Australia Delivers Strongest Endorsement: India Hailed as "Leading Power in the World," PM Modi Credited for Reshaping Global Affairs & Indo-Pacific Stability
November 26-28, 2025 | Geopolitics & Diplomacy | India's Global Rise Recognized
By International Relations & Geopolitics Correspondent
India-Australia Diplomacy & Global Leadership Analyst
Focus: Bilateral relations, Indo-Pacific strategy, Quad partnership, global diplomacy
Australia's High Commissioner Philip Green publicly recognizes India as "a leading power in the world," praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi's transformative leadership in elevating India's role on the global stage and shaping Indo-Pacific stability through decisive diplomacy and strategic partnerships.
In one of the strongest diplomatic endorsements in recent years, Australia has publicly hailed India as a "leading power in the world," with Australian High Commissioner to India Philip Green directly crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi for fundamentally transforming India's role in global affairs. Speaking on November 26-27, 2025, Green delivered a comprehensive assessment of India's global rise, stating: "India is a leading power in the world and that has been very much underlined and accentuated by Prime Minister Modi." This recognition represents far more than routine diplomatic pleasantries—it signifies Australia's explicit acknowledgment that India has transitioned from a regional power with global aspirations to a decisive force shaping geopolitics, technology, climate action, maritime security, and Indo-Pacific stability[web:50][web:59].
Green highlighted India's transformative leadership during its 2023 G20 presidency, describing it as "a powerful demonstration of India's arrival as a global player." He emphasized India's ability to unite major global powers—including the United States, China, Russia, and Europe—in a single consensus document that addressed complex geopolitical issues including Russia's invasion of Ukraine, a feat that underscored India's diplomatic sophistication and ability to build consensus among ideologically opposed nations[web:50][web:59]. The endorsement extends beyond India's diplomatic achievements to encompass its economic dynamism (now the world's fastest-growing large economy), technological innovation, cultural influence, and its indispensable role in maintaining peace and stability across the Indo-Pacific region. This recognition from Australia, a key strategic ally of the United States and a founding member of the Quad strategic partnership, carries significant geopolitical weight as it signals alignment among democratic Indo-Pacific powers on India's centrality to regional and global architecture[web:50][web:56][web:59].
Green highlighted India's transformative leadership during its 2023 G20 presidency, describing it as "a powerful demonstration of India's arrival as a global player." He emphasized India's ability to unite major global powers—including the United States, China, Russia, and Europe—in a single consensus document that addressed complex geopolitical issues including Russia's invasion of Ukraine, a feat that underscored India's diplomatic sophistication and ability to build consensus among ideologically opposed nations[web:50][web:59]. The endorsement extends beyond India's diplomatic achievements to encompass its economic dynamism (now the world's fastest-growing large economy), technological innovation, cultural influence, and its indispensable role in maintaining peace and stability across the Indo-Pacific region. This recognition from Australia, a key strategic ally of the United States and a founding member of the Quad strategic partnership, carries significant geopolitical weight as it signals alignment among democratic Indo-Pacific powers on India's centrality to regional and global architecture[web:50][web:56][web:59].
Australia's Multi-Dimensional Praise: Three Pillars of India-Australia Partnership
🌍 Pillar 1: Strategic Alignment & Shared Vision
- Strategic Alignment: Australia recognizes a fundamental shift in India-Australia relations—from traditional friendship to active strategic partnership with shared vision for Indo-Pacific
- Shared Indo-Pacific Vision: Both nations committed to building a "stable, prosperous, and free Indo-Pacific" free from coercion, militarization of disputed territories, and unilateral power plays
- Quad Partnership: India's leadership in the Quad (India, USA, Japan, Australia) described by Green as a "powerful vector for peace and stability" in Indo-Pacific region
- Rules-Based Order: Joint commitment to international law, UNCLOS (UN Convention on the Law of the Sea), and opposition to forced changes to status quo
- Defense Cooperation: Australia praised India's updated defense and security roadmap; maritime security cooperation expanding through IPMDA (Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness)
- G20 Consensus-Building: Green specifically highlighted India's ability to bring rival powers together—including Russia and the West—in single consensus document during 2023 G20 presidency[web:50][web:52][web:56]
💰 Pillar 2: Economic Complementarity & Investment Growth
