India surpasses Japan to become third-largest power in Asia Power Index
India has surpassed Japan to become the third-largest power in the Asia Power Index, an official release from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting said on Wednesday.
The ministry emphasised that this achievement is fueled by India’s rapid economic growth, youth population and expanding economy, cementing its status as a major regional power.
The Asia Power Index, launched by the Lowy Institute in 2018, is an annual measure of power dynamics in the Asia-Pacific region. It evaluates 27 countries across the Asia-Pacific, examining their ability to shape and respond to the external environment.
As per the ministry, one of the most significant findings in the 2024 Asia Power Index is India’s steady rise in the regional power rankings. Witnessing a gradual rise, India is looking to achieve its full potential and exercise its influence in the region.
The ministry attributed this rise largely to the country’s strong economic growth, noting that India’s impressive post-pandemic recovery has led to a 4.2-point increase in its Economic Capability.
“India has shown remarkable post-pandemic economic recovery, contributing to a 4.2-point rise in its Economic Capability. India’s massive population and strong GDP growth reinforce its standing as the world’s third-largest economy in PPP terms” the ministry said.
India’s Future Resources score surged by 8.2 points, indicating a potential demographic dividend. Unlike its regional competitors, particularly China and Japan, India benefits from a youthful population that is expected to drive economic growth and labor force expansion in the coming decades, the ministry added.
The index also highlighted India’s increasing role in multilateral diplomacy and regional security. India’s leadership within the Quad and its participation in various regional dialogues have enabled it to influence security matters without relying on formal military alliances. While its economic outreach remains somewhat limited, defense deals such as the BrahMos missile sale to the Philippines point to India’s expanding geopolitical ambitions.
