BRICS CCI Delegation Shines at BRICS Urban Future Forum 2025; Chandigarh Mayor Harpreet Kaur Babla Honoured with BRICS Urban Innovation Award

Speaking on the theme “Industry of the Future in Digital Megacities”, Mr. Sameep Shastri, Vice Chairman, BRICS Chamber of Commerce & Industry, India, said: “Digital megacities represent the new frontier of industrial growth, where technology, sustainability, and entrepreneurship converge. For industries of the future to thrive, we must focus on building ecosystems that empower youth, nurture innovation, and integrate smart infrastructure with inclusive opportunities. BRICS CCI remains committed to fostering cross-border collaboration so that our cities not only grow digitally but also sustainably, equitably, and resiliently.”

During “City of Professionals: Shaping and Growing Human Capital,” Ms. Ruby Sinha, President, BRICS CCI WE, stressed the importance of nurturing talent and women leaders to build inclusive cities. She noted, “Women must be at the heart of future-ready cities, driving inclusivity and social innovation.” Her address underscored the role of human capital in sustaining economic and social progress.

On “Cities as Digital Interfaces for Residents and Visitors,” Mr. Bibin Babu, Co-Founder & CEO, PAYCIO, UAE, and Ms. Amrita Verma Chowdhury, CEO, Gaia Smart Cities, India,” explored how cities can become more responsive and digitally connected. Bibin Babu remarked, “This forum is a catalyst for startups and innovators to collaborate across BRICS, scaling impact globally,” while Amrita Chowdhury added, “Policy alignment and cross-border cooperation are crucial for scaling urban innovations.”

In the session on “Opportunities Cluster: How New Centers of Economic Activity Are Created,” Ms. Sharmishtha Ghosh, Founder & Managing Director, In Tandem Global Consulting, India, highlighted the strategic creation of economic hubs. She said, “The exchange of ideas here reaffirms the importance of culture and creativity as pillars of urban futures.”

For “Kids and Robots: A Guide for Parents,” Ms. Ankita Sachdev, Joint Director, BRICS CCI, showcased how youth engagement and technology literacy can shape resilient future generations, observing, “Youth engagement and talent development will define the resilience of BRICS cities in the decades ahead.”

Adding to India’s accolades, Chandigarh Mayor Harpreet Kaur Babla received the BRICS Urban Innovation Award 2025 in the “Empowerment of Women” category. Recognizing Chandigarh’s progressive initiatives for gender equality, she reflected, “This award is not just for Chandigarh, but for every Indian woman striving to build stronger, inclusive communities.”

The Forum reinforced the need for collaboration, innovation, and cultural diplomacy in shaping the cities of tomorrow. BRICS CCI’s active participation and thought leadership continue to drive dialogue, partnerships, and solutions for a smarter, more inclusive BRICS+ urban future.

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