For this article:

18 Mar 2026·Source: The Hindu
5 min
AM
Anshul Mann|International
International RelationsScience & TechnologyPolity & GovernanceEDITORIAL

BRICS Deepens Scientific Collaboration to Foster Multipolar World System and Address Global Challenges

BRICS nations are expanding scientific and technological cooperation to build shared capacities and influence global STI governance.

UPSC-PrelimsUPSC-Mains●SSC

Quick Revision

1.

BRICS comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, with recent expansion to include Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Iran.

2.

Cooperation in Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) was formally recognized in 2011 and consolidated by a 2015 memorandum of understanding.

3.

The first BRICS Action Plan for Innovation Cooperation (2017-2020) focused on entrepreneurship networks, the role of youth and women in STI, and technology transfer.

4.

The 2025 Declaration on AI elevated artificial intelligence to a central pillar of multilateral governance within BRICS.

5.

India holds the BRICS+ chair in 2026 with the theme 'Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability'.

6.

Gross Domestic Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD) is relatively lower across BRICS countries, with the exception of China.

7.

The BRICS Institute of Future Networks has been established, and space cooperation followed a 2021 intergovernmental agreement.

Key Dates

2011: STI cooperation formally recognized2015: Memorandum of understanding established STI as a core strategic pillar2017-2020: First BRICS Action Plan for Innovation Cooperation2022: Launch of BRICS+2025: Declaration on AI2026: India's BRICS+ Presidency

Key Numbers

2011: Formal recognition of STI cooperation2015: Memorandum of understanding established STI as a core strategic pillar2017-2020: First BRICS Action Plan for Innovation Cooperation2021: Intergovernmental agreement for space cooperation2025: Declaration on AI2026: India's BRICS+ Presidency

Visual Insights

The Expanded BRICS+ Landscape (2026)

Geographic distribution of the original BRICS members and the 2024 expansion, highlighting the shift towards a multipolar world.

Loading interactive map...

📍India📍China📍Brazil📍Russia📍South Africa📍Egypt📍Iran📍Ethiopia📍Saudi Arabia📍UAE

Mains & Interview Focus

Don't miss it!

BRICS's deepening scientific collaboration marks a strategic evolution, moving beyond economic and financial coordination to foster a truly multipolar world order through shared innovation. This shift is critical as global scientific endeavors increasingly face geopolitical fragmentation and techno-nationalism. The grouping's structured approach, formalized by the 2015 memorandum of understanding and subsequent Action Plans, demonstrates a serious commitment to leveraging collective scientific capacity.

The institutional framework, involving agencies like India's CSIR and DBT, has facilitated a crucial pivot from basic science to socially relevant areas. This includes public health, climate resilience, and frontier technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and biotechnology. The 2025 Declaration on AI, elevating it to a central pillar of multilateral governance, exemplifies this forward-looking agenda.

However, significant challenges persist. The heterogeneity among new BRICS+ members presents difficulties in reconciling diverse interests and capacities. Furthermore, the relatively lower Gross Domestic Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD) across most BRICS nations, China being an exception, highlights a funding disparity that impedes large-scale commercialization of technologies. This contrasts sharply with the robust, centrally managed programs seen in blocs like the EU's Horizon Program.

To overcome these hurdles, BRICS must transition from ad-hoc, annually rotating leadership to a permanent, centralized secretariat. Such a body could effectively manage funds, streamline calls for proposals, and rigorously monitor outcomes. Developing long-term mega-science projects would also foster deeper, sustained cooperation and build critical infrastructure. India's 2026 Presidency offers a pivotal opportunity to champion these institutional reforms, ensuring BRICS's scientific collaboration achieves its full potential and enhances its global legitimacy.

Editorial Analysis

The authors advocate for deeper and more structured scientific collaboration within BRICS to establish a multipolar world system and address global challenges. They argue that while significant progress has been made, the current framework for Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) cooperation is insufficient for future needs and requires substantial improvements in governance, funding, and institutional mechanisms.

Main Arguments:

