India has achieved a notable global ranking by placing 16th out of 154 countries in the first edition of the Responsible Nations Index (RNI). The index serves as a new international benchmark for assessing how responsibly nations exercise their power in relation to their citizens, the environment, and the global community.
The RNI framework was unveiled in New Delhi by the World Intellectual Foundation (WIF), a Delhi-based organization. The index draws on widely recognised international datasets from institutions such as the World Bank, the United Nations, and the World Justice Project. Countries are evaluated across three broad dimensions: internal responsibility, environmental responsibility, and international conduct.
Global Rankings and Key Insights
In the inaugural rankings, Singapore topped the index, followed by Switzerland and Denmark. India’s 16th-place finish placed it ahead of several major global economies. Notably, China ranked 68th, while the United States placed 66th, highlighting that economic size or military strength does not automatically translate into responsible national behaviour.
The RNI underscores that many developing nations outperform wealthier countries in critical areas such as social justice, environmental protection, and commitment to peace and stability.
India’s Performance
India’s strong showing reflects progress across multiple parameters, including healthcare outcomes, social equity initiatives, environmental policies, and people-centric governance frameworks. At the same time, the index also highlights areas where continued policy focus is required to ensure sustainable, inclusive, and balanced long-term growth.
Summary
India has ranked 16th among 154 countries in the first-ever Responsible Nations Index, a global assessment of responsible national conduct. The ranking highlights India’s advances in social, environmental, and governance-related areas, while also underlining the need for sustained efforts to strengthen responsible growth and global engagement.
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