BRICS Working Group Meeting on Ocean and Polar Science & Technology.

India is hosting the BRICS Working Group Meeting on Ocean and Polar Science & Technology (OPST) in Goa from 12–14 August 2026, convened by the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), Ministry of Earth Sciences.

The meeting commenced with Dr. Thamban Meloth, Director, NCPOR and Chair of the 8th BRICS OPST Working Group Meeting, welcoming delegates from the BRICS nations.The inaugural session featured a keynote address on “India’s Blue Economy Initiatives” by Dr. Madhavan Nair Rajeevan, Chief Guest, Vice Chancellor, Atria University and Former Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India. In his address, he highlighted the strategic importance of India’s Blue Economy, with emphasis on sustainable ocean resources, deep-sea exploration and scientific research. He also spoke on the Deep Ocean Mission and the need for technology, marine science and international cooperation to harness ocean resources responsibly.

Over the three-day meeting, delegates will deliberate on key areas of cooperation, with a focus on strengthening scientific collaboration, knowledge exchange and coordination among BRICS nations in ocean and polar science and technology.

Advancing collaboration. Connecting nations. Shaping a sustainable future for our oceans and polar regions.