BRICS Cooperation Essential for India's Strategic Autonomy
India must push back against US efforts to throttle its strategic autonomy, and deepening cooperation within the BRICS framework—alongside bilateral ties with China and Russia—is a necessity, according to analyst M K Bhadrakumar in an opinion piece published on July 8, 2026. The article argues that BRICS matters more than ever for India's future in a multipolar world.
Countering US Pressure
The United States under President Donald Trump has intensified efforts to limit India's independent foreign policy, particularly regarding defense and energy ties with Russia. Bhadrakumar notes that Washington's attempts to isolate Moscow have put New Delhi in a difficult position, given India's historical reliance on Russian military hardware and its growing energy imports from Russia. The BRICS grouping provides a platform for India to coordinate with other major economies—Brazil, Russia, China, and South Africa—to resist such unilateral pressure.
Deepening Ties with China and Russia
Despite border tensions with China, Bhadrakumar emphasizes that India cannot afford to neglect its relationship with Beijing. Both nations share common interests in reforming global governance institutions and challenging Western dominance. The article highlights that cooperation within BRICS allows India and China to manage their differences while advancing shared goals. Similarly, the Russia-India partnership remains a cornerstone of India's foreign policy, with Moscow offering reliable energy supplies and advanced defense technology that Western nations are reluctant to provide.
Economic and Strategic Benefits
The BRICS New Development Bank has funded infrastructure projects in India, reducing dependence on Western-led financial institutions. Moreover, the grouping's push for de-dollarization and alternative payment systems—such as the BRICS Pay initiative—could insulate India from US financial sanctions. Bhadrakumar argues that these mechanisms are vital for India to maintain policy autonomy in an increasingly polarized global order.
Conclusion
As the world moves toward multipolarity, India's engagement with BRICS is not just an option but a strategic imperative. By strengthening ties within the bloc and with key partners like China and Russia, New Delhi can safeguard its interests against external coercion and shape a more equitable international system.
