India has elevated to “major power” status, securing third place in the 2025 Asia Power Index, annually released by the Australia-based Lowy Institute. The United States claimed first place, followed by China in second.

• India achieved an overall score of 40 out of 100, a two-percentage-point gain, signaling its rising influence attributed to a robust post-COVID economic recovery and expanding geopolitical reach.
• The Lowy Institute, a globally reputed think tank, assessed the power of 27 countries and territories using 131 indicators across eight thematic measures.
• Russia’s influence in Asia is described as rebounding, supported by strengthened defence and economic partnerships, while China continues to close the gap with the United States.