Dr Jitendra Singh announces unanimous adoption of ‘Chennai Declaration’

In the closing session of the 14th BRICS Science Ministerial Meet chaired by India, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences and MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh announced the unanimous adoption of ‘Chennai Declaration’, reaffirming BRICS commitment to build effective, resilient and future- ready framework in science, technology and innovation.

The Chennai Consensus, adopted under India’s BRICS Chairship, places a people-centred and humanity-first approach at the heart of STI cooperation, with emphasis on sustainable development, resilient and high-quality growth, social inclusiveness and the use of innovation and technology to improve the welfare and quality of life of people across BRICS nations.

Dr. Jitendra Singh, said the deliberations had reaffirmed the central role of Science, Technology and Innovation in building a more resilient, inclusive and sustainable future. He said the breadth of discussions, from Artificial Intelligence and High-Performance Computing to quantum technologies, advanced materials, biotechnology, health, climate and sustainability, reflects the shared opportunities and challenges that BRICS countries can address through collective action.

The Declaration further welcomes the BRICS Youth Startup Platform, while recognising the need to catalyse financing for early- and growth-stage startups and recording the consideration of a BRICS Startup Innovation Fund in the BRICS Industry Ministers’ Declaration, in coordination where appropriate with the STI track.(UPDATED ON 22ND AUGUST 2026)