India has been elevated to major power status in the Asia Power Index 2025, marking a significant milestone in New Delhi’s expanding global profile. The latest edition of the Index places India third in its overall ranking, behind only the United States and China, reflecting a steady enhancement of the country’s economic strength, military capability and regional influence. The ranking signals a turning point for India, which has long sought to consolidate its role as a central player in Asia’s strategic landscape.
The Asia Power Index, produced annually by the Lowy Institute, evaluates a wide range of metrics including economic resources, military capability, diplomatic influence, resilience, cultural impact and regional relationships. According to this year’s findings, the five most powerful nations in Asia are the United States, China, India, Japan and Russia. Although the United States continues to lead the Index, its overall influence has declined notably since the Index was first introduced in 2018, largely due to shifts in regional alignments and evolving geopolitical dynamics.
India’s ascent to third place highlights the country’s growing ability to shape regional outcomes. Its score of 40 reflects gains across several indicators, including economic performance, military strength and international engagement. While China maintains a commanding lead in second place, the latest rankings underscore India’s widening margin over Japan. The report notes that India’s score has risen by 0.9 points since last year, consolidating its position among the top three powers in Asia.
Despite the progress, the Index also identifies gaps between India’s long-term ambitions and its current level of global influence. These gaps are most visible in direct comparisons with China, which continues to possess significantly larger economic and military resources. Nevertheless, India’s upward trajectory is notable, particularly when contrasted with Pakistan, which ranked 16th and failed to enter the top ten.
One of the most decisive factors contributing to India’s improved military capability score was its performance in Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7, 2025. The operation was carried out in response to the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 civilians, most of them tourists, lost their lives. India’s armed forces executed precision strikes on nine terror hideouts located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. According to expert evaluations included in the Index, India’s effective operational response, coordination and accuracy during these strikes strengthened global perceptions of its military readiness and combat experience.
The report highlights that India is now approaching the threshold of being classified as a military superpower, a benchmark defined by a score exceeding 40. Last year, India was listed as a middle power with a score of 38.1, but steady improvements have pushed it into the category of a major power for the first time. This shift is reinforced by India’s expanding economic reach. The Index records that India has achieved its first upward movement in economic relationships since 2018, supported by strong growth, an expanding market and increasing technological connectivity.
The Lowy Institute notes that India’s economic and military advancements are grounded in both structural improvements and recent strategic actions. These include strengthened international partnerships, higher geopolitical leverage and increased participation in regional frameworks. The combined effect of these factors has elevated India’s role in regional decision-making, contributing to a more assertive and influential posture in the Indo-Pacific.
With rising economic momentum, enhanced military credibility and continued diplomatic engagement, India’s 2025 ranking reflects not only current achievements but also the potential for further growth. As New Delhi continues to integrate its national objectives with broader regional strategies, its position as a major Asian power is expected to gain even greater definition in the years ahead.
