"Breaking news, politics, economy, quality of life, society & culture, security issues"--Cover.

Includes bibliographical references (page 107) and index.

"India is a nation both ancient and modern. Founded in 1947, its history dates back 4,000 years. The majority of India's workforce is comprised of farmers; yet its overall economic growth stands among the world's greatest. While its traditionalist society disenfranchises parts of the population, it has successfully carried out the largest free elections in the world. Seven hundred active languages and over one billion people characterize the Republic of India, a growing global power. By every measure, India has changed so much since its founding, boasting far better wealth and health, that it may as well be another country. For many Indians, however, little has changed: poverty remains endemic throughout much of society as the gains of a roaring economy go into the pockets of the wealthy. Hundreds of millions of Indians have no access to electricity, running water, or toilets, and earn as little as the equivalent of two dollars a day. The sheer size of India means that every problem is a big problem, requiring a big solution."--,Provided by publisher.