India Ranks Third in Asia Power Index 2025, Behind Only US and China

New Delhi — India has secured the third position in the Asia Power Index 2025, trailing only behind the United States and China, according to a new report released by the globally recognised Australia-based think tank, the Lowy Institute.

The Asia Power Index evaluates how effectively countries in the region can shape and influence their external environment. In the 2025 edition, India ranks significantly ahead of its regional peers but still remains far behind China, despite both nations improving their scores this year. Notably, Russia has recorded its first uptick in overall Asian power since 2019.

A key highlight of the report is India’s steady rise, with 2025 marking the year it officially crosses the threshold for “major power” status as defined by the Index.

The seventh edition of the Index analyses the power of 27 countries and territories across 131 indicators grouped under eight themes, including Military Capability, Defence Networks, Economic Strength, Economic Relationships, Diplomatic Influence, Cultural Influence, Resilience, and Future Resources.

The United States leads with a score of 81.7, maintaining its position as the region’s dominant power. China follows in second place with a score of 73.7, reflecting a 1-point improvement from last year.

India ranks third with an overall score of 40, showing a 2 percent gain in 2025. The country’s rise is attributed to its strong post-Covid economic recovery and expanding geopolitical influence.

“India’s economic and military capability have both increased in the 2025 edition of the Asia Power Index. Its economy has continued to grow strongly and made small gains in terms of its geopolitical relevance — defined in terms of international leverage, connectivity, and technology. India’s military capability has also improved steadily,” the Lowy Institute noted in its report.

Among other nations, Russia’s influence in Asia is rebounding due to growing defence and economic ties with China and North Korea. Japan’s power remains largely stable despite declines in several metrics, while Southeast Asian countries have recorded marginal improvements overall.

The report also highlights that while Australia faces long-term structural challenges in maintaining its power, China continues to narrow the gap with the US, reducing the difference by a few points this year.

--With inputs from IANS