essay on india's progress

As a rising global power, what is India’s vision for the world?

India has the opportunity to put in place a new framework for its own security and growth, and that of developing countries around the world. Image:  REUTERS

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Seventy-one years ago – on 15 August 1947 – India gained independence. Over the subsequent decades, the country has managed its evolution in an international system largely created and guided by the United States and its partners. While it was not easy for India to pursue independent domestic and foreign policies within this system, the American-led order was preferable to the British Empire from which New Delhi had liberated itself.

Today, this global system is under serious threat. Washington, along with capital cities across the European Union, finds itself caught in a polarizing debate on the social contracts of its society – questions of domestic inequality and identity have left the US and its allies incapable of effectively championing the values of the international order. Simultaneously, the balance of global economic power has once again tipped in favour of Asia.

Within this shifting global landscape, India has the opportunity to put in place a new framework for its own security, growth and development, and that of developing countries around the world. As a rising global power, this must be India’s principle endeavor in the coming decades.

The changing international order

The extraordinary rise of countries in Asia has spawned at least two new dynamics. First, political boundaries – many of them colonial legacies – are steadily becoming more porous through economic cooperation. Markets are converging across the Eurasian landmass as well as facilitating the geo-economic “union” of the Indian and Pacific oceans. This has resulted in new integrative dynamics; as cultures, markets and communities aspire for development and new opportunities. Second, even though territorial considerations acknowledge economic linkages, political differences are still being reasserted – not just to contest the consensus of the past, but to shape a new order altogether.

Asia is coming together economically but is also threatening to grow apart politically; market-driven growth in the region sits uneasily with a diverse array of political systems.

China is, in large part, responsible for both. While offering a political vision that stands in sharp contrast to the “liberal international order”, China has been equally assertive about advancing free trade, raising new development finance, and offering a new model for development and global governance. The prospect of China using its economic clout to advance its own norms is worrying for India.

A consensus to shape a new order

Given the velocity of change underway, the challenge for India on its Independence Day is to shape an inclusive and equitable international order by the centenary of its independence. To achieve this, India must prepare to act according to its capabilities: by mid-century it must build the necessary state capacity, industrial and economic heft and strategic culture that would befit its status as a leading power. The country could present this as a model for much of the developing world to emulate, and anchor faith in the liberalism and internationalism of the world order.

India, then, requires a “consensus” – a new proposition that will not only guide its own trajectory for the better part of the 21st century, but one that appeals to communities around the world.

What then are the tenets of a “New Delhi Consensus”?

First, India must sustain and strengthen its own trajectory of rapid economic growth, and show to the world that it is capable of realizing its development goals within the rubric of liberal democracy. No argument for the New Delhi Consensus can be more powerful and alluring than the economic success of India. By IMF estimates, India already accounts for 15% of global growth. Even though nearly 40% of its population live in various shades of poverty and barely a third are connected to the internet, India is still able to proportionately shoulder the world’s economic burden. Imagine the possibilities for global growth if India can meet, and even exceed, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

States in the developing world yearn for replicable templates of growth, yet they find themselves with a binary choice between Western democracy, which is ill suited for deeply plural and socially stratified societies, and autocratic systems that have little room for individual freedom.

India, on the other hand has “emerged as a bridge between the many extremes of the world”, as former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh once remarked . India’s plural and composite culture, he said, was “living proof of the possibility of a confluence of civilizations”. The global 2030 development agenda, for the most part, may as well be a story of India’s domestic economic transformation and of its defence of diversity and democracy.

Second and flowing from the above, Delhi must claim leadership over the global development agenda. It is worth pointing out that India sits at the intersection of the world’s two most dynamics regions, Eurasia and the Indo-Pacific. The largest bulk of development finance will emerge from, and be invested in, these regions. It is incumbent on India to ensure that this is not a new means to maximize political interference, but a moment to offer unfettered opportunities.

In his recent address to the Ugandan Parliament, Prime Minister Narendra Modi affirmed that “India’s development partnership will be guided by [African] priorities” – a position that contrasts sharply with the West’s evangelical focus on governance reforms and China’s economic policies in the region. India’s recipient-led partnership framework will allow states to secure development pathways that are economically sustainable and politically acceptable. India now needs to articulate its intentions and the principles that will shape international development cooperation in the days ahead.

Third, Delhi must create and protect the space for equitable and inclusive global governance. For too long, leadership in the international system was considered a free pass to monopolize the global commons. India has always bucked this trend, emerging as a leading power that has never tempered its idealism of “having an interest in peace, and a tradition of friendliness to all”, as one official put it. Whether it is on free trade, climate change or international security, India’s non-interventionist and multilateral approach is well suited to support and sustain global governance in a multipolar world: the new reality of this century.

Finally, India must incubate a new social contract between its own state, industry and civil society. At the turn of the century, former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee lamented that India’s democratic growth was held back by three failures: of the government to heed industry voices, of industry to appreciate the objectives of government, and of both in their commitment to the common individual.

Nearly two decades later, the imperative for India to correct these failures is even greater. The spread of information communication technologies and global supply chains implies that businesses and civil society must be made equal stakeholders if India is to develop its own unique consensus. Not only will this add greater legitimacy to India’s proposition, it will also create natural and grassroots champions for the country around the world.

For the first time since the end of the Second World War, a nation state that is wary of hegemonic tendencies and identifies itself with the equitable governance of the global commons is in a position to shape the international order. India is home to one-sixth of the global population and has sustained a unique democratic ethos and a foreign policy that is defined not only by national interest but also by solidarity with the developing world.

As a leading power, India must look beyond raw indexes of economic, political and military might, and craft a consensus that is consistent with its ancient and historic view of the world.

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Essay on India

Here we have shared the Essay on India in detail so you can use it in your exam or assignment of 150, 250, 400, 500, or 1000 words.

You can use this Essay on India in any assignment or project whether you are in school (class 10th or 12th), college, or preparing for answer writing in competitive exams. 

Topics covered in this article.

Essay on India in 150 words

Essay on india in 200-300 words, essay on india in 500-1000 words.

India, a diverse and culturally rich country located in South Asia, is renowned for its vibrant festivals, ancient heritage sites, and diverse landscapes. With a population of over 1.3 billion people, India is a melting pot of religions, languages, and ethnicities. It is a secular nation that upholds democracy and freedom. India has made significant contributions to art, literature, science, and philosophy. Despite challenges, it has achieved progress in various fields, including technology and economic growth. As the world’s largest democracy, India’s cultural richness, traditions, and hospitality attract tourists from around the world. With a young and dynamic workforce, India is emerging as a global player in innovation and entrepreneurship. India’s resilience, cultural heritage, and growing influence continue to captivate the world, making it an important player on the global stage.

India, known as the land of diversity, is a country of rich culture, history, and traditions. It is located in South Asia and is the seventh-largest country by land area. India is renowned for its vibrant festivals, ancient heritage sites, and diverse landscapes, ranging from the majestic Himalayas to the serene backwaters of Kerala.

With a population of over 1.3 billion people, India is a melting pot of different religions, languages, and ethnicities. It is a secular country that upholds the principles of democracy and freedom. India has made significant contributions to art, literature, science, and philosophy throughout history.

Despite its challenges, India has achieved notable progress in various fields, including technology, space exploration, and economic growth. It is the world’s largest democracy and has a parliamentary system of government. India’s cultural richness, traditions, and hospitality attract millions of tourists from around the world each year.

In recent years, India has emerged as a global player, contributing to the world economy, science, and technology. It is home to a young and dynamic workforce that is driving innovation and entrepreneurship.

In conclusion, India is a country that embraces diversity, celebrates its rich cultural heritage, and strives for progress. With its vast landscapes, ancient history, and vibrant culture, India continues to captivate the world. The resilience and spirit of its people, coupled with its growing influence, make India a significant player on the global stage.

Title: India – A Tapestry of Diversity, Heritage, and Progress

Introduction :

India, a nation located in South Asia, is a land of rich cultural heritage, diverse traditions, and breathtaking landscapes. With a population of over 1.3 billion people, India is known for its vibrant festivals, ancient history, and varied cuisines. This essay explores the multifaceted aspects of India, including its rich cultural tapestry, historical significance, economic growth, and contributions to the world. From the majestic Himalayas in the north to the serene backwaters of Kerala in the south, India’s beauty and diversity captivate the hearts of millions. Let us embark on a journey through the vibrant and enchanting land of India.

Cultural Heritage

India’s cultural heritage is as vast and diverse as its geographical expanse. It is a melting pot of religions, languages, and customs. The country is home to numerous religions, including Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, and Jainism. Each religion has its own unique rituals, traditions, and festivals, contributing to the colorful tapestry of Indian culture. Festivals like Diwali, Eid, Holi, Christmas, and Durga Puja are celebrated with great enthusiasm and are a reflection of India’s religious diversity.

Historical Significance

India boasts a rich history that spans thousands of years. It has been the birthplace of several ancient civilizations, including the Indus Valley Civilization and the Maurya and Gupta Empires. The country has been the center of learning and trade for centuries, attracting scholars, explorers, and traders from around the world. The Mughal Empire, known for its architectural marvels like the Taj Mahal, left a lasting legacy on India’s history. The British colonial rule in India and the subsequent struggle for independence led by Mahatma Gandhi shaped the modern history of the nation.

Economic Growth

India has experienced significant economic growth in recent years. It is one of the world’s fastest-growing major economies and has become a prominent player on the global stage. The country has embraced economic liberalization, attracting foreign investments and fostering entrepreneurship. India’s information technology industry, pharmaceutical sector, and service industries have flourished, contributing to its economic prosperity. However, challenges such as poverty, income inequality, and unemployment persist, highlighting the need for inclusive growth and sustainable development.

Contributions to the World

India has made remarkable contributions to various fields, including science, literature, arts, and spirituality. Ancient Indian scholars made significant advancements in mathematics, astronomy, and medicine. Indian literature, such as the Vedas, Ramayana, and Mahabharata, continues to inspire and influence people worldwide. Indian art forms like classical music, dance, and cinema have gained international recognition for their richness and beauty. Spiritual traditions like yoga and meditation have transcended borders, offering tools for holistic well-being.

Unity in Diversity

India’s strength lies in its unity amidst diversity. Despite its linguistic, religious, and cultural differences, the people of India have come together as a nation. The Constitution of India, adopted in 1950, upholds the principles of democracy, secularism, and unity. The diverse fabric of Indian society is reflected in its official languages, Hindi and English, and the recognition of regional languages. India’s unity in diversity is celebrated through cultural exchange, interfaith dialogue, and the promotion of national integration.

Future Challenges and Opportunities

India faces a range of challenges, including poverty, environmental degradation, healthcare disparities, and social inequality. Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts in education, healthcare, sustainable development, and social welfare. However, India also presents immense opportunities for progress. With a young and dynamic workforce, a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, and a growing middle class, India has the potential to achieve inclusive growth, technological advancements, and social transformation.

Conclusion :

India, with its diverse cultures, historical significance, economic growth, and contributions to the world, stands as a shining example of unity in diversity. The nation’s cultural heritage, ancient history, and rapid development reflect its resilience and potential. As India continues its journey toward progress and prosperity, it must embrace sustainable development, address societal challenges, and build an inclusive and equitable society. India’s beauty, traditions, and people leave an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those who explore its captivating tapestry.

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India, a Story of Progress

The world should take note of which principles brought freedom and prosperity to india..

Harry Backhouse — Sep 14, 2023

The 76-year story of modern India is one of the greatest stories of progress in history. At the time of its independence in 1947, it was a mostly agricultural economy of 340 million people with a literacy rate of only 12 percent and a life expectancy of only 32 years. Today, it has the fifth-largest economy by nominal gross domestic product (GDP) and third largest by purchasing power parity. In his book “Enlightenment Now: The Case for Reason, Science, Humanism, and Progress,” Steven Pinker highlights six key areas of progress: life, health, wealth, safety, literacy, and sustenance. In every one of these metrics, life in India has significantly improved over the years.

Self-Sufficiency Is Self-Destructive

Since independence in 1947, India suffered the consequences of socialist ideals. In a quest for self-sufficiency, the government played a heavy role in the economy. Under Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, India pursued Soviet-style “Five Year Plans,” intending to turn India into an industrialized economy. From 1947 to 1991, the government owned most key industries, including steel, coal, telecommunications, banking, and heavy industry. India’s economy was closed to foreign competition, with high tariffs and restrictions to foreign investment. For example, the import tariff for cars was around 125 percent in 1960. The policy of import substitution aimed to produce goods domestically instead of importing them from abroad. In reality, massive waste and inefficiency resulted, as Indian businesses were protected from international competition.

Furthermore, India’s private sector was heavily constrained. Overregulation and corruption stifled the business environment, and subsidies and price controls disincentivized production, leading to market distortions and fiscal deficits. The government required industrial licenses for the establishment, expansion, or modernization of industries, causing bureaucratic barriers and corruption. This environment tended to harm small businesses at the expense of large corporations, as large corporations could better cope with the complex bureaucracy. The period was often referred to as the License Raj, comparing the extent of control of the industrial licenses to that of direct rule by the British Empire before Indian independence.

Sustenance, Health, and Life

In his 2016 book, “Progress: Ten Reasons to Look Forward to the Future,” Johan Norberg showed how these problems impacted daily life. When Norman Borlaug invented new high-yield wheat, India was facing a threat of mass starvation. Despite that, Indian state monopolies lobbied against both food and fertilizer imports. Fortunately, Borlaug was able to bring through his innovations. In 1965, yields in India rose by 70 percent.

From 1948 to 2018, the number of calories per person increased by two-thirds, growing from 1,570 to 2,533. For reference, the recommended healthy number of calories per person is 2,000 for a woman and 2,500 for a man. The average Indian now no longer suffers from undernourishment.

This achievement is even more remarkable when one considers the growth of the Indian population, which added a billion new citizens between 1948 and 2018. As well as having a greater population, Indians began living longer, with life expectancy more than doubling between 1947 and 2022. Furthermore, fewer children were dying—infant mortality fell dramatically between 1960 and 2022. Many children previously suffered from malnutrition. Parents could now watch their children grow up and have children of their own.

Wealth, Safety, and Literacy

However, problems in India remained. The License Raj continued to strangle the Indian economy in the name of protectionism. In 1978, the economist Raj Krishna coined the term the “Hindu rate of growth” to refer to slow economic growth of around 4 percent per year, which was prevalent in India from the 1950s to the 1980s. But Krishna was incorrect. The slow rate of growth had nothing to do with Hinduism or factors unique to India. Instead, India’s growth was low, because of the restrictive policies of the socialist government. As soon as India removed the restrictions to competition and commerce, it began reaching growth rates of between 6 percent and 9 percent each year.

The economic liberalization of India was prompted by an economic crisis in 1990. India, having borrowed heavily from international lenders to finance infrastructure projects, was facing a balance of payments crisis and had only two weeks until it would default on its debt. A new government under Prime Minister P. V. Narasimha Rao abolished the License Raj, removing restrictions for most industries and foreign investment into Indian companies. Restrictions on foreign technology and imports were scrapped, as were subsidies to fertilizer and sugar. India flung open its doors to the world, embracing competition in both imports and exports. Indian companies now faced foreign competition in the domestic market but also had the entire world market to sell to.

New industries sprung up, with India developing competitive industries in telecommunications, software, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, research and development, and professional services.

The result was a dramatic increase in the standard of living for ordinary Indians. The economy flourished as foreign investment flooded in. The innovating spirit of ordinary Indians was unleashed. Between 1993 and 2021, access to electricity went from 50 percent of the population to 99.6 percent. The literacy rate improved from 48.2 percent to 74.4 percent. This is even more remarkable considering that India added extra 600 million people during that period.

Having access to a microwave, refrigeration, and electric lighting are all amenities that we take for granted, but these conveniences are relatively recent for the average Indian. A virtuous cycle of more educated, well-fed citizens creates greater innovation and prosperity . It is also correlated with less violence, with the homicide rate falling by 48 percent between 1991 and 2020.

Absolute poverty also has been falling. In 1987, half of the Indian population lived in extreme poverty. By 2019, this figure had fallen to 10 percent. Granted, there are still issues in India. Millions of people live in slums, and poverty remains a problem. However, it is worth appreciating just how far India has come.

As the Indian economist Gurcharan Das says about his country’s progress in the documentary “India Awakes,” “The principles that brought so much prosperity and freedom to the West are being affirmed in a country that is in the East.”

These principles are that of a market economy, openness to innovation, and a favorable attitude to commerce.

Life, health, education, and sustenance have all measurably improved. Violence and poverty have declined. Progress has occurred, and the world should take note.

How India Has Changed Since Independence

How India Has Changed Since Independence – In this blog article, the author discusses the progress India has made since independence , including things like economic development and social progress .

Write an article on “India’s Progress Since Independence”

Ans. India’s Progress Since Independence

 India has paced with the times. It has made herculean efforts to change its old and discredited image. Till the 1970s, India was considered to be a land of famines, droughts, beggars and snake charmers. But in the last three or four decades, it has made tremendous progress. India’s economic and industrial might has been universally recognised. Now India is being counted as one of the fastest emerging economies of the world. In the 1960s, we had to depend on the mercy of the Western countries to survive. But now we are self-sufficient in food. India has emerged as the second-largest paddy producer in the world. It is the second-largest sugar producer as well. Mechanization of agriculture and the Green Revolution has led to the self-sufficiency despite the rapid increase in population. With an emphasis on Horticulture, India has emerged as the largest producer of fruits and the second-largest producer of vegetables. The White Revolution has made India the largest producer of milk. The Indian pharma industry ranks 4th in the world. India has made rapid strides in defence preparedness. India’s progress in the industry is really breathtaking. India’s progress in space technology only matches with the advanced nations of the world. India is on the move. It will attain new heights in future.  Disaster management programmes have not proved up to the mark and up to the task. The Government and the concerned agencies should provide comprehensive aids and help to the survivors, particularly the children. They must provide nutritious food, clothes, shelters and medical aids to them. All efforts should be made to wipe out the scars left by these disasters.

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Progress of india essay       .

