This year, India has proven that it is not just a rising power, it is an ascendant force on the global stage. In what is the largest electoral exercise in history, India's democracy has set a new precedent. At a time when several European nations are struggling with democracy. 2024 saw Sri Lanka and the Maldives return to India's orbit, while New Delhi's strategic maneuvering in the Gulf Cooperation Council makes it a stronger player. This was also the year when India stands alone as the only major power with communication lines with both Putin and Zelensky. There's more : Milestones in defence, a surging economy poised to become the world's fourth largest by 2025, and extraordinary feats in sports from Gukesh's rise to cricket's T20 glory. Tonight, NDTV's Gaurie Dwivedi takes you through India's top triumphs in 2024.. its ascent.