India’s assumption of the BRICS chairship in 2026 comes at a crucial time for global politics. As the world moves towards a more multipolar order, New Delhi has an opportunity to strengthen its role as a voice of the Global South while ensuring that BRICS remains focused on development, cooperation and economic growth.

The challenge, however, is not an easy one.

BRICS today includes countries with very different political interests and strategic priorities. Among them are China and Russia, whose positions on many global issues often differ from those of India. At the same time, India continues to maintain strong relations with the United States, Europe, Japan and other Indo-Pacific partners.

The success of India’s chairmanship will depend on how effectively it balances these relationships without compromising its strategic independence.

India’s Balancing Act

Unlike some countries that align themselves with a particular bloc, India has traditionally followed an independent foreign policy. New Delhi prefers working with different countries on specific issues rather than becoming part of a rigid alliance.

This approach has helped India build partnerships across the world. As BRICS chair, India is expected to continue this strategy by promoting cooperation while avoiding efforts to turn the grouping into an anti-Western platform.

Instead, India is likely to focus on practical issues that affect millions of people across developing nations.

A Bigger Role in the Global South

India has been steadily strengthening its position as a leader among developing countries.

During its G20 presidency in 2023, India highlighted concerns such as food security, climate justice, debt relief and reforms in international institutions. These issues remain important for many countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America.

BRICS gives India another major platform to push these priorities.

Many member countries view India as a nation that focuses on development and reform rather than ideological politics. This reputation could help New Delhi bring together countries with differing views and build consensus on common goals.

Focus on Development

For BRICS to remain relevant, it must deliver tangible benefits rather than simply issuing political statements.

India is expected to prioritize areas where member countries can work together despite geopolitical differences. These include:

• Food security and agricultural resilience
• Public health cooperation
• Disaster management
• Digital technology partnerships
• Energy transition and sustainability
• Infrastructure development

Progress in these sectors would directly benefit people across BRICS nations and strengthen the grouping’s credibility.

The Financial Opportunity

One of BRICS’ most important achievements has been the New Development Bank, which finances infrastructure and development projects.

India may use its chairship to encourage greater use of local currencies, including the Indian rupee, for development financing. Such initiatives could reduce dependence on foreign currencies and support projects related to infrastructure, climate adaptation and social welfare.

If implemented effectively, these measures could provide developing nations with additional funding options beyond traditional international financial institutions.

Keeping BRICS United

As BRICS expands, maintaining unity becomes more difficult.

The inclusion of new members has increased the grouping’s global influence but has also introduced diverse political and economic priorities. Differences between India and China, ongoing geopolitical tensions involving Russia, and varying regional interests could complicate decision-making.

For this reason, India is expected to focus on areas where agreement is possible rather than controversial geopolitical issues.

What Will Define Success?

India’s chairship will not be judged by speeches or declarations alone.

Success will depend on measurable outcomes such as:

• More development projects funded through the New Development Bank.
• Greater use of local currencies in financing.
• Stronger supply-chain cooperation among member countries.
• New partnerships in digital technology and innovation.
• Concrete climate and sustainability initiatives.

Even modest progress in these areas would demonstrate that BRICS can deliver practical benefits despite its diversity.

Why It Matters

India’s BRICS chairship is about more than leading a multilateral group for one year. It is an opportunity for New Delhi to reinforce its position as a bridge between developed and developing nations.

If India can steer BRICS towards cooperation, development and institutional reform, it will strengthen its standing as a key global player and a leading voice of the Global South.

The real test, however, lies in turning ambitious ideas into real projects that improve lives. If India succeeds in doing so, its 2026 BRICS chairship could be remembered as a significant step in shaping a more balanced and inclusive global order.