Since independence in 1947, India has made significant progress in terms of economic development, social welfare, and international stature. The country has emerged as one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, with an annual growth rate of 7.5% in 2016. This remarkable progress is the result of a concerted effort by the Indian government and people to promote innovation and entrepreneurship, expand education and healthcare services, build infrastructure, and strengthen relations with regional and global partners. The years since independence have seen dramatic changes in India’s economy, society, and politics. In the early years after Independence, the country faced immense challenges in rebuilding its shattered infrastructure and restoring economic stability. However, through hard work and determination, the Indian government was able to achieve rapid growth and transform India into one of the world’s leading economies. Since 1991, India has been a member of the United Nations (UN), serving on numerous committees and expert bodies. The country has also played a leading role in several international organizations such as the World Bank, International Monetary Fund (IMF) and Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). India has also been a vocal advocate for democracy and human rights around the world, playing a crucial role in promoting dialogues between different cultures and civil societies. Overall, India has made significant progress in terms of both economic development and social welfare since independence. The country’s impressive growth rate shows no signs of slowing down any time soon, which is testament to the hard work and determination

India’s Progress since Independence Article

Since independence, India has made tremendous progress in terms of economic development and social welfare. The country has made great strides in the areas of education, healthcare, agriculture, industry, and infrastructure. Despite various challenges faced by the country, India has remained one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. The country’s GDP grew at an annual rate of 7.5% between FY 2006 and FY 2012 and is expected to grow at a rate of 7.8% in FY 2013. The country’s growth is driven by strong domestic consumption and investment as well as exports. In 2012, India became the world’s second-largest economy after the United States. In terms of social welfare, India has made significant progress in providing healthcare to its citizens. As of 2010, 93% of the population had access to sanitation facilities and 68% had access to safe drinking water. The country also has a robust social safety net that aids low-income families. In 2013, India ranked first in the world in terms of health spending as a percentage of GDP (5.3%). In terms of education, India has made significant progress since independence. As of 2011, there were more than 1.2 billion students enrolled in schools across the country. This is an increase from 854 million students enrolled in school in 1951. In terms of literacy rates, Indian children have surpassed their peers from other countries in terms of reading skills and are now ranked fourth globally behind China, Brazil      

Short Essay on India after Independence 

After India gained its independence from the British Empire in 1947, the country was faced with an immense task of rebuilding itself. While there were many challenges, such as poverty, illiteracy and a lack of infrastructure, the country ultimately managed to overcome these difficulties and become a thriving democracy. Today, India is one of the world’s most populous countries and is a major player in both the economic and political arenas. It has also achieved notable successes in fields such as science and technology, education and health care. In spite of these successes, there are still some areas of concern for India, such as poverty and inequality. Additionally, there are concerns about the country’s increasingly fragile environment. However, despite these challenges, India is continuing to make progress and is poised for even greater achievements in the future.

India after Independence Essay     

India is one of the world’s largest and most diverse countries. It has a longstanding history and culture, as well as a rich tradition of art, literature, and music. The country is home to a variety of languages and religions. Independence from Britain was achieved in 1947. At the time, India was divided into two parts: the Muslim-dominated East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) and the Hindu-dominated West Pakistan. In 1971, East Pakistan became independent as Bangladesh, while West Pakistan became part of present-day Pakistan. Since independence, India has undergone numerous changes. The economy has grown rapidly, and the country has become a major player on the global stage. India is also considered to be a rising power in the world economy. Despite these successes, there are also areas of concern in India today. Poverty remains widespread, and life for many people is still difficult. There are also concerns about the country’s growing religious intolerance and violence against minorities. Overall, however, India is an exciting place to live and visit. Its culture is rich and varied, its people are friendly and welcoming, and its economy is expanding rapidly.

Short Essay on India

India is a country with a rich history, culture, and heritage. It has a population of over 1.3 billion people and is the world’s second most populous country. India has been through many phases of development, from the traditional rural society to the modern industrialized economy. The development of India is due to its unique geographical location as well as its cultural heritage and traditions. India’s location on the subcontinent provides it with natural resources such as coal, oil, and gas, which have helped fuel its growth. The country’s early development was also aided by British colonialism, which promoted education and infrastructure development. Despite these successes, India still faces many challenges in terms of development. Some of the major issues include poverty, inequality, and corruption. However, there are also signs that India is making progress towards achieving greater economic stability and social justice.

Development of India Essay

After India gained independence from the British Empire in 1947, the country experienced a period of rapid economic and social growth. This development was due in part to the efforts of the Indian National Congress, which led the struggle for independence. The Congress was a coalition of numerous political parties and organizations that had emerged in the late 19th century to fight for Indian independence. The party was able to achieve its goals after years of negotiations with the British government. After independence, India faced many challenges, including poverty, illiteracy, and social disparities. However, the country also experienced significant progress in many areas, such as education, health care, agriculture, and industrialization. Despite these successes, there are still many challenges facing India today. One of the most pressing is the issue of poverty and inequality. Despite high rates of economic growth and increased access to education and healthcare, large portions of India remain impoverished. This is primarily due to socio-economic factors such as poor job opportunities and lack of social security. Another major challenge is environmental degradation. India has been struggling with increasing levels of pollution and climate change since the early 2000s. This problem is exacerbated by a lack of infrastructure and insufficient government policies to address environmental issues. Despite these challenges, India continues to make significant progress in many areas. The country has achieved impressive rates of economic growth, increased literacy rates, and reduced poverty levels over the past few decades.

1.How India is progressing? Answers: India is progressing rapidly and has a lot to offer in terms of growth, stability, and opportunities. The country is undergoing many changes that are both positive and negative, but overall, the trend is positive. There are many challenges that India faces, but with the right leadership and concerted effort these can be overcome.

2. How has India progressed after Independence? Answers: India has made tremendous progress since independence in 1947. Economic growth, social progress and political stability have all been impressive. The country now has a strong democracy and is a key global player. However, there is still much to be done and many challenges remain. India is now a land of opportunity for everyone who wants to make the most of their potential.

3. In what way do you think India has developed since Independence essay? Answers: Since Independence, India has undergone a lot of changes. The country has seen rapid growth in terms of its economy, as well as its social and political landscape. There has been a gradual shift from a centrally planned economy to a market-driven one, which has had a considerable impact on the way Indians live and work. Overall, I believe that India has developed significantly since Independence, and I think its future looks bright too.

4. How can India be a developed country? Answers: India is a developing country because it is not developed. Development means that a country moves from a state in which most people are poor to one in which most people are middle class or above. India has not yet reached that stage, and as a result, it is a developing country.

5. How does a nation progress? Answers: A nation progresses by trying to understand and learn from its past. By doing so, it can build a better future for itself. Historical events are important to learn from, as they provide lessons that can be used in the present. Examining the rise and fall of different nations can also help people understand how to succeed or fail in their own lives.

6. How India Got progress compared to other countries? Answers: When we compare India’s progress to other countries, it is evident that India has made the most progress in terms of the economic and social spheres. There have been remarkable advancements in education, health care, women’s empowerment, and other fields.

7. What is the status of India in the world? Answers: India is a country in the world. It is the 7th largest country in the world with a population of over 1.3 billion people. India has a diverse culture, and its economy is growing rapidly. India is important because it is a major player in the world, and it can  make a difference in the world.

8. What is the future of India? Answers: The future of India is very bright. With a population of over 1.3 billion people and the fastest growing economy in the world, India has a lot to offer. The country is still young and has a lot of opportunities for growth. If you are interested in learning more about the future of India, be sure to check out our blog!

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The World Bank In India

With a population of more than 1.4 billion, India is the world’s largest democracy. Over the past decade, the country’s integration into the global economy has been accompanied by economic growth. India has now emerged as a global player.

AT A GLANCE

India is one of the fastest growing economies of the world and is poised to continue on this path, with aspirations to reach high middle income status by 2047, the centenary of Indian independence. It is also committed to ensuring that its continued growth path is equipped to deal with the challenges of climate change, and in line with its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.

The growth of the past two decades has also led to India making remarkable progress in reducing extreme poverty. Between 2011 and 2019, the country is estimated to have halved the share of the population living in extreme poverty - below $2.15 per person per day (2017 PPP) (World Bank Poverty and Inequality Portal and Macro Poverty Outlook, Spring 2023). In recent years, however, the pace of poverty reduction has slowed especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, but has since moderated in 2021-22.

Certain challenges persist. Inequality in consumption continues, with a Gini index of around 35 over the past two decades. Child malnutrition has remained high, with 35.5 percent of children under the age of 5 years being stunted, with the figure rising to 67 percent for children in the 6-59 months age group. Headline employment indicators have improved since 2020 but concerns remain about the quality of jobs created and the real growth in wages, as well as around the low participation of women in the laborforce.

India’s aspiration to achieve high income status by 2047 will need to be realized through a climate-resilient growth process that delivers broad-based gains to the bottom half of the population. Growth-oriented reforms will need to be accompanied by an expansion in good jobs that keeps pace with the number of labor market entrants. At the same time, gaps in economic participation will need to be addressed, including by bringing more women into the workforce.

The World Bank is partnering with the government in this effort by helping strengthen policies, institutions, and investments to create a better future for the country and its people through green, resilient, and inclusive development.

Economic Outlook

After real GDP contracted in FY20/21 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, growth bounced back strongly in FY21/22, supported by accommodative monetary and fiscal policies and wide vaccine coverage. Consequently, in 2022, India emerged as one of the fastest growing economies in the world, despite significant challenges in the global environment – including renewed disruptions of supply lines following the rise in geopolitical tensions, the synchronized tightening of global monetary policies, and inflationary pressures.

In FY22/23, India’s real GDP expanded at an estimated 6.9 percent. Growth was underpinned by robust domestic demand, strong investment activity bolstered by the government’s push for investment in infrastructure, and buoyant private consumption, particularly among higher income earners. The composition of domestic demand also changed, with government consumption being lower due to fiscal consolidation.

Since Q3 FY22/23, however, there have been signs of moderation, although the overall growth momentum remains robust. The persisting headwinds – rising borrowing costs, tightening financial conditions and ongoing inflationary pressures – are expected to weigh on India’s growth in FY23/24. Real GDP growth is likely to moderate to 6.3 percent in FY23/24 from the estimated 6.9 percent in FY22/23.

Both the general government fiscal deficit and public debt to GDP ratio increased sharply in FY20/21 and have been declining gradually since then, with the fiscal deficit falling from over 13 percent in FY20/21 to an estimated 9.4 percent in FY22/23. Public debt has fallen from over 87 percent of GDP to around 83 percent over the same period. The consolidation has largely been driven by an increase in revenues and a gradual withdrawal of pandemic-related stimulus measures. At the same time, the government has remained committed to increasing capital spending, particularly on infrastructure, to boost growth and competitiveness.

Last Updated: Sep 27, 2023

THE WORLD BANK GROUP AND INDIA

The World Bank Group’s (WBG) over seven decade-long partnership with India is strong and enduring. Since the first loan to Indian Railways in 1949, the WBG’s financing, analytical work, and advisory services have contributed to the country’s development. International Development Association – the WBG’s soft-lending arm created for developing countries like India - has supported activities that have had a considerable impact on universalizing primary education; empowering rural communities through a series of rural livelihoods projects; revolutionizing agriculture through support of the Green and White (milk) Revolutions; and helping to combat polio, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS.   In FY18, the relationship reached a major milestone when India became a low middle-income country and graduated from International Development Association financing.

COUNTRY PARTNERSHIP FRAMEWORK

The WBG’s present engagement with India is guided by its Country Partnership Framework for FY18-22 (CPF).  The CPF builds on the decades-long partnership and seeks to address the country’s development aspirations and priority needs identified in the Group’s  Systematic Country Diagnostic for India . It aims to work with India so that the country’s rapidly growing economy makes much more efficient use of resources; fosters inclusiveness by investing in human capital and generating more quality jobs; and develops strong public sector institutions that are capable of meeting the demands of a rising middle-class economy. The CPF’s approach combines a focus on ‘what’ the WBG will work on and ‘how’ it will engage India in the process.  What  will   the WBG work on?

• Promoting resource-efficient growth , including in the rural, urban, and energy sectors as well addressing disaster risk management and air pollution;
• Enhancing competitiveness and enabling job creation , including improving the business climate, access to finance, connectivity, logistics, skilling, and increasing female labor force participation;
• Investing in human capital  through early childhood development, education, health, social protection, and rural water supply and sanitation. 

How  will the WBG amplify the impact of its work in India?

• By leveraging the  private sector
• By harnessing India’s  federalism
• By strengthening  public institutions
• By supporting  Lighthouse India  to foster knowledge exchanges within the country and between India and the rest of the world. 

In all its activities, the WBG will seek to address  climate change, gender gaps,  and the  challenges and opportunities afforded by technology .  

WORLD BANK GROUP PROGRAM

The World Bank’s lending program consists of 98 lending operations. Of the $21.4 billion in commitments, $19.3 billion is from IBRD, $2.0 billion is from IDA – the Bank’s soft lending arm - and $0.1 billion is from other sources, primarily grant funding from the Global Environment Fund. 

Roughly a little more than one third of these operations and around 40% of commitments are either for central or multi-state operations, while the remainder consists of state-specific operations in 26 of India’s 28 states. 

The four largest portfolios are  Agriculture  (15 operations totaling $3.1 billion in commitments),  Energy , (11 projects totaling $4.0 billion in commitments), Health, Nutrition & Population  (11 projects totaling $2.8 billion) and Transport  and Water (11 projects each totaling $2.5 billion respectively).

In FY23, the Bank approved 15 operations amounting to $4.37 billion.  Of this, $ 4.32 billion is lending from IBRD and $0.05 billion from IDA (recommitted from cancelled IDA programs). Around 15-18 projects are expected to be delivered in FY24, with total commitments in the range of $3.5 – 4 billion.

For the IFC, India is the biggest client country, accounting for over 10 percent of its global portfolio with a committed portfolio of US$6.5 billion as of June 30, 2023. IFC has more than 250+ active projects in sectors including infrastructure, health, energy, manufacturing, housing, technology, and finance. Since its first engagement in 1958, IFC has invested more than US$27 billion (including mobilization) in over 500 companies in India. India is the sixth largest shareholder in IFC, owning a 4.01 percent stake.

IBRD and IFC work together in several areas, most notably in energy, transport, water and health. The World Bank partnership has been particularly strong in raising financing for renewable energy initiatives, especially in supporting the Government of Madhya Pradesh in setting up the largest solar park project that provides solar power with a total capacity of 2.25 gigawatts at a record low cost, reducing carbon emissions by 3.8 million metric tons per year and powering 60% of the Delhi metro. Similarly, IFC and IBRD collaborated under the Government of India’s flagship Clean Ganga program, ‘ Namami Gange ,’ helping revamp sewage treatment plants using hybrid annuity-based PPP projects, treating 218 million liters of water per day in three cities, and contributing to the steady rejuvenation of the sacred river for millions. IFC led the PPP mandate, while IBRD loan facilitated payment guarantees to boost private sector participation in the sector.

The Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) does not have exposure in India. MIGA has been working closely with the Ministry of Finance to provide credit enhancement solutions at the state-level and state-owned enterprise (SOE) level. This will enable state governments and SOEs to utilize long-term commercial financing, which can complement concessional lending provided by other multilaterals and development finance institutions.

The WBG has a wide-ranging program of Advisory Services & Analytics. The program informs policy debate, provides analytical underpinnings and learnings for operations and strategy, facilitates the scale up of innovative solutions, and helps to improve state capability. As of October 2021, some 18 analytical studies and 15 advisory activities were ongoing. Key areas of focus include  poverty and macroeconomic analysis ,  financial sector reform ,  enhancing human capital including universal health coverage  and  gender ,  air quality management , as well as  state capability and governance . 

*FY23 means Financial Year from July 2022 - June 2023

WBG financing supported India’s achievement of numerous results over the past five years, highlights of which include:

Education : The World Bank’s approximately $2.7 billion support for education in India covers primary, secondary, and tertiary education, as well as skills development for its young population.  

The World Bank’s $250 million Skill India Mission Operation (SIMO) is backing Central and State government initiatives to skill young people—including the disadvantaged and vulnerable—to acquire the skills needed for a wide range of jobs that are in demand in the market. The project has trained almost 6 million young people, 34 percent of whom are women. Some 40 percent of the trainees were employed within six months of completing their course.

The World Bank also supports state government programs for reforms in primary and senior secondary education. School education projects in Andhra Pradesh , Chhattisgarh , Gujarat and Nagaland are helping strengthen foundational learning of the students, provide training and resources for the professional development of teachers, and use data-driven programs to  improve learning assessment systems for remedial education.

A new World Bank program - Multidisciplinary Education and Research Improvement in Technical Education Project   to be implemented in 14 States and Union Territories will support research and innovation in climate change and sustainable energy. The program is expected to benefit around 350,000 students. In Madhya Pradesh and Odisha , reforms in tertiary education have helped close to 2 million students from disadvantaged groups get access to quality higher education and skills, making them more employable.

Social Protection :

During the COVID-19 pandemic, World Bank support of $1.65 billion through two projects, Accelerating India’s COVID-19 Social Protection Response Program  and Creating a Coordinated and Responsive Indian Social Protection System  helped protect the poor and vulnerable through transfers in cash and kind. About 320 million vulnerable people received cash transfers into their bank accounts.  About 800 million people received additional food rations.

In Jharkhand , a market-driven skills training and secondary education program has helped set up about 13,000 strong community level clubs that provide skills and education to over one million adolescent girls and young women.

In West Bengal , an ongoing program is providing social protection services to poor and vulnerable groups, with a focus on strengthening institutions for delivering care to elderly persons and those with disabilities. The program is also working to increase female labor force participation. Digital transfers through the Jai Bangla Platform reached 3.1 million beneficiaries in the first half of 2023.  

The World Bank’s current health portfolio in India of around $2.8 billion includes both national and state-level projects:

A $1 billion COVID-19 Emergency Response Project helped the government strengthen health facilities in states, procure essential medical supplies – such as testing-equipment and kits, personal protective equipment, gloves, masks, and oxygen cylinders. It also helped insure 2.2 million frontline health workers. In addition, it helped expand health facilities dedicated to COVID-19, raising their number from 163 in March 2020 to more than 23,000 in June 2022.  Over 926 million COVID-19 tests were supported and 3,362 testing laboratories created.

