India has officially surpassed Japan, emerging as the third-largest power in Asia, according to the latest Asia Power Index.

This change reflects India’s growing geopolitical influence, robust economic growth, youthful population, and expanding economy, as highlighted by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

The Ministry said, “One of the most significant findings in the 2024 Asia Power Index is India’s steady rise in the regional power rankings. India is gradually achieving its potential and looking to strengthen its influence in the region.”

Key Factors Behind India’s Rise
Economic Growth: India has demonstrated significant post-pandemic economic recovery, leading to a 4.2-point increase in its Economic Capability. With a vast population and strong GDP growth, India has solidified its status as the world’s third-largest economy in purchasing power parity (PPP).

Future Potential: India’s Future Resources score rose by 8.2 points, indicating a potential demographic dividend. Unlike regional rivals, particularly China and Japan, India benefits from a youthful population that is expected to drive economic growth and expand the labor force in the coming years, according to the ministry.

Diplomatic Influence: India's non-aligned strategic approach has enabled it to effectively navigate complex international relations. The release noted that in 2023, India ranked sixth in diplomatic dialogues, showcasing its active participation in multilateral discussions.

Cultural Influence: With a large population and economic strength, India shows significant promise in cultural influence. Its score in this area remains robust, supported by a global diaspora and cultural exports.

Multilateral Diplomacy: India’s contributions to multilateral diplomacy and security cooperation have been highlighted. Participation in dialogues and leadership in the Quad has positioned India as a key player in regional security dynamics, despite not being part of formal military alliances.

Economic Outreach: Although India's economic outreach has been limited, it has seen gradual improvements, particularly in defense sales, such as the BrahMos missile deal with the Philippines. These developments suggest that India is starting to assert its geopolitical influence beyond its immediate surroundings.

India’s Role in Asia
The Ministry emphasized that the 2024 Asia Power Index portrays India as a formidable force in Asia, with significant potential for future growth.

"The outlook for India is optimistic. With ongoing economic expansion and a growing workforce, India is poised to enhance its influence in the future. Specifically, India's increasing diplomatic influence and strategic independence make it a crucial player in the Indo-Pacific Region," the ministry added.

About the Asia Power Index
The Asia Power Index, established by the Lowy Institute in 2018, is an annual assessment of power dynamics in the Asia-Pacific region. It evaluates 27 countries, analyzing their ability to influence and respond to the external environment.

The 2024 edition provides one of the most thorough evaluations of power distribution in the region to date, including Timor-Leste for the first time, reflecting its rising significance in Southeast Asia. The Index examines countries' material capabilities and their influence on the global stage.

A country's overall power score is calculated from a weighted average of various resource and influence-based factors, incorporating eight measures based on 131 individual indicators. The results offer an in-depth understanding of how nations translate their resources into influence within the Asia-Pacific.

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