NITI Aayog released the 4th edition of the Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2024, providing a comprehensive assessment of India's states and Union Territories on their readiness and performance in international trade and exports. The index evaluates states across 70 parameters grouped under four key pillars: Export Infrastructure, Business Ecosystem, Policy & Governance, and Export Performance.

In the large states category, Maharashtra topped the rankings for the first time in this edition, followed by Tamil Nadu in second place and Gujarat in third. These states have demonstrated strong export infrastructure, robust industrial policy frameworks, and well-developed logistics ecosystems. Maharashtra's rise to the top reflects its dominance in manufacturing, financial services exports, and pharmaceutical export clusters.

In the smaller states category, Uttarakhand emerged as the top performer, showcasing the potential of hill states to develop niche export sectors such as organic products, herbs, and specialty food items. Among Union Territories, Goa recorded strong performance due to its tourism-linked export ecosystem and pharmaceutical manufacturing.

The EPI 2024 serves as a diagnostic tool for states to identify strengths and gaps in their export ecosystems. For Rajasthan, the index is relevant as the state seeks to leverage its strengths in handicrafts, textiles, gems and jewellery, minerals, and agro-based exports. Rajasthan's ranking in EPI highlights the need for improved logistics infrastructure, enhanced trade facilitation, and stronger MSME participation in export value chains.

The index is significant for RAS aspirants as it covers themes central to the RPSC 2026 syllabus including India's trade policy, economic competitiveness, federal fiscal frameworks, and Rajasthan's economic positioning in the national trade landscape.