Innovation knows no boundaries, and the BRICS Young Innovator Prize stands as proof of that. Bringing together some of the brightest young minds from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, the annual competition is a celebration of scientific excellence and creativity. The 2025 edition of the event, held in Brasília, Brazil, from 15 to 17 September, provided a global platform for youth innovators to present solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

This year’s 10th BRICS Young Scientists Forum (YSF) and 8th BRICS Young Innovator Prize (YIP) focused on three main themes: climate change mitigation and adaptation, science diplomacy in a changing world, and artificial intelligence for societal solutions. Among these exceptional minds was Sakthi Jaya Sundar Rajasekar, a medical graduate from The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University, Chennai, who emerged as one of the event’s top achievers.

India’s Pride: Sakthi’s Innovative AI Solution

Representing India on the global stage, Sakthi Jaya Sundar secured second prize for his project that uses artificial intelligence-powered rapid diagnostic solutions to tackle antimicrobial resistance (AMR), one of the most urgent medical challenges of our time. His research focuses on using single-bacterium nanomotion dynamics, a novel approach that observes the subtle movements of individual bacteria to quickly determine antibiotic resistance. This AI-driven model can help doctors identify resistant infections in record time, enabling faster and more accurate treatment. For millions around the world suffering from bacterial infections, this breakthrough could mean the difference between life and death. The innovation doesn’t just represent advanced medical science; it represents hope.

The BRICS Young Scientists Forum

The BRICS Young Scientists Forum (YSF) was established in 2015 during the Second BRICS Science, Technology and Innovation Ministerial Meeting in Brasília. Since its inception, the forum has aimed to connect young researchers and innovators across BRICS nations to collaborate on shared challenges. India hosted the first BRICS YSF in 2016, providing a platform for young scientists to share knowledge and network. Over the years, the event has rotated among member nations, with Russia hosting the ninth edition in Sochi (2024) and Brazil taking the lead in 2025. Each year, the forum not only showcases technological talent but also strengthens BRICS cooperation in Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI). It helps nurture young talent, builds global leadership, and encourages cross-border partnerships. The BRICS Young Innovator Prize, introduced in 2018, further elevated this mission by recognizing exceptional young minds whose innovations offer real-world impact.

India’s Delegation of Bright Minds

For 2025, India’s delegation to Brazil was led by Dr. Nagaboopathy M., a Scientist at the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India. The group comprised 11 young scientists and innovators, each selected for their outstanding contributions in fields such as sustainable development, climate action, and AI-based solutions. Their participation highlighted India’s growing emphasis on youth-led innovation and science diplomacy, reinforcing the country’s reputation as a rising global leader in research and development.

From the lecture halls of Chennai to the innovation stage in Brazil, Sakthi Jaya Sundar Rajasekar’s journey is a shining example of how one idea can travel across borders and inspire change. In the end, his achievement is more than just a prize; it’s a message to young scientists everywhere: dream boldly, innovate fearlessly, and make science serve humanity.