The Evolution of BRICS Summits: A Decade of Global Impact

Exploring the BRICS Summit Series and Its Significance

Over the past decade, the BRICS summits have played a pivotal role in shaping global diplomacy and cooperation. These meetings, attended by the leaders of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, have addressed a wide range of crucial issues, from international financial stability to climate change and development aid. In this article, we will delve into the evolution of the BRICS summits, highlighting their key themes and outcomes.

The 1st BRIC Summit: Yekaterinburg, Russia, June 2009

The journey of BRICS summits began in Yekaterinburg, Russia, in June 2009, when the inaugural BRIC Summit took place. Leaders from the member nations gathered to discuss pressing international matters, including global financial issues, G20 affairs, and cooperation within the BRIC framework. This historic meeting resulted in a Joint Statement that emphasized the need for enhanced representation of emerging markets and developing countries in international financial institutions. Additionally, a BRIC Joint Statement on Global Food Security was endorsed, underlining the group's commitment to addressing global challenges.

The 2nd BRIC Summit: Brasilia, Brazil, April 2010

Building on the success of the first summit, the second BRIC Summit convened in Brasilia, Brazil, in April 2010. The leaders continued their discussions on international issues, including the international financial crisis and regional hotspots. They also advanced their cooperation within the BRIC framework, marking the initial establishment of the BRICS cooperation mechanism. This pivotal meeting witnessed the launch of the BRIC entrepreneur forum, the BRIC inter-bank cooperation mechanism, the BRIC cooperative forum, and a think tank conference.

The 3rd BRICS Summit: Sanya, China, April 2011

In April 2011, the BRICS Summit entered a new phase as South Africa joined the group, transforming it into BRICS. The summit, themed "Broad Vision, Shared Prosperity," centered on discussions about the international economy, finance, and development issues. The leaders adopted the Sanya Declaration, a significant milestone in the group's history. The summit also featured supporting events such as the BRICS think-tank conference, the BRICS Inter-Bank Cooperation Mechanism Annual Meeting and Finance Forum, the BRICS Business Forum, and the BRICS Economy and Trade Ministers’ Conference.

The 4th BRICS Summit: New Delhi, India, March 2012

New Delhi, India, hosted the fourth BRICS Summit in March 2012 under the theme "BRICS Partnership for Global Stability, Security, and Prosperity." Leaders adopted the Delhi Declaration, underscoring the critical role played by BRICS countries in the world economy, particularly in the aftermath of the global financial crisis.

The 5th BRICS Summit: Durban, South Africa, March 2013

The fifth BRICS Summit, held in Durban, South Africa, in March 2013, carried the theme "BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Development, Integration, and Industrialization." This gathering marked a turning point, with the establishment of the BRICS New Development Bank and Contingency Reserve Arrangement. Additionally, the BRICS Business Council and BRICS Think Tank Council were founded. The summit also hosted the first BRICS Outreach Dialogue with African leaders.

The 6th BRICS Summit: Fortaleza, Brazil, July 2014

Under the theme "Inclusive Growth: Sustainable Solutions," the sixth BRICS Summit convened in Fortaleza, Brazil, in July 2014. Leaders adopted the Fortaleza Declaration, which witnessed the Agreement on the Establishment of the New Development Bank and the Treaty for the Establishment of a BRICS Contingency Reserve Arrangement. BRICS Leaders engaged in a dialogue with leaders of South American countries, further expanding their outreach.

The 7th BRICS Summit: Ufa, Russia, July 2015

The seventh BRICS Summit was hosted in Ufa, Russia, in July 2015, under the theme "BRICS Partnership - a Powerful Factor of Global Development." Leaders adopted the Ufa Declaration and Action Plan, and the summit saw the signing of various agreements, including the BRICS Inter-Governmental Agreement on Cooperation in the Field of Culture. BRICS Leaders engaged in dialogues with the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU), Shanghai Cooperation Organization members, and other guest countries.

The 8th BRICS Summit: Goa, India, October 2016

In October 2016, the BRICS leaders gathered in Goa, India, under the theme "Building Responsive, Inclusive, and Collective Solutions." The leaders adopted the Goa Declaration and Plan of Action, and key agreements were signed, such as the Memorandum of Understanding on the Establishment of the BRICS Agricultural Research Platform. The summit also featured dialogues with the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).

