The BRICS media kit has been designed to provide insight into India’s rich cultural and culinary landscape, featuring products from various states. This initiative is coinciding with the upcoming 18th BRICS Summit, scheduled for September 12 and 13 in New Delhi. It is an opportunity for journalists to engage with the diverse traditions and offerings from different regions of the country.

The kit includes traditional sattu from Bihar, renowned coffee from Koraput in Odisha, and exquisite handicrafts from Gujarat. By including these products, the Ministry of External Affairs aims to narrate what is being termed the “India Story,” offering a broader perspective on the nation’s identity and heritage.

Vasudev Ravi, OSD, Public Relations at the Ministry of External Affairs, emphasised that the intention behind the media kits is to showcase India’s diversity to international media representatives. The selection not only represents traditional foods but serves as an emblem of India’s cultural assets.

Collaboration with State Governments

The initiative involved partnering with three state governments to present a curated experience of India’s regional identities. The Bihar Government contributed sattu and makhana, while the Odisha Government provided coffee sourced from the Koraput region. Gujarat showcased various types of handicrafts, highlighting the artisanal skills prevalent in the state.

Sattu is traditionally consumed as a nutritious drink in Bihar and exemplifies the region’s culinary heritage. Makhana, another significant agricultural product, reflects the state’s agricultural diversity. The inclusion of Koraput coffee highlights Odisha’s developing coffee industry, which is gaining recognition. Gujarat’s handicrafts are indicative of a long-standing tradition that focuses on craftsmanship and skilled artistry.

This initiative occurs as India holds the BRICS presidency, an opportunity for the nation to elevate discussions on key global issues, while also shedding light on its diversity and innovation to an international audience.

Preparations for the Upcoming Summit

Preparations for the BRICS Summit have involved extensive cooperation among various government bodies over the past year. The Ministry of External Affairs coordinated multiple meetings of joint working groups, involving various Indian ministries throughout the country. This has established a framework for discussions that will take place during the summit.

The summit will be hosted at Bharat Mandapam, with high-level leaders from the expanded BRICS group expected to gather. The event will focus on critical themes like trade enhancements, national currency integration, and developments in digital technology, finance, and energy security.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will preside over the summit, which will feature key figures including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The participation of Xi is particularly notable as it marks his return to India since his informal meeting with Modi in 2019, showcasing the importance of the summit in fostering international diplomatic relations.

Amid discussions on pressing geopolitical issues, the BRICS media kit serves as a cultural counterpoint, offering journalists an intimate perspective on India’s culinary and artisanal richness. The initiative not only represents India’s diplomatic role but also connects with its regional traditions and customs, potentially enriching the narratives surrounding the summit.

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