India’s BRICS strategy faces test ahead of Xi and Putin visits

New Delhi’s “America Plus” strategy is reshaping India’s foreign policy by expanding cooperation with Beijing and Moscow while simultaneously seeking to moderate the trajectory of the BRICS bloc. Senior officials say the approach aims to balance a growing partnership with the United States with deeper economic, defence and technological ties to China and Russia, reflecting New Delhi’s desire for strategic autonomy amid shifting global power dynamics. Recent high‑level visits have resulted in agreements on energy security, infrastructure financing and joint military exercises, signaling a pragmatic turn toward diversification of partnerships beyond the traditional Indo‑Pacific focus.

At the same time, Indian diplomats are working within BRICS to prevent the grouping from evolving into an overtly anti‑Western coalition. By advocating for consensus‑driven initiatives on trade, development and climate, India hopes to keep the forum inclusive and avoid alienating Western economies. Observers note that this balancing act underscores New Delhi’s intent to maintain constructive engagement with all major powers while safeguarding its own geopolitical interests.