- India's Economic Growth: India recognized as world's fastest-growing large economy with ~6.4% average annual growth rate; projected to become world's 3rd largest economy by 2030 (after US & China)
- Natural Complementarity: Green emphasized Australia produces exactly what India needs for next phase of growth: energy, minerals, metals, skills, and training
- Trade Advantage: Australia does not compete much with India; therefore mutually beneficial trade expansion possible without friction
- 2025 Economic Roadmap: Australia launched "New Roadmap for Australia's Economic Engagement with India" (February 2025) identifying 50+ targeted opportunities across defense, technology, space, clean energy, education, agribusiness, tourism
- Four Key Sectors: Focus on clean energy, education & skills, agribusiness, and tourism—all aligned with India's sustainable development goals
- Investment Flows: India has surpassed China (post-US) as most attractive destination for inward investment according to Lowy Asia Power Index 2025[web:50][web:54][web:56]
🌉 Pillar 3: Human Bridge & Diaspora Connections
- Indian Diaspora in Australia: Nearly one million people of Indian origin now call Australia home (2nd largest diaspora community in Australia)
- Soft Power Channel: This "human bridge" adds strong personal dimension to bilateral relations; diaspora members bridge cultural, economic, and political spheres
- Modi's Diaspora Engagement: PM Modi's direct outreach to Indian diaspora in Australia during visits amplifies India's soft power; diaspora engagement strengthens India's global narrative
- Cultural Influence: India's cultural soft power in Australia expanding through diaspora-driven initiatives, yoga, festivals, film industry collaborations
- Educational Exchange: Growing student mobility between countries; Australia benefiting from Indian students; India gaining from Australian education/skills
- Mobility Partnership: MMPA (Mobility and Migration Partnership Agreement) signed May 2023 facilitates smoother migration of students, professionals, skilled workers[web:50][web:56]
India's Global Role: G20 Leadership, Quad Partnership, & Strategic Autonomy
India's G20 Presidency: Bringing World Powers Together
| Achievement | Impact & Significance | Global Recognition |
|---|---|---|
| Theme: "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" | "One Earth, One Family, One Future" – universal philosophy addressing global challenges | Resonated across developed & developing nations; soft power amplification |
| Consensus on Ukraine | Secured G20 consensus document addressing Russia's Ukraine invasion with all major powers united | Australia specifically highlighted as demonstration of India's diplomatic prowess |
| African Union Admission | India championed permanent membership of African Union in G20 – democratizing global governance | Reflects India's vision of inclusive multilateralism; voice for Global South |
| Climate & Green Development | Green Development Pact, LiFE initiative, net-zero 2070 roadmap, sustainable energy focus | Influences UNFCCC negotiations; sets framework for developing nations' climate action |
| Digital Public Infrastructure | UPI, Aadhaar-linked services showcased as model for financial inclusion & e-governance | Global adoption pathway; India positioned as digital innovation leader |
| Decentralized Approach | 200+ G20 meetings held in 50+ Indian cities (vs. traditional capital-only approach) | Demonstrated inclusive governance; grassroots engagement with global issues |
The Quad: Anchoring Indo-Pacific Stability
- Four-Nation Alliance: India, USA, Japan, Australia united on shared vision of free, open, rules-based Indo-Pacific
- Maritime Security Focus: IPMDA (Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness) provides real-time intelligence to counter illegal fishing, piracy, trafficking; empowers smaller nations to protect sovereignty
- Infrastructure Alternative: Quad Ports of the Future Partnership offers transparent, high-quality infrastructure projects as alternative to China's debt-laden Belt & Road Initiative
- Technology Standards: Quad setting global standards on 5G security, semiconductor supply chain resilience, ethical AI development
- Humanitarian Assistance: Quad coordinated response to natural disasters; logistics cooperation through MAITRI exercises
- India's Leadership Role: India hosting next Quad Summit; demonstrated commitment to mechanism's evolution beyond security toward development & prosperity
Modi's Strategic Autonomy Doctrine
- Multi-Alignment Strategy: India collaborates with Western partners (Quad, defense tech) while maintaining strategic partnership with Russia (energy, defense)
- Global South Leadership: India advocates for developing nations on climate, development, technology access while engaging with all major powers
- Issue-Based Coalitions: India builds flexible partnerships on specific issues rather than joining rigid blocs; maintains freedom of action
- Diplomatic Balancing Act: Successfully navigated G20 with Western powers, Russia, China all at table; avoided exclusionary approaches
- Independent Voice: India refuses to be aligned with any particular bloc; positions itself as bridge between developed & developing world
