India Achieves Major Power Status in Asia Power Index 2025

India has officially attained 'major power' status according to the latest Asia Power Index, produced by the Lowy Institute, an Australian think tank. The nation has secured the third spot in the 2025 rankings, following the United States and China, which remain the leading superpowers in the region.

This significant elevation in position is attributed to India’s economic growth and military capabilities, particularly highlighted by its performance in Operation Sindoor, which commenced in May 2025. Previously, India was classified as a 'middle power' in the 2024 index, scoring 38.1. However, it has improved its score to 40 out of 100 this year, marking a crucial threshold that distinguishes major powers from their middle counterparts.

India's new ranking places it ahead of Japan and Russia, which received scores of 38.8 and 32.1, respectively. Despite this progress, India still faces a considerable gap when compared to China, which scored 73.7, and the United States, leading with a score of 80.5.

The Lowy Institute's analysis indicates that India's rise is supported by enhancements in both economic and military domains. Notably, India has climbed to ninth place in terms of economic relationships, driven by a surge in inward investment. The study suggests that while India’s military capabilities have improved, its defensive networks have seen a decline, dropping to eleventh place after being overtaken by the Philippines and Thailand.

A statement from the Lowy Institute remarked, "For the most part, these gains were from improved expert appraisals of its capability, which were likely influenced by India's performance in Operation Sindoor, launched in May 2025, which added to India's recent combat experience."

Despite its achievements, India continues to encounter challenges in expanding its influence on the global stage, particularly in defence partnerships. The index assesses a nation's ability to shape its external environment among Asian power states, highlighting the complexities of India's diplomatic relationships.

Additionally, India has recently surpassed China in attracting inward investment, following the United States. This shift is attributed to various geopolitical factors, including the diversification of global supply chains and the overall attractiveness of India as an investment haven.

While India’s military profile is being bolstered by recent operational successes, the nation is also experiencing a notable rise in cultural influence, attributed to enhanced travel connections and its growing reputation as a hub for tourism and education. This cultural gain reflects India's broader integration into regional networks, further enhancing its standing in the Asia Power Index.

In summary, India's ascent in the Asia Power Index signals a shift in the Asian strategic landscape, as it continues to build its economic and military capabilities. However, the country still grapples with the need to effectively translate these capabilities into tangible influence on the global stage.