India has overtaken Japan to become the third most powerful nation in Asia, according to Lowy Institute’s 2024 edition of Asia Power Index (API). India now stands third on the index after the United States and China.
Launched by the Australian think tank in 2018, the Asia Power Index is an annual measure of power dynamics in the Asia-Pacific region. It evaluates 27 countries across the Asia-Pacific, on eight parameters including military capability, defense networks, economic capability and relationships, diplomatic and cultural influence, resilience, and future resources.
In a press release issued here by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, the current edition of the report offers one of the most comprehensive assessments of power distribution in the region to date. Timor-Leste has been included for the first time, reflecting its growing importance in Southeast Asia. Stating that even though India’s “clout remains below the potential promised by its resources,” it claimed that it has overtaken Japan to become the third-ranked power in Asia.
“However, the gap between the expectation of “India rising” and reality remains pronounced. The API shows that New Delhi still has limited ability to project power and influence east of the Malacca Strait. But the fact that its influence remains well below the level promised by its resources suggests it still has ample potential for further growth as a major power,” it read further. Attributing the success of India on its resources, the report claimed that the country’s strength lies in its huge population, landmass, and economy.