New Delhi: India has been ranked third in the Asia Power Index 2025, with the United States and China taking the first and second positions, respectively, according to reports. The rankings were released by the Australia-based Lowy Institute, which publishes the annual index assessing how effectively countries, particularly in Asia, are able to influence their external environment.

According to the latest report, both India and China improved their scores across multiple metrics compared with previous years, though a significant gap remains between the two. The study also highlights India’s consistent rise in regional influence and notes that in 2025, the country will cross the threshold defined by the index for “major power” status.

Now in its seventh edition, the Asia Power Index evaluates the strength of 27 countries and territories across 131 indicators within eight thematic categories. These include Military Capability and Defence Networks, Economic Capability and Economic Relationships, Diplomatic and Cultural Influence, Resilience, and Future Resources.