  1. BRICS is a globally significant collective that challenges Western hegemony and promotes a multipolar world system, with cooperation in Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) being a critical, though less publicised, aspect of its agenda.
  2. Global scientific collaboration is increasingly dictated by geopolitical tensions, techno-nationalism, and strategic competition, making BRICS a crucial platform for member nations to coordinate strategies, amplify their collective voice, and influence development finance through institutions like the New Development Bank.
  3. STI cooperation within BRICS has evolved significantly, moving from early joint research calls focused on fundamental science to include more socially relevant areas such as energy, water, health, and the environment, with a growing focus on artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and industrial innovation.
  4. The expansion of BRICS to include more members (BRICS+) positions it as a more inclusive platform for knowledge exchange and collaborative research, aiming to build shared capacities and address challenges like digital divides, public health crises, and climate resilience.
  5. Despite notable progress in creating policy frameworks and institutional links for cross-border technology commercialisation, large-scale commercialisation of these technologies remains limited, and the overall Gross Domestic Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD) across BRICS nations (except China) is relatively lower compared to advanced nations.
  6. The current framework for STI cooperation has limitations, including the heterogeneity of new members making it difficult to reconcile differing interests, modest total funding available, and the lack of a permanent mechanism for long-term management, as the lead role rotates annually with the presidency.
  7. BRICS could learn from the European Union's wide variety of STI programs and needs to establish a central mechanism, such as a Secretariat, to manage funds, issue calls for proposals, monitor progress, and review outcomes, alongside developing long-term mega-science projects and promoting research into STI governance.

Counter Arguments:

  1. The article implicitly addresses the challenge of heterogeneity among new members in terms of economic development and scientific capacity, which makes it difficult to reconcile differing interests and leads to uneven participation in calls for proposals.
  2. It acknowledges that despite progress in creating policy frameworks for technology commercialisation, large-scale commercialisation of these technologies remains limited.
  3. The article notes that while competition for funding is intense, the total funding available for BRICS STI programs remains modest, suggesting a need for greater investment.

Conclusion

While STI cooperation within BRICS has progressed significantly since 2015 despite various constraints, there is substantial room for improvement. Making the framework more effective, agile, and credible will enhance the group's legitimacy in the global arena. India, as the chair of BRICS+ in 2026, has the opportunity to lead this transition.

Policy Implications

BRICS should establish a permanent mechanism, such as a Secretariat, to manage STI cooperation, similar to the EU's Horizon Program, to handle funds, issue calls for proposals, and monitor outcomes. The framework should expand beyond just funding science and technology projects to promote research into the governance of STI and the impact of emerging technologies on BRICS+ nations, facilitating greater coherence in international treaty negotiations and building capacity for STI governance. Developing a few long-term Mega-science Projects could also foster deeper cooperation.

Exam Angles

1.

GS Paper II: International Relations - Role of BRICS in global governance, India's foreign policy and its engagement with multilateral forums.

2.

GS Paper III: Science & Technology - India's scientific capabilities, international cooperation in S&T, innovation and its impact on development.

3.

GS Paper III: Economy - Economic cooperation among BRICS nations, trade, and investment implications.

View Detailed Summary

Summary

BRICS countries are working more closely on science and technology to tackle big global problems like climate change and health. They aim to share knowledge and resources to develop together and create a world where power isn't just held by a few Western nations, giving emerging economies a stronger collective voice.

BRICS, the influential grouping comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, formally initiated its cooperation in Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) in 2011. This strategic collaboration aims to foster a more multipolar world system and collectively address pressing global challenges such as digital divides, public health crises, and climate resilience. Over the past decade, the framework for STI cooperation has significantly evolved, moving beyond foundational basic science research to encompass socially relevant areas. A growing emphasis is now placed on cutting-edge fields like Artificial Intelligence (AI), biotechnology, and industrial innovation.

The BRICS nations have demonstrated notable progress in specific sectors, particularly in Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) and space cooperation, showcasing their collective scientific prowess. However, the grouping faces persistent challenges, especially in areas demanding heavy infrastructure investment and in effectively integrating the diverse STI capacities of its expanding membership. India is poised to play a pivotal role in navigating these transitions, as it is slated to assume the BRICS+ chair in 2026. This leadership position offers India a significant opportunity to steer the future direction of BRICS STI collaboration, leveraging its own scientific strengths and fostering inclusive growth within the bloc.

This deepening scientific collaboration is crucial for India's strategic autonomy and its vision for a balanced global order, making it highly relevant for UPSC Mains GS Paper II (International Relations) and GS Paper III (Science & Technology, Economy).

Background

The BRICS grouping was initially conceived in 2001 by economist Jim O'Neill, but formally established in 2006 as BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India, China) and expanded to include South Africa in 2010, becoming BRICS. Its primary objective has been to challenge the existing unipolar global order and advocate for a more multipolar world system where power is distributed among multiple major poles, reflecting the growing economic and political influence of emerging economies. This collective aims to foster greater cooperation across various sectors, including economic, political, and cultural spheres, to address shared development goals and enhance their global standing. The concept of a multipolar world system contrasts with a unipolar system (dominated by one superpower) or a bipolar system (dominated by two superpowers). BRICS nations, representing a significant portion of the world's population and GDP, seek to create alternative institutions and frameworks for global governance, such as the New Development Bank (NDB), to reduce reliance on Western-dominated financial structures and promote a more equitable international system. Their collaboration in Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) is a natural extension of this broader geopolitical ambition, aiming to build collective self-reliance and influence.

