India’s strategic involvement in both the Quad and BRICS

Source: The post India’s strategic involvement in both the Quad and BRICS has been created, based on the article “The importance of both Quad and BRICS” published in “The Hindu” on 22nd July 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2- International Relations-Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests

Context: The article discusses India’s strategic involvement in both the Quad and BRICS. It highlights the challenges and opportunities India faces in balancing its role in these groups. The article underscores the need for India to stay actively engaged in both alliances.

What is the Context of the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting?

1. The Quad Foreign Ministers are meeting in Japan after 10 months.
2. This happens when the UNSC is inactive, and reforms are stalled.
3. International law violations are occurring in Ukraine and Gaza.
4. An alliance of Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran is gaining strength.
5. Chinese influence is expanding in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

What are the challenges and opportunities India faces in balancing its role in these groups?

India’s Quad Engagement

a) Challenges:

Security Focus: Quad’s security-centric approach, especially with AUKUS, does not fully align with India’s broader vision.

Diplomatic Balance: India’s independent stance on Russia and Ukraine conflicts with some Quad members’ positions.

b) Opportunities:

Strategic Benefits: Enhanced bilateral relations, particularly with the U.S.

Techno-Economic Role: Leadership in critical technology areas and supply chains.

Maritime Security: Significant contributions to Indo-Pacific maritime security, as seen in the 2021 event presided over by PM Modi.

India’s BRICS Engagement

a) Challenges:

China’s Dominance: Risk of China using BRICS to promote its global agenda.

Expansion: Managing new members and ensuring they support India’s interests.

b) Opportunities:

Reformed Multilateralism: Promoting “reformed multilateralism” and shaping global governance.

Financial Institutions: Leveraging initiatives like the New Development Bank and Contingent Reserve Arrangement.

Global South Influence: Strengthening ties with developing countries and balancing Western influence.

What is AUKUS and Its Impact on the Quad?

1. AUKUS Formation:
2. Members: Includes the U.S., Australia, and the U.K.
3. Purpose: Enhance military capabilities, focusing on nuclear submarines for Australia.
4. Strategic Focus: Primarily aimed at securitizing the Indo-Pacific and deterring China.
5. Impact on the Quad
6. Security Emphasis: Shifts the regional focus towards military aspects, aligning with U.S. interests.
7. India’s Perspective: Causes a dilemma for India, which prefers a broader vision for Quad that includes development and security.
8. Geo-strategic Interests: While AUKUS complements Quad’s objectives, India’s reluctance to fully embrace a purely military vision underscores its unique position and strategy within these alliances.