India's Ranking in the Responsible Nations Index (RNI)
India has been ranked 16th out of 154 countries in the Responsible Nations Index (RNI), which measures how responsibly countries use their power concerning their citizens, the environment, and the world.
Overview of the Responsible Nations Index
The RNI is a framework developed by the World Intellectual Foundation (WIF) based in Delhi. It was launched in 2023 and evaluates nations based on three main pillars:
- Internal Responsibility: Focuses on a nation's obligations towards the dignity, well-being, and empowerment of its citizens.
- Environmental Responsibility: Assesses a country's commitment to ecological protection and sustainable development.
- External Responsibility: Evaluates how a nation behaves and contributes within the international system.
Data and Measurement
The index uses data from sources like the World Bank, United Nations agencies, and the World Justice Project. It includes 58 selected indicators spread across seven dimensions:
- Quality of life
- Governance
- Social justice and empowerment
- Economic performance
- Environmental protection
- Commitment to peace
- International economic relations
Key Findings
- Singapore ranks at the top of the index.
- China is ranked 68th, and the US is ranked 66th.
- The RNI demonstrates that high GDP or economic power does not necessarily equate to responsible national conduct.
- Some developing nations surpass wealthier countries in areas such as environmental ethics, gender fairness, and social justice.
Insights and Implications
The analysis indicates a strong correlation between responsibility and the presence of accountable institutions, equitable development, and inclusive governance. However, there are growing global disparities, especially in climate responsibility, judicial independence, and peaceful international engagement. These findings suggest that the true measure of national success is not just in achievements but in how responsibly they are achieved.
