region) to the north and east, and Nepal to the west. 
  • It links the Indian state of Uttarakhand with the Tibet region of China.
  • Altitude: It lies at an altitude of approximately 5,334 meters (17,500 feet).
  • Its elevation and strategic location make it a gateway to the higher reaches of the Himalayas.
  • It is the first Indian border post opened for trade with China in 1992.
  • Other passes: This was followed by the opening of Shipki La Pass, Himachal Pradesh, in 1994 and Nathu La Pass, Sikkim, in 2006.
  • Significance:
    • Strategic Location: Lies at the tri-junction of India, Nepal, and China, making it geographically significant.
    • Ancient Trade Route: Lipulekh Pass has been utilized for centuries as a trade route, connecting the Indian subcontinent with the Tibetan plateau.
    • Religious Significance: It is a key corridor for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and plays an important role in connecting border communities, especially tribal groups such as the Bhotiyas who depend on cross-border trade.

What are the territorial disputes?

  • The disagreement dates back to the 1816 Sugauli Treaty signed between British India and Nepal after the Anglo-Nepal War. 
  • Under the treaty, the Kali River was accepted as the boundary between the two sides.
  • The problem is that India and Nepal disagree on where the Kali River actually begins. 
  • India maintains that the river originates near Kalapani, placing areas such as Kalapani, Lipulekh, and Limpiyadhura within Indian territory. 
  • Nepal, however, argues that the river begins farther west, which would place all three areas inside Nepal.
  • Because both countries use different interpretations of the treaty, the border remains disputed even today.
  • How does China come into the mix?
    • What adds to the dispute is that Nepal argues that trade between India and China through this pass is often held without Nepali consent.
    • In 2015, India and China agreed to use Lipulekh for bilateral trade and the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage, triggering widespread protests in Nepal.

News: NIE

Lipulekh Pass FAQs

Q1: What is Lipulekh Pass?

Ans: Lipulekh Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass in Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand.

Q2: Which three countries meet at the Lipulekh Pass tri-junction?

Ans: India, China and Nepal.

Q3: Why is Lipulekh Pass strategically important?

Ans: Its location at the India–China–Nepal tri-junction gives it major strategic and geographical significance.

Q4: Which important pilgrimage route passes through Lipulekh Pass?

Ans: The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

Daily Editorial Analysis 12 September 2026

September 12, 2026
Daily-Editorial-Analysis

The BRICS Bank — An Alternative That Wasn’t 

Context

  • The 18th BRICS Summit, hosted by India in New Delhi on September 12–13, 2026, under the banner Humanity First, offers an opportunity to examine the bloc’s ambition to reshape global finance.
  • BRICS seeks to challenge western dominance, reduce dependence on the U.S. dollar and create institutions that better represent developing countries.
  • However, seventeen years of cooperation reveal a gap between its political rhetoric and institutional performance.
  • The New Development Bank (NDB), Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA) and de-dollarisation agenda have not produced a genuinely independent financial architecture.

BRICS and the Quest for Financial Independence

  • BRICS emerged from dissatisfaction with the unequal distribution of power in the World Bank and IMF.
  • Developing countries have criticised their Western-oriented governance and financial conditions.
  • The bloc responded by establishing alternative institutions and promoting local currencies to strengthen the bargaining power of emerging economies.
  • Yet, genuine independence requires institutions capable of operating outside the financial structures they challenge.

The New Development Bank: An Incomplete Alternative

  • Dependence on the Existing Financial System
  • The bank’s record demonstrates significant limitations. Approximately 50% of its outstanding bonds are denominated in U.S. dollars, while the Chinese yuan accounts for most of the remainder.
  • The South African rand represents only 1%. Local-currency lending stood at roughly 22% by mid-2025, below the 30% target for 2026.
  • The delayed development of a rupee-denominated bond further illustrates the difficulty of achieving financial independence.
  • The NDB also relies on Western credit-rating agencies, including S&P, Fitch and Moody’s.
  • In March 2022, it suspended operations related to Russia to protect its credit standing, revealing the influence of external financial discipline.
  • Scale and Institutional Limitations
  • The NDB approved projects worth approximately $39 billion by the end of 2024, compared with around $100 billion committed annually by the World Bank Group.
  • Its co-financing with established institutions suggests that it functions as a complementary institution rather than a direct competitor.

The Contingent Reserve Arrangement: A Safety Net Without Independence

  • The CRA has never been activated. Members seeking more than 30% of their allotted share must first enter into an IMF programme.
  • This condition undermines its purpose of reducing dependence on the IMF.
  • The absence of permanent staff, independent surveillance and a research wing further limits its effectiveness.
  • The CRA therefore represents a significant political aspiration but an underdeveloped crisis-management mechanism.