An additional $1 billion in World Bank support is helping the government strengthen health service delivery . This includes all aspects of pandemic preparedness and response , improving real-time disease surveillance, better One Health coordination and enhancing  capacity for biosecurity.

World Bank is also supporting the National Tuberculosis (TB) Elimination Program to improve success rates of treatment, including of multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB). It is also scaling up direct transfer of cash benefits into the bank accounts of TB patients.

In Andhra Pradesh , Meghalaya , Mizoram , Nagaland , Tamil Nadu , and Uttarakhand ongoing programs focus on improving the quality of health care services, and strengthening the management of non-communicable diseases. In Uttarakhand, clusters of public health facilities, using a public private partnership (PPP) model, now have specialists available regularly, resulting in improved service delivery.  Digital health strategies for improved service delivery are being implemented in Andhra Pradesh, Nagaland and Tamil Nadu.

Rural Water Supply and Sanitation : Since 2000, World Bank projects have contributed over $2.8 billion in financing for rural water supply and sanitation. About 30 million people from over 30,000 villages—with populations ranging from 150 to 15,000—have gain better access to drinking water. About 167 million rural people have benefitted from improved sanitation. Many of the projects have helped promote women’s participation in discussions around changing age-old sanitation behaviors. Local institutions have been strengthened to improve operations and maintenance of water and sanitation infrastructure and upgrade service delivery.

Agriculture

World Bank-financed projects are promoting climate resilient agriculture in Andhra Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra Odisha and Tamil Nadu. The focus is on introducing climate smart technologies, using water more efficiently, adopting crop diversification for better soil health and using climate resilient seeds.  World Bank is also focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and using clean energy in post-harvest activities. Since 2016, World Bank-financed projects have brought around 1.7 million hectares of land under climate resilient agriculture.  Around 2 million farmers are adopting improved agriculture technologies.

Empowering Rural Women

Since 2003, World Bank has provided $2.2 billion in support of the Women’s Self-Help Group (SHG) movement in India through several state and national projects. Around 32 million rural women have been mobilized into 2.9 million SHGs.   Rural women have been trained and now earn their own livelihood as Pashu Sakhis (looking after animals), Bank Sakhis (helping rural people operate Bank accounts), or operating canteens at government hospitals and offices, and as masons building toilets.  These empowered women have also been encouraged to become entrepreneurs, running small businesses like poultry and goat farms, grocery shops, and cottage industries, and provided access to markets.   These entrepreneurial initiatives have helped the SHGs access commercial finance of over $14.5 billion.  These projects were also the genesis of the Government of India’s National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM), which is world’s largest platform for women’s social and economic empowerment.  As of April 2023, the NRLM supports over 91 million women through 8.4 million SHGs.

reduction in new HIV/AIDS infections between 2000 and 2009

India: Commitments by Fiscal Year (in millions of dollars)*

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Is India the World’s Next Great Economic Power?

• Bhaskar Chakravorti
• Gaurav Dalmia

Historically, the country’s expected rise has remained elusive. Here’s a look at what’s different now.

Is India’s economic rise inevitable? There’s good reason to think that this latest round of Indo-optimism might be different than previous iterations, but the country still has major challenges to address to make good on this promise. In terms of drivers, demand — in the form of a consumer boom, context appropriate innovation, and a green transition — and supply — in the form of a demographic dividend, access to finance, and major infrastructure upgrades — are helping to push the country forward. This is facilitated by policy reforms, geopolitical positioning, and a diaspora dividend. Even so, the country faces barriers to success, including unbalanced growth, unrealized demographic potential, and unrealized ease-of-business and innovation potential.

In 2002, India’s government launched a ubiquitous international tourism campaign known as “Incredible India.” Were it to launch a similar campaign today, it might as well be called “Inevitable India.” Not just enthusiasts within the country, but a chorus of global analysts, have declared India as the next great economic power: Goldman Sachs has predicted it will become the world’s second-largest economy by 2075, and the FT’s Martin Wolf suggests that by 2050, its purchasing power will be 30% larger than that of the U.S.

• Bhaskar Chakravorti is the Dean of Global Business at The Fletcher School at Tufts University and founding Executive Director of Fletcher’s Institute for Business in the Global Context . He is the author of The Slow Pace of Fast Change .
• Gaurav Dalmia is the Chairman of Dalmia Group Holdings, an Indian holding company for business and financial assets.

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Development of India After Independence Essay

Table of Contents

Development of India After Independence Essay: India’s journey after gaining independence in 1947 has been nothing short of remarkable. The nation has made significant strides in various sectors, propelling itself towards economic growth, technological advancement, and social development. India’s development journey after independence has been a saga of growth, progress, and change. The nation, once struggling with poverty and colonial legacy, embarked on a path of economic and social transformation. Over the decades, India has achieved remarkable milestones, including technological advancements, improved healthcare, and increased literacy rates. While challenges persist, India’s journey reflects its resilience, diversity, and determination to build a prosperous and inclusive future. In this article, we’ll provide sample essays of varying lengths to illustrate its progress.

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Whether you need a 100-word overview or a more detailed 500-word essay on the topic “Development of India After Independence”, we’ve got your back. Refer to the sample essays given below.

Development of India After Independence Essay 1: 100 Words

India gained independence from British rule on August 15, 1947, and since then, there has been a noteworthy development in various sectors. The country witnessed massive advancements in science and technology, education, infrastructure, and healthcare. The establishment of prestigious institutes like the Indian Institutes of Technology and the Indian Space Research Organisation propelled India into becoming a global hub for technological innovation. Additionally, initiatives such as the Green Revolution brought about a paradigm shift in agriculture, leading to increased food production. Despite economic and social challenges, India’s progress after independence demonstrates the immense potential and resilience of its people.

Development of India After Independence Essay 2: 250 Words

The development of India after gaining independence in 1947 has been marked by significant achievements and transformative changes. At the time of independence, India faced numerous challenges, including widespread poverty, illiteracy, and inadequate infrastructure. However, the nation embarked on a journey of progress and development that has since witnessed remarkable milestones.

One of the key pillars of India’s development has been economic growth. The country implemented economic reforms in the 1990s, liberalizing various sectors and fostering entrepreneurship. This led to a surge in economic activity, attracting foreign investments, and propelling India into the ranks of the world’s fastest-growing economies.

India’s technological advancement has been another noteworthy achievement. The country’s IT industry has gained global recognition, and India has become a hub for software services and innovation. This technological prowess has not only boosted the economy but also enhanced India’s global standing.

Furthermore, India has made strides in improving healthcare and education. Initiatives like the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) and the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan have expanded healthcare access and increased literacy rates across the country. These efforts have had a positive impact on the overall quality of life for millions of Indians.

In conclusion, India’s development journey after independence is a testament to its resilience, diversity, and commitment to progress. While challenges remain, the nation has achieved significant growth in various sectors, positioning itself as a global economic and technological powerhouse.

Development of India After Independence Essay 3: 300 Words

India’s post-independence development has been a story of remarkable progress and transformation. After gaining independence in 1947, India faced numerous challenges, including poverty, illiteracy, and a fragile economy. However, the nation embarked on a journey of development that has witnessed significant milestones.

Economic growth has been a cornerstone of India’s progress. The nation adopted economic reforms in the 1990s, opening up its markets and attracting foreign investments. This led to robust economic expansion, making India one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. The IT and services sector, in particular, flourished, earning India a reputation as a global technology hub.

India’s technological advancements have also been a notable achievement. The country’s IT industry has grown exponentially, with Indian professionals contributing to innovation and software development on a global scale. This technological prowess has not only boosted the economy but has also strengthened India’s position in the global arena.

Improvements in healthcare and education have played a pivotal role in India’s development. Initiatives such as the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) and the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan have expanded access to healthcare and education in rural and remote areas. These efforts have resulted in increased literacy rates and improved healthcare outcomes, enhancing the quality of life for millions of Indians.

Additionally, India has made strides in infrastructure development, urbanization, and social inclusion. The nation has launched ambitious projects like “Make in India” and “Digital India,” aiming to boost manufacturing, innovation, and connectivity.

In conclusion, India’s journey of development after independence reflects its resilience, diversity, and commitment to progress. While challenges persist, the nation has made significant strides in various sectors, positioning itself as a global economic and technological powerhouse with a focus on inclusive growth and development.

Development of India After Independence Essay 4: 500 Words

India gained its independence from British rule on August 15, 1947, after a long and arduous struggle. With newfound freedom, the country faced numerous challenges, including poverty, illiteracy, and social inequality. However, over the years, India has made significant strides in its development and has emerged as one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. This essay will discuss the development of India after independence in various aspects such as the economy, education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, and technology.

One of the greatest achievements of post-independence India has been its economic growth. The country adopted a mixed economy model, combining elements of socialism and capitalism, and implemented several reforms to promote industrialization and foreign investment. As a result, India’s GDP has increased significantly, and poverty rates have declined.

The establishment of the Green Revolution in the 1960s revolutionized agriculture, making India self-sufficient in food production. Moreover, the liberalization policies of the 1990s opened up the economy to the global market, attracting foreign investments and boosting exports. Today, India is one of the largest economies in the world and continues to experience rapid growth.

Education has also been a priority for post-independence India. The government has implemented various initiatives to increase literacy rates and improve the quality of education. The Right to Education Act, passed in 2009, made education a fundamental right for all children between the ages of six and fourteen.

The expansion of the education system has resulted in a significant increase in literacy rates, which have more than doubled since independence. Moreover, India has established numerous prestigious educational institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Technology and Indian Institutes of Management, which are globally recognized for their excellence in education.

Healthcare has also witnessed remarkable progress in post-independence India. The government has implemented several schemes and programs to improve access to healthcare services, particularly for marginalized communities. The introduction of the National Rural Health Mission in 2005 aimed to provide quality healthcare services in rural areas, which have historically lacked adequate medical facilities.

Additionally, the government has launched initiatives such as Ayushman Bharat, a national health protection scheme that provides health insurance to over 500 million people, further widening access to healthcare services. These efforts have resulted in improved healthcare outcomes, including a decline in infant mortality rates and an increase in life expectancy.

The development of agriculture has played a crucial role in India’s progress after independence. The Green Revolution, as mentioned earlier, helped the country achieve self-sufficiency in food production and ensure food security for its population.

The government has continued to implement various policies and schemes to support farmers, such as providing subsidies, promoting organic farming, and investing in irrigation facilities. These measures have led to increased agricultural productivity and income levels, contributing to rural development and poverty reduction.

Infrastructure development has been another focus of post-independence India. The government has invested heavily in the construction of roads, railways, airports, and ports, in both urban and rural areas. This has not only facilitated connectivity and transportation but has also attracted investments and boosted economic growth.

Additionally, initiatives like the Smart Cities Mission and the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana have aimed to improve the quality of life in urban areas by providing better housing, sanitation facilities, and utilities.

Lastly, the rapid advancements in technology have played a crucial role in India’s development after independence. The country has emerged as a global leader in the information technology and software services sector.

The establishment of technology parks and the promotion of entrepreneurship and innovation have fostered a thriving startup ecosystem. This has not only boosted economic growth but has also created employment opportunities for millions of Indians.

In conclusion, India has made significant strides in various aspects of development after gaining independence. The country has witnessed economic growth, increased access to education and healthcare, enhanced agricultural productivity, improved infrastructure, and advancements in technology. While challenges remain, such as poverty, inequality, and environmental issues, the progress made so far indicates a promising future for India’s continued development.

FAQs on Development of India After Independence Essay

How has india developed after gaining independence.

India has made significant progress in economic growth, technological advancement, healthcare, education, and infrastructure development since gaining independence in 1947.

What are the key milestones in India's development journey post-independence?

Key milestones include economic reforms, IT sector growth, improved healthcare and education, and infrastructure development.

How did economic reforms impact India's development after independence?

Economic reforms in the 1990s opened up India's markets, attracting foreign investments and propelling the nation into one of the world's fastest-growing economies.

What role did the IT industry play in India's development?

India's IT industry achieved global recognition, contributing to technological advancements and bolstering the nation's economy.

How has healthcare and education improved in India post-independence?

Initiatives like the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) and Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan have expanded access to healthcare and education, leading to increased literacy rates and improved healthcare outcomes.

What are some recent development initiatives in India?

Recent initiatives include Make in India and Digital India, which focus on boosting manufacturing, innovation, and connectivity.

What challenges does India still face in its development journey?

Challenges include poverty alleviation, infrastructure development, environmental sustainability, and addressing social inequalities.

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India’s Economic and Social Progress

Introduction.

India is the second-most populous country in the world. Its population is over 1.3 billion people, which makes the state the biggest democracy in the world. 1 According to the United Nations, India will have the largest population in the world by 2028. 2 Its area is 1.2 million square miles, and major religions are Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, and Buddhism. 3 As it is a nuclear-powered state, and the economy of the country is rapidly developing, India has become one of the most significant powers in the region. 4 Even though the economic its indicators are still considerably lower than in developed countries, India is a country of the increased interest of economist around the world.

India is a country of controversies since it is the home of the oldest tradition and the most recent innovations. It is home to one of the world’s oldest religions that are based on the Sanskrit scripts. India still has the caste system, which is one of the world’s oldest social stratifications, which was shaped approximately 3,000 years ago. 5 At the same time, Bangalore, one of the largest cities in India, has become a hub for the global software business, and developers from around the globe often choose India as the country in which they want to live. 6 The controversies influence the economic development of the country, making it unstable. The present paper offers an overview of the country’s characteristics and describes factors that facilitate and obstruct economic and social progress during the last three decades.

Characteristics

Population structure.

The population in India is one of the fastest-growing in the world. Figure 1 represents the historical and projected population change in India for the period between 1950 and 2100. According to this graph, the population is expected to reach a peak of 1.6 billion in 2060. However, the growth of the population is attributed to having a historically large population due to the fertility of the lands. Additionally, the population is growing due to child marriages, lack of education in women, the presence of 60% of the younger population, and migration. 7 These characteristics are attributed to the social structure of the country.

As mentioned above, India has preserved a 3,000-year-old caste system that can be both advantageous and dysfunctional for the country. A caste is a hereditary class of Hindu society that determines the occupation of a person in India. There are castes in the Indian culture, which are brahmins (teachers, priests, and scientists), Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers), vaishyas (farmers, traders, and merchants), and Shudras (laborers). 8 There are also Dalits, or untouchables, which are outcasts of the Indian social system, and they work as street sweepers or latrine cleaners. The social system welcomes arranged marriages and resists the education of women, which facilitates the growth of the population.

Income Growth

India is one of the world’s most rapidly developing economies in the world. According to the India Times, the country has the second-fastest growing economy at the rate of 6%. 10 GDP is also growing exponentially; in 2018, it was estimated to be $2.726 trillion, while it was $468.395 billion and $1.676 trillion in 2000 and 2010 correspondingly. 11 In 2018, Gross National Income (GNI) per capita was $2,020, meaning that it has more than doubled since 2008. 12 However, despite the optimistic statistics, economic growth is considerably slower than in 2018, which was 8.1%. 13 Therefore, other indexes may also fall in 2019.

Changes in Development Indicators

In recent years, India has shown considerable progress in terms of human development indicators (HDI). According to Shandra and Bera, the country has climbed one rank in HDI in 2018, and now it is ranked 130 with a value of 0.640. 14 HDI is a composite index assessing progress in three basic dimensions of human development: mean years of education, life expectancy, and per capita gross national income. India has demonstrated improvement in all the spheres if compared to numbers 30 years ago. Since 1990, India’s life expectancy has grown by 11 years, and it is now 68.8 years. 15 There are more significant changes in education levels since the expected years of schooling have increased from 7.6 in 1990, to 12.3 in 2018. 16 GNI has also increased by 266% percent in 30 years, demonstrating a steady improvement in the sphere. In short, India’s HDI is steadily growing.

The primary strategy of improving the index is through the unification of a reformation of education and healthcare systems. Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, holds a vision of development for all and the fundamental principles of the Sustainable Development Goals, which aims at leaving no one behind and providing. 17 However, there are considerable limitations to the growth of the index. In particular, women remain significantly less politically, economically, and socially empowered than men. According to Shandra and Bera, “Female participation in the labour market is 27.2 % compared to 78.8% for men.” 18 Moreover, only 39% of females in India reached at least a secondary level of education in comparison to 64% of males. 19 In other words, inequality remains a major concern for India’s performance measured by HDI.

Social Indicators

Despite the positive changes in HDI, India is still lagging in major social indicators. One of the major concerns is the healthcare system in India. The reports show that maternal mortality rates and infant mortality rates, which are the primary ways to measure the performance of healthcare, are lower than in Sri Lanka, Maldives, Iran, Bhutan, and Nepal. 20 On the one hand, it may be argued that the country does not have enough money to provide universal healthcare. On the other hand, the cost of labor in the country is considerably lower than in the developed countries, and the rapid growth of GDP and GDI shows that the company seems to be able to afford a better healthcare system. Additionally, some Indian states, including Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Himachal Pradesh, are very close to providing universal healthcare. 21 Therefore, the reasons for healthcare issues in India remain debatable.

The education system is also a matter of concern for India. Even though it has improved considerably in the last 30 years, it is still underperforming. For instance, the literacy rate among children under 15 is as low as 62.8%, while Iran has 84.3%, the Maldives have 98.4%, and Sri Lanka has 91.2%. 22 The problem is primarily due to inequality between males and females since girls usually do not receive a formal education.

Inequality can also be considered a major issue for the country. The labor force participation rate in India is 53.8%, which may be regarded as rather low since the majority of the population is of a younger age. 23 The low percentage is connected with the low labor force participation rate among women 27.2% 24 Additionally, India offers low-quality jobs since the majority of them (77.5%) are considered vulnerable employment, and 42.7% of the workforce is employed in agriculture. 25 Moreover, only 24.1% of the older population are pension recipients. In short, it may be stated that social indicators are considerably below the world average.

