The BTTC is an MoU-based governing body for the BRICS Academic Forum, established in 2013 to coordinate intellectual collaboration among member nations. It consists of one designated think tank from each BRICS country, nominated by the respective Ministry of External Affairs, with membership expanding in line with the bloc’s growth. The Council finalises policy recommendations based on Academic Forum deliberations and submits them to national Sherpas. It also commissions research papers and commentaries on strategic issues.