Jitendra Singh Calls for Stronger BRICS Science Collaboration
Union Minister urges BRICS nations to promote accessible, affordable and sustainable innovation at Chennai ministerial meet
- Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated the 14th BRICS Science, Technology and Innovation Ministerial Meeting in Chennai.
- India highlighted its BRICS 2026 theme centred on resilience, innovation and sustainability.
- Minister called for greater cooperation in AI, quantum technology, biotechnology and research.
- India invited BRICS nations to deepen collaboration in startups, talent mobility and frontier science.
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 21st Aug: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh on Friday inaugurated the 14th BRICS Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Ministerial Meeting in Chennai, calling for stronger collaboration among BRICS nations to ensure innovation remains accessible, affordable, trusted and sustainable.
Addressing delegates from BRICS member countries, Dr. Singh said India’s BRICS Presidency in 2026 is guided by the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability,” reflecting the shared commitment to harness science and technology for inclusive growth and sustainable development.
Highlighting the rapid transformation driven by emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, quantum technologies, advanced materials, biotechnology, photonics, geospatial technologies and high-performance computing, the Minister said these advancements present immense opportunities while also demanding closer international cooperation.
He said BRICS, with its vast scientific talent, research capabilities and large population, is well positioned to build a responsible and future-oriented innovation ecosystem capable of addressing global challenges.
Dr. Jitendra Singh noted that BRICS Science, Technology and Innovation cooperation has evolved into a strong platform for research partnerships, young scientist exchanges, innovation networks and thematic working groups. During India’s BRICS Presidency, a comprehensive review of STI priorities is being undertaken to align cooperation with emerging technological frontiers and the developmental aspirations of member nations.
The Minister reaffirmed India’s commitment to an open, inclusive and human-centric innovation model, highlighting flagship initiatives such as the National Quantum Mission, National Supercomputing Mission, BioE3 Policy, National Geospatial Policy and the country’s expanding Digital Public Infrastructure ecosystem.
Inviting BRICS partners to strengthen cooperation, Dr. Singh proposed greater collaboration in frontier research, innovation financing, startup partnerships, talent mobility, research infrastructure sharing and capacity building to create a future-ready BRICS science architecture.
He expressed confidence that the deliberations in Chennai would further strengthen scientific cooperation among BRICS countries while contributing to a more resilient, innovative and sustainable future, particularly for the Global South.
