New Delhi: India is set to introduce a new global benchmarking framework—the Responsible Nations Index (RNI)—that seeks to measure countries on the basis of responsible governance, social well-being, environmental stewardship and global responsibility, rather than traditional power- or GDP-driven indicators.
The index, which will be formally launched on January 19, 2026, is being developed by the World Intellectual Foundation (WIF) in collaboration with Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), IIM Mumbai and the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre (DAIC). Former President Ram Nath Kovind will be present at the launch in New Delhi.
According to organisers, the Responsible Nations Index will cover 154 countries and will be built on transparent and globally sourced datasets to ensure credibility and cross-country comparability. The framework is structured around three core dimensions—internal responsibility, environmental responsibility and external responsibility.
Internal responsibility focuses on dignity, justice and citizen well-being, while the environmental dimension evaluates natural resource stewardship and climate action. External responsibility, meanwhile, measures a country’s contribution to peace, cooperation and global stability.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the launch, officials and academic partners said the index is intended to encourage a broader global dialogue on ethics, sustainability, food security and responsible leadership in international affairs. By shifting attention away from purely economic size or military strength, the index aims to offer a more balanced and value-based assessment of national performance.