Jitendra Singh: BRICS Poised to Drive Future-Ready Innovation Ecosystem
Union Minister calls for stronger collaboration in frontier research, technology, talent mobility and innovation to address global challenges
NEW DELHI, Aug 21: BRICS is well positioned to develop a cooperative and future ready innovation ecosystem, backed by its large population, scientific talent and expanding research capabilities, Union Minister Jitendra Singh said on Thursday.
Addressing the inaugural session of the 14th BRICS Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Ministerial Meeting, Singh emphasised the growing importance of collaboration among member countries in science, technology and research.
He said cooperation under the BRICS STI framework has developed into a strong platform covering several areas, including joint research, innovation partnerships, exchanges involving young scientists and shared research infrastructure.
The minister noted that the global technology landscape is changing rapidly, with artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, advanced materials, biotechnology, photonics, geospatial technologies and high performance computing emerging as major drivers of transformation.
According to Singh, these technologies offer significant opportunities for economic and social development but also require greater international cooperation to ensure that technological progress remains accessible, affordable, trustworthy and environmentally sustainable.
India, he said, remains committed to promoting an open, inclusive and human centric approach to scientific research and technological innovation.
Singh pointed to initiatives such as the National Supercomputing Mission and India’s expanding digital public infrastructure as examples of efforts aimed at ensuring that technological advancement delivers tangible benefits to citizens.
He said such initiatives demonstrate how innovation can contribute to improving quality of life, strengthening societal resilience and supporting sustainable economic growth.
The Union Minister also urged BRICS nations to explore ambitious yet practical avenues for expanding cooperation in frontier research and emerging technologies.
He called for greater collaboration in areas including innovation financing, movement of scientific talent, sharing of research infrastructure, startup partnerships and capacity building.
Singh said deeper cooperation in these fields could help BRICS develop a future-ready STI framework capable of responding effectively to emerging global challenges.
He further underlined the potential of such partnerships to support the development priorities and aspirations of countries across the Global South.
The minister stressed that stronger scientific and technological collaboration among BRICS members can help create an ecosystem that combines innovation with inclusiveness, sustainability and shared development.
With emerging technologies increasingly shaping economies and societies, Singh’s call for deeper STI cooperation comes at a time when international partnerships are becoming crucial for advancing responsible and accessible innovation.
