Imagining India

Its an absolute pleasure reading this book. One understands why current India is, what it is. India's pre-British prosperity, British rule, freedom movement, finally independence and post independence have been stages of metamorphosis of our thought and action as a nation. This book gives key perspectives to present day issues facing India and helps build the bridge to its past, portions of which have been misunderstood or misinterpreted. Its important to connect with the past, so appropriate solutions to current problems can be arrived at and consequently the future is taken care of.

This book has inspired me to think about my country with awareness than with emotion. It has inspired me to take every opportunity to make my small contribution to nation-building.

According to the author, following key aspects have shaped India that it is today:

1. Caste system still dominates despite the changed society structure that the information age has brought in. Caste system originally existed for smooth functioning of the society in the olden days, when monarchy still prevailed. This system of administration that persisted over the years has now become a divisive factor in the society in this age of democracy. Caste/community based political groups still continue to influence voters.

2. Restricted access to opportunities and resources in India are what are barricading innovation and entrepreneurship. Hence, progressive thinking only remains a subject of drawing room discussions.

3. Relegation of education to the back seat and poor facilities in govt schools have denied the poorer sections of society even the basic education. In turn, they have become more vulnerable to social atrocities and crime . It is noteworthy that some of India's famous criminals all come from an extremely impoverished background.

4. Our cities have been focal points of growth and this has restricted economic and social growth of smaller towns and villages. As a result, masses of people from smaller towns are making their way to the cities, in want of better livelihood and quality of life, thus putting the city infrastructure under stress.

5. 'In today's economy, trade is a fast train that stops only at certain stations-the one with infrastructure and the factor advantages that support it'. Explains why some states have progressed and have gone ahead of others, whereas the BIMARU states have been left behind in terms of progress and continue to be in the grip of poverty, illiteracy, crime and exploitation.