India pushes tech cooperation agenda ahead of 2026 BRICS presidency

India is charting an ambitious course for its upcoming BRICS presidency in 2026, with a focus on strengthening global technological cooperation among member nations. Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh articulated the vision during recent consultations, emphasizing the need for the bloc to work in tandem on emerging technological challenges.

The theme selected for India's BRICS presidency—"Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability"—reflects New Delhi's conviction that member nations must develop robust frameworks for technological advancement while safeguarding economic stability. The formulation suggests India intends to position BRICS as a counterweight to Western-dominated technology ecosystems while promoting indigenous innovation capabilities across the grouping.

The initiative comes as BRICS nations—comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa—seek to expand their influence in shaping global technology standards and governance. India's emphasis on cooperation signals New Delhi's belief that collective action on science, technology and digital infrastructure development can accelerate growth across the developing world.

The 2026 presidency marks a significant opportunity for India to steer BRICS discussions on critical issues including artificial intelligence governance, cybersecurity, digital infrastructure investment and green technology transfer among member states. Singh's articulation of the theme suggests India will push for practical mechanisms enabling BRICS nations to collaborate on research, innovation and technology commercialization.