Poverty and Inequality Trends

The situation with poverty in India has improved considerably in the past 30 years. The number of working poor at purchasing power parity (PPP) of $3.1 a day is twice as low in comparison with 1990. 26 However, the working poor index is still high at 42.9% with more than 364 million people living in multidimensional poverty. 27 At the same time, 19.1% of the Indian population is considered vulnerable to multidimensional poverty. 28 However, despite the poor statistics introduced above, the situation with poverty in India is improving at all levels.

Inequality is one of the central problems that Indian society faces. As has been described above, women are severely underrepresented in the workforce, and they are less likely to receive an education. Moreover, the United Nations Development Programme reports that women’s share of employment in non-agriculture is 18.6%. 29 The situation is even worse in parliament, where only 11.6% of seats are taken by females. 30 Therefore, it may be stated that India is a country of severe gender inequality.

Economic Progress

The primary factor that drives the economy of the country forward is a fast-growing working-age population. Figure 2 demonstrates that more than 60% of the people are below 35, which is associated with the rise of a flexible workforce that can help to develop the economy of the country. According to Riley, “India is experiencing demographic transition that has increased the share of the working-age population from 58 percent to 64 percent over the last two decades.” 31 However, as the population will become older, it may become a burden to the economy due to the problems with retirement.

Wage costs are low in India, which has helped to close some of the productivity gaps between India and other countries in later stages of development. A cheap workforce can help to improve the situation in any economic sector without considerable investments in human resources from the government. Additionally, low wages attract in combination with increased numbers of English speakers allowed more investments from companies that wish to outsource some of their functions. For instance, it has become a home for many call centers and IT departments of western countries. 33 Without the prevalence of a younger population who can speak English who can be hired for moderate pay, such investments would be impossible. Due to these factors, India has successfully developed highly advanced and attractive clusters of businesses in the technology space. 34 Bangalore is a vivid example of the situation, as it has become one of the most attractive places for software engineers around the globe. In other words, India has followed the path of development of many other countries, as it went from the agricultural industry to service provision.

There several factors that limit the economic growth of the country. First, the poor performance of the education system leads to low productivity and weak human capital. The problem is that even though the workforce is large, it primarily consists of low-skilled workers. Second, India’s infrastructure is poorly developed, which makes it less attractive to large-scale industries. According to Riley, the cost of energy in India is very high, and supplies are regular, which can lead to power blackouts and loss of productivity. 35 Additionally, poor infrastructure may negatively affect the tourism business in the country.

Third, the majority of the population lives in rural areas, which, in combination with poor infrastructure, interferes with the ability of enterprises to get access to the needed workforce. However, since India has not yet seen the rapid urbanization experienced in other nations, it can become one of the events that may positively affect India’s economy in the future. Despite the substantial prevalence of agriculture, India failed to reach productivity growth in the sector, which prevented people from moving to big cities. 36 According to Financial Times, “India’s failure to adopt enough of the large-scale, labour-intensive manufacturing that has propelled the successful development of China and other east Asian countries is now regarded as one of the greatest weaknesses of the Indian economy.” 37 In short, India needs to invest in the agricultural sector, infrastructure, and manufacturing to stabilize economic growth.

Social Progress

The economic growth has also been slowed by the social structure, which is more than 3000 years old. While the system is not as influential in the cities, rural communities have long been arranged based on castes. Outside the cities, the upper class usually lives in segregated colonies, the water wells are not shared, and everyone could marry only inside one’s caste. 38 Even though the system is considered unjust by many people around the globe, it has remained unchanged, preventing people from getting the position they deserve. In 1950, discrimination based on castes had become illegal, and quotas in governmental and educational jobs for different castes were introduced. 39 However, there is an opinion that the caste system would have disappeared; however, politicians often use it to gather votes. 40 In brief, the caste system is one of the reasons for slow social progress in the country.

Another matter that influences the social processes in India is the strong institution of the family. It can be seen as both an advantage and a disadvantage. On the one hand, Indian families are a source of emotional and financial support for all the members, including extended family. 41 Therefore, the misfortunes suffered by people living below the poverty line may be diminished by the support of relatives. Families also care for the elderly, and thus the government is not pressured to pay pensions. Even though it is a poor social index, the saved money can be invested in the development of other spheres. Additionally, healthy families usually mean high birth rates, which is considered as one of the advantages of the Indian economy.

On the other hand, patriarchal families usually support gender roles and limit the gender diversification of the workforce. In traditional Indian families, women typically do not work or receive an education. 42 Females are seen as mothers and homemakers, who are to bring up the children, cook, and clean the house. Due to this tradition, India’s progress in fighting inequality has been a failure so far. As a result, women are underrepresented in the workforce and government. Urbanization and globalization influence the traditional views on the institution of the family, and young adults begin to restructure society in accordance with western values. However, it is unclear if the situation will change in the nearest future.

India is a country of controversy in both economic and social structures. It is a home of the oldest tradition and latest innovation at the same time. India has a large young workforce that is of high interest to western investors due to low wages and the knowledge of English. However, this workforce is low-skilled and sometimes cannot get too big cities due to poor infrastructure. Economic growth is the second highest in the world, and GDI has doubled during the previous five years. At the same time, there are hundreds of millions of people living below the poverty line. Due to the reformation of the education system, more people have access to high-quality education. Yet, less than a third of women have an education higher than secondary. The process of urbanization has led to the emergence of young specialists with advanced thought. Still, the caste system and strong family bonds interfere with the progress of society. All these controversies can explain the inconsistency and unsteadiness of Indian economic and social progress.

Bibliography

“India.” The World Bank.

“India Country Profile.” BBC News.

“India Population 2019.” World Population Review. 

“India’s Economy to Be World’s 2nd Fastest Growing at 6%.” The Economic Times. Web.

IndiaSpend. “India Lags Behind Its Neighbours on Social Indicators.” NewsLaundry. 

“India: Family Life and Family Values.” Family Jrank. 

Raj, Gaurav. “Why is India’s population so high and increasing so rapidly?” Quora. 

Riley, Geoff. “India – Economic Growth and Development.” Tutor2u. 

Shandra, Netu Chandra, and Bera, Sayantan. “India Moves One Rank Up in HDI, Inequality Stays a Major Concern.” LiveMint. 

United Nations Development Programme. “India.” Human Development Reports.

“What is India’s Caste System?” BBC News. 

• “India Country Profile,” BBC News , Web.
• “India Country Profile.”
• “What is India’s Caste System?” BBC News, Web.
• Geoff Riley, “India – Economic Growth and Development,” Tutor2u, Web.
• Gaurav Raj, “Why is India’s population so high and increasing so rapidly?” Quora , Web.
• “What is India’s Caste System?”
• “India Population 2019.” World Population Review , Web.
• “India’s Economy to Be World’s 2nd Fastest Growing at 6%,” The Economic Times, Web.
• “India,” The World Bank , Web.
• “India’s Economy.”
• Netu Chandra Shandra and Sayantan Bera, “India Moves One Rank Up in HDI, Inequality Stays a Major Concern,” LiveMint, Web.
• Netu Chandra Shandra and Sayantan Bera, “India Moves One Rank.”
• IndiaSpend. “India Lags Behind Its Neighbours on Social Indicators,” NewsLaundry, Web.
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Essay on India’s Economic Growth

• 1 Introduction
• 2 Historical Overview of India’s Economic Growth
• 3.1 1) Agriculture sector:
• 3.2 2) Manufacturing sector
• 3.3 3) Service sector
• 3.4 4) Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)
• 4.1 1) Poverty and income inequality:
• 4.2 2) Infrastructure gaps:
• 4.3 3) Political instability:
• 4.4 4) Lack of skilled labor force:
• 5.1 1) Reforms in agriculture, manufacturing, and service sectors:
• 5.2 2) Policies to attract foreign investment:
• 5.3 3) Programs for skill development and employment generation
• 5.4 4) Investment in infrastructure development
• 6 Conclusion
• 7.1 What has been the growth rate of India’s economy in recent years?
• 7.2 What are the major drivers of India’s economic growth?
• 7.3 What are the major challenges facing India’s economic growth?
• 7.4 What initiatives has the government taken to promote economic growth in India?
• 7.5 What is the Skill India program?
• 7.6 What is the Make in India program?
• 7.7 What is the Pradhan Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana?
• 7.8 What is the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund?
• 7.9 What is the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana?
• 7.10 What is the future outlook for India’s economic growth?

Explore India’s economic growth in detail through this insightful essay. Understand the factors driving India’s economic progress and the challenges it faces. Read about the country’s economic policies and their impact on businesses and citizens.

Introduction

Economic growth is a crucial aspect of any developing country and plays a major role in improving the standard of living of its citizens. In India, economic growth has been a major focus of policy makers since independence, and has been the driving force behind the country’s progress over the past few decades. This essay will outline the historical overview of India’s economic growth, the key contributors to its economic growth, the challenges it faces, and the government policies aimed at promoting economic growth.

Historical Overview of India’s Economic Growth

The pre-independence era of India was characterized by a stagnant economy, with low levels of investment, poor infrastructure, and limited industrialization. After independence, India adopted a mixed economy model, with the government controlling key industries such as coal, steel, and heavy industries. This model was not very successful, and the economy remained slow-growing until the 1980s, when India adopted reforms aimed at liberalizing the economy and promoting private sector investment.

In 1991, India underwent a major economic reform process, known as the liberalization, privatization, and globalization (LPG) reforms. These reforms aimed to promote entrepreneurship and investment, and to reduce the role of the government in the economy. The reforms led to the growth of the private sector, and the emergence of many new industries. As a result, the economy experienced a period of rapid growth, and India emerged as one of the fastest-growing economies in the world.

Key Contributors to India’s Economic Growth

India’s economic growth has been driven by several key contributors including the growth of the agriculture, manufacturing, and service sectors. The government has also played a major role in promoting economic growth through various initiatives, such as the Make in India program, the Skill India program, and the Pradhan Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana.

1) Agriculture sector:

Agriculture is the backbone of India’s economy, as it employs around 50% of the country’s workforce. The agricultural sector has undergone significant reforms over the past few decades, which have led to an increase in productivity, and the growth of the agribusiness sector. The government has also implemented various programs aimed at promoting the development of the agricultural sector, such as the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, which provides insurance to farmers against crop losses.

2) Manufacturing sector

The manufacturing sector has been a key contributor to India’s economic growth, and has been growing at a rapid pace since the 1990s. The government has implemented various policies aimed at promoting the growth of the manufacturing sector, such as the Make in India program, which aims to make India a hub for global manufacturing. The growth of the manufacturing sector has also led to the development of the small and medium enterprises (SME) sector, which has become a major source of employment in the country.

3) Service sector

The service sector is one of the largest contributors to India’s GDP, and is growing at a rapid pace. The sector includes a wide range of industries, such as financial services, information technology (IT), tourism, and retail. The growth of the service sector has been driven by the liberalization of the economy, and the growth of the IT industry, which has become a major contributor to India’s economy.

4) Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)

FDI has been a major contributor to India’s economic growth, as it has led to the growth of various industries and the development of the infrastructure sector. The government has implemented various policies aimed at attracting FDI, such as the 100% FDI policy in various sectors, which allows foreign companies to invest in India without any restrictions.

Challenges Facing India’s Economic Growth

Despite the impressive growth of India’s economy, there are several challenges that are hindering further progress. Some of these challenges include:

1) Poverty and income inequality:

Despite the rapid growth of the economy, poverty and income inequality remain major challenges in India. A large proportion of the population still lives below the poverty line, and the income gap between the rich and poor is widening. The government has implemented various programs aimed at reducing poverty, such as the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, which provides financial inclusion to the poor by providing them with access to bank accounts and other financial services.

2) Infrastructure gaps:

Another major challenge facing India’s economic growth is the inadequate infrastructure. The country still lacks basic facilities, such as electricity, water, and roads, in many regions, which hinders economic growth. The government is working to address this issue through various initiatives, such as the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, which aims to provide rural areas with all-weather roads, and the Atal Bhujal Yojana, which aims to improve groundwater management.

3) Political instability:

Political instability can have a negative impact on economic growth, as it can discourage investment and reduce the confidence of investors. India has experienced political instability in the past, and the government needs to ensure that the country remains politically stable in order to maintain its economic growth.

4) Lack of skilled labor force:

India faces a shortage of skilled labor, which can hinder the growth of various industries. The government is addressing this issue through various initiatives, such as the Skill India program, which aims to provide vocational training to young people and improve the quality of the workforce.

Government Policies to Promote Economic Growth

The government of India has taken several steps to promote economic growth in the country that includes:

1) Reforms in agriculture, manufacturing, and service sectors:

The government has implemented various reforms aimed at promoting the growth of the agriculture, manufacturing, and service sectors. The reforms include liberalizing trade policies, reducing red tape, and promoting entrepreneurship. The government has also implemented various programs aimed at promoting the development of these sectors, such as the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, which provides insurance to farmers against crop losses, and the Make in India program, which aims to make India a hub for global manufacturing.

2) Policies to attract foreign investment:

The government has implemented various policies aimed at attracting foreign investment, such as the 100% FDI policy in various sectors, which allows foreign companies to invest in India without any restrictions. The government has also established various institutions, such as the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund, which aims to attract foreign investment and promote infrastructure development.

3) Programs for skill development and employment generation

The government has implemented various programs aimed at developing the skills of the workforce and creating employment opportunities. The Skill India program is one of the major initiatives aimed at improving the quality of the workforce, while the Pradhan Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana aims to provide incentives to companies that employ young people.

4) Investment in infrastructure development

The government is investing heavily in infrastructure development in order to address the gaps in the country’s infrastructure. The Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, which aims to provide rural areas with all-weather roads, and the Atal Bhujal Yojana, which aims to improve groundwater management, are some of the major initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure in the country.

India’s economic growth has been a major focus of policy makers since independence, and has been the driving force behind the country’s progress over the past few decades. The growth of the agriculture, manufacturing, and service sectors, as well as the growth of foreign investment, have been the major contributors to India’s economic growth. Despite these achievements, the country still faces major challenges, such as poverty, income inequality, inadequate infrastructure, political instability, and a shortage of skilled labor. The government is working to address these challenges through various initiatives and policies aimed at promoting economic growth. The future prospects for India’s economic growth are bright, and the country has the potential to become one of the major economic powers in the world.

FAQs related to “India’s Economic Growth”

What has been the growth rate of india’s economy in recent years.

India’s economy has been growing at a rate of around 7% in recent years. In the financial year 2021, India’s economy grew by 11.7%, making it one of the fastest growing economies in the world.

What are the major drivers of India’s economic growth?

The major drivers of India’s economic growth are the agriculture, manufacturing, and service sectors. The growth of these sectors is driven by various factors, such as increased investment, improved infrastructure, and increased exports.

What are the major challenges facing India’s economic growth?

The major challenges facing India’s economic growth include poverty, income inequality, inadequate infrastructure, political instability, and a shortage of skilled labor.

What initiatives has the government taken to promote economic growth in India?

The government has taken various initiatives to promote economic growth in India, such as implementing reforms in agriculture, manufacturing, and service sectors, attracting foreign investment, promoting skill development and employment generation, and investing in infrastructure development.

What is the Skill India program?

The Skill India program is a government initiative aimed at improving the quality of the workforce in India. The program provides vocational training to young people and helps to address the shortage of skilled labor in the country.

What is the Make in India program?

The Make in India program is a government initiative aimed at making India a hub for global manufacturing. The program provides various incentives to companies that invest in India and promotes entrepreneurship in the country.

What is the Pradhan Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana?

The Pradhan Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana is a government program aimed at creating employment opportunities in India. The program provides incentives to companies that employ young people and helps to address the problem of unemployment in the country.

What is the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund?

The National Investment and Infrastructure Fund is a government institution aimed at attracting foreign investment and promoting infrastructure development in India. The institution provides funding for infrastructure projects and helps to address the gap in the country’s infrastructure.

What is the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana?

The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana is a government initiative aimed at providing financial inclusion to the poor in India. The program provides access to bank accounts and other financial services to people who do not have access to these services.

What is the future outlook for India’s economic growth?

The future outlook for India’s economic growth is positive, and the country has the potential to become one of the major economic powers in the world. The continued growth of the economy will have a positive impact on the standard of living of the people of India.

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Development in India After Independence

Many think that India’s growth story since the 1947 was good. But several experts often opinion that the country’s development for the past six decades has been average. Despite the announcement of Five-Year Plans which focused on many sectors in order to speed up the pace of development, the result hasn’t been on expected lines. And, the country is taking its own time to climb up with the economic and social world.

Service Sector Growth

Telecom and software development had most of the growth in the nation’s services sector. A trend that started some twenty years back is now well in its prime. Several multinational companies continue to outsource their telecom and IT services to the country. In terms of employment, the services sector employs 24 % of the Indian workforce and this process of development started back in the 1980s. In the 1960s, the sector employed just 4.5% of the working population. According to the experts, the services sector accounted for 63% of Indian GDP (2008-09) and the numbers continues to grow.

Agriculture Sector Growth

Since Independence the growth in agriculture has been somewhat steady. The growth of the sector was about 1 percent per annum up to 1950’s. During the post-Independence era, the growth rate bumped about 2.6 percent per annum. Rapid expansion of farming lands and introduction of high-yielding varieties of crops were the major factors contributing to the growth in agricultural production. One of the significant effects of the growth was that it could well manage to end dependency on import of food grains. Despite the unpredictability of the monsoon, the sector has progressed both in terms of yield and structural changes. Other factors contributed to the growth include, good investment in research, land reforms, expansion of scope for lending facilities, and improvement in rural infrastructure. Besides, the country has also grown strong in the agri-biotech sector. A report from a leading financial institution had revealed that the agri-biotech sector has been growing at 30 percent since the last few years.

