As BRICS gets ready to welcome its new members, India is expected to strengthen its position within the bloc. With the inclusion of Argentina, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, the group is evolving from a coalition focused on development and trade to an organisation with potential geopolitical clout. In this shifting landscape, India’s strategic positioning and economic significance make it a key player in steering the future direction of BRICS.
India’s approach to the bloc has consistently stood out. While Russia and China often view the bloc as a counterweight to Western institutions, India sees BRICS as a platform to amplify its voice on the global stage and push the agenda of the Global South. As one of its fastest-growing economies, India is well-positioned to champion policies that drive inclusive development. This approach enables India to bridge the interests of emerging economies and developed nations, balancing regional priorities with global aspirations.
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Building strong ties with new BRICS members
India’s influence within the grouping is set to increase as the new entrants such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE have invested significantly in Indian infrastructure, energy, and technology sectors, forging deep economic ties that could shape the bloc’s agenda. India’s soft power diplomacy and economic collaboration with these countries strengthen its leverage in driving BRICS toward more balanced, development-centric policies that align with its growth trajectory.
India’s focus within the grouping has always been on practical, growth-oriented collaboration — particularly in technology, trade, and development finance — rather than forming political alliances. This approach aligns well with India’s broader foreign policy, which balances its global partnerships while enhancing its influence among emerging economies. By prioritising issues like reforming global institutions and creating alternative financial frameworks, India can advocate for the Global South’s interests while maintaining strong ties with a range of international partners.
Factors enhancing India’s clout
India’s expanding influence within BRICS can be understood through several key factors.
Geopolitical relevance: The inclusion of new countries enhances BRICS’ geopolitical significance. India’s diplomatic engagements with these nations can help shape the bloc into a critical player in global governance, particularly in energy security, trade facilitation, and climate change.
Economic integration: India’s strong ties with new BRICS members, especially Gulf nations, promote greater economic integration within the bloc. These relationships can lead to collaborative initiatives in technology and infrastructure, fostering a unified approach to common challenges.
Championing the Global South: India’s advocacy for the Global South positions it as a leader among developing nations. By promoting inclusive policies that cater to the needs of emerging economies, India enhances its legitimacy and influence within BRICS and beyond.
Soft power: Through cultural diplomacy and shared values, India can build rapport with both new and existing BRICS members. This soft power fosters trust and cooperation, paving the way for collective action on pressing global issues.
Focus on sustainable development: India’s commitment to sustainability aligns well with the growing emphasis on environmental issues in international frameworks. By advocating for green technologies and sustainable practices, India can lead initiatives that benefit member states and set precedents for global platforms.
Balancing regional and global interests: India’s ability to balance regional priorities with global aspirations is crucial for navigating relationships within BRICS. This dual focus enables India to address trade barriers, access to technology, and climate resilience, reinforcing its role as a mediator.
Future directions: As India leads BRICS, its focus will likely prioritise initiatives that enhance the bloc’s visibility in international forums, advocate for reforms in global institutions, and explore alternative financial frameworks that provide equitable access to resources for developing countries.
India’s relationship with the US
India’s growing closeness to the United States presents both opportunities and challenges for its leadership in BRICS. On one hand, stronger ties with the US enhance India’s economic and military strength, giving it the resources and support to wield greater influence within BRICS. This partnership boosts India’s credibility as a leader, enabling it to promote development-focused policies that appeal to both BRICS members and Western allies.
However, aligning closely with the US could complicate India’s role within BRICS, especially regarding its relationships with Russia and China. India should focus on fostering open dialogue with all BRICS members and emphasise shared goals that benefit the entire group, such as joint initiatives in renewable energy and technology exchange, ensuring that it remains a unifying force within the bloc.
In a world of shifting alliances and polarised power structures, India’s pragmatic approach to BRICS not only enhances its influence within the bloc but also underscores its commitment to a balanced, multipolar future. By navigating its relationship with the US while maintaining a constructive role within BRICS, India can position itself as a leader that promotes collective growth and stability in a rapidly changing global landscape.
With a strong economy, strategic partnerships, and a robust diplomatic approach, India’s voice is expected to resonate deeply as BRICS takes on greater prominence in international affairs. As BRICS transitions, India’s role as a mediator between competing interests will be critical to the bloc’s stability and relevance.
(Dr Javeria Maryam is advisor at Infinite-Sum Modeling, a leading economic modeling firm providing advice to governments, non-governmental organisations, and companies.)