Latest Developments

In recent years, BRICS has seen significant developments, most notably its expansion. In January 2024, five new countries – Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates – officially joined the bloc, marking a substantial increase in its global footprint and diverse capacities. This expansion, discussed at the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg in August 2023, is expected to further diversify the group's Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) landscape, bringing in new expertise and resources but also posing challenges for integration and consensus-building. The group continues to emphasize cooperation on critical global issues. For instance, discussions around a common BRICS currency or payment system are ongoing, aiming to reduce reliance on the US dollar and strengthen intra-BRICS trade. Furthermore, the BRICS STI Framework Programme, established to facilitate joint research projects, has been actively promoting calls for proposals in areas like water resources, renewable energy, and digital technologies, aligning with the group's commitment to sustainable development and addressing global challenges. The upcoming BRICS summit, with Russia as chair in 2024, is expected to further consolidate these expanded partnerships and deepen collaboration across various sectors, including STI.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the significance of the year 2011 for BRICS's Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) cooperation, and what common trap might UPSC set related to this?

The year 2011 is significant because it marked the formal initiation of BRICS cooperation in Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI). Before this, while informal interactions might have occurred, 2011 was when it was officially recognized as a strategic area for collaboration.

Exam Tip

UPSC often tests the 'first' or 'formal' recognition dates. A common trap would be to confuse 2011 (formal recognition) with 2015 (consolidation by MoU) or the establishment of BRICS itself (2006/2010). Remember: 2011 for *formal STI start*.

2. Given the recent expansion, which countries officially joined BRICS in January 2024, and what is a common factual error aspirants make regarding BRICS membership?

In January 2024, five new countries officially joined BRICS: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. This expansion was a key outcome of the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg in August 2023.

Exam Tip

A common factual error is to include Indonesia in the list of new members, as it was discussed but did not officially join in January 2024. Always remember the exact list of countries that *officially* joined.

3. India is set to chair BRICS+ in 2026. What is the theme for India's chairmanship, and why is remembering such themes important for the exam?

India will hold the BRICS+ chair in 2026 with the theme 'Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability'. This theme reflects India's priorities and vision for the bloc's future direction.

Exam Tip

Themes for major international groupings chaired by India are frequently asked in Prelims, sometimes as direct questions or as part of a statement. They also provide excellent points for Mains answers on India's foreign policy or multilateral engagement. Use an acronym if possible (e.g., BRICS: BRICS Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation, Sustainability).

4. Why has BRICS's STI cooperation shifted from 'foundational basic science research' to 'socially relevant areas' and 'cutting-edge fields' like AI and biotechnology? What's the underlying strategic reason?

The shift reflects a strategic evolution to make STI cooperation more impactful and aligned with the BRICS's broader goals. Moving beyond basic research allows them to directly address pressing global challenges like digital divides, public health crises, and climate resilience. Focusing on cutting-edge fields like AI and biotechnology also enables them to build shared capacities, influence global STI governance, and enhance their collective economic and strategic leverage in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

5. How does BRICS's deepening scientific collaboration directly contribute to its stated goal of fostering a 'multipolar world system'?

Deepening scientific collaboration contributes to a multipolar world system by: establishing independent technological capabilities, reducing reliance on traditional Western powers for innovation, creating alternative knowledge-sharing platforms, and allowing BRICS nations to collectively set standards and influence global governance in critical technological domains like AI. This collective capacity building strengthens their voice and bargaining power on the global stage, challenging the existing unipolar order.

6. What is the practical difference between the initial 'formal recognition' of STI cooperation in 2011 and its 'consolidation by a 2015 memorandum of understanding'?

The 'formal recognition' in 2011 meant that BRICS officially acknowledged STI as an area for cooperation, likely leading to initial discussions and exploratory projects. The 'consolidation by a 2015 memorandum of understanding (MoU)' signifies a more structured and committed approach. An MoU typically outlines specific frameworks, mechanisms, and areas of collaboration, providing a legal and operational basis for sustained and deeper engagement, moving beyond mere recognition to concrete action plans.

7. With the recent expansion and deepening STI cooperation, what are the primary challenges BRICS might face in effectively implementing its scientific agenda, and how can India navigate these?

BRICS might face challenges such as: diverse levels of scientific and technological development among members, geopolitical rivalries within the expanded group, ensuring equitable benefit sharing, and overcoming bureaucratic hurdles in joint projects. India can navigate these by: focusing on common challenges (e.g., climate change, public health) where all members have a vested interest, promoting inclusive frameworks that accommodate varying capacities, leveraging its own strong STI base, and advocating for transparent governance mechanisms to build trust.

