- BRICS nations endorse a shared vision for people-centric urban development as India unveils a proposal for a BRICS Urban Research and Knowledge Network to strengthen global urban cooperation
New Delhi: The 13th BRICS Urbanisation Forum concluded in New Delhi with member nations adopting a Ministerial Declaration focused on building inclusive, resilient and people-centred cities. Hosted by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs under India’s BRICS Chairship for 2026, the two-day event brought together ministers, policymakers and urban experts from BRICS countries to discuss strategies for creating sustainable urban futures.
Held at Sushma Swaraj Bhavan, the Forum revolved around the theme “Cities for People: BRICS Cooperation for Inclusive and Resilient Urban Futures.” The event highlighted the growing importance of cities in addressing challenges related to climate change, infrastructure, social inclusion and economic development.
Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Shri Manohar Lal, who inaugurated the Forum, emphasized that urban development must remain central to global growth discussions. He underlined the significance of inclusive development, climate-resilient infrastructure, institutional strengthening and digital innovation in shaping modern cities.
During the inaugural session, the Minister released a publication titled *India’s Urban Transformation: Stories of Change*, showcasing successful urban development initiatives undertaken by various states and Union Territories. Delegates from BRICS nations also shared their national experiences and future priorities through country statements during a high-level plenary session.
As part of the programme, international delegates visited several landmark urban projects in and around New Delhi, including the New Parliament Complex and the India Gate-Kartavya Path precinct, providing an opportunity to witness India’s urban transformation efforts firsthand.
The second day featured discussions on urban inclusion, resilience, governance and innovation. Representatives from BRICS countries exchanged ideas on improving access to housing, mobility, public services and livelihoods, particularly for vulnerable communities.
Speaking during one of the sessions, Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Shri Srinivas Katikithala highlighted the need for efficient and equitable use of resources to improve the quality of urban life. Discussions also focused on integrating climate resilience and disaster preparedness into city planning.
Another key session examined the role of stronger institutions and scalable innovations in improving urban governance. Additional Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Smt D. Thara stressed that lasting urban progress depends on institutions capable of implementing successful innovations on a larger scale.
A major outcome of the Forum was the adoption of the Ministerial Declaration, which reaffirms the commitment of BRICS nations to creating cities that are inclusive, sustainable, resilient and liveable. The declaration calls for equitable access to urban services and greater attention to the needs of marginalised communities.
The Forum also unveiled a compilation of successful urban initiatives from BRICS countries under the title *Cities for People: Urban Stories from BRICS Nations*. The publication highlights practical solutions and development models that can inspire future urban policies across member nations.
One of the most significant announcements during the Forum was India’s proposal to establish the **BRICS Urban Research and Knowledge Network**. The proposal received support from participating nations and is expected to create a platform for applied research, knowledge exchange and peer learning among urban institutions across BRICS countries.
The proposed network aims to bridge the gap between policy formulation and on-ground implementation by facilitating the exchange of practical urban solutions, city-level experiences and operational insights. Designed as a flexible and cost-effective virtual platform, it will operate under the leadership of the BRICS Chair country each year.
In his closing remarks, Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal described the Forum as an important platform for collaborative learning and practical cooperation. He urged member nations to continue strengthening urban partnerships and institutional engagement beyond India’s BRICS Chairship.
The outcomes of the 13th BRICS Urbanisation Forum are expected to contribute to a shared roadmap that will help BRICS nations build cities that are more inclusive, resilient, sustainable and better governed in the years ahead
