QUAD, BRICS and the United States: India’s Balancing Strategy in Global Politics

India’s geopolitical stance has traditionally been characterised by balance and diplomacy, but growing uncertainty in the contemporary global order increasingly demands a more assertive Indian posture. While India’s foreign policy has long focused on balancing bilateral relationships to safeguard its national interests, the evolving dynamics of global politics now require more active and visible participation in multilateral frameworks. Viewed through this lens, this study examines the relevance and challenges faced by India in its engagement with the QUAD and BRICS.The QUAD seeks India’s cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region to counter China’s expanding influence, particularly in the South China Sea. However, recent developments such as tariff disputes with Western countries and the apparent stagnation of the QUAD and disinterest by President Trump have complicated India’s strategic positioning. In this context, India’s role in the Indo-Pacific increasingly demands a focus on maritime security to safeguard its interests. In contrast, BRICS aims to strengthen cooperation among Global South countries across economic, political, and social domains, within which India is a significant member. With India’s presidency of BRICS in 2026, this study highlights the opportunity for India to assert its growing position in the global order, while also examining potential tensions arising from U.S. responses and strategic displeasure.This study aims to examine how India navigates its relationship with the United States through its participation in both a strategic grouping and an intergovernmental organisation. While India’s engagement in the former necessitates strategic cooperation, its role in the latter is marked by underlying bilateral tensions. Using a comparative and analytical approach, this study highlights India’s uncertain relationship with the United States, shaped by converging national interests as well as economic and strategic security concerns.