Infrastructure Development

Allocation of huge funds and availability of electricity had triggered large scale expansion of infrastructure. The Indian road network has become one of the largest in the world with the total road length increasing from 0.399 million km in 1951 to 4.24 million km in 2014 (July 2014). Moreover, the total length of the country’s national highways has increased from 24,000 km (1947-69) to 92,851 km (2014). Governmental efforts have led to the expansion of the network of State highways and major district roads, which in turn has directly contributed to industrial growth. After almost seven decades, India has bagged the third place in the list of largest producers of electricity in Asia. It has increased its electricity generation capacity from 1,362 MW in 1947 to 1,13,506 MW in 2004. When it comes to rural electrification, the Indian government has managed to bring lights to 5,93,732 (2013) villages as compared to 3061 in 1950.

Education sector

India has somewhat managed to bring its education system at par with the global standard in some cases. A number of initiatives have been implemented to eradicate illiteracy. The number of schools witnessed a dramatic increase after 1950’s. The government had declared elementary education, a fundamental right for children in the age group of 6-14 years by passing the 86th amendment to the Constitution in 2002. At independence, India’s literacy rate was a paltry 12.2 % which increased to 74.04% in 2011. The Government launched a big initiative under the Sarva Siksha Abhiyan programme in 2001 to ensure education for the children from 6 to 14 years.

Health care sector

Increase in life-expectancy is considered one of the major achievements in health care in India. For example, life expectancy was around 37 years in 1951, it almost doubled to 65 years by 2011. Besides, Infant Mortality (IM) has also declined with death rate coming down to half of what it was during the 1940-50s. Moreover, similar developments were noticed in maternal mortality rate also. After a long-drawn struggle, India has finally been declared a polio-free country. Malnutrition in children under five years came down to 44% in 2005-06 from 67% in 1980. The number of tuberculosis cases also got reduced to 185 per lakh people in 2009. Moreover, the cases of HIV-infected people are also witnessing a declining trend. Government had also increased public health spending which is about 6- 6.5 % of the GDP.

Scientific achievements

India has reached new heights in rocket science and space technologies. Ever since, the launch of its first satellite Aryabhatta in 1975. India has emerged as a growing power that has successfully launched several foreign satellites. Its first mission to Mars was launched in November 2013 which successfully reached the planet’s orbit on 24 September 2014. Besides, space technology, India is also aggressively pursuing both nuclear and missile programmes. BrahMos Missile (with the help of Russia) inducted into the defence system is the world's fastest cruise missile. After more than six decades of independence, India has reached the level of being self-dependent in the field of space and missile technology.

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Essay on India is a Developing Country

Students are often asked to write an essay on India is a Developing Country in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on India is a Developing Country

Introduction.

India, located in South Asia, is often referred to as a developing country. This means it’s in a phase of economic and social transformation.

Economic Growth

India’s economy is growing rapidly. It’s a hub for information technology and has a booming service sector. However, agriculture still employs many people.

Social Development

India is making strides in education and healthcare. Yet, challenges like poverty and illiteracy persist, indicating a need for further development.

Despite challenges, India’s progress is commendable. With continued efforts, it’s poised to achieve more growth and development.

250 Words Essay on India is a Developing Country

India, officially known as the Republic of India, is often categorized as a developing nation. Despite being the world’s largest democracy and the seventh-largest country by land area, its economic, social, and political aspects are still in a state of evolution.

Economic Perspective

From an economic viewpoint, India is a mixed bag. It is the world’s fifth-largest economy by nominal GDP, thanks to its robust sectors like IT, telecommunications, textiles, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, steel, and aviation. However, it still grapples with issues like poverty, unemployment, and a significant informal economy.

Social Aspect

India’s social fabric is a rich tapestry of diverse cultures, languages, religions, and traditions. However, the country faces challenges such as illiteracy, gender inequality, and social discrimination. These issues, coupled with a high population density, make social development a complex task.

Political Landscape

India’s political structure is a federal parliamentary democratic republic, where the President is the head of state and the Prime Minister is the head of government. While the political system has been stable, corruption and bureaucratic inefficiency remain significant hurdles.

In conclusion, India is indeed a developing country, with a vast potential for growth and improvement. Its journey towards development is marked by both achievements and challenges. The nation’s future hinges on how effectively it can address its issues and capitalize on its strengths.

500 Words Essay on India is a Developing Country

India, a country rich in history, culture, and diversity, is classified as a developing nation by various global economic indicators. Despite being the world’s fifth-largest economy by nominal GDP, India is still grappling with numerous challenges that hinder its progress towards becoming a developed nation.

India’s Economic Landscape

India’s economy is a mixed bag of traditional agriculture, modern industries, and a multitude of services. The agricultural sector, although decreasing in its contribution to the GDP, still employs a significant portion of the population. The services sector, on the other hand, has seen a steady rise, contributing to over half of India’s GDP. The industrial sector, though growing, has yet to reach its potential due to issues like inadequate infrastructure and regulatory bottlenecks.

Challenges to Development

Despite impressive economic growth, India faces several critical challenges. Poverty and income inequality remain significant issues, with a large segment of the population living under the poverty line. Lack of access to quality education and healthcare, particularly in rural areas, further exacerbates these disparities.

Infrastructure development is another major challenge. Issues like inadequate transport facilities, inconsistent electricity supply, and lack of clean drinking water are prevalent, particularly in rural and underdeveloped regions.

The Demographic Dividend

India’s demographic profile presents both opportunities and challenges. With over 65% of its population under the age of 35, India has a vast pool of young, working-age individuals. This demographic dividend can propel economic growth if harnessed effectively. However, the lack of skills and opportunities, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas, could turn this potential asset into a liability.

Steps Towards Development

India is taking steps to address these challenges. The government has initiated several programs aimed at poverty alleviation, improving healthcare and education, and developing infrastructure. The ‘Make in India’ initiative is aimed at boosting the manufacturing sector and creating jobs. Similarly, the ‘Digital India’ initiative seeks to leverage technology to enhance governance and public services.

India’s journey from a developing to a developed nation is a complex process, requiring concerted efforts to address the numerous challenges it faces. However, with its vast resources, youthful population, and strategic initiatives, India has immense potential to transform its status from a developing to a developed nation. The journey may be long and arduous, but with consistent efforts and strategic planning, India can indeed realize its vision of becoming a global economic powerhouse.

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Science and Technology in India, Progress, Achievements, and Concerns

Science and technology have played a pivotal role in shaping India's modern identity and driving its socio-economic development. Know all Achievements Science and Technology in India.

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Science and technology have played a pivotal role in shaping India’s modern identity and driving its socio-economic development. With a rich history dating back centuries, India has made significant strides in recent years, positioning itself as a global player in the field of science and technology.

Science and Technology in India

Science and technology have significantly influenced India’s development. With a rich historical legacy, India has made remarkable strides in recent times. The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has gained global acclaim with missions to the moon and Mars, while the IT and pharmaceutical sectors are thriving. These advancements have driven economic growth, improved healthcare, and strengthened the agricultural sector. However, India must address funding, education, and digital access disparities to maintain this momentum and ensure technology benefits all.

History of science and technology in India

India’s history of science and technology is a tapestry of remarkable accomplishments spanning millennia. Ancient Indian mathematicians blazed a trail with the invention of the decimal system and the concept of zero, while astronomers made precise celestial observations. The “Sushruta Samhita” demonstrated advanced surgical knowledge, and India’s metallurgical expertise was renowned. The medieval period witnessed architectural marvels like the Taj Mahal. British colonialism influenced the growth of modern scientific institutions.

Post-independence, India prioritized education and research, giving rise to institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). Contemporary India excels in space exploration, IT, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy, solidifying its global stature in science and technology. Science and technology have always been integral to Indian culture, with a rich tradition of natural philosophy. The Indian Renaissance, coinciding with the independence struggle, saw significant progress by Indian scientists. Post-independence, the government established robust S&T infrastructure, with the Department of Science and Technology playing a pivotal role.

Role of Science & Technology in India

The role of science and technology in India is pivotal, with significant contributions to the nation’s development and progress. This role can be understood through various dimensions:

Economic Growth

Science and technology play a critical role in driving economic growth. They underpin various industries, including information technology, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and manufacturing. India’s burgeoning software and IT services sector, in particular, has led to substantial foreign exchange earnings and job creation. The advancements in these industries have significantly contributed to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and overall economic development.

Agricultural Transformation

Science and technology have been instrumental in transforming India’s agriculture sector. The Green Revolution, initiated in the mid-20th century, introduced high-yield crop varieties, modern irrigation techniques, and improved agricultural practices. These innovations increased agricultural productivity, ensuring food security for the growing population.

Healthcare Advancements

Technological advancements in the field of medicine have improved healthcare outcomes in India. Advanced medical equipment, telemedicine, and innovative treatment methods have enhanced the quality of healthcare services. India has also become a prominent player in pharmaceuticals, producing a wide range of affordable generic drugs and vaccines.

Education and Research

Science and technology have fostered a culture of innovation and research in India. The establishment of institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs), and world-class research facilities has nurtured a new generation of scientists and engineers. These institutions have not only contributed to cutting-edge research but have also attracted international collaborations.

Space Exploration

The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has achieved significant milestones in space exploration. India’s Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) in 2013 marked its entry into interplanetary space exploration. ISRO’s missions have contributed to advancements in communication, remote sensing, and global positioning systems, benefiting a wide range of sectors, including agriculture, disaster management, and urban planning.

Global Contributions

India has become a global contributor in science and technology. Its space missions and pharmaceutical industry have not only served domestic needs but have also had a global impact. India’s information technology sector provides crucial services to businesses and organizations around the world. The nation’s scientists and engineers are increasingly engaged in collaborative research projects with international partners, contributing to global scientific advancements.

Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Science and technology have fostered innovation and entrepreneurship. Start-ups in the technology, biotechnology, and clean energy sectors have gained prominence, attracting investments and generating job opportunities. India’s government and private sector actively support the growth of a vibrant start-up ecosystem.

Recent Developments of science and technology in India

India has a rich history of remarkable achievements in the field of science and technology, spanning from ancient innovations to modern breakthroughs. Here are some notable contributions:

Revolutionizing Agriculture

India’s Green Revolution, a monumental achievement, transformed the country’s agricultural landscape. Agro-scientists introduced high-yielding seeds, modern farming techniques, and improved irrigation practices. As a result, India became self-sufficient in food production, reducing reliance on foreign grain imports and ensuring food security.

Pioneering Satellite Communication

Under the visionary leadership of Vikram Sarabhai, India ventured into space technology. The successful launch of the Space Instructional Television Experiment (SITE) and the INSAT system in 1983 established India as a significant player in satellite communication. This achievement has had a profound impact on telecommunications, broadcasting, and weather forecasting.

Global Pharmaceutical Hub

India has earned its reputation as “the pharmacy of the world.” Government initiatives, including the establishment of Hindustan Antibiotics Limited and Indian Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Limited, along with private sector contributions, have led to the production of affordable and effective drugs and vaccines with a global impact.

Indigenous Defence Advancements

The Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) has been pivotal in developing indigenous defence systems, including advanced aircraft, weaponry, tanks, electronic warfare technologies, and missile systems. India’s successful nuclear tests in 1974 and 1998 have reinforced national security and sovereignty.

Space Exploration Excellence

The establishment of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) in 1969 marked a significant milestone. ISRO’s missions, including Chandrayaan (2008) and Mangalyaan (2014), have propelled India to the forefront of space exploration. India became the first nation to reach the orbit of Mars on its maiden attempt, expanding our knowledge of celestial bodies.

Global IT Dominance

The establishment of the Department of Electronics in 1970, coupled with the emergence of public sector companies like ECIL and CMC, challenged the dominance of global IT giants. Today, India stands as the world’s largest exporter of IT services, with companies like Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) ranking among the top 10 IT firms globally, contributing significantly to the nation’s economic growth and technological prowess.

Achievements of India in Science and Technology

In the realm of space exploration, India has achieved notable milestones through the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). ISRO has successfully launched numerous satellites for communication, Earth observation, and navigation. The Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan), launched in 2013, marked a historic achievement, making India the fourth country in the world to reach Mars on its maiden attempt. Additionally, the Chandrayaan-2 mission was launched to explore the Moon, comprising an orbiter, lander, and rover.

Nuclear Technology

India has made significant strides in nuclear technology, developing capabilities for both civilian and military purposes. The Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998 demonstrated India’s nuclear capabilities to the world. The Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR) and the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) have played pivotal roles in advancing nuclear science within the country.

Information Technology

India has established itself as a global IT hub, with companies like Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Infosys, and Wipro leading the industry. These companies have contributed to Silicon Valley and the global tech industry, while Indian engineers and entrepreneurs have made substantial contributions in the field of information technology.

Pharmaceutical and Healthcare

India is a major player in the pharmaceutical industry, producing a significant portion of the world’s generic drugs. Indian pharmaceutical companies have played a crucial role in the global fight against diseases like HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria. This contribution to healthcare has had a global impact.

Renewable Energy

India has made significant progress in the field of renewable energy, setting ambitious goals for solar and wind energy generation. The International Solar Alliance (ISA), initiated by India, promotes cooperation among countries in harnessing solar energy, contributing to sustainable development.

Biotechnology

In the field of biotechnology, India has made advancements through research institutions and companies. These advancements encompass genetic engineering, vaccine development, and crop improvement, making significant contributions to the global biotech sector.

Supercomputing

India’s indigenous supercomputer, Param, has been a valuable tool for scientific research and weather forecasting. It showcases India’s capabilities in high-performance computing.

Agriculture and Green Revolution

The Green Revolution in the 1960s and 1970s, led by scientists like Norman Borlaug, transformed agricultural practices in India. It significantly increased food production and played a crucial role in improving food security.

Space Research and Navigation

India’s space research extends to navigation with the launch of its regional satellite navigation system called NavIC. NavIC provides accurate positioning information services to users in India and neighboring regions, enhancing navigation capabilities.

Science and Innovation

Indian scientists and researchers have made substantial contributions to various scientific fields, including physics, chemistry, biology, and mathematics. Their work has elevated India’s standing in the global scientific community and contributed to scientific knowledge worldwide.

Concerns in Science and Technology in India

India’s science and technology landscape faces several concerns that impact its growth and competitiveness:

• Funding Challenges: The level of investment in research and development in India is often insufficient to support cutting-edge scientific endeavors and technological innovations. Inadequate funding hampers the country’s ability to tackle critical challenges and compete globally.
• Educational Variability: Disparities in the quality of science and technology education across the country hinder the development of a skilled workforce. Education reform is needed to make curriculum more relevant and equip students with practical skills.
• Brain Drain: The emigration of highly skilled researchers and scientists to foreign countries in pursuit of better opportunities results in a substantial loss of expertise and innovation within India.
• Innovation Ecosystem: Establishing a thriving innovation ecosystem with support for startups and entrepreneurship remains a challenge. Translating research into commercially viable products or services can be difficult.
• Infrastructure Gaps: Inadequate infrastructure, including state-of-the-art research facilities, hinders scientific progress and innovation.

Way Forward

To bolster India’s science and technology sector, key measures are vital. Firstly, an increase in research and development funding is imperative, with a greater budget allocation to support innovative projects and cutting-edge scientific endeavors. Concurrently, a focus on education reform is essential, enhancing the quality of science and technology education with modernized curricula and practical skill development.

Mitigating the brain drain necessitates incentives to retain talented researchers and scientists while nurturing an innovation ecosystem through support for startups and streamlined regulations promotes the commercialization of research. Infrastructure development, including state-of-the-art research facilities, will facilitate scientific progress. These measures collectively position India to contribute significantly to global scientific advancements and ensure socio-economic development.

Science and Technology in India UPSC

Science and Technology is a significant subject within the Civil Services Examination. It’s evident from the numerous questions related to this subject that appear in both the UPSC Prelims and Mains. To assist IAS aspirants in their exam preparations, this article offers downloadable PDFs of UPSC notes on Science and Technology. In the UPSC Mains, Science and Technology form part of the GS III syllabus. Additionally, science subjects such as Botany, Chemistry, and Biology are among the optional subject choices for the IAS Mains exam. These scientific subjects offer the potential for high scores, but often, aspirants face challenges in balancing static and dynamic aspects while making notes, especially when dealing with contemporary issues from the news.

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Science and Technology in India FAQs

What is the role of science and technology in modern india.

Science and technology in modern India drive economic growth, healthcare advancements, and agricultural transformation while fostering innovation, global contributions, and socio-economic development.

What is the future of science and technology in India?

India aspires for advancements in experimental physics, astrophysics, drug development, diagnostics, and biotechnology, aiming to push scientific frontiers.

How does science and technology contribute to economic growth in India?

Science and technology underpin various industries, such as information technology, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology, contributing to GDP and job creation.

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Essay on Indian Economy

India’s economy is described as huge, complex and growing. It is one of the most exciting and emerging markets in the world. Since 1951, India has grown as a planned economy. The first few plans focused on growth with the strengthening of the manufacturing sector, emphasising heavy industries to form the backbone of the economy. Other principal areas of planning were agriculture and social development. During the post-independence period and the period of the “Five-year plans”, efforts were focused on identifying the needs of the economy. Further, the economic reforms in the early 90s opened a new chapter in India’s economic history. It gave India an opportunity to shake off the shackles of its past and emerge on the world stage as a progressive nation. This essay on the Indian Economy will help students know about the Indian economy in detail.

Students can go through the list of CBSE Essays on different topics. It will help them to improve their writing skills and also increase their scores on the English exam. Moreover, they can participate in different essay writing competitions which are conducted at the school level.

500+ Words Essay on the Indian Economy

India is on the high road to economic growth. Since 2020, the world economy has declined due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Repeated waves of infection, supply-chain disruptions and inflation have created challenging times. Faced with these challenges, the Government of India has taken immediate action so that it has the least impact on the Indian economy.

The Indian economy has been staging a sustained recovery since the second half of 2020-21. However, the second wave of the pandemic in April-June 2021 was more severe from a health perspective. The national lockdown has affected small businesses, common people and everyone in India. Due to this, the Indian economy has gone down. But now, it is slowly rising up and taking its form.

Role of Agriculture in the Indian Economy

Agriculture is one of the most important sectors of the Indian economy. It supplies food and raw materials in the country. At the time of independence, more than 70% of India’s population depended on agriculture to earn a livelihood. Accordingly, the share of agriculture in the national product/income was as high as 56.6% in 1950-51. However, with the development of industries and the service sector, the percentage of the population depending on agriculture, as well as the share of agriculture in the national product, has come down. Agriculture is the source of food supply. Agriculture is also a major source of foreign exchange earnings through export. The share of agriculture in India’s export in the year 2011-12 was 12.3%. The major items of export include tea, sugar, tobacco, spices, cotton, rice, fruits and vegetables, etc.

