India Ranks 155th in World Press Freedom Index 2026
India has been ranked 155th out of 180 countries in the latest World Press Freedom Index released by Reporters Without Borders.
Key Points for Quick Revision
- India is ranked 155th in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index.
- The index is released annually by Reporters Without Borders (RSF).
- Norway topped the list for the tenth consecutive year.
- The index evaluates 180 countries based on media freedom and journalist safety.
How This Topic is Tested in Competitive Exams
| Exam | Frequency | Approx. Marks | What Gets Asked |
|---|---|---|---|
| UPSC / State PCS | Very High | 10–20 | International relations is a core GS-II topic for UPSC. Bilateral agreements, multilateral bodies, and geopolitics are essential. |
| SSC (CGL / CHSL / MTS) | Medium | 2–4 | International summits, treaties, and India's bilateral relations appear in SSC GK. |
| Banking (IBPS / SBI) | Medium | 2–4 | G20, IMF/World Bank decisions, and global trade events are tested in banking exams. |
What to Memorize from This Topic
- Summit venue, participating nations, key outcomes, and India's stand
- Bilateral agreements: India + partner country, subject area, signing date
- Multilateral organizations: new members, leadership changes, major resolutions
- India's position on key global issues: UN voting, climate, trade
- Indices: Global Peace Index, Press Freedom Index, India's rank and change
Practice Questions
Q1. Which organization releases the World Press Freedom Index?
- Amnesty International
- Reporters Without Borders
- Transparency International
- World Economic Forum
Explanation: The World Press Freedom Index is published annually by Reporters Without Borders (RSF).
Q2. Which country consistently tops the World Press Freedom Index?
- USA
- Norway
- Finland
- Switzerland
Explanation: Norway has consistently topped the index for several years due to its strong protections for media freedom.
How to Prepare International Affairs for Government Exams
Focus on India-centric news — India's bilateral visits, MoUs signed, and positions in international bodies. This is what domestic exams test.
For UPSC, understand geopolitical context: Why does India take a particular position? What is India's strategic interest?
Keep a running note of all G20, SCO, BRICS, and QUAD-related outcomes. These bodies generate 3–5 questions per major exam cycle.