India's Global Power Is Rising – But Its Rank Among the Top 10 Will Surprise You!
Mohd Naushad | Mar 05, 2025, 13:44 IST
India is rapidly emerging as a global power, excelling in economic growth, technology, military strength, diplomacy, and cultural influence. With a $3.7 trillion economy, advancements in space and AI, and strong geopolitical ties, India ranks among the top five world powers. However, challenges like economic inequality, infrastructure gaps, and political complexities hinder its ascent to the top three. With continued growth, innovation, and strategic alliances, India is poised to strengthen its global position in the coming decades.
India has been making headlines worldwide for its growing influence in politics, economy, and technology. With its large population, rapid economic growth, and strategic position in global affairs, many believe India is set to become one of the most powerful countries in the world. But where does India stand among the top global powers? The answer might surprise you!
India’s Rising Global Influence
Over the last few decades, India has made tremendous progress on various fronts. It has become the world’s fifth-largest economy, a leader in technology and space exploration, and an important geopolitical player. Let’s take a look at some of the key areas where India has been rising as a global power.
India’s economy has grown rapidly in recent years. With a GDP of over $3.7 trillion (as of 2024), India has surpassed the United Kingdom to become the fifth-largest economy in the world. Experts predict that it could become the third-largest economy by 2030, behind only the U.S. and China.
Current Scenario: While India’s economy is growing, inflation and unemployment remain challenges. The country is focusing on boosting manufacturing under the 'Make in India' initiative and promoting startups through government policies. Foreign investment is increasing, but infrastructural bottlenecks still need to be addressed.
India has emerged as a leader in technology, especially in the IT and space sectors. The country is home to some of the world’s biggest software companies and exports technology services to countries worldwide. Indian tech professionals are in high demand, and cities like Bengaluru and Hyderabad have become major innovation hubs.
In space technology, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved remarkable feats, including the successful Chandrayaan-3 moon mission and the launch of the Aditya-L1 solar observatory. These achievements have placed India among the top space-faring nations.
Current Scenario: India is heavily investing in AI, semiconductors, and digital infrastructure. However, concerns over cybersecurity and the need for more research and development in advanced technologies remain. The government’s push for 5G and digital transformation is promising, but execution challenges persist.
India has one of the largest and most powerful militaries in the world. It ranks among the top five in terms of defense spending and has a nuclear arsenal. With its growing defense partnerships and increasing focus on indigenous weapon production under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, India is strengthening its position as a global military power.
Additionally, India plays a significant role in international peacekeeping missions and maintains strong military ties with global superpowers like the U.S., Russia, and France.
Current Scenario: India is modernizing its military with indigenous weapon systems like Tejas fighter jets and the Agni missile series. The country is also strengthening its naval capabilities to counter threats in the Indian Ocean. However, border tensions with China and Pakistan continue to be major security concerns.
India’s foreign policy has evolved to reflect its growing power. It is a key player in international organizations like the G20, BRICS, and the Quad alliance. India’s strong diplomatic relations with both Western and Eastern powers allow it to balance its position on global issues. During global crises, such as the Russia-Ukraine war, India has taken a neutral stance, advocating for peace while maintaining economic relations with both sides. This ability to navigate complex international politics shows India’s growing influence in global decision-making.
Current Scenario: India is focusing on strategic alliances with major powers, including the U.S., Japan, and France, while maintaining strong ties with Russia. The country’s leadership in the Global South is increasing, but its stance on issues like climate change and human rights is still under scrutiny.
India’s rich culture, Bollywood films, yoga, and cuisine have contributed significantly to its global soft power. Indian films are watched worldwide, and yoga has gained immense popularity across countries. The Indian diaspora, which is one of the largest in the world, also plays a crucial role in spreading Indian culture and strengthening ties with other nations.
Current Scenario: Bollywood continues to dominate, but regional films are also gaining global recognition. Yoga and Ayurveda have become mainstream in many Western countries. The influence of Indian cuisine is growing, but India's international image sometimes faces challenges due to political and social issues.
Despite its impressive growth and influence, India does not yet rank among the top three global powers. According to various global rankings, India is usually placed around the 5th or 6th position in terms of overall power. Here’s how it compares with other leading nations:
Some rankings place India even lower, around 6th or 7th, due to its developmental challenges and income inequality. While India has great potential, there are still areas where it needs to improve to break into the top three.
