BRICS Summit 2026: Delhi Traffic, Key Bilaterals, and What Students Must Watch Today

World leaders convene in New Delhi today, Saturday, September 12, 2026. India hosts the 18th BRICS Summit at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan. Today features arrivals, plenary interactions, a family photo and a leaders’ dinner. Students should track timings, diversions and Metro updates, because key bilaterals could shape scholarships, internships and jobs.

The programme begins with leaders arriving between 1:30 pm and 2:15 pm. A family photograph is scheduled at 5:05 pm, followed by a tree‑planting. Plenary interactions and pull‑asides continue inside Bharat Mandapam. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host a leaders’ dinner around 7:30 pm. Timings may shift with security movements.

BRICS Summit Delhi Day 1 schedule and key bilaterals

On Friday, Prime Minister Modi held separate talks with Vladimir Putin and Masoud Pezeshkian. Officials said the meetings reviewed energy, trade, defence and regional issues. A Modi–Xi bilateral is expected today, tentatively around 6 pm, subject to lock‑ins. Any movement on border disengagement, visas or market access could directly affect students’ opportunities.

Delhi traffic and Metro advisory for Sep 12–13

Expect tight traffic near central and south Delhi across September 12 and 13. Delhi Traffic Police lists 35‑plus regulated roads and 22 diversion points. Officials recommend airport travellers use the Metro and allow extra time. Metro services remain operational; the Metro Museum stays closed; Sunday trains start 6 am.

Security curbs around Bharat Mandapam and airport routes

Security is layered around Bharat Mandapam, major hotels and key airport corridors. Thousands of police and paramilitary personnel are deployed with checkpoints and barricades. Non‑destined commercial vehicles face curbs; emergency vehicles get priority passage. Police have asked commuters to “plan their journeys and allow extra travel time”.

What to watch in the BRICS Leaders’ Declaration

In the declaration, track language on membership practices, New Development Bank financing and energy security. Note positions on Middle East conflicts, where ministers recently struggled to find consensus. India’s chairship theme stresses resilience, innovation, cooperation and security. Plan travel smartly, follow official channels, and watch for scholarship or internship announcements.