Role of Industry in India’s Economy

Industry is the secondary sector of the economy and is another important area of economic activity. After independence, the Government of India emphasised the role of industrialisation in the country’s economic development in the long run. Initially, the public sector contributed the maximum to economic growth. In the early 1990s, it was found that the public sector undertakings were not performing up to expectations. So, in 1991, the Indian Government decided to encourage the role of the private sector in industrial development. This step was taken to strengthen the process of industrialisation in India.

The progress of the Indian economy after independence was impressive indeed. India became self-sufficient in food production due to the green revolution, and industries became far more diversified. However, we still have to go a long way to become a 5 trillion economy by 2025. But, with government effort and the right policymakers, it can be achieved.

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Chandrayaan An Essay on India’s Progress Paragraph for Class 10, 9, 8, 7 & 6 in 200, 250, 300, 350 & 400 Words

Table of Contents

Chandrayaan An Essay on India’s Progress Paragraph for Class 10

250 words chandrayaan an essay on india’s progress essay for class 10.

India’s space program has made remarkable strides over the years, and one of the crowning achievements is the Chandrayaan mission. Chandrayaan, which translates to “moon vehicle” in Sanskrit, is a testament to India’s scientific prowess and determination to conquer the final frontier. This ambitious project has not only elevated India’s status in the global space community but has also paved the way for significant progress in various fields.

Chandrayaan is a testament to India’s technological advancement and scientific capabilities. The launch of Chandrayaan, India’s first lunar mission, in 2008 showcased the nation’s ability to undertake complex space missions. The mission included the successful placement of the Moon Impact Probe, which impacted the lunar surface and provided crucial data about the moon’s composition. This feat put India in an elite group of countries to have achieved such a milestone.

Furthermore, Chandrayaan has played a significant role in expanding our knowledge of the moon and its resources. The detection of water molecules on the lunar surface by Chandrayaan-1 revolutionized our understanding of the moon’s geology and potential for future exploration. This discovery opened up possibilities for the utilization of lunar resources, such as water, for future space missions.

In addition to scientific advancements, Chandrayaan has also contributed to India’s economic progress. The mission has created numerous opportunities for collaboration with international space agencies, resulting in technology transfers and joint research projects. Moreover, the successful launch and execution of Chandrayaan missions have boosted India’s reputation as a reliable and capable player in the global space sector, attracting foreign investments and boosting the domestic space industry.

Chandrayaan stands as a shining example of India’s progress in the field of space exploration. It is a symbol of India’s increasing presence on the global stage and its commitment to pioneering scientific research and technological innovation. With each successful mission, India continues to inspire not only its citizens but also the world, proving that no dream is too big to achieve.

Chandrayaan An Essay on India’s Progress Paragraph for Class 9

300 words chandrayaan an essay on india’s progress essay for class 9.

Chandrayaan, India’s first lunar exploration mission, marked a significant step in the country’s progress in the field of space technology. Launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on October 22, 2008, Chandrayaan aimed to explore the moon and advance our understanding of its geology, mineralogy, and lunar atmosphere. This ambitious mission put India in a select group of nations capable of undertaking space exploration.

The Chandrayaan mission involved the deployment of several scientific instruments, including a high-energy X-ray Spectrometer, an Imaging X-ray Spectrometer, a Moon Mineralogy Mapper, and more. Each of these instruments had a specific role in acquiring valuable data about the moon’s topography, mineral composition, and water presence.

One of the highlights of the Chandrayaan mission was the discovery of water molecules on the moon’s surface. This groundbreaking finding not only fascinated the scientific community but also showed India’s capabilities in space exploration. It demonstrated the nation’s commitment to advancing scientific research and contributing to the global astronomical knowledge base.

Moreover, the Chandrayaan mission served as a testament to India’s self-reliance in space technology. Being the first country to successfully conduct a mission to the moon’s south pole, India showcased its technical prowess and propelled its space program to international acclaim.

Beyond scientific achievements, Chandrayaan has also contributed to India’s progress in other areas. The mission has inspired the younger generation to pursue careers in STEM fields, fostering a scientific temperament and nurturing budding talents. It has also boosted national pride and confidence, showcasing India’s ability to take on complex and challenging missions.

In conclusion, Chandrayaan’s successful mission to the moon has not only expanded our understanding of lunar science but has also placed India prominently on the global stage of space exploration. It is a testament to India’s progress in space technology and has catalyzed scientific curiosity and national pride. The Chandrayaan mission has undoubtedly paved the path for even greater achievements in the future, propelling India’s progress into new frontiers.

Chandrayaan An Essay on India’s Progress Paragraph for Class 8

400 words chandrayaan an essay on india’s progress essay for class 8.

Introduction:

Chandrayaan, India’s lunar exploration program, symbolizes the nation’s progress in the field of space research and technology. Launched by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), Chandrayaan has not only showcased India’s scientific capabilities but also contributed to the overall progress of the country.

Chandrayaan, the first lunar mission of India, was a remarkable achievement that marked a significant milestone in the nation’s space program. The primary objective of Chandrayaan was to explore the moon’s surface and gather vital information about its composition, origin, and evolution. This scientific endeavor propelled India into the distinguished league of nations capable of lunar exploration.

The mission consisted of an Orbiter and a Lander module, known as Vikram, which housed a rover called Pragyan. Chandrayaan’s Orbiter not only successfully conducted high-resolution remote sensing experiments but also demonstrated India’s advanced satellite technology. The Lander module aimed to make a soft landing near the lunar South Pole, but unfortunately, it encountered some challenges during this phase.

However, despite the challenges faced, Chandrayaan’s Orbiter has continued to provide valuable data, enhancing our understanding of the moon’s surface and atmosphere.

India’s progress in space research and technology, as exemplified by Chandrayaan, has far-reaching consequences. Firstly, it has boosted the nation’s scientific community, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration. The success of Chandrayaan has inspired many young minds, igniting their interest in space exploration and propelling them towards scientific careers.

Secondly, the achievements of Chandrayaan have increased India’s global standing in the field of space research. It has garnered international recognition, elevating India’s reputation as a nation at the forefront of technological advancements.

Furthermore, Chandrayaan has opened up new avenues for collaboration with other nations, paving the way for mutual learning and progress. The data gathered by Chandrayaan has been shared with other space agencies, solidifying India’s role as a responsible global player committed to scientific cooperation.

Conclusion:

Chandrayaan stands as a testament to India’s progress in space research and technology. Beyond the scientific achievements, this lunar mission has had a profound impact on India’s overall development. It has fuelled scientific curiosity, inspired the younger generation, elevated India’s global standing, and strengthened international collaborations. Chandrayaan is a shining example of India’s commitment to progress and innovation, a stepping stone towards even greater achievements in the future.

Chandrayaan An Essay on India’s Progress Paragraph for Class 7

350 words chandrayaan an essay on india’s progress essay for class 7.

India’s remarkable progress in the field of space exploration and technology can be seen through its ambitious project, Chandrayaan. Chandrayaan, which means “Moon vehicle” in Hindi, is India’s first lunar probe mission. This mission successfully placed an orbiter around the Moon and even included a soft landing module.

The Chandrayaan mission is a testament to India’s scientific and technological capabilities. The project was initiated by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and the aim was to conduct various experiments and gather valuable data about the lunar surface. India’s progress in space exploration is commendable considering the complex nature of such missions.

The success of Chandrayaan has significant implications for India’s progress as a nation. It showcases India’s advancements in space technology, research, and development. It also reinforces India’s position as a global player in the field of science and innovation. This mission has not only enhanced India’s reputation but has also instilled a sense of pride among its citizens.

Moreover, Chandrayaan has contributed immensely to our understanding of the Moon’s surface, its mineralogy, and the presence of water molecules. This data has opened up new possibilities for scientific research and future space missions. India’s progress in space exploration offers immense opportunities for collaboration with other nations and fosters scientific and technological advancements on a global scale.

In conclusion, Chandrayaan symbolizes India’s remarkable progress in the field of space exploration. It demonstrates India’s scientific and technological capabilities and places the country among the elite set of nations involved in lunar exploration. The success of Chandrayaan has not only propelled India’s scientific reputation but has also paved the way for further advancements and collaborations in the future. India’s progress in space exploration is a testament to its commitment to national development and scientific excellence.

Chandrayaan An Essay on India’s Progress Paragraph for Class 6

300 words chandrayaan an essay on india’s progress essay for class 6.

Chandrayaan, which translates to “moon vehicle” in Sanskrit, is a testament to India’s remarkable progress in space exploration. Launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in October 2008, Chandrayaan-1 was India’s first lunar probe. It aimed to study the moon’s surface composition and search for signs of water, making India the fourth country to accomplish such a mission.

The success of Chandrayaan-1 reflected India’s significant strides in science and technology. The mission showcased India’s growing capabilities in space exploration and highlighted the nation’s commitment to scientific progress. It also marked a significant milestone in India’s space program, solidifying its place among space-faring nations.

Chandrayaan-1 carried several scientific payloads, including instruments from international collaborations. The mission provided valuable data that enhanced our understanding of the moon’s geology and its evolution over time. The discovery of water molecules on the moon’s surface was a groundbreaking revelation, opening up new possibilities for future lunar missions.

Another crucial aspect of Chandrayaan-1 was its cost-effectiveness. With a budget of approximately $80 million, the mission offered an affordable approach to lunar exploration. This cost-efficient approach highlighted India’s ability to achieve remarkable scientific accomplishments with limited resources.

Furthermore, Chandrayaan-1 paved the way for subsequent lunar missions, including the successful Chandrayaan-2 mission in 2019. This second mission featured a lunar lander and rover, showcasing India’s progress in developing advanced technologies for space exploration.

In conclusion, Chandrayaan stands as a remarkable symbol of India’s progress in space exploration. It not only solidified India’s position among space-faring nations but also showcased the nation’s commitment to scientific advancement. Through cost-effective missions like Chandrayaan-1, India has demonstrated its ability to achieve remarkable feats in science and technology. As India continues to push the boundaries in space exploration, we can anticipate even greater achievements in the years to come.

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Indian PM Modi claims victory even as voters deal him a surprise setback

NEW DELHI — Indian Prime Minister  Narendra Modi declared victory Tuesday, but it wasn't the landslide he had been predicting as his party lost seats to a stronger-than-expected opposition.

Still, Modi declared that Indian voters had “shown immense faith” both in his party and his National Democratic Alliance coalition after he locked down a rare third term as leader of the  world’s most populous country following a divisive decade in power.

“This is a victory for the world’s biggest democracy,” Modi told the crowd at his party’s headquarters.

His Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party, or BJP, and allied parties appeared to have secured almost 300 of 543 seats in Parliament, early election results showed, which would give them a simple majority.

But for the first time since the BJP swept to power in 2014, it did not secure a majority on its own, The Associated Press reported. It won 240 seats with the opposition performing better than expected after exit polls suggested Modi’s alliance was cruising toward an overwhelming victory.

That leaves Modi, whose dominance over India has steadily grown since he gained power in 2014, dependent on forming a coalition to remain in power.

Even that could be in doubt. Rahul Gandhi, leader of the opposition Indian National Congress has left open the possibility that he may try to form a coalition with two parties allied with the BJP that used to be Congress’ partners.

This is not how the election was supposed to go for Modi, who has a vast base of supporters both at home and among the large Indian diaspora who see him as responsible for India’s rocketing economy and rising confidence on the world stage. According to Morning Consult , Modi is by far the world’s most popular leader, with an approval rating of 74%.

But critics say Modi has also eroded human rights in India and stoked religious tensions, particularly against India’s Muslim minority.

Modi and other BJP candidates were accused of hate speech and other inflammatory rhetoric during the campaign.

India is also struggling to provide enough jobs for its 1.4 billion people, despite being the world’s fastest-growing major economy . 

Outside BJP headquarters in New Delhi on Tuesday, dozens of Modi supporters danced to drums and chanted Hindu nationalist slogans. They wore shirts that read “I am Modi’s family” and scarves the color of saffron, the BJP’s official color which is also associated with Hindu nationalism.

Inside, the feeling was less celebratory.

Anxious and disappointed party workers and Modi supporters were glued to the TV screens, awaiting the final results as the supermajority they had hoped for appeared increasingly out of reach. Others were angry.

“Some voters betrayed us,” said Ram Shankar Maharaj, a Hindu priest who had traveled to New Delhi to watch the results from his home in the northern city of Ayodhya, where Modi in January presided   over the opening of a grand Hindu temple on a contested holy site . "They betrayed Indian tradition."

The Ayodhya constituency that includes the temple was among those that the BJP conceded on Tuesday.

“We should have gotten 500 [seats],” Maharaj added. “India will suffer from this. Had they cleared 400, the country would flourish.”

India’s benchmark stock indices closed at record highs on Monday after exit polls pointed to a thumping victory for Modi, then fell sharply Tuesday as the results became more muddied.

Speaking across from BJP headquarters Tuesday night, Modi said his alliance was poised to form a government. Rather than focusing on the BJP itself, he mentioned the broader alliance multiple times and praised its leaders.

Congress, the main opposition party, was in a buoyant mood. “This is the people’s victory, and democracy’s victory,” Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge told a news conference.

Regardless of the results, Modi’s ethos of a Hindu-first nation is now deeply entrenched in Indian politics, raising fears among Muslims and other minority groups over how they would fare during five more years of Modi rule.

In Modi’s home seat of Varanasi, which voted Saturday in the last of seven phases of voting , Tasneem Fatma walked out of a polling station wearing a burqa, saying, “We want a united India, not for Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Isai.”

But Fatma, 20, a business student, was interrupted by an older man who said there was no religious divide. He also dismissed Fatma’s concerns about unemployment, saying, “If you are educated and if you are capable of the job, you can take the job.” 

As the discussion grew more heated, police officers asked the man to leave before NBC News could ask for his name.

India’s election is considered the world’s largest , with nearly a billion registered voters and polling that spanned over six weeks. But it was not just the sheer size of the election that posed a challenge for officials. 

Voting has taken place amid unusually high temperatures that have exceeded 120 degrees in New Delhi , the capital, and experts say that may have depressed turnout. At least 33 people in three states died of suspected heatstroke just on Friday, Reuters reported, including election officials who were on duty.

Although Indian summers are generally hot, scientists say heat waves in India and elsewhere in South Asia are becoming hotter, longer and more frequent at least partly as a result of climate change . Neither the BJP nor the opposition said much about climate change during the campaign.

The issue foremost in the minds of voters who spoke with NBC News was jobs.

It’s an especially big worry for those ages 15 to 29, who make up 83% of unemployed people in India, according to a report in March . 

“Why is nobody talking about rising costs or lack of jobs or poor kids dying or trees being cut?” Fatma asked.

The opposition, led by the Congress party, has tried to use such issues to drive voters away from Modi. Aware of the gargantuan effort it would take to defeat him, the fractured opposition formed an alliance that quickly faltered. 

Opposition parties also accused Modi’s government of trying to stifle their campaigns by arresting their leaders and freezing their funds, allegations the BJP denied.

Today’s India is run by “a very strong, dominant BJP, which in 1984 had only got four seats in Parliament,” said Yamini Aiyar, former chief executive of the Center for Policy Research, a highly regarded think tank in New Delhi that has been targeted by a Modi government crackdown on civil society.

In recent years especially, she said, the BJP has become “creepingly authoritarian.”

“Our democracy is at stake,” Aiyar said. 

According to Freedom House , a nonprofit pro-democracy organization in Washington, elections in India are generally considered free and fair, but they are being held in an environment in which freedom of expression is shrinking.

It cited the arrests and prosecutions of journalists, information manipulation using artificial intelligence and other technologies, and Indian authorities’ demands that social media companies remove online content critical of the government , among other issues.

Modi’s shaky rights record can make things awkward for Washington, which views India as an important counterweight to China . Though India is not a formal U.S. ally, it is an important defense partner and a member of strategic security groupings such as the Quad, which also includes the U.S., Australia and Japan. 

Modi, who rarely takes live questions from journalists, pushed back against criticism at a joint news conference with President Joe Biden during a state visit to Washington last year.

“In India’s democratic values, there’s absolutely no discrimination, neither on basis of caste, creed or age or any kind of geographic location,” he said.

U.S. authorities also say Indian agents may have been involved in the attempted assassination last year of a Sikh activist living in New York. India denies the allegations, saying such a crime would be “contrary to government policy.”

Experts say the U.S. relationship with India will continue to strengthen, regardless of the final election results in either country.

“China remains the elephant in the room or the presence that is shaping the alignments and realignments across the world,” Aiyar said.

Mithil Aggarwal is a Hong Kong-based reporter/producer for NBC News.

Janis Mackey Frayer is a Beijing-based correspondent for NBC News.

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Guest Essay

I’m an Indian Muslim, and I’m Scared to Say So

By Mohammad Ali

Mr. Ali, a journalist and writer who focuses on right-wing efforts to transform India into a Hindu nation, wrote from Delhi.

I used to answer the phone with “Salam.” Not anymore. I don’t want people to know I’m a Muslim.

There is little that would identify me as Muslim to begin with, aside from my name. I don’t wear a skullcap, and in public I avoid wearing the loosefitting Pathani kurta and peppering my speech with Urdu words, all of which are identity markers for Indian Muslims. But in the India of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, you can’t take any chances.

For 10 years, Mr. Modi’s Hindu-chauvinist government has vilified the nation’s 200 million Muslims as dangerous undesirables. Recently, he took that rhetoric to a new low during the six weeks of voting in India’s national elections — which are widely expected to win him a third consecutive five-year term — directly referring to Muslims as “infiltrators” in a country that he and his followers seek to turn into a pure Hindu state.

As offensive as that was, it is sadly familiar to Indian Muslims like me who — after a decade of denigration, violence and murder — live in daily fear of being identified and attacked, forcing us into self-denial to protect ourselves.