Despite its rise, India faces several challenges that prevent it from ranking higher in global power lists:
The Future of India’s Global Power
India is on track to become one of the world’s top three powers in the coming decades. With continued economic growth, technological advancements, and strategic diplomatic relations, India is strengthening its position every year.
Here’s what could push India higher in global rankings:
India’s rise as a global power is undeniable. It is already among the top five most powerful countries in the world and is on a steady path to breaking into the top three. However, challenges remain, and India must address these issues to truly become a superpower. So, while India’s global rank may not yet match the likes of the U.S. and China, its influence and potential are greater than ever. The coming years will determine just how high India can climb on the global power ladder. One thing is clear – India’s time on the world stage has only just begun!
India’s Rising Global Influence
1. Economic Growth
Current Scenario: While India’s economy is growing, inflation and unemployment remain challenges. The country is focusing on boosting manufacturing under the 'Make in India' initiative and promoting startups through government policies. Foreign investment is increasing, but infrastructural bottlenecks still need to be addressed.
2. Technological Advancements
In space technology, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved remarkable feats, including the successful Chandrayaan-3 moon mission and the launch of the Aditya-L1 solar observatory. These achievements have placed India among the top space-faring nations.
Current Scenario: India is heavily investing in AI, semiconductors, and digital infrastructure. However, concerns over cybersecurity and the need for more research and development in advanced technologies remain. The government’s push for 5G and digital transformation is promising, but execution challenges persist.
3. Military Strength
Additionally, India plays a significant role in international peacekeeping missions and maintains strong military ties with global superpowers like the U.S., Russia, and France.
Current Scenario: India is modernizing its military with indigenous weapon systems like Tejas fighter jets and the Agni missile series. The country is also strengthening its naval capabilities to counter threats in the Indian Ocean. However, border tensions with China and Pakistan continue to be major security concerns.
4. Diplomacy and Geopolitical Influence
Current Scenario: India is focusing on strategic alliances with major powers, including the U.S., Japan, and France, while maintaining strong ties with Russia. The country’s leadership in the Global South is increasing, but its stance on issues like climate change and human rights is still under scrutiny.
5. Soft Power and Cultural Influence
Current Scenario: Bollywood continues to dominate, but regional films are also gaining global recognition. Yoga and Ayurveda have become mainstream in many Western countries. The influence of Indian cuisine is growing, but India's international image sometimes faces challenges due to political and social issues.
Where Does India Rank Among the Top Global Powers?
- United States – Still the world’s most dominant superpower, with the largest economy, strongest military, and unmatched technological innovation.
- China – A rapidly growing economy, major military power, and a stronghold in global manufacturing and trade.
- Russia – Despite economic challenges, Russia remains a military powerhouse with significant global influence.
- European Union (EU) – While not a single country, the EU collectively has significant economic and political power.
- India – A rising giant, but still facing challenges like poverty, infrastructure development, and political complexities.
Challenges That Hold India Back
- Economic Inequality: A large portion of India’s population still lives in poverty, and wealth distribution remains uneven.
- Infrastructure Development: Roads, transport, and urban planning need significant improvement to match global standards.
- Bureaucracy and Corruption: Red tape and corruption slow down development and business growth.
- Social and Political Issues: Communal tensions, political instability, and regional conflicts sometimes divert focus from economic and strategic goals.
India is on track to become one of the world’s top three powers in the coming decades. With continued economic growth, technological advancements, and strategic diplomatic relations, India is strengthening its position every year.
Here’s what could push India higher in global rankings:
- Sustained Economic Growth – If India continues its rapid GDP growth, it could surpass Japan and Germany within the next decade.
- Technological Innovation – Investment in AI, green energy, and digital infrastructure will make India a global tech leader.
- Military Modernization – Strengthening defense capabilities and self-reliance in arms manufacturing will enhance India’s security and global standing.
- Stronger Global Alliances – Deepening ties with Western and Asian powers will boost India’s diplomatic influence.
- Social and Infrastructure Development – Addressing internal challenges like poverty and urban planning will help India compete with the world’s top nations.
India’s rise as a global power is undeniable. It is already among the top five most powerful countries in the world and is on a steady path to breaking into the top three. However, challenges remain, and India must address these issues to truly become a superpower. So, while India’s global rank may not yet match the likes of the U.S. and China, its influence and potential are greater than ever. The coming years will determine just how high India can climb on the global power ladder. One thing is clear – India’s time on the world stage has only just begun!