8. How does India's leadership in the 2026 BRICS+ chairmanship, with its theme, align with India's broader foreign policy objectives, particularly in the context of global STI governance?

India's 2026 BRICS+ chairmanship theme, 'Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability', strongly aligns with its foreign policy objectives. India aims to position itself as a responsible global actor and a leader in emerging technologies. This theme allows India to: champion inclusive technological development, advocate for equitable global STI governance frameworks, promote climate action through scientific collaboration, and strengthen its strategic autonomy by fostering partnerships in critical sectors. It also reinforces India's commitment to a multipolar world where developing nations have a greater say in shaping global norms.

9. How does BRICS's focus on AI as a central pillar of multilateral governance, as declared in 2025, fit into the broader global trend of technology competition and governance?

BRICS's 2025 Declaration on AI reflects a proactive stance in the global technology competition. It positions BRICS as a collective force aiming to shape AI governance, rather than merely being subject to norms set by Western powers. This move aligns with the broader trend of nations and blocs vying for influence in critical emerging technologies, seeking to establish ethical guidelines, regulatory frameworks, and standards that reflect their own values and interests, thereby contributing to a more diversified and multipolar approach to global tech governance.

10. What are the immediate implications of BRICS's expansion for its scientific and technological collaboration, and what should aspirants watch for in the coming months regarding this development?

The immediate implications of BRICS expansion for STI collaboration include: diversification of expertise and resources, potential for new joint projects leveraging varied strengths (e.g., energy tech from Saudi Arabia/UAE, agricultural tech from Ethiopia), and increased collective bargaining power in global STI forums. Aspirants should watch for: specific joint projects announced involving new members, new funding mechanisms for STI, and any shifts in the focus areas of BRICS STI cooperation that reflect the priorities of the expanded group. Pay attention to outcomes of upcoming BRICS summits.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding BRICS cooperation in Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI): 1. BRICS formally initiated its STI cooperation in 2011. 2. The collaboration primarily focuses on basic science research, with limited scope for socially relevant areas. 3. India is slated to assume the BRICS+ chair in 2026. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 only
  • B.1 and 2 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.2 and 3 only
Show Answer

Answer: C

Statement 1 is CORRECT: The BRICS grouping formally initiated its cooperation in Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) in 2011, as explicitly mentioned in the summary. This formalization marked a significant step in institutionalizing scientific collaboration among member states. Statement 2 is INCORRECT: The summary states that the framework has evolved "from basic science to socially relevant areas, with a growing focus on AI, biotechnology, and industrial innovation." This clearly indicates an expanded scope beyond just basic science, contradicting the claim of limited scope for socially relevant areas. Statement 3 is CORRECT: India is indeed slated to assume the BRICS+ chair in 2026, as stated in the summary. This position will provide India with a significant opportunity to influence the bloc's agenda and foster further collaboration. Therefore, statements 1 and 3 are correct.

2. With reference to the BRICS grouping, consider the following statements: 1. The New Development Bank (NDB) was established by the BRICS nations to mobilize resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects. 2. The recent expansion of BRICS in January 2024 included Argentina and Indonesia as new members. 3. One of the core objectives of BRICS is to promote a unipolar world system dominated by emerging economies. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 only
  • B.1 and 2 only
  • C.2 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: A

Statement 1 is CORRECT: The New Development Bank (NDB) was indeed established by the BRICS nations to mobilize resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects. It serves as an alternative to Western-dominated financial institutions, reflecting BRICS's commitment to reforming global financial architecture. Statement 2 is INCORRECT: The recent expansion of BRICS in January 2024 included Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Argentina and Indonesia were not among the countries that officially joined in January 2024, although Argentina was initially invited but later declined membership. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: A core objective of BRICS is to foster a multipolar world system, not a unipolar one. They aim to challenge the existing unipolar order and advocate for a more balanced distribution of global power, where emerging economies have a greater voice and influence. Therefore, only statement 1 is correct.

Source Articles

On scientific collaborations in BRICS - The Hindu

The Hindu·18 Mar 2026

BRICS Astronomy Working Group moots networking of existing telescopes - The Hindu

The Hindu·18 Mar 2026

BRICS media wrestle with disinformation challenge in COVID-19 fight - The Hindu

The Hindu·18 Mar 2026

BRICS agrees to welcome six new members, says PM Modi - The Hindu

The Hindu·18 Mar 2026

The BRICS journey — gaining heft while in transition - The Hindu

The Hindu·18 Mar 2026
AM

About the Author

Anshul Mann

Geopolitics & International Affairs Analyst

Anshul Mann writes about International Relations at GKSolver, breaking down complex developments into clear, exam-relevant analysis.

View all articles →