What is the Commonwealth, and is India still a member?

Yes, India is a member. The Commonwealth of Nations is a voluntary association of 56 countries, most of which were once part of the British Empire.

It promotes cooperation on trade, education, democracy and development, and is best known to many people for the Commonwealth Games. Members are equal, and King Charles III is its symbolic head, though he is not the head of state for most members, including India, which is a republic.

Critics say the Commonwealth has little real power. Supporters argue it gives small nations a voice and keeps useful connections alive between countries with shared history, language and legal systems.