- Effectiveness Recognition: Australia explicitly recognizes India's diplomatic model as successful; positions India as "trusted and indispensable partner"
PM Modi's Transformative Leadership: The "Leading Power" Vision
🎯 Economic Reforms Under Modi (2014-2025)
- GST Regime: Unified Goods and Services Tax transformed tax structure; integrated Indian economy; improved compliance
- Insolvency & Bankruptcy Code: Reformed corporate bankruptcy process; improved credit culture; attracted foreign investment
- Digital Public Infrastructure: UPI (Unified Payments Interface) revolutionized digital payments—now model for global financial inclusion; Aadhaar linked services transformed welfare delivery
- Infrastructure Boom: Aggressive push for roads, ports, railways, power generation; "Make in India" manufacturing emphasis
- Production Linked Incentive (PLI): Programs in solar PV, advanced battery cells, specialty steel driving "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India)
- Results: India now fastest-growing large economy; becoming manufacturing hub; investment destination preferred after US
🛡️ Defense & Strategic Modernization
- Aatmanirbhar Bharat in Defense: Push for domestic defense manufacturing; reduced import dependence; built indigenous capabilities
- Naval Modernization: Expansion of Indian Navy; focus on maritime domain awareness; Indian Ocean Region strategic emphasis
- Military Interoperability: Defense agreements with major allies (USA, Japan, France, Australia); Exercise Malabar multinational naval drills
- Defense Networks: Lowy Index notes improvement in India's defense alliances & partnerships under Modi leadership
- Strategic Partnerships: AUKUS engagement discussions; closer US cooperation; Japan-India Quad alignment
🌐 Soft Power & Diplomatic Outreach
- Diaspora Engagement: Direct outreach to Indian diaspora globally; positioning India as beacon for global Indian community
- Yoga Diplomacy: International Yoga Day global celebration; India positioned as source of wellness wisdom
- Cultural Export: Bollywood influence; cultural festivals promoted globally; India's cultural soft power amplified
- Digital Diplomacy: Social media presence; direct communication with global audiences; image-building through strategic communications
- Tourism & Education: India attracting international students; positioning as educational hub; cultural tourism emphasis
India's Metrics as Global Power: Data-Driven Recognition
Key Indicators of India's Rise (2025)
| Indicator | Value / Rank | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Global GDP Rank | 5th largest (2025) | Projected 3rd largest by 2030 |
| Economic Growth Rate | ~6.4% average annual | Fastest-growing large economy globally |
| GDP Size | ~$4 trillion (2025) | Major economic powerhouse; G20 member |
| Population | 1.45+ billion | Most populous nation; massive consumer market |
| FDI Attractiveness | Most attractive after USA | Surpassed China; 10-year capital flows advantage |
| Lowy Asia Power Index | Rising across metrics | Improved economic capability, defense networks, diplomatic influence |
| Indian Diaspora | 15+ million globally | Soft power multiplier; economic & cultural ambassadors |
Limitations & "Feet of Clay" (Challenges Acknowledged)
- Institutional Gaps: Despite rapid growth, India still needs deeper institutional & administrative reforms
- Leadership Recognition Gap: Lowy Index notes India's regional/global leadership ranking has NOT improved despite economic/diplomatic activism—suggests broader Asia hasn't fully internalized India as default leader
- Implementation Challenges: Proposed reforms sometimes face implementation gaps; bureaucratic resistance to change
- Regional Integration Lag: India's South Asian integration limited due to political tensions with Pakistan; regional trade lags ASEAN models
- Structural Reforms Needed: Education quality, healthcare access, infrastructure distribution still uneven across nation
UPSC & Competitive Exams: Key Topics for Preparation
UPSC Prelims (Expected Questions)
- Which country hailed India as a "leading power in the world" in November 2025? (A) USA (B) Australia (C) Japan (D) UK
- What was the theme of India's G20 presidency in 2023? (A) "Sustainable Development" (B) "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" (C) "Digital India" (D) "One World"
- India is currently ranked as the world's ___ largest economy. (A) 3rd (B) 4th (C) 5th (D) 6th
- According to the Lowy Asia Power Index 2025, India surpassed which country as the most attractive FDI destination after USA? (A) Vietnam (B) China (C) Indonesia (D) Singapore
- Which of the following is NOT part of Australia's 2025 Economic Roadmap with India? (A) Clean energy (B) Agricultural technology (C) Nuclear weapons (D) Education & skills
UPSC Mains (Practice Questions)
- "Analyze India's role in the Quad as a mechanism for maintaining Indo-Pacific stability. How does India balance this role with its strategic autonomy?" (20 marks)
- "Discuss how PM Modi's domestic economic reforms have translated into global recognition of India as a 'leading power.' What are the remaining challenges?" (15 marks)
