RPNLU Prayagraj: BRICS Law School Consortium's Inaugural Lecture Delivered By VC

The inaugural lecture of the BRICS Law Schools Consortium commenced with the address by Sr. Prof. (Dr.) Usha Tandon, the Vice Chancellor of Dr. Rajendra Prasad National Law University, Prayagraj. Speaking on the theme “BRICS at Crossroads: Mapping BRICS Commitments to Climate Change Mitigation,” Sr. Prof. Tandon highlighted the imperative need for BRICS nations to strategically align their development priorities with global climate goals.

The virtual event was attended by participants from the BRICS Nations- Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa Egypt and Ethiopia. This platform fostered interdisciplinary and cross-border discussions on the intersection of law, development, and climate action.

In her keynote lecture, Prof. Tandon delved into the historical evolution of BRICS and its approach to climate mitigation. She analyzed the structural challenges that developing economies within BRICS face in fulfilling ambitious climate commitments amidst pressing domestic development imperatives. She emphasized the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR), calling for an understanding of climate justice and equity, especially for nations undergoing economic transitions.

Prof. Tandon outlined key international frameworks, including the Paris Agreement and the Johannesburg Declaration, as well as BRICS-specific environmental policies. She provided particular focus on India's leadership in renewable energy initiatives, including the National Solar Mission, ambitious green energy targets, and sustainable mobility programs. These efforts, according to Prof. Tandon, position India as a driving force in green development across the BRICS bloc.

A significant segment of her lecture centered on the role of the New Development Bank (NDB), a financial institution established by BRICS to promote sustainable infrastructure and climate resilience. Prof. Tandon underscored the importance of NDB investments that prioritize inclusivity and climate sensitivity, thereby addressing the dual goals of development and environmental stewardship.

In her concluding remarks, Prof. Tandon advocated for the strengthening of legal and institutional frameworks, fostering international academic collaborations, and empowering youth engagement. These measures, she emphasized, are crucial for ensuring that BRICS nations remain steadfast in their commitments to both sustainable development and climate mitigation.

Reflecting on the event's success, Ms. Galkina Nataliia, Deputy Director at the Institute of National and Comparative Legal Studies, HSE, Moscow remarked, “we had the pleasure of hearing a lecture by Prof. (Dr.) Usha Tandon, who sparked great interest among the audience with her insights on climate change.”

"This initiative represents an exciting opportunity to unite academic minds across BRICS nations. Prof. (Dr.) Usha Tandon's erudite and thought-provoking lecture was a true inspiration, blending incisive analysis with actionable insights” says Olga Trynkova, Director International Cooperation Centre, Faculty of Law, HSE University, Moscow.