The 9th BRICS Summit: Xiamen, China, September 2017

The ninth BRICS Summit took place in Xiamen, China, in September 2017, focusing on "BRICS: Stronger Partnership for a Brighter Future." Leaders adopted the Xiamen Declaration and Action Plan, and this summit marked the first BRICS Dialogue with Leaders of Emerging Markets and Developing Countries.

The 10th BRICS Summit: Johannesburg, South Africa, July 2018

Johannesburg, South Africa, hosted the tenth BRICS Summit in July 2018, with the theme "BRICS in Africa: Collaboration for Inclusive Growth and Shared Prosperity in the Fourth Industrial Revolution." Leaders adopted the Johannesburg Declaration and Plan of Action, reinforcing their commitment to inclusive growth. This summit also featured an informal Leaders Retreat and dialogues with leaders of the Southern African Development Community and other global South organizations.

The 11th BRICS Summit: Brasilia, Brazil, November 2019

In November 2019, the eleventh BRICS Summit was held in Brasilia, Brazil, under the theme "BRICS: Economic Growth for an Innovative Future." Leaders adopted the Brasilia Declaration, underscoring their dedication to economic growth and innovation. The summit also featured engagements with the BRICS Business Forum, BRICS Business Council, and the New Development Bank.

The 12th BRICS Summit: Virtual Meeting, November 2020

The global landscape changed significantly in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In response, the twelfth BRICS Summit was held virtually in November 2020, themed "BRICS Partnership for Global Stability, Shared Security, and Innovative Growth." Leaders addressed the pandemic's impact and adopted the Moscow Declaration. Reports from the President of the New Development Bank and other BRICS cooperation mechanisms were also received.

The 13th BRICS Summit: Virtual Meeting, September 2021

Continuing the virtual format, the thirteenth BRICS Summit took place in September 2021 under the theme "BRICS@15: Intra BRICS cooperation for continuity, consolidation, and consensus." Leaders adopted the New Delhi Declaration, reflecting on BRICS' achievements and welcoming the Joint Statement on Strengthening and Reforming the Multilateral System adopted in 2021.

The 14th BRICS Summit: Virtual Meeting, June 2022

The fourteenth BRICS Summit occurred virtually in June 2022, with the theme "Foster High-quality BRICS Partnership, Usher in a New Era for Global Development." Leaders adopted the Beijing Declaration and welcomed initiatives such as cooperation on supply chains and a strategy on food security. The summit also addressed the situation in Ukraine, advocating for dialogue and mediation. Additionally, a virtual High-Level Dialogue on Global Development took place, reinforcing the commitment to implement the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

In conclusion, the BRICS summits have evolved over the years, playing a crucial role in global diplomacy and cooperation. These gatherings have addressed a wide array of global challenges and have resulted in significant agreements and declarations that continue to shape the international landscape. As the BRICS partnership moves forward, it remains a powerful force for global development and collaboration.

Unique Land Parcel Identification Number(ULPIN) System

Unique Land Parcel Identification Number (ULPIN) is part of the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP). The identification is based on the longitude and latitude coordinates of the land parcel and depends on detailed surveys and geo-referenced cadastral maps. The ULPIN is generated using the Electronic Commerce Code Management Association (ECCM A) standards during the importing of the geo-referenced shape file into BhuNaksha, a cadastral mapping solution of NIC. It is a 14-digit identification number accorded to a land parcel. ULPIN is a Single, Authoritative Source of Truth for information on any parcel of land or property to provide Integrated Land Services to the citizens as well as all stakeholders.

The basic objectives are to identify departments dealing with land & rendering multi-dimensional land-related services to the citizens such as the Revenue Department, Panchayat, Forest, Registration Department, Survey & Settlement Department. ULPIN supports comprehensive information on land and properties and maintains consistency of core data across all departments & agencies of the government nationwide.

Digital India Land Record Modernization Programme

The Land Reforms(LR) Division was implementing two Centrally Sponsored Schemes viz.: Computerisation of Land Records (CLR) & Strengthening of Revenue Administration and Updating of Land Records (SRA & ULR). Later on 21.8.2008, the Union Cabinet approved the merger of these schemes into a modified Scheme named Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP). The main aims of DILRMP are to usher in a system of updated land records, automated and automatic mutation, integration between textual and spatial records, interconnectivity between revenue and registration, to replace the present deeds registration and presumptive title system with that of conclusive titling with title guarantee.

