India, Brazil Sign MoU on Telecommunications and ICT

India and Brazil signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Pune on 21 August 2026 to expand cooperation in telecommunications and Information and Communications Technologies (ICTs). The signing took place during the 12th BRICS Communications Ministers Meeting and the BRICS ICT Track Meeting.

Memorandum of Understanding in Digital Cooperation

The MoU was signed by India’s Union Minister of Communications, Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, and Brazil’s Minister of Communications, Frederico de Siqueira Filho. An MoU is a formal instrument used by governments to record areas of cooperation without creating a treaty obligation.

Areas Covered Under the Agreement

The framework covers advanced and emerging digital technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, 5G, 6G, Open RAN, and the Internet of Things. It also includes cooperation in cybersecurity, Digital Public Infrastructure, Direct-to-Device connectivity, spectrum management, and Low Earth Orbit satellites.

BRICS and Bilateral Context

This was the second bilateral partnership signed between the communications ministries of India and Brazil in 2026. The earlier agreement between the two sides was a postal sector modernisation MoU signed in February 2026.

Important Facts for Exams

• BRICS is an intergovernmental grouping of major emerging economies that includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
• Open RAN stands for Open Radio Access Network and is linked with open and interoperable telecom architecture.
• Low Earth Orbit satellites operate at relatively low altitudes and are used in satellite communication networks.
• Digital Public Infrastructure includes digital systems such as identity, payments, and data-sharing platforms.

Policy and Technical Significance

The agreement refers to knowledge exchange, capacity building, digital inclusion, and reduced environmental impact of ICTs. India’s BRICS Chairship in 2026 places emphasis on inclusive connectivity and trusted technologies.