India’s global stature is once again set to shine as Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to participate in the 17th BRICS Summit in Brazil on July 6-7.
With the world’s major emerging economies gathering under one roof, India’s role within BRICS — the influential bloc comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa — is poised to become even more significant, further cementing the nation’s leadership in global economic and geopolitical affairs.
Over the years, India has leveraged BRICS as a platform to advance not just its national interests, but also the broader concerns of the Global South.
From advocating for inclusive economic growth to championing reforms in global governance, India’s contribution to the BRICS agenda has been both consistent and constructive.
As PM Modi embarks on his Brazil visit, expectations are high that India will further elevate its standing within the group and present bold ideas that resonate globally.
Since the inception of BRICS, India has played an instrumental role in shaping its vision and priorities.
With its robust economy, thriving technology sector, and steadfast commitment to democratic values, India has brought balance and dynamism to the grouping.
Prime Minister Modi, who has participated in every BRICS summit since taking office in 2014, has been a strong advocate for deeper cooperation across areas like trade, technology, energy security, and sustainable development.
At past summits, India has championed initiatives to reform global financial institutions, enhance multilateral collaboration, and drive innovation.
The establishment of the New Development Bank (NDB) in 2014 and the Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA) reflected BRICS’ collective push for financial stability and infrastructure development, both of which India actively supported.
As the 17th BRICS Summit approaches, India's influence within the bloc is more prominent than ever.
With the Indian economy now ranking as the world's third-largest in purchasing power parity terms, and with sustained growth even amid global uncertainties, India has emerged as a driver of economic resilience and innovation.
PM Modi’s leadership has positioned India as a global technology hub, a leader in clean energy transitions, and a key voice on climate action.
These strengths are increasingly reflected within BRICS discussions, where India has advocated for equitable climate finance, technology sharing, and joint research partnerships.
Moreover, India’s Digital Public Infrastructure model — encompassing initiatives like Aadhaar, UPI, and Digital India — has drawn global attention.
Within BRICS, India has promoted digital cooperation, offering to share its expertise to bridge the digital divide and empower millions across member nations.
The forthcoming BRICS Summit in Brazil presents an ideal opportunity for India to advance its vision for inclusive growth, sustainable development, and equitable global governance.
The 2025 summit holds special significance as it comes at a time when the world is navigating multiple transitions — from technological disruptions to shifts in energy markets and global supply chains.
India is expected to emphasise enhanced collaboration in areas such as renewable energy, digital transformation, health security, and food security.
With its ambitious renewable energy targets, including achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, India has much to offer in joint initiatives on clean energy and climate resilience.
Health cooperation will also be a key focus, building on India’s pivotal role during the COVID-19 pandemic in supplying vaccines and essential medicines worldwide.
Strengthening health infrastructure, fostering pharmaceutical partnerships, and ensuring equitable access to healthcare are priorities India will likely champion at the summit.
Bridging Global South aspirations
India’s participation in BRICS has always reflected its broader commitment to representing the interests of developing nations. Under PM Modi’s leadership, India has consistently advocated for giving a stronger voice to the Global South within international decision-making platforms.
In this spirit, India has supported BRICS expansion dialogues, encouraging greater participation from emerging economies across Africa, Latin America, and Asia.
The recent inclusion of new members like Egypt, Ethiopia, and Iran into BRICS signals the bloc’s growing relevance as a voice for developing countries.
India’s constructive engagement ensures that BRICS remains focused on development, peace, and inclusive growth, rather than geopolitical rivalries.
As PM Modi is set to join the leaders in Brazil, India is poised to push for practical solutions to global challenges — from technology access and climate change to trade barriers and development financing.
Trade cooperation remains central to the BRICS’ agenda, and India has been a vocal supporter of boosting intra-BRICS commerce, investment flows, and supply chain integration.
With its vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, thriving startups, and strong manufacturing base, India offers immense opportunities for deeper economic partnerships within the group.
India’s success in digital payments, fintech innovation, and e-governance provides models for scalable collaboration across BRICS economies. Initiatives like the BRICS Startup Forum, promoted by India, foster cross-border innovation and create pathways for youth-led economic growth.
Furthermore, India’s commitment to resilient and diversified supply chains aligns with BRICS efforts to reduce vulnerabilities in global trade systems.
PM Modi’s Brazil visit is likely to reinforce calls for greater cooperation in trade facilitation, digital commerce, and infrastructure connectivity.
India’s advocacy for reforming global governance structures, particularly the United Nations and international financial institutions, has been a consistent theme within BRICS.
With rising multipolarity and evolving global dynamics, India continues to stress the importance of making institutions more representative, transparent, and responsive to the needs of developing nations.
The Brazil summit provides another platform for India to reiterate its call for greater inclusion, fairer financial systems and strengthened multilateralism. India’s emphasis on sovereignty, mutual respect, and peaceful dialogue complements BRICS’ core principles and fosters unity within the group.
As PM Modi prepares to join the BRICS Summit in Brazil, optimism surrounds India’s growing influence within the bloc.
With its strong economic fundamentals, leadership in innovation, and unwavering commitment to inclusive development, India is well-positioned to shape BRICS’ future direction.
The 17th summit promises to deepen cooperation, enhance shared prosperity, and reaffirm BRICS’ role as a positive force for global stability and progress. For India, it marks yet another milestone in its journey as a global leader, advocating for a more equitable, sustainable, and inclusive world order.
