A PUBLIC SQUARE DISCUSSING NEW INDIA

indiawelcomesu.com is a social network to promote open discussion about the “New India”, the emerging economic power which is likely to be a powerful competitor for influence, raw material sourcing and market. It may or may not reach the military and economic strength  of China soon, still, unquestionably, it has significant role to play in the world affairs. It has become a power to be reckoned with.

In Kerala, in the South West corner of India where I was born and brought up, we used to have tea/ coffee shops where the many(mostly men) used to go, have a coffee or tea, read the free newspapers available and engage in discussions on the days events reported. They may sometimes get into heated debates and arguments. Now that many people are working, such customs are slowly disappearing. In some other parts of India, people may congregate in the village squares( perhaps under a large tree) or in the courtyard of local temples or mosque and similar places and share news and opinions.

Like-wise, let this our coffee house or temple square. All are invited to this new public square- a place to meet, chat and share views, opinions, as well as thoughts about the country.You may be an Indian, India-born or of Indian ancestry. Some of you may be abroad and some in India itself. Many of you might have visited India one time or other and have experienced life there. Some of you may be very critical of what you see in India, the overcrowding, the chaos and confusion and how the democratic system works as well as the wasted opportunities for fast growth and development. It is quite possible that many of you  feel that India should have adopted the authoritarian  and decisive one party rule as followed by China or it should have more aggressively pursued the free-enterprise and capitalistic  form of development rather than the hybrid -semi-socialism and capitalism. Whatever your orientation or inclination, let us all come together in this virtual world and freely( but with courtesy to each other and civility)have a productive and continuing dialogue about India.

Please remember, that India is a huge country with a long history and old traditions. It is a nation of more than 1.2 billion people who speak 20 or more languages and 200 or more dialects and follow many religions (nearly 80% Hindus, 13 %or so Muslims) and a millions of Buddhists, Christians and others ). The national government(Central) and the 26 ( currently) States are ruled by different parties or coalitions of parties. Seventy percent or so of the people of India live villages, small and large and the rest in large towns or mega-cities. With numerous castes, sub-castes, and the multitude of variation of there of, India is a complex society and it is a wonder how it has been able to hold together and grow. Proudly, it is a symbol of ” unity in diversity”.

India, from time immemorial, has been a place which attracted people from far and near. Many came as migrants, invaders, explorers, traders,tourists and what not and they all contributed to what is India today. Outsiders have always looked at India with appreciation, wonder and sometimes with trepidation. The magical symbol of love-Taj Mahal,the marvelous places and ancient temples and other monuments, always attracted tourists. Sometimes, the overcrowded cities, the poor sanitation, filth thrown all around and the begging children in the streets repulse many visitors. The “incredible India” is fabulous and enchanting, but, it is also hard to understand and enjoy.

The view of India is changing. A new India is emerging in the public mind. Slowly, though reluctantly, India is beginning to be recognized as a dominant emerging power, a country which could grow as a counter balance to the growing power of China. Its 300-350 million strong ( and still growing)  middle class, its dominance in IT, and growing manufacturing capabilities are all gaining attention.

Altogether, the world -at-large see India differently than it did 20-30 years ago. It is no more a country asking for charity and food aid. The image has changed. However, if India is to play is deserving role and a force to be recognized, the country has to be understood properly, with all its strengths and failures. We all can help in this process. Let us all have a meaningful conversation. Your contribution can help. Let us present the New India in all its vivid colors and complexity.Let this be our journey together.

Contact: keerikatte@indiawelcomesu.com/ keerikatte@hotmail.com