BRICS in a fragmented world order, a test of relevance

The fundamental tension within BRICS lies between its aspirations for multipolarity and the reality of China's dominance. The grouping originally sought to represent emerging economies and counter the dominance of Western institutions like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund. However, as the article points out, China's economic and political heft has created an internal imbalance, transforming it from a peer among developing nations to a near-superpower. This shifts the dynamic from a coalition of equals seeking systemic reform to a platform potentially dominated by Chinese interests. For UPSC, analyze how this 'China factor' complicates India's objective of using BRICS to promote a truly multipolar world order, rather than inadvertently supporting a unipolar Asia dominated by China.

India's engagement with BRICS exemplifies its broader strategy of multi-alignment and strategic autonomy. By participating actively and leading consensus-building (as seen in the New Delhi Declaration), India attempts to balance its strengthening ties with the West (like the Quad) with its role as a voice for the Global South. However, the article argues this is an era of variable geometry—ad hoc, pragmatic coalitions rather than deep-seated alliances. The unresolved border tensions with China (e.g., Galwan Valley clash) highlight the limitations of BRICS as a cohesive bloc. The grouping operates more as a consultative forum than a strategic alliance, limiting its ability to present a unified front on core geopolitical issues. Aspirants should evaluate whether India's membership provides tangible strategic leverage or merely serves diplomatic optics.

The New Delhi Declaration reiterates long-standing demands for the reform of global governance structures, notably the United Nations and the Bretton Woods institutions. The push for local currency trade and alternatives to Western financial systems reflects a desire to reduce vulnerability to sanctions and dollar dominance. However, the author notes that these original goals remain largely unfulfilled. Despite the rhetoric, BRICS has not integrated into a formidable economic bloc capable of challenging the established order. The mention of cooperating on Artificial Intelligence governance is a modern addition to the agenda, but the core issue remains: can a politically diverse group with significant internal rivalries effectively drive systemic change in international institutions? Discuss the barriers BRICS faces in moving from a forum for articulating grievances to one that implements alternative global governance mechanisms.