Visakhapatnam, August 22, 2026: The BRICS Youth Ministers’ Meeting 2026 concluded successfully in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, with participating countries adopting a Joint Statement aimed at strengthening youth cooperation and promoting meaningful participation of young people in development processes.

The Indian delegation was led by Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya and Minister of State Raksha Nikhil Khadse. The meeting brought together ministers, senior officials, youth representatives and young leaders from BRICS member and partner countries.

Discussions focused on creating greater opportunities for young people in education, training and skills, entrepreneurship, science and technology, innovation, volunteering, health, sports, environmental sustainability and youth exchanges.

The Joint Statement reaffirmed the commitment of BRICS countries to strengthening youth-led initiatives and expanding cross-border cooperation. Participants also emphasised the need to provide young people with greater opportunities to contribute to policymaking and development.

The meeting built on the outcomes of the BRICS Youth Summit and BRICS Youth Council Meeting, held in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, on August 19-20, 2026.

As part of the programme, delegates participated in the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ plantation drive and visited the historic Totlakonda Buddhist Monastery, highlighting India’s cultural heritage and the importance of peace and mutual understanding.

The BRICS Youth Ministers’ Meeting was held under India’s BRICS Chairship 2026, with the overarching theme of “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.” The outcomes are expected to provide a strong foundation for continued cooperation among BRICS nations in harnessing the potential of youth for an inclusive and sustainable future.

Source: Press Information Bureau, Government of India.