India has launched it’s own global rankings for the first time, breaking away from systems dominated by US and UK organisations. Global rankings usually focus on power and wealth. This new move aims to present a broader and more inclusive framework.
The initiative is called the Responsible Nations Index (RNI). It evaluates countries beyond GDP and global influence. The index measures ethical governance, social welfare, sustainability, and global responsibility using a structured assessment model.
India has been ranked 16th in the index, marking a notable milestone. The launch took place at Dr Ambedkar International Center. The project was introduced under the aegis of the World Intellectual Foundation (WIF).
The Responsible Nations Index is the result of three years of academic and policy research. The study involved inputs from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) and Indian Institute of Management, Mumbai. Scholars contributed to shaping the evaluation framework.
In the first global RNI rankings for 2026, Singapore secured the top position. Switzerland ranked second, while Denmark placed third. These countries scored high across governance, welfare, and sustainability indicators.
The United States ranked 66th, China stood at 68, and UAE was placed at 75th. Central African Republic ranked last at 154. Syria was placed at 153, reflecting major challenges across core indicators.
RNI is built on three core pillars, dignity, well-being, and commitment. These are assessed through seven dimensions including quality of life, governance, social justice and empowerment, economic performance, environmental protection, peace, and international economic relations.
