There’s been a buzz online, but let’s clear the air: India did not assume the BRICS presidency on January 1, 2025. That honor currently belongs to Brazil, marking its fourth time leading the influential bloc. However, the excitement isn’t entirely misplaced. India is indeed preparing for a pivotal role, slated to take over the BRICS presidency from January 1, 2026. This upcoming leadership is poised to be a defining moment for the expanded group and the broader Global South, with India aiming to champion a groundbreaking “humanity-first approach.”
The BRICS alliance, initially comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has undergone significant expansion, reflecting a clear shift towards a multipolar world order. With Brazil currently at the helm in 2025, guiding the bloc under the motto “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance,” the stage is being set for India’s ambitious agenda next year. This post will delve into Brazil’s current focus, the transformative expansion of BRICS, and India’s visionary plans to redefine global cooperation in 2026.
The Evolving BRICS Landscape: Brazil’s 2025 Mandate and Historic Expansion
Brazil’s 2025 BRICS presidency is focused on two main pillars: deepening Global South cooperation and expanding BRICS partnerships for social, economic, and environmental development. Key initiatives include strengthening global health cooperation (particularly access to medicines and vaccines), advancing trade, investment, and finance through financial market reforms and the use of local currencies, and adopting a BRICS Climate Leadership Agenda which includes a Leaders’ Framework Declaration on Climate Finance. Brazil is also pushing for responsible AI governance and reforms to the multilateral peace and security architecture, all while navigating the complexities of the recently expanded bloc.
The BRICS group has indeed grown, reflecting its increasing influence in international relations and global power dynamics. After Russia’s 2024 chairmanship, which focused on strengthening multilateralism, the bloc saw a significant intake of new members. As of early 2025, BRICS now officially includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates. Saudi Arabia’s formal membership is still pending. This “BRICS+” configuration also introduced a new category of “partner countries,” including nations like Belarus, Bolivia, and Malaysia, signifying a widening network of emerging economies seeking collective action. This expansion underscores a collective ambition to challenge traditional global governance structures and reduce reliance on US dollar dominance, advocating for a more balanced global economic system.
India’s Bold Vision for 2026: A Humanity-First Approach
As India prepares to host the 18th BRICS Leaders Summit in 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has outlined a transformative agenda. India’s upcoming BRICS presidency aims to redefine the bloc with a distinct “humanity-first approach” and a refreshed vision. The acronym BRICS itself will be rebranded to stand for “Building Resilience and Innovation for Cooperation and Sustainability.” This rebranding is a continuation of India’s efforts during its G20 presidency in 2023, where it prominently amplified the voice of the Global South.
This people-centric and sustainable development-focused approach will be central to all discussions. India plans to host BRICS meetings across all 28 states and nine Union Territories, engaging approximately 60 cities. This pan-India presence aims not only to project a strong brand image for India but also to showcase its rich cultural heritage and commitment to inclusive international engagement. The diplomatic achievements from this presidency are expected to translate into structural reforms that align with India’s broader vision for the bloc.
Key Pillars of India’s 2026 Agenda: Driving Sustainable Growth and Digital Transformation
India’s 2026 agenda is set to be comprehensive, building on its national priorities and addressing critical global challenges. A major focus will be on global governance reform, advocating for greater representation of developing countries in international institutions. Economic development and resilience will also be paramount, with initiatives aimed at strengthening trade cooperation, promoting the use of local currencies, and fostering resilient supply chains, especially for critical minerals and technology. India views these resources as tools for collective progress, not “selfish gain” or “weapons.”
The agenda will also heavily emphasize digital public infrastructure, a domain where India has made significant strides. Plans include institutionalizing cooperation in digital technology and fostering responsible AI governance, guided by the motto “AI for All,” to empower humanity and ensure safe and inclusive development. Sustainable development goals and climate action will be high on the list, with India advocating for technology transfer and affordable financing for climate initiatives in developing nations. Promoting initiatives like Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), the International Solar Alliance, and green investments will be crucial. Furthermore, India will continue its unwavering commitment to counter-terrorism and strengthening health security, expanding digital health services and promoting traditional medicine.
India’s Strategic Role: Bridging Divides in an Expanded BRICS
The expanded BRICS, or “BRICS+,” presents both opportunities and challenges for India. With a more diverse set of members, ranging from established economies to new emerging economies, reaching consensus could become more complex. Internal divisions and geopolitical ambitions among members, such as border issues between India and China, will require careful diplomatic navigation. However, this expansion also significantly amplifies BRICS’ collective voice on the global stage, representing approximately 46% of the world’s population and over 35% of global GDP (PPP).
India’s role in this transformed bloc is strategic and pivotal. It aims to act as a “global bridge” between developed and developing nations, leveraging its diplomatic ties with both the Global South and Western countries. India’s commitment to multilateralism and its growing economic prowess positions it as a significant mediating force, advocating for an inclusive agenda and promoting strategic autonomy. While deepening its security ties with the West, India utilizes BRICS to advocate for a multipolar world order, championing alternatives to Western-dominated institutions and promoting its vision for global governance. Its participation is crucial for advancing India’s own global leadership aspirations and shaping a more equitable international system.
Conclusion: India’s Defining Moment for the Global South
As India prepares to assume the BRICS presidency in 2026, it stands at a critical juncture, ready to stamp its unique vision on the global stage. By prioritizing a “humanity-first approach” and focusing on “Building Resilience and Innovation for Cooperation and Sustainability,” India aims to redefine the bloc’s trajectory. Its comprehensive agenda, spanning global governance reform, economic resilience, digital public infrastructure, and climate action, promises to further empower the Global South and advocate for a more inclusive, equitable, and multipolar world order. This upcoming presidency is not just a diplomatic rotation; it’s a profound opportunity for India to cement its global leadership and influence the future of international cooperation for years to come.
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