Source: The post India balances global roles through Brics and G7 engagement has been created, based on the article “Brics in Rio is an opportunity for New Delhi” published in “The Hindustan Times” on 5th July 2025
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2- Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.
Context: India is navigating two global groupings—G7 and Brics—within a short span, highlighting its growing importance in world affairs. As Prime Minister Modi prepares for the 17th Brics Summit in Brazil, the article reflects on the contrasting settings, evolving dynamics, and India’s expanding influence within these forums.
From detailed information on India balances BRICS Quad and neighbours through strategic realism read this article here
India’s Dual Engagement with G7 and Brics
- Contrasting Roles and Perceptions: At the G7 Summit in Canada, India remained on the periphery, not fully accepted as an equal. In contrast, Brics is a platform where India is a founder and active insider, underscoring different global approaches towards India.
- Political Atmosphere and Diplomatic Climate: India’s Brazil visit faces no tensions—unlike Canada, where political strains, anti-India protests, and unsolicited mediation proposals overshadowed the summit. The relaxed atmosphere in Brazil signals India’s comfort in Brics.
- Symbolic and Strategic Differences: Brazil will confer its highest civilian honour on Modi, reflecting deeper ties. In contrast, Canada’s reception was more formal, lacking strategic warmth.
Challenges from the US and Brics Expansion
- US Resistance and Trump’s Position: President Trump declared Brics “dead” and warned of suspending trade or imposing 100% tariffs if it challenged the dollar. He portrayed Brics as hostile to US interests.
- Membership Growth and Strategic Irony: Brics now includes 11 members, 13 Partner countries, and over 30 aspirants. Many are close US allies with strong trade ties, revealing a global push for strategic balance.
- Reaction to Dollar Weaponisation: Countries argue that the weaponisation of the dollar has forced them to hedge risks and seek alternatives—not out of confrontation, but economic necessity.
The Enduring Appeal and Purpose of Brics
- Resilience Against Western Scepticism: Brics has survived 16 years of criticism and today holds 40% of global economy (PPP). India and China alone account for over half its population.
- Shift Towards Multipolarity: Brics reflects a deeper structural shift towards a multipolar world. It gives voice to diverse nations, wary of another Cold War and seeking balanced global influence.
- G7 Overlap and Global Division: Though G7 and Brics are economically integrated, their separate identities reflect a divided and suspicious world.
India’s Role and Strategic Posture in Brics
- Consistent Engagement and Rising Influence: India has attended all Brics summits since 2009. Its economy has grown from $1.3 trillion to over $4 trillion, increasing its weight in the grouping.
- Voice of the Global South: India has raised key issues like terrorism, climate justice, and UN reforms. It offers practical solutions without pushing Brics into geopolitical agendas.
- Pragmatic Currency Approach: India does not promote de-dollarisation blindly. It supports greater rupee use in trade but remains realistic about alternatives to the dollar.
Way forward
- Chairmanship and Leadership Space: India will chair Brics next year. With the Chinese President absent and the Russian President attending virtually, Modi has a chance to shape the group’s direction.
- Stability in Uncertain Times: With rising global risks and weak investor confidence, Brics can help promote stability and dialogue over conflict and division.
Question for practice:
Examine how India’s role within Brics reflects its evolving position in global geopolitics.
