Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr. Jitendra Singh, delivered the inaugural address at the 14th BRICS Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Ministerial Meeting in Chennai on August 21, 2026. He discussed India's growing global outreach in science, technology, and innovation under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.
The 14th BRICS Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Ministerial Meeting commenced in Chennai, India on August 21, 2026. Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr. Jitendra Singh, delivered the inaugural address. He emphasized India's growing global outreach in science, technology, and innovation under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.
Welcoming the delegations from BRICS member countries, Dr. Jitendra Singh said that India has chosen 'Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation, and Sustainability' as the theme of its BRICS Presidency in 2026. He underscored that this theme reflects the 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.
Dr. Jitendra Singh further discussed the world's current rapid transformation driven by emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, quantum technologies, advanced materials, biotechnology, photonics, geospatial technologies, and high-performance computing. He stressed the need for stronger international collaboration to ensure that innovation remains accessible, affordable, trusted, and sustainable.
He also highlighted that BRICS, with its vast population, scientific talent, and growing research capabilities, is well positioned to foster a cooperative, responsible, and future-oriented innovation ecosystem.
Source:
Press Information Bureau
