Polity & Governance 06 May 2026

India Ranked 157th in 2026 World Press Freedom Index

India was ranked 157th out of 180 countries in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index, with a score of 31.96. Norway topped the list and Eritrea was last. The index is published annually by Reporters Without Borders (RSF).

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India was ranked 157th out of 180 countries in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index. The country received a global score of 31.96 in the annual assessment, which is published by the press-freedom organisation Reporters Without Borders (RSF).

The index measures press-freedom conditions in different countries using factors such as the political context, the legal framework, economic conditions, the socio-cultural environment, and the safety of journalists. It has been published every year since 2002.

In the 2026 rankings, Norway took the top position while Eritrea ranked last. RSF, headquartered in Paris, France, is an international non-profit organisation that works to protect freedom of information and the rights of journalists.

For aspirants, index rankings like this one are frequently asked in exams, so India's rank (157th of 180) and the publishing body (RSF) are worth noting.

Key Points to Remember

  • Report: 2026 World Press Freedom Index
  • India's rank: 157th out of 180 (score 31.96)
  • Published by: Reporters Without Borders (RSF), based in Paris
  • Top rank: Norway; Last rank: Eritrea
  • Published annually since 2002

Exam Relevance

Relevant for UPSC Prelims (Reports & Indices), SSC CGL (General Awareness), and Banking exams (Current Affairs).

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