Why is it in the news?
India assumed BRICS Presidency 2026 focusing on Science, Technology and Innovation.
Expansion of BRICS+ highlights deep-tech collaboration and Global South cooperation.
Category: IR
Important Points:
● BRICS includes Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa
● Expanded to BRICS+ with new members like Egypt, UAE, Iran and Indonesia
● Focus on science, technology and innovation cooperation
● BRICS STI MoU signed in 2015 for joint research collaboration
● BRICS Young Scientist Forum promotes scientific networking
● Technology Transfer Centre supports innovation and startups
● BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite enables data sharing
● Represents about 40% global GDP and nearly half world population
● Aims to reform global governance and reduce Western dominance