Can Putin work with China and India to make BRICS stronger and more inclusive?

Putin knows he can’t replace China’s economic dominance, but he can still make sure BRICS doesn’t become a one-sided China-led bloc. This is how he can do it but he has to keep India in mind.

Meanwhile, India has always been careful about aligning too closely with either China or the West, and its BRICS membership is based on strategic calculations, not ideology. If BRICS stops serving India’s interests, it wouldn’t hesitate to step back—just like it did with RCEP.

Why India Might Stay in BRICS (For Now)

1. Countering China – BRICS gives India a platform to engage with China without being dominated by it. Leaving would give China an even freer hand.
2. Trade & Economic Gains – While India is cautious, BRICS still provides economic benefits, especially in trade and development financing.
3. Global South Leadership – India wants to be seen as a leader of the Global South. Staying in BRICS helps project that image.
4. Strategic Leverage Against the West – Being in BRICS allows India to hedge its bets and avoid over-dependence on the U.S. and Europe.

Why India Might Leave

• If BRICS Becomes Too China-Centric – If China dominates the agenda (especially through the BRICS bank and trade policies), India might reconsider.
• If Russia Becomes a Junior Partner to China – India values its partnership with Russia, but if Russia becomes too dependent on China, India might see less value in BRICS.
• Geopolitical Conflicts – If border tensions with China worsen or BRICS pushes anti-Western policies that harm India’s interests, New Delhi could walk away.

Most Likely Scenario: India Stays but Keeps a Safe Distance

India will probably remain in BRICS but won’t fully commit to any China-led vision. Instead, it will use BRICS selectively while maintaining strong ties with the U.S., Japan, and Europe.

If BRICS starts pushing a common currency or tighter economic integration (which China might favor), India would likely resist or even consider stepping back.

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