BRICS Considers New Membership Applications to Enhance Global South Voice
The BRICS bloc is reviewing applications from several nations to join the group, aiming to strengthen the representation of the Global South.
2-Minute Summary (TL;DR)
- BRICS is evaluating new applications for membership expansion.
- Aims to strengthen the voice of the Global South in global governance.
- India supports a consensus-based approach for new entrants.
- Focus on promoting a multipolar world order.
How This Topic is Tested in Competitive Exams
| Exam | Frequency | Approx. Marks | What Gets Asked |
|---|---|---|---|
| UPSC / State PCS | Very High | 10–20 | International relations is a core GS-II topic for UPSC. Bilateral agreements, multilateral bodies, and geopolitics are essential. |
| SSC (CGL / CHSL / MTS) | Medium | 2–4 | International summits, treaties, and India's bilateral relations appear in SSC GK. |
| Banking (IBPS / SBI) | Medium | 2–4 | G20, IMF/World Bank decisions, and global trade events are tested in banking exams. |
What to Memorize from This Topic
- Summit venue, participating nations, key outcomes, and India's stand
- Bilateral agreements: India + partner country, subject area, signing date
- Multilateral organizations: new members, leadership changes, major resolutions
- India's position on key global issues: UN voting, climate, trade
- Indices: Global Peace Index, Press Freedom Index, India's rank and change
Practice Questions
Q1. Which of the following was NOT an original member of the BRIC group?
- Brazil
- India
- South Africa
- Russia
Explanation: South Africa joined the group in 2010, making it BRICS. The original group was BRIC.
Q2. What is the primary goal of the BRICS expansion?
- To form a military alliance
- To strengthen the representation of the Global South
- To adopt a single global currency
- To replace the United Nations
Explanation: The expansion aims to provide a stronger platform and voice for the Global South in international affairs.
How to Prepare International Affairs for Government Exams
Focus on India-centric news — India's bilateral visits, MoUs signed, and positions in international bodies. This is what domestic exams test.
For UPSC, understand geopolitical context: Why does India take a particular position? What is India's strategic interest?
Keep a running note of all G20, SCO, BRICS, and QUAD-related outcomes. These bodies generate 3–5 questions per major exam cycle.
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