PM Modi warns against weaponisation of technology, critical minerals at BRICS Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday warned that the “weaponisation of technology and critical minerals” could hinder shared economic progress, calling for inclusive access to technology and stronger, more resilient supply chains.

Addressing the BRICS session on “Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability” on the second day of the 2026 BRICS Summit, Modi said India had focused its presidency of the grouping on these four pillars and sought to turn them into areas of practical cooperation.

“The weaponisation of technology and critical minerals could hinder our shared progress. Therefore, we have emphasised inclusivity in the adoption of technology,” Modi said.

Early warning systems for health crises

Modi said rising geopolitical tensions were having a “significant and widespread negative impact” on the lives of ordinary people. Pandemics, climate disasters and supply-chain disruptions had demonstrated that crises could no longer remain confined to a single region, he added.

“In today’s interconnected world, no crisis remains confined to a single region,” the Prime Minister said. He said India’s BRICS presidency had consequently focused on helping member countries identify challenges early, prepare for them and respond quickly.

Modi said BRICS members had reached a consensus on an integrated early-warning system to prevent and respond to infectious diseases. The New Delhi Declaration states that a dedicated sub-working group has been established to advance the system, with agreed terms of reference.

The mechanism is intended to strengthen surveillance, information-sharing and coordinated responses to infectious-disease outbreaks, zoonotic threats, antimicrobial resistance and other health emergencies.

BRICS has also formulated guidelines for integrating early-warning data used in disaster management. These are aimed at improving coordination as countries prepare for climate-related and other disasters.

Focus on resilient supply chains

Economic resilience formed another key part of Modi’s address, with the Prime Minister highlighting the need for more reliable logistics and supply networks.

“The BRICS Logistics Supply Chain Cooperation Framework will help make our supply chains more reliable and resilient,” he said. The framework is aimed at strengthening cooperation among member countries and reducing vulnerabilities arising from disruptions to global trade and logistics networks.