India formally assumed the rotating presidency of the BRICS grouping on January 1, pledging to champion Global South interests whilst navigating heightened trade tensions with the United States.

The handover ceremony took place at a BRICS meeting in Brasilia on December 12, with India set to host the bloc's 18th summit later in 2026, BulletinNews reported on January 2.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has outlined a "people-first" approach for India's chairmanship, built on four principles of sustainability, innovation, cooperation and green transition.

The strategy mirrors India's G20 presidency in 2023, which emphasised human welfare and inclusive development.

BRICS now represents 11 countries including Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates, though Saudi Arabia's membership status remains unclear.

The bloc accounts for approximately 49% of the world's population, 29% of global GDP and 23% of international trade, according to World Bank data.

India assumes the role as US President Donald Trump has imposed 50% tariffs on the country, including a 25% penalty for purchasing Russian oil. The rate matches duties placed on Brazil, which held the 2025 BRICS chairmanship.

Prerna Gandhi, an associate fellow at India's Vivekananda International Foundation, told Nikkei Asia that New Delhi will likely resist confrontational de-dollarisation efforts, instead promoting local currency settlements to maintain strategic autonomy. India is expected to push for reforms at institutions such as the World Trade Organisation and the International Monetary Fund.

Balaji Radakrishnan, an Indian foreign policy expert, told RIA Novosti that India must defend Global South interests whilst carefully avoiding actions that conflict with international players.

He said India is expected to prioritise development and cooperation rather than controversial issues during its presidency.