The DILRMP has 3 major components - (a) Computerization of land records (b) Survey/re-survey (c) Computerization of Registration. The District has been taken as the unit of implementation, where all programme activities are to converge. It is hoped that all districts in the country will be covered by the end of the 12th Plan period except where cadastral surveys are being done for the first time.

The Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT)

The NPT was signed in 1968, but it came into force in 1970 after the required number of countries signed and ratified it. It has been signed by 187 countries so far. It has eleven articles. It divides the countries into two categories - nuclear weapon states (NWS), having nuclear weapons (US, UK, China, France, and Russia) and non-nuclear weapon states (NNWS). According to the provisions of the treaty, the NNWS shall not acquire and develop nuclear weapons. The NWS shall not transfer the nuclear technology to the NNWS. However, the NNWS may get the nuclear material and technology for peaceful purposes under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

There is no ban on the vertical proliferation of nuclear weapons by the NWS. Vertical proliferation means the upgradation of nuclear weapons by the NWS. On the other hand, horizontal proliferation means the development of such weapons by the NNWS. Thus, the NPT allows vertical proliferation but bans horizontal proliferation of nuclear weapons and it is considered discriminatory by many countries including India.

Article 6 of the treaty commits the NWS they start and complete negotiations in good faith on nuclear disarmament in exchange for the promise by the NNWS not to acquire weapons. The negotiations so far have not succeeded in achieving the goal of universal disarmament. India, Pakistan, and Israel have not signed the treaty and in 2003 North Korea withdrew from the treaty. Thus, non-proliferation, disarma¬ment, and peaceful use of nuclear energy are considered the three pillars of NPT. The US, Russia, UK, China, and France all may continue to develop their nuclear weapons and thereby undermine the treaty by not living up to their obligations under Article 6. The NPT is valid for a period of 25 years and after that, it shall be reviewed every 5 years. It was reviewed in 1995, 2000, and 2010 and was extended indefinitely in 1995.

The third review conference was held in New York on 3-28 May 2010. The 2010 review conference expressed the re-commitment of nations to the basic principle of NPT. The conference called upon all Middle Eastern states to participate in the proposed weapons of mass destruction-free zone in the Middle East. The Conference decided to put in place specific action plans for the non-proliferation, disarmament, and peaceful use of nuclear energy. There are fears that the NPT regime will fall apart due to combined vertical proliferation in nuclear weapon states and the proliferation of weapons to new states, most recently North Korea.

India, Pakistan, and Israel have not signed the NPT so far. However, North Korea withdrew from the treaty in 2003. India declined to sign this treaty as she considered it as discriminatory.

Saudi Arabia to Send First Woman Astronaut into International Space Station

A Saudi Arabian woman Rayyanah Barnawi will become the first woman astronaut from the country to go on a space mission. In the second quarter of 2023, Barnawi and Saudi male astronaut, Ali Alqarni, will join the crew of the AX-2 space mission. Together, they'll be the second and third Saudi Arabians to fly to space. Peggy Whitson, a former NASA astronaut, will also be on board for her fourth flight to the ISS. Meanwhile, John Shoffner, a Tennessee businessman, will be the pilot.

Rayyana Barnawi will join fellow Saudi astronaut Ali Al-Qarni on a 10-day mission to the International Space Station (ISS). Barnawi and Al-Qarni will fly to the ISS aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft as part of a mission this spring by the private space company Axiom Space Agency and Axiom. Rayyanah Barnawi is a 33-year-old research laboratory specialist who will be responsible for conducting mission experiments aboard the ISS. Barnawi has nine years of experience in cancer stem research and holds a Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Sciences (ReGD) from New Zealand's Otago University as well as a Master's in Biomedical Sciences from Riyadh's Alfaisal University.

