India convenes BRICS Women’s Working Group preparatory meeting

New Delhi: The Ministry of Women and Child Development convened the first preparatory BRICS women meeting under India’s BRICS Presidency in virtual mode on April 30.

Officials and representatives from BRICS member countries attended the session. In addition, participants included central ministries, UN Women and the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Additional Secretary Caralyn Khongwar Deshmukh welcomed delegates and outlined the agenda. She set the tone for discussions aligned with India’s BRICS theme of resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability.

The BRICS women meeting focused on four priority areas. These included women’s leadership in governance, financial and digital inclusion, entrepreneurship and skill development, and women’s role in climate action, food security and nutrition.

BRICS women meeting outlines four priority areas for cooperation

Delegates discussed common global challenges faced by women and explored collaborative solutions. Moreover, member nations supported India’s proposed priorities and appreciated its leadership during the chairship.

The meeting reaffirmed India’s commitment to women-led development. It recognised women as key contributors to economic growth, governance and social transformation.

Officials said the discussions would shape outcomes for upcoming BRICS engagements. These include the Women’s Working Group Meeting scheduled for July 6–7 and the Ministerial Meeting on July 8–9 in Kochi.

Participants stressed the need for continued cooperation and knowledge sharing. They said coordinated efforts would strengthen policies that promote gender equality and inclusive development.