India played a prominent role at the 10th BRICS Culture Ministers' Meeting held in Brasilia, Brazil. Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat represented India at this high-level dialogue, calling for ethical AI, stronger legal frameworks to protect cultural heritage, and greater cooperation in the creative economy. The meeting culminated in a joint declaration outlining four strategic cultural priorities aimed at deepening cultural ties and driving sustainable development among BRICS nations.
According to the Indian Ministry of Culture, the joint declaration adopted by the BRICS Culture Ministers outlined four core cultural themes. These include culture, creative economy, and artificial intelligence; culture and climate change in the context of the post-2030 development agenda; the return and safeguarding of cultural property; and BRICS cultural festivals and alliances. These themes collectively emphasise the role of culture as a pillar of inclusive growth and global cooperation.
In his address, Minister Shekhawat strongly advocated for ethical AI practices that uphold cultural diversity, protect intellectual property, and ensure fair remuneration for creators. India emphasised the importance of digital safeguards in a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence. Shekhawat urged BRICS nations to lead civilisational, not just geopolitically, by embedding cultural values and inclusivity into technological development.
India raised significant concerns about the illicit trafficking of cultural property, especially through digital platforms. The Union Minister called for robust legal frameworks that can address the online trade in artefacts and heritage items. He welcomed Brazil’s focus on the restitution of cultural property, calling it a cause closely tied to the civilisational soul of the Global South.
India highlighted its commitment to cultural diplomacy and heritage conservation. Since 2014, India has successfully reclaimed 642 heritage objects. Shekhawat described these returns as acts of justice that restore dignity and foster multilateral trust. He reaffirmed India’s readiness to collaborate with BRICS partners under the principle of "Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi", meaning development alongside heritage preservation.
The address also placed a strong emphasis on the creative economy as a driver of inclusive growth. India underlined the potential of indigenous wisdom in responding to climate change and promoting sustainability. The integration of traditional knowledge into contemporary solutions was presented as a way to bridge cultural preservation and modern challenges.
The meeting also explored increased collaboration in museums, performing arts, literature, and traditional crafts. Bilateral discussions on the sidelines involved cultural ministers from Brazil, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates. These interactions aimed to foster partnerships in the creative economy and digital innovation.
Held at the historic Itamaraty Palace, the forum operated under the theme of strengthening Global South cooperation for more inclusive and sustainable governance. The event served as a platform for BRICS members—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—to unite in their shared cultural aspirations and promote policies that advance both heritage and innovation.
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India’s engagement at the BRICS Culture Ministers' Meeting showcased its proactive stance in aligning cultural heritage with digital transformation. By promoting ethical AI, cultural justice, and multilateral cooperation, India seeks to anchor global progress in shared civilisational values that honour both tradition and innovation.
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Published on: Jun 2, 2025, 4:18 PM IST
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