The 18th BRICS Summit is set to begin on September 12 and 13 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, with leaders of the BRICS group participating. The special media kit prepared for this summit includes products associated with various regions of the country.
This media kit features Sattu and Makhana from Bihar, Koraput coffee from Odisha, and handicrafts from Gujarat. These products highlight diverse aspects of the regional identity of different states in the country.
Sattu and Makhana from Bihar have been included, which are deeply connected to the state's agricultural and culinary traditions. Bihar's Chief Minister, Samrat Chaudhary, described the inclusion of these products as a moment of pride for the state.
Koraput coffee from Odisha has also found a place in the media kit, allowing journalists to be introduced to Indian food products that are identified with specific regions. The Ministry of External Affairs has showcased coffee grown in the Koraput region in collaboration with the Odisha government.
Additionally, a block-printed stole from Gujarat is part of the kit. It presents a glimpse of Indian handicrafts and is included as a different type of souvenir alongside food and beverages. According to Ravi, Gujarat has contributed various types of handicrafts to showcase the craftsmanship and skills present in the state, giving importance to the art of artisans from different regions along with agricultural and culinary products and India's handicraft heritage.
Before the first formal session of the BRICS Summit, extensive multi-layered security measures have been implemented in the capital, including Bharat Mandapam. Approximately 25,000 security personnel, including Delhi Police, CAPFs, and NSG commandos, have been deployed, and special surveillance is being maintained on 35 major roads. Security forces include snipers, SWAT, bomb disposal squads, and dog squads.
Several bilateral meetings are scheduled for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu during the day. The arrival of BRICS leaders and the closed session will take place in the afternoon, followed by the India Innovates exhibition, family photos, joint tree planting, and the Modi-Xi Jinping meeting in the evening. A gala dinner is scheduled for 7:30 PM.