Vikram Bothra, Managing Director of a leading Indian firm and a native of Dhekiajuli in Assam made a mark on the international stage by representing India at the prestigious BRICS Summit 2025 held in Brazil. The summit saw participation from global leaders, diplomats and top business executives, including H.E. Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia as well as senior officials from Infosys Brazil, TCS Brazil and the Brazil India Chamber of Commerce. Bothra was part of the Indian delegation alongside renowned personalities like Onkar Singh Kanwar and the Indian Ambassador to Brazil, H.E. Dinesh Bhatia.
In an exclusive conversation, Bothra said that Assam and the Northeast region have much to gain from platforms like BRICS. “There are many opportunities for Assam’s handloom, bamboo, tea, and other indigenous products in global markets. BRICS provides us a platform to connect our local strengths with international demand,” he said.
He said that Assam’s unique and traditional products, many of which now hold the Geographical Indication (GI) tag have huge potential for exports. “Whether it’s Assam’s handloom, bamboo, or agro-products there is space for them in international markets. BRICS gives us a stage to showcase this,” he added.
Bothra said that he interacted with several dignitaries, including ministers, bureaucrats and business leaders from Brazil and other Latin American countries. Many of them showed keen interest in Assam’s products. “I have taken this forward by initiating talks with our Hon’ble Chief Minister and Industry Minister in Assam. I believe we should form a delegation that brings together weavers, entrepreneurs, NGOs and self-help groups to present their work on a global platform,” he said.
He further said that such efforts could lead to not just exports, but also foreign investments. “Brazil, for example, is the world’s leading producer of ethanol. There is scope for technology transfer and collaboration in alternative fuels, which can help us reduce carbon emissions and move towards a greener future,” Bothra said.
The idea of bringing Brazil’s ethanol-based fuel technology to Assam excited Bothra. “With the world moving toward clean energy, Brazil’s model of using ethanol to mix with petrol and diesel can help Assam and India at large in reducing pollution and making our fuel systems more eco-friendly,” he said.
Bothra also said that there is a cultural similarities between India and Brazil and further added that the warmth, traditions, and respect for nature are common values both countries share. He believes this cultural connection adds strength to the partnership between the two nations and opens new doors for collaboration.
Bothra said that climate change was one of the biggest concerns discussed at the summit. “There were serious discussions about the rising global temperatures, floods, and climate imbalances. As a responsible citizen of Assam and the world, I feel we need to act now. We must protect our environment more seriously. Sustainable practices, alternative energy sources, and biofuels are the future,” he said.
He called on Assam’s people, especially the youth and entrepreneurs, to adopt eco-friendly practices and innovate with local resources. “Let us learn from countries like Brazil who are leading in environmental responsibility. If we act now, we can secure the future for generations to come,” he said.