India Launches Responsible Nations Index (RNI)

India on 19 January launched the Responsible Nations Index (RNI) at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi. The Index was unveiled under the aegis of the World Intellectual Foundation (WIF).

A New Framework for Global Assessment
The Responsible Nations Index introduces a comprehensive global framework to assess countries on parameters such as:

• Ethical governance
• Social well-being
• Environmental stewardship
• Global responsibility

It moves beyond conventional indicators focused mainly on economic power and GDP.

India’s First Globally Anchored Index
The RNI is India’s first globally anchored index designed to evaluate nations based on responsible governance and sustainable development, rather than only economic or military strength.

Research and Academic Backing
The Index is the outcome of a three-year academic and policy research initiative led by the World Intellectual Foundation. Key scholarly contributions were made by:

• Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)
• Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Mumbai

Global Coverage and Methodology

• The Index covers 154 countries
• Built on transparent and globally sourced data to ensure credibility and comparability
• Uses data up to 2023 from international institutions such as:
  • World Bank
  • United Nations
  • International Monetary Fund (IMF)
  • World Health Organization (WHO)
  • Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO)

Global Rankings
According to the Responsible Nations Index:

• Singapore ranks 1st
• Switzerland is 2nd
• Denmark is 3rd

India’s Position
India has been ranked 16th among 154 countries, reflecting its performance across governance, social, environmental, and global responsibility parameters.