De-dollarisation: Rhetoric Versus Reality

  • Divergent National Interests

    • India opposes a common BRICS currency because of potential U.S. trade reprisals.
    • South Africa considers it risky, while China favours gradual yuan internationalisation. Russia has stated that BRICS has not sought to abandon the dollar.
    • The absence of de-dollarisation from the 126-point Rio declaration of 2025 reflects the bloc’s cautious official position.
    • Divergent national interests prevent BRICS from adopting a unified monetary strategy.

  • The Dollar’s Continuing Influence

    • BRICS countries remain dependent on dollar-based financing and global capital markets.
    • The reported threat of additional U.S. tariffs against countries pursuing anti-American BRICS policies further demonstrated Washington’s economic influence.
    • The bloc’s lack of a collective response exposed the limits of its willingness to challenge the existing monetary order.

Reforming the IMF or Replacing It?

  • BRICS declarations at the Kazan summit in 2024 and Rio summit in 2025 called for a quota-based and adequately resourced IMF.
  • This seeks greater representation within the existing system rather than its replacement.
  • The United States holds 16.49% of IMF voting rights, while major decisions require an 85% supermajority, giving Washington an effective veto.
  • BRICS countries seek greater influence but have not demonstrated a willingness to bypass these arrangements.
  • Their objective may therefore be a stronger position within the existing financial order.

India’s Leadership and the Future of BRICS

  • India’s 2026 summit provides an opportunity to reassess BRICS priorities.
  • Its expansion to Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the UAE indicates genuine interest in a more representative global order.
  • However, expansion alone cannot guarantee effectiveness.
  • BRICS must strengthen local-currency financing, improve the CRA’s independence and develop practical mechanisms for reducing financial vulnerabilities.
  • India can promote a realistic agenda focused on financial inclusion, infrastructure and global governance reform.

Conclusion

  • BRICS has successfully brought together emerging economies and challenged the legitimacy of Western dominance.
  • Yet, BRICS has not created an independent global financial architecture. The NDB remains tied to dollar financing and Western credit-rating agencies, while the CRA depends on IMF-linked conditions.
  • The central challenge is whether BRICS members are willing to accept the costs of genuine institutional independence.
  • Until then, BRICS will remain more a platform for negotiating a better position within the existing global order than for replacing it.

The BRICS Bank — An Alternative That Wasn’t FAQs

Q1. What is the main objective of BRICS?
Ans. BRICS aims to promote a more representative global financial order and reduce Western dominance.

Q2. Why has the NDB not become a complete alternative to the World Bank?
Ans. The NDB remains dependent on dollar financing, Western credit-rating agencies and cooperation with existing institutions.

Q3. Why has the Contingent Reserve Arrangement remained unused?
Ans. The CRA has never been activated because significant withdrawals require an IMF programme.

Q4. Why has BRICS made limited progress on de-dollarisation?
Ans. Divergent national interests among BRICS members have prevented a unified de-dollarisation strategy.

Q5. What is the key challenge before BRICS?
Ans. The key challenge is to develop genuinely independent institutions rather than merely seek greater influence within the existing financial order.

Source: The Hindu

A Bigger BRICS, Shaped by India’s Vision 

Context

  • The 18th BRICS Summit, hosted by India in New Delhi on September 12–13, 2026, comes at a time of geopolitical turbulence, wars, weakening global governance and shifting alliances.
  • With 11 prominent members and around 10 partner countries, BRICS has emerged as a major transcontinental grouping whose collective economic output in purchasing power parity exceeds that of the G7.
  • At the same time, artificial intelligence and quantum computing are becoming instruments of strategic competition.
  • India therefore seeks to use its chairmanship to strengthen BRICS through resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability.

India’s BRICS Moment

  • India’s extensive preparations reflect the organisational experience gained from hosting the G20 Summit in 2023.
  • Around 350 meetings, including 22 at the ministerial level, have been organised across different Indian cities.
  • BRICS traditionally rests on three pillars: political and security cooperation, finance and economic cooperation, and cultural and people-to-people exchanges.
  • India’s current emphasis is particularly focused on the latter two pillars, where practical cooperation can deliver tangible developmental benefits despite political differences among members.
  • The diversity of BRICS makes such an approach valuable.
  • Its members differ in their political systems, economic structures and technological capabilities, but share several developmental challenges.

