Dr. Jitendra Singh calls for stronger BRICS cooperation in AI, quantum technology, biotechnology and research at the 14th STI Ministerial Meeting in Chennai.
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Chennai: Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh has called for deeper cooperation among BRICS nations in science, technology and innovation, particularly in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, biotechnology and advanced computing.
Addressing the inaugural session of the 14th BRICS Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Ministerial Meeting in Chennai, Dr. Singh said India’s 2026 BRICS Presidency was guided by the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.”
He said the theme reflected the need to ensure that scientific and technological progress contributes to inclusive growth, sustainable development and stronger resilience across societies.
Dr. Singh said the world was undergoing rapid technological transformation, with AI, quantum technologies, advanced materials, biotechnology, photonics, geospatial technologies and high-performance computing opening new opportunities.
At the same time, he stressed the need for international cooperation to ensure that innovation remained accessible, affordable, trusted and sustainable.
He said BRICS nations, with their large populations, scientific talent and expanding research capabilities, were well positioned to build a responsible and future-oriented innovation ecosystem.
The Minister highlighted several Indian initiatives, including the National Quantum Mission, National Supercomputing Mission, BioE3 Policy and National Geospatial Policy, along with the country's expanding Digital Public Infrastructure ecosystem.
According to Dr. Singh, these initiatives reflect India's focus on ensuring that scientific innovation translates into practical benefits for citizens, strengthens societal resilience and supports sustainable economic growth.
He said BRICS STI cooperation had evolved into a broad platform covering research partnerships, innovation collaboration, young scientist exchanges, research infrastructure 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 needs of member countries, he said.
Dr. Singh invited BRICS partners to explore stronger cooperation in frontier research, innovation financing, talent mobility, research infrastructure, startup partnerships and capacity building.
Such collaboration, he said, could help create a future-ready BRICS STI framework capable of addressing global challenges while supporting the aspirations of developing countries and the wider Global South.
The Minister expressed confidence that the Chennai deliberations would strengthen cooperation among BRICS countries and contribute to building a more innovative, resilient and sustainable world.