India is home to one of the world’s largest Muslim populations. Islam came here around 1,300 years ago, and Indian Muslims descend from natives of this land who converted to Islam centuries ago. Many Indian Muslims fought against British colonization, and millions rejected the 1947 partition of the country into a predominantly Hindu India and a mostly Muslim Pakistan. India is our home, and people like me are proud patriots.

But Mr. Modi’s Hindu nationalism has made us the targets in what might be the largest radicalization of people on the planet. Its seeds were planted with the founding in 1925 of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, a right-wing Hindu organization that sought the establishment of a fully Hindu state in India and was inspired by the European fascism of that era. When Mr. Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party — a political offshoot of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh — won elections in 2014 and he became prime minister, he and his followers saw it as the civilizational moment that Hindus had been waiting for. Mr. Modi was the god-king who would free Hindu civilization from centuries of domination, first by a series of Muslim rulers culminating with the Mughal empire that ruled India for around three centuries and then by the British colonizers who followed.

Islamophobia isn’t new to India, and Muslims also faced prejudice and recurring violence during the generations in which the liberal upper-caste Hindu elite dominated the nation’s secular democratic politics. But under Mr. Modi’s right-wing leadership, hatred of Muslims has effectively become state policy. India is now a country where police have been accused of standing by as Hindus attack Muslims , where the killers of religious minorities go unpunished and where Hindu extremists openly call for the genocide of Muslims.

Protest, and you run the risk of having a Hindu mob unleashed on you. That’s what happened after Mr. Modi’s government in 2019 pushed through a citizenship law that discriminates against Muslims and his party promised to expel “infiltrators” from the country. When Indian Muslims protested, one of Mr. Modi’s supporters responded with a provocative speech that is blamed for sparking deadly clashes between Hindus and Muslims in Delhi in February 2020. Police were accused of looking the other way as Muslims had their shops destroyed, were assaulted and were even killed.

Bulldozers have become a symbol of this state terrorism — rolled out at right-wing rallies, tattooed on the arms of Modi supporters and featured in Hindu nationalist songs — because of their use in areas governed by the Bharatiya Janata Party to illegally knock down the homes and businesses of Muslims who dare to speak up. Some states have essentially made Muslim-Hindu relationships illegal, based on an absurd Hindu conspiracy theory that Muslim men are seducing Hindu women as part of a long-term plan to turn India into a Muslim nation.

The liberal Hindu elite, instead of acknowledging its role in enabling the sentiments on which Mr. Modi has capitalized, has done little to help, other than to ineffectually express nostalgia for a lost Hindu tolerance. And there is little that Indian Muslims can do within the political system: Although the Muslim share of India’s population has slowly grown to 14 percent, the percentage of Parliament members who are Muslim has declined to less than 5 percent today, compared with 9 percent in the early 1980s.

The Indian Muslim response to our subjugation has largely been a deafening silence. Many of us are simply unwilling to speak out against the Modi government’s bitter bargain: that for us to exist as Indian citizens, we must meekly accept historical revisionism, dehumanization and demonization.

This debasement, and the knowledge that you are essentially outside the protection of the law, kills something inside you. You take precautions to protect yourself. My mother no longer packs mutton for me to take back to Delhi after I visit her, as she used to. She’s afraid it will be mistaken for beef: Dozens of Muslims have reportedly been killed or assaulted by Hindu mobs on suspicion of killing cows — which are sacred to Hindus — or for eating or possessing beef. Muslim parents now routinely repeat a litany of don’ts to their children: Don’t appear Muslim in public, don’t reveal your name, don’t enter Hindu areas or travel alone and don’t get pulled into any potential confrontation.

While we caution one another to blend in, it’s difficult to reconcile with the whole thing. Each of us has something embedded in our sense of self and expression that is particularly painful to erase. And the sort of physical markers we are trying to hide are not even wholly specific to Muslims in India. My cousin likes to wear his Pathani kurta, but so do many Hindus. My youngest sister prefers to keep her head covered, but so do many Hindu women, although not with a hijab. I’m attached to using certain Urdu words that have long been a feature of India’s syncretic culture and have been used widely by Hindus, too.

Self-denial leads to deep frustration. Now during gatherings with friends and family, we avoid politics; discussing the elephant in the room only reminds us of our helplessness. The cumulative weight of all this has created a mental health crisis of fear and depression among Muslims. Yet because of a desperate shortage of mental health professionals in India and a limited understanding of our new reality by many non-Muslim therapists, many Muslims are left to cope on their own.

I was hesitant to write this essay. I am not supposed to protest, to speak up. When I sometimes do, posting online about it, the typical response is, “Go to Pakistan.” But why would I leave? I am an Indian. I was born here, as were my ancestors who opposed the religious basis of the partition with Pakistan and believed in the Indian ideals of secular democracy.

But many Muslims have fled over the years, emigrating to Australia, Canada, Britain, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, Malaysia or elsewhere because of the worsening political climate. Many who can’t afford to emigrate are moving out of the predominantly Hindu or mixed neighborhoods where they lived for decades, to poorer Muslim areas for safety. Two of my Muslim friends and I used to own apartments in a suburban area near New Delhi where many upper-caste Hindus lived. But in 2020, after the discriminatory citizenship law was passed, a Hindu mob charged through the neighborhood baying for Muslim blood. My two friends soon moved out. I kept my apartment, but in the elevator one evening in 2022, I overheard two men discussing how many katua (a derogatory term for Muslims that refers to circumcision) lived in the area. I moved out the next day. Sadly, Hindu friends and colleagues of mine also have become colder and more distant and are dropping out of contact.

On June 1, India’s voting period comes to a close. It looms as a day of dread for Muslims like me. According to most projections, it will be another victory for Mr. Modi — and further validation of mob rule and the debasement of 200 million Muslims by a hubristic Hindu majority.

Mohammad Ali (@hindureporter) is an independent journalist and writer who divides his time between New York and India. He is writing a book on growing up in India as Narendra Modi and his party have sought to transform India into a Hindu nation.

The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips . And here’s our email: [email protected] .

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Modi's alliance to win big in India election, exit polls project

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• Exit polls project BJP-led alliance to win 350+ of 543 seats
• Modi’s BJP projected to better 303 seats won in 2019
• Opposition alliance projected to win 125-182 seats
• India’s exit polls have patchy record
• Opposition dismisses exit poll projections

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India election results: Modi claims victory for alliance

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) supporters listen to prime minister Narendra Modi’s victory speech at the party headquarters in New Delhi.

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Today’s live coverage has ended, but there’s still plenty to catch up on. Read what you missed below and find more coverage on the AP’s global elections hub.

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi has claimed victory for his alliance as early results from the staggered, six-week election showed fewer seats for his Bharatiya Janata Party than expected and it appeared unlikely to secure a majority on its own. Final figures are not expected until Wednesday local time, with counting going late into the night.

Here’s what to know:

• Where results stand: After winning a record 303 seats in 2019, Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party appeared unlikely to win more than 240, far short of the 272 needed to form a majority government on its own.
• National Democratic Alliance: The political coalition led by Modi’s party appears on track to win a combined 286 seat majority.
• Modi claims early victory: In a speech to supporters , Modi claimed victory for his alliance , calling the election a big win despite the stronger-than-expected challenge from the opposition.

Across India, supporters of various political parties, leaders and candidates celebrated wins as counting nears its end

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is greeted by supporters as he arrives at Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) headquarters in New Delhi, India, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup)

A supporter of Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) dances as he celebrates with others their party’s lead during the counting of votes in India’s national election in Mumbai, India, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Rafiq Maqbool)

Samajwadi Party supporters celebrate their party’s lead during the counting of votes in India’s national election in Lucknow, India, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Rajesh Kumar Singh)

Congress Party leader Rahul Gandhi, in white shirt, sees his mother and party leader Sonia Gandhi off as she leaves the party headquarters after feeling physical discomfort during a press conference in New Delhi, India, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Altaf Qadri)

Congress Party supporters wait to get a glimpse of the party leader Rahul Gandhi at the party headquarters in New Delhi, India, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Altaf Qadri)

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party supporters celebrate as they follow proceedings of the vote counting at their party headquarters in Chennai, India, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Mahesh Kumar A.)

Trinamool Congress Party leader and Chief Minister of West Bengal state, Mamata Banerjee, and her nephew and party leader Abhishek Banerjee make a victory sign with their hands as they arrive to address a press conference in Kolkata, India, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Bikas Das)

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) supporters dance inside the party office after hearing of a candidate’s victory during the counting in India’s national election, in New Delhi, India, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Hindu nationalist party showed a comfortable lead Tuesday, according to early figures reported by India’s Election Commission, but was facing a stronger challenge from the opposition than had been expected. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup)

Supporters of Congress Party cheer the party leader Rahul Gandhi, center, as he leaves the party headquarters after addressing a press conference in New Delhi, India, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Altaf Qadri)

A Congress Party supporter carries a flag printed with a portrait of party leader Rahul Gandhi at the party headquarters in New Delhi, India, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Altaf Qadri)

A Samajwadi Party supporter carries portraits of party leader Akhilesh Yadav, right, and Congress Party leader, Rahul Gandhi, as he celebrates his party’s lead during the counting of votes in India’s national election in Lucknow, India, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Rajesh Kumar Singh)

Workers carry a large cutout portrait of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the party headquarters in New Delhi, India, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup)

A man walks past posters with portraits of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state President K. Annamalai on a street in Chennai, India, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Mahesh Kumar A.)

After winning a record 303 seats in 2019, the BJP appeared unlikely to win more than 240, far short of the 272 needed to form a majority government on its own, with 194 seats won and the lead in 46 constituencies and counting ongoing.

Modi’s NDA coalition, meantime, was on track to win a combined 286 seat majority, with 225 seats won and leads in 61 races.

The opposition INDIA coalition appeared as if it would win 210 seats.

Final figures were not expected until Wednesday, with counting going late into the night.

The White House on Tuesday commended India for demonstrating its “vibrant democratic process” after close to 970 million Indians went to the polls during its six-week long election.

White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said the turnout demonstrated the Indian electorate’s commitment to democracy.

“So we celebrate that with them,” Kirby told reporters. ”And we applaud the government writ large for successfully completing a truly, massively-sized electoral undertaking.”

Kirby declined to comment about Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his BJP party’s apparent victory, noting that “not all the votes have been tallied and counted.”

Indian President Droupadi Murmu greets the crowd gathered at her temporary residence in New Delhi in 2022 (AP Photo/Manish Swarup)

India’s president is its head of state, but the position is largely ceremonial.

Droupadi Murmu, the current president, was elected in 2022 by lawmakers — an electoral college that consists of lawmakers in both houses of Parliament and elected members of the legislative assemblies of all states. She hails from the same political party as Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The position can be important during times of political uncertainty such as a hung parliament, when the office assumes greater power. The president is bound by the advice of the Cabinet led by the prime minister, who is the chief executive.

Tallies reported by India’s Election Commission showed Modi’s BJP-led National Democratic Alliance, 209 of them going to BJP.

The opposition Congress party is part of the INDIA alliance , which so far had won 177 seats, 81 of them for Congress.

Tallying is ongoing. A total of 272 seats are needed for a majority.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the inauguration of Kashi Vishwanath Dham Corridor, a promenade that connects the sacred Ganges River with the centuries-old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Varanasi, India, Monday, Dec. 13, 2021 (AP Photo/Rajesh Kumar Singh)

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who claimed victory for his alliance in an election seen as a referendum on his decade in power, is a popular but polarizing leader who has presided over a fast-growing economy while advancing Hindu nationalism.

Modi, 73, is only the second Indian prime minister to win a third straight term.

To supporters, Modi is a larger-than-life figure who has improved India’s standing in the world, helped make its economy the world’s fifth-largest , and streamlined the country’s vast welfare program, which serves around 60% of the population. To some, he may even be more than human.

But to critics, he’s a cult leader who has eroded India’s democracy and advanced divisive politics targeting the Muslims who make up 14% of the country’s population. They say he has also increasingly wielded strong-arm tactics to subdue political opponents, squeeze independent media and quash dissent.

▶ Read more in our profile of the prime minister.

As Narendra Modi claimed victory for his alliance, congratulations from neighbors began rolling in on X despite the National Democratic Alliance having several seats to win before securing a majority.

Nepalese Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal: “Congratulations to PM @narendramodi on the electoral success of BJP and NDA in the Loksabha elections for the third consecutive term. We are happy to note the successful completion of the world’s largest democratic exercise with enthusiastic participation of the people of India.”

Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay: “Congratulations to my friend PM @narendramodi ji and NDA for the historic 3rd consecutive win in the world’s biggest elections. As he continues to lead Bharat to great heights, I look forward to working closely with him to further strengthen the relations between our 2 countries.”

Mauritian Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth: “Congratulations Prime Minister Modi Ji @narendramodi on your laudable victory for a historic third term. Under your helm, the largest democracy will continue to achieve remarkable progress. Long live the Mauritius-India special relationship.”

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe: I extend my warmest felicitations to the @BJP4India led NDA on its victory, demonstrating the confidence of the Indian people in the progress and prosperity under the leadership of PM @narendramodi. As the closest neighbour Sri Lanka looks forward to further strengthening the partnership with India.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is garlanded by senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders Rajnath Singh, left, party President JP Nadda, right, and Amit Shah, at the party headquarters in New Delhi, India, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup)

Around 33 minutes.

32. The National Democratic Alliance, led by Narendra Modi’s BJP, has claimed 240 seats. It needs 272 to secure a majority and thus a third term for the prime minister.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi says India will will see a “new chapter of big decisions” in his third term in office.

After claiming victory for his coalition alliance despite a lackluster performance from his own party, Modi told a crowd at party headquarters he would not shirk from pushing forward with his agenda.

He said he would advance India’s defense production, jobs for youth, raise exports and help farmers, among other things.

“This country will see a new chapter of big decisions. This is Modi’s guarantee,” he said, speaking in the third person.

His speech is still ongoing.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets supporters as he arrives at Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) headquarters in New Delhi, India, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi promises “new chapter of big decisions” after declaring victory for his coalition.

But if his BJP is indeed forced to form a coalition, the party would likely “be heavily dependent on the goodwill of its allies, which makes them critical players who we can expect will extract their pound of flesh, both in terms of policymaking as well as government formation,” said Milan Vaishnav, director of the South Asia Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi claimed victory for his alliance, despite a lackluster performance from his own party as it faced a stronger than expected challenge from the opposition, which pushed back against the leader’s mixed economic record and polarizing politics.

Modi said that his National Democratic Alliance will form the government for the third consecutive time.

“Today’s victory is the victory of the world’s largest democracy,” he said, speaking at his party headquarters.

For the first time since Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party swept to power in 2014, it appeared unlikely that it would secure a majority on its own – but the prime minister’s coalition was still expected to be elected to a third five-year term in the world’s largest democratic exercise .

If Modi does have to rely on coalition support to govern, it would be a stunning blow for the 73-year-old, who had hoped for a landslide victory.

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi claims victory for his alliance, 329 of 543 seats have been decided, according to India’s Election Commission. Counting is expected to continue through the night.

Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party and its National Democratic Alliance has yet to secure the 272 seats needed for a parliamentary majority, but the prime minister has declared “a very big win.”

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi swept to power a decade ago on promises to transform India’s economy, and as he seeks a third term as prime minister, it would be hard to argue he hasn’t made strides.

▶ Read more about the growth of India’s economy — and why some feel left behind.

Supporters of National Democratic Alliance watch as their candidates arrive to file nomination papers ahead of national elections in Mumbai, India, Monday, April 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Rafiq Maqbool)

The National Democratic Alliance, an Indian political coalition, is led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party. It was founded in 1998 and comprises center-right and right-wing political parties.

The coalition’s first chair was former BJP Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The coalition ruled from 1998 to 2004, but then was out of power until 2014, when Modi was first elected as the prime minister.

BJP’s key allies in the NDA include more than a dozen regional parties, including the Telugu Desam Party, Janta Dal (United), Pattali Makkal Katchi, the Republican Parry of India (Athwale Group) and Shiv Sena.

The NDA could be key to Modi retaining his position. In the past two elections, the BJP has secured an outright majority, but early figures indicate it might need the coalition to reach that threshold.

More than 12 hours after vote counting started, India’s Election Commission reports that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party has won 140 seats while the Congress party has won 55.

272 seats are needed to secure a majority. Preliminary results indicate Modi’s BJP will need to rely on its coalition partners to achieve that.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived at Bharatiya Janata Party headquarters in New Delhi, where supporters are spilling out into the road.

Samajwadi Party supporters dance as they celebrate their party’s lead during the counting of votes in India’s national election in Lucknow, India, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Rajesh Kumar Singh)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Hindu nationalist party is facing a major upset in India’s most populous state at the hands of a powerful regional group, Samajwadi Party or Socialist Group.

The Samajwadi Party, founded in 1992 and now led by Akhilesh Yadav, has already won 10 seats in Uttar Pradesh state and was leading in another 28 constituencies. It is part of the Congress-led INDIA alliance, which is facing off against the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance.

Modi’s BJP has won in 12 districts (including Modi’s own Varanasi seat) and is leading in 20 constituencies. Exit polls had predicted a landslide victory for the BJP in the state.

“In this election, it seems Lord Ram has deserted the BJP,” Samajwadi spokesperson Rajendra Chaudhry said.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, shows the indelible ink mark on his index finger after casting his vote during the third phase of general elections, in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India, Tuesday, May 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Ajit Solanki)

The 73-year-old is one of India’s most beloved — and polarizing — leaders. He’s already won twice, first in 2014 and then in 2019, and is now seeking a hattrick victory.

His supporters see him as a self-made, strong leader who has improved India’s standing on the global stage, and credit his pro-business policies with making the economy the world’s fifth-largest. At the same time, his rule has seen brazen attacks against minorities, particularly Muslims.

India’s democracy, critics say, is faltering and Modi has increasingly blurred the line between religion and state. But both agree on one thing: Modi has achieved staying power by making Hindu nationalism acceptable — desirable, even — to a nation of 1.4 billion that for decades prided itself on secularism and diversity.

