NLU Prayagraj VC Dr. Usha Tandon delivers BRICS Law School Consortium’s Inaugural Lecture

Vice Chancellor of the Dr Rajendra Prasad National Law University, Prayagraj (RPNLUP), Senior Prof (Dr) Usha Tandon recently spoke on the imperative need for BRICS nations to strategically align their development priorities with global climate goals, while delivering the BRICS Law School Consortium’s inaugural lecture.

Her address focused on the theme, BRICS at Crossroads: Mapping BRICS Commitments to Climate Change Mitigation.

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 lecture, Prof Tandon delved into the historical evolution of BRICS and its approach to climate change 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 a deeper 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 also focused 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 Prof Tandon's lecture examined 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.

Prof Tandon emphasized that these measures are crucial to ensuring that BRICS nations remain steadfast in their commitments to both sustainable development and climate change mitigation.

The inaugural lecture set a high benchmark for the Consortium's academic journey, paving the way for future interdisciplinary engagements on global challenges.

Reflecting on the event's success, Deputy Director at the Institute of National and Comparative Legal Studies, Higher School of Economics (HSE), Natialia Galkina 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. We express our sincere gratitude to Prof Tandon for her excellent contribution, and we look forward to the launch of other exciting initiatives in the near future.”

Director, International Cooperation Centre, Faculty of Law, HSE University, Moscow, Olga Trynkova said,

"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."

"I am deeply pleased with this meaningful initiative, which has the potential to foster dynamic discussions among academicians of the BRICS nations. I firmly believe it will serve as a catalyst for innovative collaborations and critical thought on shared global challenges," added Dr. Tandon.

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