Most Powerful Indians in 2012

3. Manmohan Singh, 79, Prime Minister:

Manmohan Singh has successfully steered his government through the numerous crises that it faced. At a time when economies globally are struggling to stay afloat, the PM has ensured that India continues to grow at a fast rate, though not as fast as he would have liked. In a lacklustre year, the PM sent a strong signal through his Cabinet reshuffle. He moved the constant rebel, Jairam Ramesh, to Rural Development. He resisted all attempts, even from strong quarters such as the NAC, to overturn economic reforms in the name of increased social spending.

4. Mohan Bhagwat, 61, Head of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh:

Mohan Bhagwat maintains a low profile but given the personality clashes in the BJP, he is very busy and very influential. He has reduced the unrest in the party over a succession debate and restored the special bond the party has with the Parivar fountainhead. Mohan wants the BJP to put its house in order. When Advani met him in Nagpur to seek support for his anti-corruption yatra, Mohan was said to have extracted an assurance that Advani would no longer position himself as a prime ministerial candidate. Advani said he had got more from his party and the nation than being the PM could possibly bring.