BRICS leaders at the 2026 summit in New Delhi expressed serious concern over the growing risks of nuclear confrontation amid escalating global conflicts. In the New Delhi Declaration, leaders stressed the importance of protecting civilian infrastructure and peaceful nuclear facilities from attacks. They called for maximum restraint, dialogue, consultation and diplomatic solutions to international disputes. The declaration also highlighted concerns over rising global polarisation, distrust and instability, particularly in the Middle East and Ukraine. Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to international law, nuclear safety and multilateral cooperation, urging countries to prevent further escalation and work towards lasting peace and stability. (PC: PTI)

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in New Delhi for the BRICS Summit with heavily armoured presidential cars designed for maximum security. Putin is using Russia’s Aurus Senat, while Xi is expected to travel in China’s Hongqi N701. Both cars feature heavy armour, bullet-resistant glass and secure communication systems. Putin’s Aurus also has run-flat tyres, explosion protection, fire-suppression equipment and an independent oxygen and filtration system. The exact specifications of Xi’s Hongqi remain largely secret. Both limousines are specially built for their respective leaders and are not available for ordinary private buyers. (PC: India Today)

A Mumbai-based Air India pilot died at a hotel in Delhi’s Vasant Kunj area during a layover, hours before he was scheduled to operate a flight to Seoul. The pilot was found unconscious in his hotel room on Friday evening and was rushed to a hospital, where he was declared dead. He had previously worked with Air India Express and joined Air India a few months ago. Sources suspect a heart attack, but police said the exact cause of death will be known after the final medical opinion. A post-mortem was conducted at Safdarjung Hospital on Saturday. (PC: HT)

BRICS countries adopted the New Delhi Declaration on Saturday and strongly condemned the 2025 Pahalgam terror attack. The attack killed 26 civilians in Jammu and Kashmir. The declaration called terrorism “criminal and unjustifiable” and backed stronger action against terror networks, funding and safe havens. BRICS nations also expressed “deep concern” over rising tensions in the Middle East. They called for restraint and the protection of civilians. The group urged countries to use dialogue and diplomacy to resolve disputes. The declaration also warned about growing nuclear risks. Members adopted the statement despite differences between Iran and the UAE over the regional conflict.  

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a light-hearted “fan moment” during the BRICS Summit in New Delhi when delegates approached him and asked for a candid photograph. The informal interaction took place on the sidelines of the summit, where leaders and representatives from BRICS member countries gathered for discussions on global cooperation and key international issues. Modi responded warmly to the request, smiling as the delegates posed for the photograph. The moment highlighted the informal and personal interactions taking place alongside the summit’s formal diplomatic engagements, attracting attention online and showcasing the Indian Prime Minister’s popularity among visiting delegates.

Delhi is managing an unusually large aviation operation as around 35 special aircraft carrying BRICS leaders and delegations arrive for the summit. Authorities are coordinating flights across Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, Palam, Noida International Airport, Hindon, Safdarjung and other facilities. Special airspace restrictions have been imposed, including curbs on non-scheduled flights within a 300-km radius of Delhi from September 11 to 13. Regular commercial flights remain operational, with their schedules adjusted when necessary to avoid conflicts with VVIP movements. Security agencies are also conducting additional aircraft and ground-handling checks to ensure safe and smooth movement of international dignitaries. (PC: AFP)

Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi is hosting the 18th BRICS Summit, bringing together leaders and senior representatives from major emerging economies. The venue, located at Pragati Maidan, has been transformed for the high-profile diplomatic gathering, with elaborate arrangements for meetings, discussions and cultural showcases. The NDTV virtual tour highlights the sprawling complex, its modern architecture, grand interiors and facilities designed for international events. The summit venue reflects India’s growing role in global diplomacy and its efforts to present New Delhi as a capable host for major multilateral gatherings. The BRICS meetings focus on cooperation, economic growth, global governance and international challenges. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in New Delhi on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit. Malaysia is participating as a BRICS partner country, while India is hosting the summit under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.” The talks focused on strengthening India-Malaysia relations and expanding cooperation in areas including trade, investment, digital technology and education. The meeting also comes as both countries seek greater engagement with the Global South. Malaysia has identified India as its largest trading partner in South Asia, with bilateral trade reaching about $18.55 billion in 2025. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed at Hyderabad House in New Delhi on September 12, on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit. The meeting is part of India’s extensive diplomatic engagements during the summit, as New Delhi seeks to deepen partnerships with BRICS members and partner countries. India and Ethiopia are expected to discuss bilateral cooperation, trade, investment and broader issues concerning the Global South. Ethiopia’s participation also highlights the growing importance of Africa within the expanded BRICS framework. The talks come amid India’s efforts to strengthen economic and strategic ties with African nations. 

A contractual worker earning around ₹11,000 a month has emerged as a key focus in the investigation into ₹17.29 crore in counterfeit currency recovered from a Punjab National Bank (PNB) currency chest in Saharanpur. Investigators are examining his reported ownership of five houses, an SUV, a sedan and two motorcycles, along with his financial transactions and links to the suspended currency-chest manager. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is checking whether his assets can be explained by his known income. Police have also searched his residence and seized documents for examination. Investigators are probing how fake notes entered the bank system and whether a larger network or foreign connection is involved. (PC: Reuters)