BRICS 18th Summit to be hosted in New Delhi on 12–13 September 2026
As BRICS chair in 2026, India will host the 18th BRICS Leaders Summit in New Delhi on 12–13 September 2026 at Bharat Mandapam. The dates were announced in late August, with plans to welcome leaders from BRICS member countries and outreach invitees. The summit will focus on trade, technology, and sustainable development, with deeper cooperation on energy and security. Indian officials emphasise inclusive dialogue and digital economy, alongside a broad outreach program. Analysts say the gathering could influence regional and global governance in the coming decade.
Dates: 12–13 September 2026
Venue: Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi
Focus: trade, technology, sustainable development
Backdrop: India’s BRICS chairmanship
Potential impact: global governance
Xi Jinping expected to attend BRICS Summit in New Delhi; observers invited
Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to attend the 18th BRICS Leaders Summit in New Delhi on 12–13 September 2026, signaling renewed engagement during India's BRICS chair. Talks are anticipated to cover trade, regional security, and technology cooperation, with notable attention on how China will participate amid ongoing regional dynamics. The official presence would underscore BRICS dialogue amid global power shifts. Observers and partner nations are invited to attend plenary and side events, expanding the forum's reach and visibility. Analysts caution that outcomes depend on evolving negotiations, but the attendance would mark a high-profile moment for BRICS.
Vodafone Idea unveils refreshed brand identity with SRK as ambassador
Vodafone Idea Ltd (Vi) introduced a refreshed brand identity in September 2026 and named Shah Rukh Khan as its brand ambassador. The company unveiled a new logo and campaign under the tagline Vi badal raha hai… tayaar rahiye, aiming to strengthen customer experience and digital services. The rebranding follows network integration after the Vodafone- Idea merger and targets better market presence in India's competitive telecom sector. Executives say SRK’s broad appeal will reconnect customers with Vi’s offerings, including 4G/5G services, affordable plans, and digital platforms.
Date of refresh: September 1, 2026
Ambassador: Shah Rukh Khan
New logo and campaign: Vi badal raha hai… tayaar rahiye
LiDAR survey at Lakkundi aims to map buried Kalyana-Chalukya-era structures
Researchers in Karnataka's Gadag district have launched a six-month LiDAR-based geospatial mapping survey at Lakkundi, a site famed for Western Chalukya temples, stepwells, and inscriptions. The project aims to uncover buried remains from the Kalyana-Chalukya period (10th–12th centuries CE) using LiDAR, a laser-based remote-sensing method that generates precise terrain models and reveals subsurface features. The survey tests the local belief that Lakkundi housed 101 temples and 101 wells, against scientific data. Findings will enrich understanding of medieval architecture and settlement patterns, support conservation planning, and boost heritage tourism. The project is funded by the state archaeology directorate and collaborating universities.
Location: Lakkundi, Gadag district, Karnataka
Period studied: Kalyana-Chalukya (10th–12th centuries CE)
Hyundai World Archery Para Series Stage 3 begins in Ahmedabad (Sept 5–9, 2026)
Ahmedabad, Gujarat, hosts Stage 3 of the 2026 Hyundai World Archery Para Series from 5 to 9 September, marking India’s first hosting of the event. The competition takes place at the Sabarmati Riverfront and features para-archery categories including Recurve Open, Compound Open, W1, and Visually Impaired divisions. The event follows rounds in Bangkok, Thailand, and Nove Mesto, Czechia. The series aims to boost para-archery visibility and India’s role on the world stage. The Ahmedabad edition also offers opportunities for local tourism and sports development, with organizers coordinating accessibility and spectator experiences.
RAKSHA defence diplomacy framework unveiled for a 10-year plan
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh unveiled the ‘RAKSHA’ framework, a comprehensive ten-year roadmap for India’s defence diplomacy on 3 September 2026 in New Delhi. The document outlines an integrated approach to deepen security partnerships, expand indigenous defence manufacturing, and grow arms exports while maintaining strategic autonomy. Officials say RAKSHA connects India’s national security goals with international defence engagement, stressing capacity-building, joint exercises, and technology transfer with partner nations. The framework arrives ahead of the BRICS summit and aims to strengthen regional stability, maritime security, and defence-industrial collaboration. Government sources indicate the plan will guide domestic ministries and external partners in future engagements.
Teachers’ Day celebrated across India on 5 September 2026
India marked Teachers’ Day on Friday, 5 September 2026, honoring the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, the philosopher-president who championed education. Schools, colleges, and government institutions organised cultural programs, speeches, and awards to acknowledge teachers' role in shaping young minds and communities. Educational departments highlighted reforms to improve teacher training, digital learning, and classroom resources. Citizens offered thanks to educators who motivate students, nurture skills, and foster curiosity and resilience. The day also underscores the need for equitable access to quality education across rural and urban districts, including girls' education and inclusive pedagogy.
Date: 5 September 2026
Honours Dr. Radhakrishnan, education philosopher
Events: school programs, awards, speeches
Focus: teacher training, digital learning, classroom resources
+91-85588-96644
