India Rises to 3rd Rank in Asia Power Index 2025

India Climbs to Third Position in Asia Power Index 2025

India has achieved a significant strategic milestone by securing third place in the Asia Power Index 2025 , released by Australia’s Lowy Institute. Positioned behind only the United States and China, India has strengthened its status as a decisive voice in Asian geopolitics—powered by expanding economic ambitions, defence modernisation and stronger regional engagement.

What the Asia Power Index Measures

The 2025 edition is the seventh annual assessment, covering 27 regional players based on 131 measurable indicators . These are grouped under eight pillars— Military Capability, Economic Capability, Diplomatic Influence, Defence Networks, Cultural Influence, Resilience, Future Resources, and Economic Relationships . The framework evaluates how effectively each nation shapes power dynamics in its neighbourhood and across Asia.

India’s Improved Standing as a Major Power

India scored 40 out of 100 , marking a 2% improvement from previous assessments. This is the first time the Index formally identifies India as a “major power” , acknowledging its ongoing post-pandemic recovery, expanding trade linkages and increasing participation in security frameworks. The report credits India’s rising technology footprint, partnerships in the Indo-Pacific and enhanced connectivity through supply-chain diversification.

Regional Comparisons and Emerging Trends

The United States retained the top position with 81.7 points , followed by China at 73.7 , maintaining its challenge to US primacy. India remains the strongest power outside the US-China sphere, though the capability gap with Beijing remains wide. Japan, South Korea and Australia continue to form the second tier of Asian powers, while Russia shows renewed activity due to strategic ties with China and North Korea.

Exam Oriented Facts

• India ranks 3rd in the Asia Power Index 2025 .

• Index evaluates 27 countries using 131 indicators .

• India’s score: 40/100 , with 2% growth from last year .

• US first (81.7), China second (73.7), India third.