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Current Affairs

8th BRICS Working Group Meeting on Ocean and Polar Science and Technology Begins in Goa

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The 8th meeting of the BRICS Working Group on Ocean and Polar Science and Technology (OPST) was held in Goa from August 12 to 14, 2026. Hosted by India's National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) under the Ministry of Earth Sciences during India's 2026 BRICS Presidency, the meeting brought together scientists and officials from eight countries—Brazil, China, Egypt, Indonesia, Russia, South Africa, United Arab Emirates, and India—to enhance cooperation in oceanic and polar research. The agenda focused on transitioning from bilateral agreements to multilateral integrated research programs, joint research, capacity building, scientific exchanges, and shared use of research infrastructure. Dr. Thamban Meloth, Director of NCPOR, chaired the meeting, and Dr. M. Rajeevan delivered the keynote on India’s Blue Economy initiatives.

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Key Facts

  • The 8th BRICS Working Group on Ocean and Polar Science and Technology meeting took place in Goa, India, from August 12 to 14, 2026.
  • It was hosted by the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), under the Ministry of Earth Sciences as part of India’s 2026 BRICS Presidency.
  • Participating countries included Brazil, China, Egypt, Indonesia, Russia, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates, and India.
  • Dr. Thamban Meloth, Director of NCPOR, chaired the meeting and welcomed delegates.
  • Dr. M. Rajeevan, Vice Chancellor of Atria University and former Secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, delivered a keynote lecture on India’s Blue Economy initiatives.
  • The meeting emphasized moving beyond bilateral cooperation towards integrated multilateral oceanic and polar research programs.
  • Discussion topics included joint research, capacity building, scientific exchanges, and shared research infrastructure use.

Background & Context

The BRICS Working Group on Ocean and Polar Science and Technology (OPST) was established in 2018 to promote marine and polar scientific cooperation among BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Prior to the 2026 meeting, seven meetings had been held, with India previously hosting the 3rd meeting in 2020. Goa was chosen as the venue under India’s BRICS Presidency 2026 to advance cooperation and strengthen institutional contacts in oceanic and polar sciences.

Why This Matters for Exams / Exam Relevance

This meeting highlights India's leadership role in international scientific cooperation through BRICS. Competitive exams often test knowledge on India’s foreign policy, international collaborations in science and technology, and environmental initiatives such as the Blue Economy. Familiarity with the BRICS OPST’s objectives, member countries, and India’s involvement enhances understanding of contemporary global cooperation frameworks.

Points to Remember

  • BRICS OPST Working Group was formed in 2018 to encourage oceanic and polar science collaboration among BRICS nations.
  • The 8th meeting was held in Goa, August 12–14, 2026, hosted by NCPOR under Ministry of Earth Sciences.
  • Attended by representatives from Brazil, China, Egypt, Indonesia, Russia, South Africa, UAE, and India.
  • Focus areas: joint research, capacity building, scientific exchanges, shared infrastructure, and transitioning toward multilateral integrated programs.
  • India showcased its Blue Economy initiatives during the meeting.
  • Dr. Thamban Meloth chaired the 2026 meeting; Dr. M. Rajeevan delivered the keynote.
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