India slips in global soft power ranking but shines in growth potential and cultural influence

India's has fallen in ranks in the Brand Finance Global Soft Power Index this year, scoring 49.8 out of 100, with its new rank being 30, down from 29th place last year. While the report does not explain the drop, India’s 3rd-place ranking in ‘future growth potential’ in the case of Business and Trade, reaffirms its strong trajectory as a global soft power.

“India’s growing reputation for future growth potential, spiritual healing and cultural influence highlights its ability to navigate the evolving global landscape,” said Ajimon Francis, MD - India, Brand Finance in a statement.

The report highlights that India will become a key soft power for the world in the space of arts and entertainment, and space technology. India ranks 6th in Arts & Entertainment, reflecting its growing cultural exports, from cinema and music to digital content. Its investment in space exploration has propelled it to 8th place, highlighting its advancements in science and technology.

Additionally, India climbed to 29th place in the ‘products and brands the world loves’ category, showcasing the global appeal of its tech, textiles, and other industries.

The country lagged in its International Relations ranking securing 34th spot, maintaining 28th place in ‘influential in diplomatic circles’ for a second year while jumping 20 spots in ‘helpful to countries in need’ and improving its ‘good relations with other countries’ ranking to 47th.

In Education & Science, India ranks 18th in science and 24th in technology and innovation, reinforcing its status as a business and tech hub.

The Global Soft Power Index, published by valuation consultancy Brand Finance, offers insights into global influence dynamics. The index is based on 1.70 lakh responses from over 100 countries and assesses 193 UN member states across 55 metrics.

The US tops the ranking with a record score of 79.5, leading in Familiarity, Influence, and three Soft Power pillars. Surpassing the UK, China is racing behind the US with a 72.8 score, its highest ever position, on account of strategic efforts and growth across six Soft Power pillars.