Millions of Indians are voting in a six-week long national election in a referendum on Narendra Modi, the populist prime minister who has championed an assertive brand of Hindu nationalist politics. The voters will cast ballots in the first round of voting across 21 states. Over 970 million voters will elect 543 members for the lower house of Parliament for five years during the staggered elections that will run until June 1. The votes will be counted on June 4. (AP Video by Piyush Nagpal)

Each phase was held on a single day, with voting in several constituencies across multiple states. The staggered polling allowed the government to deploy tens of thousands of troops to prevent violence and transport election officials and voting machines.

People walk past a large poster of the movie “Swatantra Veer Savarkar” displayed outside a cinema hall in Mumbai (AP Photo/Rajanish Kakade)

For more than a century, Bollywood has unified India, a country riven with religious, caste and political divide. It’s been a rare industry where religion has been least influential in deciding the success of filmmakers and actors. Bollywood films have also championed political diversity and religious harmony.

That culture, however, appears to be under threat.

Under Narendra Modi’s Hindu nationalist government, many filmmakers have made movies on bygone Hindu kings extolling their bravery. Boisterous and action-packed movies valorizing the Indian Army have become box office successes. Political dramas and biopics that eulogize Hindu nationalists are the norm.

In most of these films, the stock villains are medieval Muslim rulers, leftist or opposition leaders, free thinkers or rights activists — and neighboring Pakistan.

▶ Read more about how some in the Hindi film industry have embraced Modi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi says his coalition is on the path to a third straight term in government after India’s marathon election.

“People have placed their faith in NDA, for a third consecutive time! This is a historical feat in India’s history,” Modi on Tuesday said in a post on X, referring to the National Democratic Alliance which his party heads. He said he will continue to work and fulfil the aspirations of the people.

As Modi posted his comment, his coalition had won 128 seats and led in 157 races according to the Election Commission. A total of 272 seats were needed to form a majority government.

For Payal, a resident of the northern city of Lucknow who uses only one name, the election was about the economy and India’s vast number of people living in poverty. “People are suffering, there are no jobs, people are in such a state that their kids are compelled to make and sell tea on the roadside,” Payal said. “This is a big deal for us. If we don’t wake up now, when will we?”

Supporters of Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) dance as they celebrate their party’s lead during the counting of votes in India’s national election in Mumbai, India, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Rafiq Maqbool)

Supporters of Congress Party dance as they celebrate their party’s lead during the counting of votes in India’s national election in Mumbai, India, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Rafiq Maqbool)

Faces of Trinamool Congress Party supporters smeared with green colour display victory sign as they celebrate the election results in Kolkata, India, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Hindu nationalist party showed a comfortable lead Tuesday, according to early figures reported by India’s Election Commission, but was facing a stronger challenge from the opposition than had been expected. (AP Photo/Bikas Das)

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party supporters cheer as they follow proceedings of the vote counting at their party headquarters in Chennai, India, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. India began counting more than 640 million votes Tuesday in the world’s largest democratic exercise, which was widely expected to return Prime Minister Narendra Modi to a third term after a decade in power. (AP Photo/Mahesh Kumar A.)

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) supporters shout slogans as they celebrate their party’s lead during the counting of votes outside the party office in Srinagar, Indian controlled Kashmir, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin)

Congress party supporters cheer as they follow proceedings of vote counting at their party headquarters in New Delhi, India, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. India began counting more than 640 million votes Tuesday in the world’s largest democratic exercise, which was widely expected to return Prime Minister Narendra Modi to a third term after a decade in power. (AP Photo/Altaf Qadri)

A band plays music as Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) supporters dance inside the party office after hearing of a candidate’s victory during the counting in India’s national election, in New Delhi, India, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. xPrime Minister Narendra Modi’s Hindu nationalist party showed a comfortable lead Tuesday, according to early figures reported by India’s Election Commission, but was facing a stronger challenge from the opposition than had been expected. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup)

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) supporters light firecrackers after hearing of a candidate’s victory during the counting of votes in India’s national election, in New Delhi, India, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup)

Across India, supporters of various political parties have been celebrating results as they trickle in with colored powder, fireworks, drums and more.

Hindu nationalism, once a fringe ideology in India, is now mainstream. Nobody has done more to advance this cause than Prime Minister Narendra Modi, one of India’s most beloved and polarizing political leaders.

Hindu nationalism , once a fringe ideology in India , is now mainstream. Nobody has done more to advance this cause than Prime Minister Narendra Modi , one of India’s most beloved and polarizing political leaders.

And no entity has had more influence on his political philosophy and ambitions than a paramilitary, right-wing group founded nearly a century ago and known as the RSS.

▶ Read more about how Hindu nationalism has become mainstream over the past decade.

Aam Aadmi Party leader Arvind Kejriwal greets his supporters from a vehicle during a roadshow in New Delhi, India, Saturday, May 11, 2024. (AP Photo/Altaf Qadri)

As votes are being counted, Arvind Kejriwal, 55, is likely keeping track — from jail.

One of India’s most consequential opposition leaders, Kejriwal was arrested in March over alleged corruption charges, and let out on bail in May for a few weeks. He campaigned heavily during this time in his stronghold of New Delhi, India’s capital, as well as a few other cities before heading back to jail.

Kejriwal stormed into Indian politics in 2012 as he launched the anti-corruption Aam Aadmi Party, or Common People’s Party.

Since then, he has emerged as a fierce Modi rival, especially in New Delhi and Punjab state, where his party is in power.

His arrest and the ensuing saga dominated headlines, as he and his party accused Modi’s government of engineering his arrest to keep him out of the race. The government has denied this.

Kejriwal’s AAP is part of a broad alliance of opposition parties called INDIA, the main challenger to Modi’s BJP in this election.

Congress Party leader Rahul Gandhi holds a copy of the Indian Constitution as he addresses a press conference at the party headquarters in New Delhi, India, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Altaf Qadri)

Rahul Gandhi, the face of the Congress party’s campaign and would-be prime minister, said the preliminary results showed India does not want Narendra Modi.

“People’s clear message to PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah is that we don’t want you to run the nation,” Gandhi said at a Congress party press conference around 10 hours into the vote count. “The poorest of this country have defended the constitution of India.”

Flanked by Congress leaders, including mother Sonia Gandhi, the Nehru-Gandhi dynasty scion brandished a copy of the constitution.

Despite a stronger-than-expected showing from Congress’ INDIA alliance thus far, Modi is still expected to secure a third term as prime minister.

The counting is ticking along more than 10 hours after it began, and results have now been called for 103 parliamentary seats out of a total of 543.

Modi’s National Democratic Alliance had won 67 seats, with 62 of them going to his Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party, according to India’s Election Commission. The opposing INDIA coalition had bagged 31 seats, with the main Congress party winning 27 of them. The remaining five seats went to other regional parties.

Congress party leader Shashi Taroor, and contender for the party president position, left, raises hands with newly elected president Mallikarjun Kharge in New Delhi, India, Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2022. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup)

India’s opposition Congress party has called its alliance’s strong showing in the polls a “win for democracy” and a “moral and political loss” for Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Congress party President Mallikarjun Kharge just addressed a press conference in New Delhi, saying that because no party had a clear majority, the mandate was against Modi.

“Our fight has not ended yet. We will continue to fight for the country’s development, for the constitution, for the benefit of the people,” Kharge said.

Modi’s coalition led in a majority of seats Tuesday in India’s general election , according to early figures, but faced a stronger challenge from the opposition than expected after it pushed back against the leader’s mixed economic record and polarizing politics. Modi was still widely expected to be elected to a third five-year term in the world’s largest democratic exercise .

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) supporters celebrate in Srinagar as vote counting is underway in India’s 2024 Lok Sabha election. AP video: Dar Yasin

Some 10 hours into counting , partial tallies reported by India’s Election Commission showed Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party was ahead in 196 constituencies and had won 45, including one uncontested, of 543 parliamentary seats. The main opposition Congress party led in 83 constituencies and had won 15.

A total of 272 seats are needed for a majority. In 2019, the BJP won 303 seats, while they secured 282 in 2014 when Modi first came to power.

Modi’s party is part of the National Democratic Alliance, whose members led in 236 constituencies and won 50, according to the partial count. The Congress party is part of the INDIA alliance , which led in 211 constituencies and had won 19.

The Election Commission does not release data on the percentage of votes tallied.

India’s general elections are held every five years. There are no specified term limits for lawmakers and thus no limit on how many years a prime minister can serve. Narendra Modi has already been in power for a decade. Should he win a third term and finish it out, he’ll near the record of the longest-serving prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru.

India employs a first-past-the-post multiparty electoral system. That means for individual contests, whoever receives the most votes wins. To win a parliamentary majority — and thus the premiership — a party or a coalition of parties must secure at least 272 seats (543 seats are up for a vote). India’s electoral system is similar to the U.K.’s.

Congress party supporters celebrate in Mumbai as vote counting is underway in India’s 2024 Lok Sabha election. (AP video: Rafiq Maqbool)

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi filed his nomination on Tuesday to run for a third term in India’s general election. Modi hopes to retain his seat in the holy Hindu city, his constituency, from where he ran and won, first in 2014 and then again in 2019. (AP video shot by Rajesh Kumar Singh)

Although Narendra Modi is the former chief minister of Gujarat, the incumbent prime minister has retained his seat in Varanasi.

It’s the constituency from which he first ran and won in 2014. Located in Uttar Pradesh, India’s most populous state, Varanasi is a holy Hindu city. It’s about 1,350 kilometers (840 miles) east of Modi’s hometown of Vadnagar in Gujarat state.

A woman shows her index fingers marked with an indelible ink as she poses for a photograph next to a cutout portrait of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi after casting her vote in Varanasi, India (AP Photo/Rajesh Kumar Singh)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has won his seat from the Hindu holy city of Varanasi, the constituency from where he ran and won, first in 2014 and then again in 2019, India’s election commission reported.

Modi, who won by more than 152,000 votes, secured 54% of total votes. He was pitted against opposition Congress party’s Ajai Rai, who secured 40% of the votes.

The holy city is located on the banks of the revered Ganges River and is part of Uttar Pradesh state, India’s most populous, with around 200 million people.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a white waistcoat, and Yogi Adityanath, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh greet supporters from a vehicle during a roadshow in Varanasi, India, Monday, May 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Rajesh Kumar)

In campaign rallies, Narendra Modi has called Muslims “infiltrators” and said they “have too many children,” referring to a Hindu nationalist trope that Muslims produce more children with the aim of outnumbering Hindus in India. He has also accused the rival Indian National Congress party of scheming to “loot” wealth from the country’s Hindus and redistribute it among Muslims, who comprise 14% of India’s more than 1.4 billion people.

Modi had kicked off his campaign with a focus on economic progress, promising he would make India a developed nation by 2047. But he and the ruling BJP doubled down heavily on their Hindu nationalism platform , with Modi employing some of his most divisive rhetoric in his decade in power.

The Congress party filed a complaint with the Election Commission of India, alleging Modi broke rules that bar candidates from engaging in any activity that aggravates religious tensions.

Analysts say the change in tone came as the BJP targeted a supermajority by consolidating votes among the majority Hindu population — a number that now seems out of reach. They say Modi’s party also ratcheted up polarizing speeches to distract voters from larger issues, like unemployment and economic distress, that the opposition has focused on.

A polling officer applies indelible ink mark on the finger of a voter during the fifth round of multi-phase national elections in Ayodhya, India, Monday, May 20, 2024. (AP Photo/Rajesh Kumar Singh)

Narendra Modi’s BJP have lost their seat in Ayodhya, a deeply symbolic loss for the party after the prime minister opened a grand but controversial Hindu temple there in January.

The BJP candidate, Lallu Singh, lost to a candidate put up by the regional Samajwadi Party, Singh’s poll agent Kamlesh Srivastava told The Associated Press. Singh had held the seat since 2014.

Modi and his party have heavily campaigned on this temple dedicated to Lord Ram, built on the historic ruins of a mosque that was destroyed by Hindu mobs in 1992.

In this photograph released by Indian Government Press Information Bureau, Indian Prime Minister, arrives to lead the opening of a temple dedicated to Hinduism’s Lord Ram in Ayodhya, India, Monday, Jan. 22, 2024. (Press Information Bureau via AP)

Experts said the January opening, where Modi performed rituals inside the temple, marked the unofficial start of his campaign as they hoped it would resonate with his Hindu majority voters. Modi’s government had turned the event into a national occasion by organizing live screenings across the country and closing offices for half a day.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) supporters celebrate in Delhi as vote counting is underway in India’s 2024 Lok Sabha election. (AP video: Manish Swarup)

Vinod Kumar Vidyarthi waits with sweets outside the BJP party office for the final election results (AP Photo/Manish Swarup)

Outside the BJP party office in New Delhi, supporter Vinod Kumar Vidyarthi sported a stole emblazoned with Modi’s likeness and toted a Modi-branded water bottle and sweets.

Despite the sweets, he had strong words regarding the election and the Hindu nationalist party he supports: “Our party will form the government. We had traitors within us. After we form the government, it will be a victory for Hindus and we will chase away all those who betrayed us.”

Polling officers Dekule Kapfo, Neke W Konyak, Neichutuonuo Yhome and Nukutholu Nienu prepare election-related paperwork on the eve of polling (AP Photo/Yirmiyan Arthur)

The Northern Angami constituency of Chedema village is Nagaland’s first to be solely managed by women polling officers. It was the idea of Kumar Ramnikant, the administrative head of Kohima district, in hopes of breaking job stereotypes.

“Women are more systematic. They take every sentence seriously, whereas men have an easy attitude,” said Zhoto Khamo, an officer who has supervised many elections.

▶ Read more about these polling officers and see more photos of the station.

The vote counting is still carrying on, but results have been called for 28 parliamentary seats out of 542 so far.

Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party has won 19 seats, according to India’s Election Commission, while its main opposition Congress party bagged 4 seats. The rest went to different regional parties.

Vote tallying is expected to take all day, but the count so far shows Modi’s party leading in 225 constituencies with the Congress ahead in 93.

G20 leaders pay their tributes at the Rajghat, a Mahatma Gandhi memorial, in New Delhi, India, Sunday, Sept. 10, 2023. (AP Photo/Kenny Holston, Pool)

The polls are seen as a test for India’s democratic and secular traditions, which critics say have seen a slow erosion under Narendra Modi’s 10-year rule. It also tests the limits of a populist leader who has risen to power by mixing religion with politics on a Hindu-first platform.

India’s clout on the global stage has risen under Modi. It’s seen by Western nations as a counterweight to Chinese aggression in the region even as New Delhi maintains its historic ties with Russia. And its large economy, one of the fastest growing in the world, has only boosted its rise as an emerging global power.

Earthmovers remove burnt debris the day after a fire broke out in an amusement park in Rajkot, India, Sunday, May 26, 2024 (AP Photo/Ajit Solanki)

Early leads from India’s election commission projected Narendra Modi’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party was leading in 25 of 26 seats in the prime minister’s home state of Gujarat. But party leaders said they were not celebrating victory because of a recent fire at an amusement park in the state that killed 27 people.

A massive fire broke out last month at an amusement park in the state’s Rajkot city. Those killed included children.

“We had decided that there will be no celebratory victory or beating of drums. So we are not celebrating,” said C. R. Patil, a senior leader from Modi’s party.

India’s top opposition leader Rahul Gandhi, center, arrives at the Parliament in New Delhi, India, Monday, Aug.7, 2023 (AP Photo)

The 53-year-old is the scion of modern India’s most powerful political dynasty. He is the great-grandson of the country’s first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. His grandmother and father also held the top job and were each assassinated.

He is the star face for the opposition Congress party, which governed India for nearly 55 years after the country gained independence from the British in 1947. This time, he and his Congress party are leading the main opposition alliance, called INDIA, against Narendra Modi’s BJP.

While his family connections have helped retain some loyal voters, they have also worked against him — especially in the past two elections, where he suffered huge losses against Modi, who refers to Gandhi as an out-of-touch elite, coasting on his surname.

On the campaign trail, Gandhi has called Modi a dictator ruining India’s democracy. He has attacked Modi and the BJP over recent anti-Muslim rhetoric. And his party is hoping to benefit from economic distress, including high unemployment.

A Bharatiya Janta Party supporter prepares to offer prayers to the cut-out of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi outside their party headquarters in New Delhi, India, Tuesday, June 4, 2024 (AP Photo/Manish Swarup)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ruling Hindu nationalist party appears to be falling short of a majority in the early vote count. If these trends hold, it would be a stunning setback to the populist who has never relied on coalition partners to govern.

Modi’s party is still expected to form the government and return as the prime minister for a rare third consecutive term as his National Democratic Alliance was leading in about 290 constituencies — ahead of the 272 seats needed for a majority. Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party alone was leading in 242 seats.

A coalition would, however, diminish Modi’s power as a strongman leader who won his party landslide victories in 2014 and 2019 elections.

In such a scenario, his BJP would likely “be heavily dependent on the goodwill of its allies, which makes them critical players who we can expect will extract their pound of flesh, both in terms of policymaking as well as government formation,” said Milan Vaishnav, director of the South Asia Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

“This would be truly, you know, uncharted territory, both for Indians as well as for the prime minister,” Vaishnav said.

Since coming to power in 2014, Modi’s BJP has governed in a coalition government but has always held a majority on its own.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) supporters celebrate in Guwahati as party seeks majority for third term in Assam. (AP video: Anupam Nath)

People cross the Brahmaputra river in a boat to reach a polling booth in Morigaon district, Assam, India, on April 26 (AP Photo/Anupam Nath)

As hundreds of millions headed to the polls, they did so amid sweltering heat and unpredictable weather extremes worsened by human-caused climate change. That climate change has led to losses of livelihood, forced migration and increasingly difficult living conditions.

India’s top political parties made promises to address climate change and reduce emissions in their election manifestos — but little of that was evident on the campaign trail.

Here’s a look at what climate change has wrought in the country:

• Western and central India: extreme heat and longer droughts
• Coastal regions: stronger and more frequent cyclones
• Northeastern India: unpredictable and increased flooding
• Himalayas: melting glaciers and intense rain

▶ Read more about how climate change has affected the election.