
Forbes has released the list of the world’s 10 most powerful countries for 2025, and India has not been included. The list ranks countries like the USA, China, Russia, the UK, and Germany higher, but India, which holds the position of the world’s fifth-largest economy, did not make it to the list.
India Out of Top 10, but Strong in Economy
India is currently the fifth-largest economy in the world, with a GDP reaching $3.73 trillion in 2025. Additionally, India possesses the fourth-largest military and plays a crucial role in global diplomacy. Despite these factors, its exclusion from the Forbes list raises many questions.
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How is the Forbes List Prepared?
The Forbes list is based on a report by US News, which evaluates a country’s power using five key parameters:
Leadership
Economic influence
Political influence
International alliances
Military strength
Rank | Country | GDP (Trillion USD) | Population (Billion) | Continent |
1. | USA | 30.34 | 0.345 | North America |
2. | China | 19.53 | 1.419 | Asia |
3. | Russia | 2.2 | 0.144 | Europe |
4. | UK | 3.73 | 0.069 | Europe |
5. | Germany | 4.92 | 0.084 | Europe |
6. | South Korea | 1.95 | 0.051 | Asia |
7. | France | 3.28 | 0.066 | Europe |
8. | Japan | 4.39 | 0.123 | Asia |
9. | Saudi Arabia | 1.14 | 0.033 | Asia |
10. | Israel | 0.55 | 0.009 | Asia |
The ranking model is developed by BAV Group (a unit of WPP) and a research team led by Professor David Reibstein from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.
Despite its vast population, economic growth, and military strength, India’s absence from this list has surprised many experts. Critics argue that the ranking does not accurately reflect India’s true global influence.
Top 5 Largest Economies in 2025
USA – $30.34 trillion
China – $19.53 trillion
Germany – $4.92 trillion
Japan – $4.39 trillion
India – $3.73 trillion
India’s exclusion from the top 10 most powerful countries list is surprising, especially given its position as the world’s fifth-largest economy. This raises questions about the accuracy of the ranking system. As India’s global standing continues to strengthen, it will become increasingly difficult to overlook it in such rankings in the future.