- "Examine the strategic significance of India-Australia partnership in the context of evolving geopolitical dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region." (15 marks)
- "Evaluate India's G20 presidency achievements and their implications for global multilateralism and the Global South." (15 marks)
Banking & SSC Exams (GK & Current Affairs)
- What is the full form of IPMDA mentioned in the context of Quad initiatives? (A) Indo-Pacific Maritime Domain Awareness (B) International Port and Maritime Development Authority (C) Both (D) None
- PM Modi has set India's target for net-zero emissions by: (A) 2050 (B) 2060 (C) 2070 (D) 2080
- UPI (Unified Payments Interface) is cited as India's model for which of the following? (A) Digital defense (B) Financial inclusion & e-governance (C) Space technology (D) Climate action
- The Australian High Commissioner who praised India's global leadership is: (A) Sally Morgan (B) Philip Green (C) Arthur Sinodinos (D) Dave Sharma
Current Affairs & Strategic Studies
- Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP): India-Australia elevated to CSP in 2020; now in 5th year (2025)
- MMPA: Mobility and Migration Partnership Agreement (signed May 2023) facilitates people mobility
- Maritime Security: IPMDA, Exercise Malabar, Coast Guard cooperation; Quad Ports of the Future Partnership
- G20 Troika: India continues role in G20 governance post-presidency through Troika mechanism with Brazil & South Africa
- Modi-Jaishankar Doctrine: Multi-alignment, strategic autonomy, issue-based coalitions; voice for Global South
- India's Pacific Island Strategy: Expanding development footprint in Pacific Islands; countering Chinese influence
📝 Key Takeaways for Exam Preparation:
- ✓ Australia explicitly calls India "leading power in the world" (Nov 2025)
- ✓ PM Modi credited for transforming India's global role through strategic leadership
- ✓ India fastest-growing large economy; projected 3rd largest by 2030
- ✓ G20 presidency demonstrated India's diplomatic consensus-building capability
- ✓ Quad is central to Indo-Pacific stability architecture; India plays pivotal role
- ✓ Modi-Jaishankar doctrine combines strategic autonomy with pragmatic partnerships
- ✓ Economic reforms (GST, UPI, PLI) transformed India's investment attractiveness
- ✓ India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 5th year; deepening across domains
Strategic Significance: Why Australia's Endorsement Matters
- ✓ Democratic Alliance Signal: Australia, USA, Japan consensus on India's centrality shows democratic powers aligned on India's role
- ✓ Counter to China Narrative: Australia explicitly positioning India as alternative to Beijing's regional dominance
- ✓ Quad Strengthening: India's recognized leadership strengthens Quad as stable mechanism for rules-based Indo-Pacific
- ✓ Economic Partnership Expansion: Australia's economic roadmap signals confidence in India's growth trajectory; bilateral opportunities multiplying
- ✓ Defense Cooperation: Updated defense roadmap positions India-Australia as security partners in critical maritime region
- ✓ Global South Leadership: India's voice for developing world recognized; Australia endorses this leadership role
- ✓ Diplomatic Autonomy Validation: Australia accepts India's multi-alignment strategy as legitimate and effective; not pressuring alignment with West-only bloc
- ✓ Regional Stability Enhancement: Recognition that India's strong global role enhances Indo-Pacific stability rather than threatening it
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## Key Statistics & Data Points for Reference
| Metric | 2025 Value |
|--------|-----------|
| **India's GDP Rank** | 5th largest globally |
| **Projected 2030 Rank** | 3rd (after USA & China) |
| **Annual Growth Rate** | ~6.4% |
| **GDP Size** | ~$4 trillion |
| **Population** | 1.45+ billion |
| **FDI Attractiveness** | 2nd only to USA |
| **Indian Diaspora Globally** | 15+ million |
| **Indian Diaspora in Australia** | ~1 million |
| **Australia-India CSP Years** | 5 years (since 2020) |
| **G20 Presidency Period** | Dec 2022 - Nov 2023 |
| **Quad Members** | India, USA, Japan, Australia |
| **India's G20 Meetings Held** | 200+ in 50+ cities, 32 workstreams |
| **Climate Target** | Net-zero by 2070 |
## Strategic Pillars of India-Australia Partnership (2025)
1. **Strategic Alignment** – Shared Indo-Pacific vision; Quad cooperation; rules-based order
2. **Economic Complementarity** – 50+ identified opportunities; clean energy, education, agribusiness, tourism
3. **Human Bridge** – Nearly 1 million Indian diaspora in Australia strengthening ties
4. **Defense Cooperation** – Updated maritime security roadmap; Exercise Malabar participation
5. **Technology & Innovation** – Digital infrastructure sharing; AI ethics; semiconductor cooperation
- Times of India, TOI Bharat (video & analysis), November 26-27, 2025
- Ministry of External Affairs India, Government Press Information Bureau
- Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)
- News on Air (Government of India), Tribune India, India Today
- Lowy Institute Asia Power Index 2025 Report
- Drishti IAS, India-Briefing.com (Economic Analysis)
- Pacific Forum, Delhi Policy Group (Strategic Analysis)
- International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank Economic Reports
