From February 9 to 10, the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance (WBA) Russian Chapter conducted a business mission to New Delhi, India. The delegation was led by Anna Nesterova, Chairperson of the Russian Chapter of the BRICS WBA, and included Lyudmila Popova, Doctor of Economics, Professor, Head of the Department of Economics, Finance and Accounting at Orel State University named after I.S. Turgenev, representatives of the Alliance of BRICS Hairdressers, and Natalia Vershinina, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the United Migration Center Group.

Day 1: February 9

Key Meetings:

The first working meeting of the mission brought together Anna Nesterova, Chairperson of the Russian Chapter of the BRICS  WBA, and Elena Remizova, Head of the Rossotrudnichestvo Representative Office in India. During the meeting, both sides presented their respective areas of activity. Anna Nesterova introduced the BRICS WBA and highlighted key projects and initiatives of the Russian Chapter. Special attention was given to identifying areas of mutual interest and potential cooperation in the fields of culture and youth entrepreneurship. The Russian Chapter also presented the BRICS Families: National Heritage project, which Rossotrudnichestvo expressed readiness to consider hosting at its center, including the organization of offline exhibitions.

During the same day, Anna Nesterova also held a meeting at the Embassy of the Russian Federation in India with Denis Alipov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to the Republic of India. This dialogue provided an important opportunity to discuss strategic directions of cooperation and strengthen bilateral engagement within the framework of the Alliance.

Education Sector:

Later, Lyudmila Popova met with representatives of Symbiosis International (Deemed University) to explore prospects for academic cooperation and the development of joint educational initiatives.

Beauty Industry:

The Alliance of BRICS Hairdressers delegation held a separate session with Jawed Habib Academy, focused on exchanging expertise and professional experience in the beauty and training industry.

Skills and Training Sector:

A joint meeting was held with the All India Training Providers Association (AITPA), attended by Natalia Vershinina and Lyudmila Popova, where the sides discussed potential ways of collaboration. As part of the BRICS Mobility project, the United Migration Center Group signed a Memorandum of Understanding with AITPA, marking a significant step in fostering strategic cooperation. The delegation also engaged with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) to discuss the next steps for joint projects and the further implementation of collaborative initiatives.

Engagement with the Indian Chapter of the BRICS WBA:

On the second day of the mission, the Russian delegation, led by Anna Nesterova, met with Avarna Jain, Chairperson of the Indian Chapter of the BRICS WBA, at the offices of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI). With India assuming the BRICS Chairmanship in 2026, the discussions focused on the key priorities of the Alliance and the work of thematic working groups. Particular emphasis was placed on advancing women’s participation in the economy and implementing practical initiatives. Discussions also covered digital public infrastructure, with the Indian side expressing interest in Russia’s experience and existing digital public service platforms. Anna Nesterova presented key initiatives of the Russian Chapter, including BRICS+ International Youth Mentoring Program. The sides explored potential joint projects and avenues for future cooperation.

Education Sector:

Lyudmila Popova held meetings with Shiv Nadar University, Delhi-NCR, and Sharda University, discussing prospects for academic cooperation and joint educational initiatives.

Skills and Recruitment Sector:

Natalia Vershinina met with the All India Recruiting Agency Association (AIRAA), which included participation from ASMACS, PANASCON, MENASupport Services, ASHUTOSH Marine, and ASDLT Skill Company. Key discussion areas included migration services, international mobility solutions, and cross-border project support.

All meetings were productive, with both sides exchanging views and outlining next steps for the implementation of joint initiatives.