Introduction
At the crossroads of commerce, culture, and collaboration stands Dr. B.B.L. Madhukar, Director General of the BRICS Chamber of Commerce & Industry in India. A distinguished leader with decades of experience in international trade and diplomacy, Dr. Madhukar is admired as much for his professional achievements as for his personal warmth and integrity.
In this candid conversation with AfroAsian News, Dr. Madhukar shares his vision for India’s role in BRICS, the opportunities for businesses across sectors, and the deeper philosophy that guides his journey as a leader and human being.
Q&A with Dr. B.B.L. Madhukar
Q1. What is the central mission of the BRICS Chamber of Commerce & Industry, and how is India shaping this mission on the global stage?
A1. Through BRICS CCI, we envision facilitating business in India in general and in particular for MSMEs, young entrepreneurs, women entrepreneurs, and startups from across all geographies. Although BRICS nations are our primary concern, we also reach out to entrepreneurs from other friendly nations.
Entrepreneurship is the need of the century. I conform to Schumpeter’s theory of innovation, where economic growth is primarily driven by entrepreneurship. By providing impetus to startups, we enhance the vibrancy of the business climate in India and BRICS partner countries.
During India’s BRICS Presidency in 2021, the StartUp Forum was proposed to promote cross-border collaboration of entrepreneurial activities. In the 2025 BRICS Summit, the Business Forum emphasized the active role of the private sector, women, and youth in propelling economic growth.
Q2. How is the Chamber facilitating stronger cooperation among BRICS nations, both in business and policy?
A2. At BRICS Chamber, we provide a platform for convergence of ideas, expertise, and innovations from India and partner countries. We organize partnership forums, leadership dialogues, cultural gatherings, and discussions on topics such as startups, climate change, education, healthcare, and technology.
We also promote networking, knowledge sharing, and business collaboration. Recently, we have set up a UAE BRICS CCI chapter as BRICS expands.
Q3. Looking back, what milestones of the Chamber stand out as defining achievements?
A3. We are creating milestones every year. With a dedicated team of experts and leaders, the Chamber consistently organizes events that bring together like-minded individuals and institutions, transforming ideas into action.
Business & Trade
Q4. Which key sectors in India offer the greatest opportunities for BRICS-led collaboration?
A4. Agriculture, renewable and non-renewable energy, green and sustainable industries, pharma, ICT, healthcare, education, critical minerals, and lithium batteries are all high-potential areas.
Q5. How is the Chamber helping startups, MSMEs, and young entrepreneurs gain visibility and partnerships?
A5. We promote entrepreneurship by building a credible repository of data, providing advisory services in taxation and legal matters, offering topical research, and creating a trusted networking platform with credible partners across geographies.
Q6. How is BRICS positioning itself in the digital trade and technology space?
A6. Data and digital technology are essential for sustainable growth. In the Rio Declaration, global governance on AI was a key highlight. BRICS nations, with nearly 50% of the world’s population, must protect personal data and develop strong governance frameworks for AI.
Q7. What role does BRICS Chamber play in advancing sustainability and green energy?
A7. We have organized multiple forums on climate resilience and sustainability, with the goal of harnessing collective BRICS expertise for a sustainable future.
Global Economics & Strategy
Q8. How do you see BRICS evolving as a counterweight to Western economic blocs?
A8. BRICS was not created to dismantle Western alliances but to reform global institutions with greater equity, representation, and justice.
Q9. What has been the role and impact of the New Development Bank (NDB)?
A9. The NDB, a brainchild of India, has funded 20 projects worth nearly $4.8 billion in India and continues to support infrastructure and sustainability projects across BRICS nations.
Q10. How does India balance its role across BRICS, G20, QUAD, and SCO?
A10. Each grouping has distinct objectives—security (QUAD, SCO), economic cooperation (G20), and South-South collaboration (BRICS). India deftly balances roles across these forums while advocating for multipolarity.
Q11. What collective steps can BRICS nations take for resilience in today’s economy?
A11. By cooperating in agriculture, energy, education, critical minerals, and technology, BRICS can build strong, resilient economies.
Cultural & People Diplomacy
Q12. How does the Chamber foster cultural and educational exchanges?
A12. Through cultural events such as BRICS Cultural Tapestry and art exhibitions, we highlight the importance of people-to-people connections in strengthening political and business cooperation.
Q13. What importance do you place on youth leadership and women entrepreneurs?
A13. With India’s young population and the need to close the economic gender gap, promoting youth leadership and women entrepreneurship is crucial. At BRICS CCI, we have a Women’s Vertical to support women entrepreneurs.
Q14. Are there initiatives for tourism and academic collaborations?
A14. Yes. BRICS nations are collaborating on eco-tourism, digital nomadism, and academic exchanges through the BRICS Academic Forum and BRICS Think Tank Council (BTTC).
India’s Future in BRICS
Q15. What is your vision for India’s leadership in BRICS over the next decade?
A15. India, with the highest GDP growth among BRICS countries, is poised to strengthen its global role through BRICS as a platform for economic resilience and democratic values.
Q16. How do you see BRICS shaping multipolar governance and financial order?
A16. BRICS expansion shows multipolarism is the new order. While a BRICS currency is being discussed, internal trade increasingly uses local currencies.
Q17. What upcoming projects should the business community look forward to?
A17. We recently hosted the Youth Leadership Dialogue. Next is the Healthcare Summit 2025, which will bring together policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders to explore the convergence of traditional and modern healthcare.
Personal Insights
Q18. What inspired you to lead the BRICS Chamber, and what values guide your journey?
A18. I believe in an entrepreneurial mindset and the importance of justice, equity, transparency, and collaboration. One principle I live by is: “Network is your Networth.”
Q19. How do you keep the Chamber relevant in a fast-changing world?
A19. With 19 verticals and a competent leadership team, the Chamber is structured to remain impactful and relevant in today’s evolving business environment.
Q20. What is your message to young professionals and entrepreneurs aspiring to engage with BRICS?
A20. “As you sow, so shall you reap.” Act with legitimacy and transparency to build sustainable rewards. Rights must always be balanced with responsibilities.
