India at BRICS meet stresses global tech collaboration for inclusive, sustainable growth
Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh on Friday called for stronger international collaboration in emerging technologies, stating that innovation must remain accessible, affordable, trusted, and sustainable. He was delivering the inaugural address at the 14th BRICS Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Ministerial Meeting in Chennai.
Dr. Singh identified advanced materials, biotechnology, photonics, geospatial technologies, and high-performance computing as key emerging fields with the potential to create unprecedented opportunities for progress. He emphasised that no single nation can address global challenges alone, and that cooperative frameworks are essential to ensure that the benefits of scientific advancement reach all sections of society.
The Minister noted that India, during its 2026 BRICS Presidency, has adopted the theme ‘Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability’. He said the theme reflects a shared conviction that science, technology, and innovation must serve humanity by enhancing resilience, driving inclusive growth, promoting sustainable development, and fostering equitable partnerships among nations.
Highlighting the collective strength of BRICS, Dr. Singh observed that the grouping’s vast population, scientific talent, and growing research capabilities position it well to build a cooperative, responsible, and future-oriented innovation ecosystem. He acknowledged the contribution of the STI Steering Committee, senior officials, and various working groups for sustaining dialogue and converting it into practical cooperation and tangible outcomes.
Dr. Singh said BRICS STI cooperation has evolved into a robust platform encompassing research collaboration, innovation partnerships, young scientist exchanges, research infrastructure, and thematic working groups. During India’s Presidency, a comprehensive review of BRICS STI priorities is underway to align cooperation with emerging scientific and technological frontiers and the developmental aspirations of member societies.
The Minister reiterated India’s commitment to an open, inclusive, and human-centric approach to science and innovation. He cited national initiatives such as the National Quantum Mission, National Supercomputing Mission, BioE3 Policy, National Geospatial Policy, and the expanding Digital Public Infrastructure ecosystem as examples of policies designed to improve people’s lives and support sustainable economic transformation.
In his address, Dr. Singh invited BRICS partners to identify ambitious yet practical pathways for deeper collaboration in frontier research, innovation financing, talent mobility, research infrastructure sharing, startup partnerships, and capacity building. He expressed confidence that such cooperation would help create a future-ready BRICS STI architecture capable of responding to global challenges and supporting the aspirations of the Global South.
The 14th BRICS STI Ministerial Meeting, hosted in Chennai, is part of India’s ongoing BRICS Presidency activities. The meeting brings together science and technology ministers and senior officials from member countries to discuss collaborative strategies for leveraging science and innovation for shared prosperity.
