India to Host 13th BRICS Urbanisation Forum in 2026
India is set to welcome delegates from across BRICS nations for the 13th BRICS Urbanisation Forum, scheduled to take place on June 11-12, 2026, in New Delhi. Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, Shri Manohar Lal, made the announcement during a pre-event press conference, emphasizing the significance of this ministerial gathering under India’s BRICS Chairmanship. The Forum’s theme, ‘Cities for People: BRICS Cooperation for Inclusive and Resilient Urban Futures,’ aligns with the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Humanity First’ and the overarching theme of building resilience, innovation, cooperation, and sustainability.
India’s Influence in Urbanisation Discussions
This will be the fourth time India has hosted the BRICS Urbanisation Forum, having first held it in 2013. Since then, the Forum has become a vital platform for BRICS countries to discuss urban issues. Previous editions have focused on various aspects of urbanisation, including sustainable development and recovery strategies following the global pandemic. In 2016, the Forum took place in Visakhapatnam, with an emphasis on smart cities and urban resilience, and was held virtually in 2021.
Key Issues and Priorities
At the press conference, Minister Manohar Lal highlighted that the Forum comes at a crucial time, as many BRICS nations face rapid urban growth and associated challenges. Key issues include housing, mobility, climate change, urban finance, and the delivery of essential services. The primary goals of the 2026 Forum will address inclusive urban development, disaster-resilient infrastructure, strengthened municipal institutions, and enhanced digital innovation in governance.
Forum Agenda and Engagement
The two-day Forum is expected to gather ministers, policymakers, urban planners, and experts from all eleven BRICS member countries. The first day will kick off with an inaugural session and a high-level plenary discussion focused on shared urban priorities. Additionally, delegates will embark on field visits to selected urban development sites in New Delhi, offering insights into India’s urban transformation initiatives.
On the second day, thematic panel discussions will allow participating nations to share their experiences regarding urban challenges and solutions. The panels aim to foster bilateral discussions to promote collaboration on urbanisation strategies, ultimately striving to build inclusive and resilient cities that center on the needs of their inhabitants.
Minister Manohar Lal expressed anticipation in welcoming BRICS delegates to New Delhi and emphasized the goal of collaboratively crafting urban environments that truly cater to people.
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