The Ministry of Science and Technology announced the adoption of the Chennai Declaration at the conclusion of the 14th BRICS Science Ministerial Meeting, held under India’s leadership. Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh, who chairs the meeting, confirmed that all BRICS nations unanimously backed this framework. The declaration commits the five-nation bloc to strengthen cooperation in science, technology and innovation with a focus on people-centred development and the needs of the Global South.
What the Chennai Declaration contains
The declaration, also called the Chennai Consensus, emphasises sustainable development, inclusive growth and using technology to improve citizens’ lives across BRICS countries. It recognises 14 active thematic working groups, 11 editions of the BRICS Young Scientist Forum, nine editions of the Young Innovators Prize and nine calls under the BRICS STI Framework Programme.
Key areas of focus include:
- Shared research infrastructure and large-scale science projects through the BRICS Global Research Advanced Infrastructure Network (BRICS GRAIN)
- A BRICS Science and Research Repository to store and share knowledge across member nations
- Greater mobility for young scientists, researchers and innovators across borders
- Research and collaboration in artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, biotechnology, renewable energy, geospatial sciences and disaster management
- Support for startups through the BRICS Youth Startup Platform and consideration of a BRICS Startup Innovation Fund
The declaration also sets out an Action Plan for task forces working on research infrastructure and mega-science projects. The next BRICS Science Ministerial Meeting will take place in 2027 under China’s chairmanship.
What this means for you
Scientists, researchers and innovators from India may gain easier access to research facilities and collaborate with peers across BRICS nations. Young scientists and entrepreneurs could benefit from improved mobility programmes and startup support platforms. Students and researchers interested in frontier technology areas like artificial intelligence, quantum computing and biotechnology may find new opportunities for training and joint projects through BRICS institutional partnerships.