Sri Lanka, Dec. 29 -- India is set to assume the chair of BRICS next year, taking the helm of an expanded bloc at a sensitive geopolitical juncture - one marked by competing interests, rising global ambitions and pressure from Washington.

India aims to underscore that its presidency will prioritise the Global South, while staying attuned to shifting developments around the world.

It will also focus on concrete outcomes for emerging economies, seeking to show that BRICS can bring together members facing common challenges even as their national interests diverge.

The task comes as the intergovernmental grouping grapples with growing prominence and scrutiny.

CHALLENGING WESTERN DOMINANCE

Originally formed by Brazil, Russia, India and Ch...