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India’s Global Rankings in 2025: A Mixed Bag of Progress and Challenges
India stands at a unique crossroads as it approaches 2025, showcasing a range of global rankings that reveal significant areas of strength while highlighting pressing challenges the nation continues to face. In various metrics related to business, security, and social conditions, India displays promising advancements. However, in areas such as standard of living and press freedom, there is a clear demand for improvement. Here’s a closer look at India’s performance across different sectors, as highlighted in the latest rankings.
Ease for Business – 63rd
Despite ongoing reforms, India ranks 63rd in ease of doing business. Complicated regulations and bureaucratic hurdles still pose challenges to entrepreneurs. The government has been striving to create a more favorable environment for startups and businesses, but the path to improving this ranking remains ongoing.
Cyber Security – 6th
On a much more positive note, India is ranked 6th in cybersecurity. This indicates the nation’s robust measures to protect its digital infrastructure, making strides to safeguard data in an increasingly connected world. Initiatives to foster a secure cyber environment reflect a growing awareness of digital threats.
Passport Index – 85th
When it comes to global mobility, India’s passport ranks 85th. While it allows access to multiple countries without a visa, the ranking indicates there’s room for enhancement in establishing stronger international relationships.
Air Quality – 5th
India’s air quality ranking is surprisingly impressive at 5th. This may come as a surprise given the common perception of urban pollution in various cities. However, some regions have made significant progress in improving air quality, showcasing effective environmental policies.
Standard of Living – 124th
Conversely, the standard of living may be a cause for concern, with the nation placing a disheartening 124th. High poverty rates, inadequate healthcare facilities, and subpar education continue to adversely affect citizens’ quality of life.
AI Readiness – 35th
As countries race toward adopting artificial intelligence, India ranks 35th in AI readiness. There’s a growing investment in AI technologies, indicating potential in industries such as healthcare and technology, but a structured national roadmap is necessary to fully capitalize on this potential.
Innovation – 39th
India’s innovation ranking at 39th indicates a burgeoning startup ecosystem that is driving technological advancements. However, investment in research and development must accelerate to help India climb higher on this front.
GDP Growth Rate – 1st
India proudly boasts the highest GDP growth rate in the world at 1st place. This remarkable statistic is a testament to the country’s economic resilience and recovery following global disruptions.
Nominal GDP – 4th
With a nominal GDP that places it at 4th globally, India’s economic muscle continues to expand, reflecting its growing influence in international markets.
GDP per Capita – 136th
However, when it comes to GDP per capita, India ranks a low 136th. This indicates an uneven distribution of wealth, underscoring the socioeconomic challenges that persist across various regions.
World Happiness – 126th
In terms of overall happiness, India ranks 126th, a reminder of the social stresses many Indians face. Economic growth alone does not guarantee a happier population; issues of job satisfaction and mental health need greater attention.
Global Hunger – 107th
India’s battle against hunger is reflected in its 107th spot on the global hunger index, indicating serious challenges in nutrition and food security that need urgent government action.
Population – 1st
Notably, India holds the world’s largest population, ranking 1st. This demographic significance presents both opportunities and challenges in terms of resource allocation and employment.
Science & Tech – 4th
In the realm of science and technology, India ranks 4th. The nation’s investments in research and innovation have led to groundbreaking advancements, particularly in fields like space exploration and pharmaceuticals.
Manufacturing – 5th
The manufacturing sector appears strong, with India ranked 5th globally. The government’s initiatives, like "Make in India," aim to boost this sector further.
Infrastructure – 5th
India also ranks 5th in infrastructure, showcasing robust investments in transport systems and urban development, although rural infrastructure still lags behind.
Railway Network – 3rd
India’s railway network is ranked 3rd globally, a significant achievement that facilitates both economic and social connectivity across the vast nation.
Military & Army – 4th
In terms of defense, India holds rank 4th, confirming its position as one of the strongest military forces in the world.
Internet Freedom – 78th
However, internet freedom remains a concern, with India placed 78th. The digital landscape faces scrutiny over issues related to censorship and user privacy.
Press Freedom – 151st
One of the starkest indicators of the challenges to democracy is the press freedom ranking, where India sits at a troubling 151st. This highlights constraints on free speech and the need for greater protection of journalistic endeavors.
Gender Inequality – 122nd
Gender inequality continues to be a pressing issue, with India ranking 122nd, indicating there’s significant work to be done in empowering women and achieving gender parity.
Quality of Life – 124th
With a quality of life ranking at 124th, factors like healthcare accessibility, education, and public services need urgent reforms to uplift living conditions.
Corruption – 85th
The issue of corruption looms, as reflected in the 85th ranking. Efforts are ongoing, but transparency in governance must be improved to foster trust among citizens.
Carbon Emission – 3rd
Interestingly, India ranks 3rd in carbon emissions. While efforts to transition to renewable energy are underway, it must balance growth with sustainable practices.
Road Quality – 45th
Road quality ranks 45th, indicating that while there are advancements, some areas still struggle with infrastructure development.
Trade Performance – 18th
India ranks 18th in trade performance, showcasing its increasing integration into the global economy while navigating trade relationships.
Global Peace – 135th
Finally, India finds itself at 135th for global peace, reflecting ongoing conflicts and social unrest that need to be addressed to achieve long-lasting stability.
As India continues its path towards 2025, these rankings tell a compelling story of resilience, growth, and areas that require focused attention. Balancing economic advancements with social equity and environmental sustainability will be vital as the nation strives to improve its global standing.