UNESCO Declares Visva-Bharati as the World's First Living Heritage University

Visva-Bharati University, founded by Rabindranath Tagore in 1921, may soon get 'heritage' status from UNESCO. Located in Shantiniketan, West Bengal, the century-old institution could become the world's first living heritage university. University's vice-chancellor Bidyut Chakraborty said all formalities have been completed, and only the formal meeting remains to be held which will take place either in April or May 2023. Normally, a heritage tag is given to a dead monument. For the first time in the world, a living university that is functioning is going to get the heritage tag from UNESCO.

The university spread across 1,130 acres, was named after Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore, who was also its founder. When the Visva-Bharati Society was registered as an organisation in 1922, the university began to be known by the same name. Tagore had donated some of his property, including land and a bungalow, to the society.

• Before Independence (in 1947), Visva-Bharati was a college. It was given the status of a Central University in 1951, and Tagore's son Rathindranath was appointed as the first Vice-Chancellor (VC). The second VC was Nobel Laureate Amartya Sen's grandfather, Kshitimohan Sen.
• According to reports, the Union culture ministry had appealed for a UNESCO heritage site status for Santiniketan 11 years ago, to secure recognition for Tagore's cultural ark in the time leading up to his 150th birth anniversary.
• The Nobel Laureate had settled in Shantiniketan in 1901, because of the ill health of his wife, Mrinalini Devi. It was after this that he founded this institution. Tagore believed in open-air education, a system he introduced to the university and it is still in place.

National Programme for Dairy Development

Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD) has been implementing the “National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD)” scheme across the country since February 2014. The scheme has been restructured/ realigned in July 2021 for implementation from 2021-22 to 2025-26 with the following two components:

• Component 'A' of NPDD focuses on creating/strengthening infrastructure for quality milk testing equipment as well as primary chilling facilities for State Cooperative Dairy Federations/ District Cooperative Milk Producers' Union/SHGs/Milk Producer Companies/Farmer Producer Organizations.
• Component 'B' of the NPDD scheme "Dairying through Cooperatives” aims to increase the sale of milk and dairy products by increasing farmer's access to organized markets, upgrading dairy processing facilities and marketing infrastructure, and enhancing the capacity of producer-owned institutions.

As per the 20th Livestock Census (2019), there are 80.83 million farmers household engaged in dairy farming activities (having either cattle or buffalo) and dairy farming contributes for a portion of their daily income.

Climate change impact assessment

Climate change is a cross-cutting issue spanning various Ministries/ Departments and institutions under them. Studies on adverse impacts of climate change is mainly sponsored by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, and Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). Sectoral aspects of climate change are also studied by different Ministries/Departments concerning sectors like agriculture, water resources, human health, power, renewable energy, transport, urban, etc. Further, a large number of universities and government research institutions such as the Indian Institute of Technologies (IITs), Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Central and State Universities and their departments also carry out climate change related research.

The Government of India through its various organizations such as Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), Geological Survey of India, Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), G. B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment, Central Water Commission, and National Institute of Hydrology has been carrying out regular scientific studies to monitor the changes in Himalayan glaciers. One such study conducted by MoEFCC and ISRO, monitored 2,018 glaciers between years 2000 to 2011, which showed that 87% of the glaciers showed no change, 12% retreated and 1% glaciers have advanced.

Climate change and its impact on glaciers remains a global challenge which requires global efforts and actions. Government of India is committed to protect the glaciers and has made efforts to reduce the impact through several adaptation and mitigation measures. This includes a number of programmes under National Action Plan on Climate Change. Various R&D projects are being supported for studying Himalayan Glaciers under the National Mission for Sustaining Himalayan Ecosystem and National Mission on Strategic Knowledge for Climate Change. Several areas in the Himalayan States have also been declared as National Parks or Protected Areas, such as, Gangotri National Park, Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, and Great Himalayan National Park.

There is no established study for India providing a quantified attribution of climate change leading to increased outbreak of floods. While many studies monitor disasters such as floods, drought and heat, the science of attribution of these changes particularly to climate change is far more complex and currently an evolving subject. Most studies so far have relied on mathematical modelling of climate change impacts but these are not empirically verified.

The occurrence of floods can be attributed to various factors, including wide variations in rainfall both in time and space with frequent departures from the normal pattern, inadequate carrying capacities of rivers, river bank erosion and silting of river beds, landslides, poor natural drainage in flood prone areas, snowmelt and glacial lake out-bursts.