Asia Power Index 2025: Here are top 10 countries; India reaches a major power status, check rank

Meanwhile, Russia, at No. 4, resurges as a power in Asia, largely supported by authoritarian partners North Korea and China.

The report says that while Japan’s influence in Asia remains stable, Australia is facing challenges as its economic and military resources decline in comparison to other countries, necessitating greater effort to sustain its presence in the region.

Where does India rank?

India kept its position at No. 3 in 2025, surpassing Japan last year, with a comprehensive power score of over 40 points, indicating it is a “major power”.

India’s economic and military capabilities have grown, as have its cultural impact and geopolitical prominence, albeit modestly, the report notes.

However, the country’s influence, notably in terms of diplomatic connections and defence networks, did not grow in tandem, it adds.

India’s year-on-year changes across key parameters. (Source: Asia Power Index 2025)

Overall, the Asia Power Index paints a mixed view of India. While India’s own power is gradually expanding, there are still gaps between the country’s desire and the reality of continuous limitations on its influence, particularly in relation to China, according to the report.

Top 10 most powerful countries on the Asia Power Index 2025:

Methodology:

The Asia Power Index 2025, published by the Lowy Institute in November, evaluates the resources and influence of Asian countries to rank their relative power based on their ability to shape the external environment.

The index defines power as a country’s capacity to affect the behaviour of other states and non-state actors and influence the outcomes of international affairs.

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