Expert Analysis: Expansion of Russian-Indian Cooperation within the Framework of BRICS through the Prism of Human Resources and Technological Partnership
During the VII BRICS International Municipal Forum held in St. Petersburg, which convened delegations from 89 constituent entities of the Russian Federation and representatives from 126 countries, specific measures to deepen the strategic partnership between Russia and India were discussed. Prior to their participation in the session titled "Providing qualified personnel to industrial enterprises and construction organizations through the example of welding technologies: Practical tools and best practices," the experts provided an interview to Tatyana Zelenchenkova, Editor-in-Chief of Embassy Life, where they assessed the prospects for Russian-Indian cooperation and the activities of BRICS countries. Representing India, Manish Kumar, Deputy Chairman of the Board of the Financial and Business Association of Euro-Asian Cooperation, presented the Indian perspective. Ravil Khusnulin, Director of the Innovation and Technology Complex of the Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN) and President of the National Fund for the Protection of Strategic Resources, articulated the Russian viewpoint.
Preparations for the forthcoming visit of the Russian President to India represent the final stage in negotiating specific solutions in key areas of strategic partnership, encompassing sustainable energy supply, joint efforts to mitigate sanctions restrictions, and the establishment of new mechanisms for cooperation in finance, logistics, and human resources. The visit is viewed as a strategic event that underscores the high level of trust between the two nations. Among the principal topics that will be addressed, Manish Kumar emphasized the priority of oil supply. This issue assumes particular relevance against the backdrop of Western sanctions pressure on India, aimed at compelling it to reduce its purchases of Russian raw materials. Consequently, energy cooperation not only remains a cornerstone of bilateral relations but also serves as a practical tool for countering external pressures.
In response to the acute shortage of personnel in industrial sectors, an initiative to establish an international welding Institute under the BRICS framework was proposed. As explained by Ravil Khusnulin, this project is designed to address urgent tasks for equipment manufacturers and all entities involved in welding control, diagnostics, and equipment certification. In Russia, the project is being implemented through a consolidated effort with the support of key institutions. According to Khusnulin, the institute will be registered as a non-profit organization under Russian jurisdiction, thereby enhancing its interstate status.
India is currently identified as a strategic partner in tackling the personnel shortage in the Russian industry. The demand for specialists is estimated in the thousands. A special adaptation program is under development to overcome barriers such as new territories, language differences, and climatic conditions. This program includes not only professional training utilizing Russian equipment but also the creation of a conducive environment. As Kumar noted, several employers are planning to "hire Indian workers and establish separate infrastructure for them, including dormitories, a cultural center, and a kitchen to ensure their comfort." This approach will facilitate the arrival of specialists who are psychologically prepared for their roles.
Despite the presence of professionals from other countries in the labor market, the human resource potential of India is highly regarded. As Ravil Khusnulin observed, "India's 1.5 billion population is undoubtedly more preferable, as statistics demonstrate the level of training among specialists from India." Cooperation extends beyond welding professions. Khusnulin provided an example: "There are partnerships with several companies that require highly qualified seamstresses from India, which is their primary area of expertise, as well as specialists in the energy sector." This lays the groundwork for scaling up the recruitment model.
The emerging practice-oriented agenda of Russian-Indian cooperation within the BRICS framework integrates institutional initiatives with detailed training and adaptation programs. This approach addresses the current economic challenges faced by both countries and enhances the strategic autonomy of the association. The forthcoming summit is intended to provide an additional impetus to these efforts.