New Delhi, Feb. 3 -- India celebrated its 75th year as a sovereign democratic republic on January 26. It now emerges as the power that has come of age, with its fast rising power equation and recognition. It is now the third most powerful country in Asia, according to the annual Asia Power Index 2024 by Lowy Institute, surpassing both Russia and Japan. The 2024 edition, which covered six years of data, is seen as the most comprehensive assessment to date.

The Global Firepower Index 2025 has also listed India to be the fourth most powerful military, behind the US, Russia and China. India's position is largely driven by a consistent spending rate on defence, modernisation, and manpower. It is also the fourth largest military spender global...