Archive · 13 Jun 2025
Survey: India Shows Improvement in Populism, Citizen Priorities Highlighted
A new survey shows that people in India feel better about some issues related to populism, meaning leaders doing what people want.
Fewer people think the system is rigged.
Most people believe citizens should stand up for their country if it's criticized.
The majority wants the government to spend more on things like jobs and schools.
Most people also think that local workers should be hired before immigrants.
Ipsos Populism Report shows improvement in some areas of populism in India.
59% of Indians in 2025 agree the country needs a strong leader, down from 73% in 2023.
73% of Indians believe citizens should defend the country when criticized.
Over 70% of Indians support increased government spending on jobs, education, and more.
62% of citizens believe employers should prioritize hiring locals over immigrants.
- Who
- Ipsos conducted the survey.
- What
- Ipsos Populism Report assesses public opinion on populism in India.
- When
- The survey was conducted in 2025, with comparisons to 2023 and 2016.
- Where
- India.
- Why
- To understand how Indians feel about populism and related issues.
Differing Views on Elites
Diverse Viewpoints
Elite Perception
Differing Views on Elites
52% of Indians view elites as a group with similar views.
Diverse Viewpoints
48% view elites as diverse.
- Indians agreeing the country needs a strong leader (2025)
- 59%
- Indians agreeing the country needs a strong leader (2023)
- 73%
- Indians who believe in defending the country when criticized
- 73%
- Support for prioritizing local hires
- 62%
- Indians believing country is in decline
- 53%