India’s Vision

  • Building Resilience and Driving Innovation

    • Strengthening Resilience
      • India has promoted initiatives aimed at strengthening collective resilience.
      • The BRICS Digital Centre of Excellence for Smart Grids and Energy Storage can support modern energy systems, while the Logistics Supply Chain Cooperation Framework can reduce vulnerabilities arising from disruptions in global trade.
      • The Centres of Excellence on Agro-Ecology and Regenerative Agriculture can contribute to food security, sustainable agriculture and climate resilience.
      • Together, these initiatives can facilitate knowledge sharing, capacity building and adoption of best practices.

  • Promoting Innovation

    • India has also encouraged technological and scientific collaboration through proposals for a start-up innovation fund, incubator network, digital public infrastructure repository and science and research repository.
    • Greater cooperation in research infrastructure and mega science projects can help bridge technological disparities among BRICS members.
    • Such collaboration is increasingly important as countries compete for technological and scientific leadershipin AI, quantum computing and other emerging technologies.
    • Deepening Cooperation for Inclusive Development
    • BRICS cooperation must ultimately translate into improvements in citizens’ lives.
    • Proposals to revitalise the multilateral trading system, establish centres of excellence on mental wellness and create a BRICS urbanisation forum can address major economic and social challenges.
    • Initiatives for women’s digital empowerment, education, youth skilling and MSME cooperation can expand employment, entrepreneurship and economic participation.
    • Such measures can ensure that BRICS benefits extend beyond governments and large corporations to ordinary citizens.

  • Sustainability and Climate Resilience

    • Sustainability occupies an important place in India’s agenda.
    • Cooperation is proposed in areas such as combating desertification, disaster management, forest-fire preparedness and sustainable aviation fuels.
    • Particularly significant is the emphasis on people-centric and community-based climate adaptation.
    • While global climate diplomacy often focuses on mitigation, developing countries also require stronger adaptation mechanisms to protect vulnerable communities and livelihoods.
    • This approach connects climate policy with human welfare and recognises that environmental resilience must be built at the community level.

BRICS and the Multipolar World Order

  • BRICS increasingly represents the aspirations of countries seeking greater strategic autonomy and a more representative global order.
  • For India, the grouping complements its foreign-policy objectives of strategic flexibility and multipolarity.
  • However, BRICS must carefully manage its internal differences.
  • Its members have divergent geopolitical interests, and excessive focus on strategic rivalry could undermine practical cooperation.
  • The grouping should therefore avoid becoming dominated by geopolitical disputes that do not advance collective interests.
  • Its long-term credibility will depend on concrete outcomes rather than political declarations.

Conclusion

  • The 2026 BRICS Summit provides India with an opportunity to strengthen the grouping as a platform for inclusive development, technological cooperation, climate resilience and sustainable growth.
  • Its growing economic and political significance gives it considerable potential to influence the international order.
  • India’s emphasis on resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability can give BRICS a more people-centric character.
  • If members successfully convert ambitious proposals into practical outcomes, BRICS can strengthen strategic autonomy, promote development and contribute to a genuinely multipolar world order.

A Bigger BRICS, Shaped by India’s Vision FAQs

Q1. What makes the 2026 BRICS Summit significant?
Ans. The summit is significant because BRICS has expanded its membership and economic influence amid major geopolitical changes.

Q2. What are India’s four priorities for BRICS?
Ans. India’s priorities are resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability.

Q3. How can BRICS promote innovation?
Ans. BRICS can promote innovation through joint research, start-up support, incubator networks and digital infrastructure cooperation.

Q4. Why is climate adaptation important for BRICS?
Ans. Climate adaptation is important because it can protect vulnerable communities and livelihoods from increasing climate risks.

Q5. What is India’s broader objective through BRICS?
Ans. India seeks to strengthen strategic autonomy and a multipolar world order through BRICS cooperation.

Source: The Hindu

Daily Editorial Analysis 2026 FAQs

Q1: What is editorial analysis?

Ans: Editorial analysis is the critical examination and interpretation of newspaper editorials to extract key insights, arguments, and perspectives relevant to UPSC preparation.

Q2: What is an editorial analyst?

Ans: An editorial analyst is someone who studies and breaks down editorials to highlight their relevance, structure, and usefulness for competitive exams like the UPSC.

Q3: What is an editorial for UPSC?

Ans: For UPSC, an editorial refers to opinion-based articles in reputed newspapers that provide analysis on current affairs, governance, policy, and socio-economic issues.

Q4: What are the sources of UPSC Editorial Analysis?

Ans: Key sources include editorials from The Hindu and Indian Express.

Q5: Can Editorial Analysis help in Mains Answer Writing?

Ans: Yes, editorial analysis enhances content quality, analytical depth, and structure in Mains answer writing.

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