Nearly one sixth of all the human beings on Earth live in India, the world's most populous democracy. Its borders encompass a variety of peoples, practicing most of the world's major religions, speaking scores of different languages, divided into thousands of socially exclusive castes, and combining the physical traits of several major racial groups. A civilized, urban society has existed in India for well over 4,000 years, and there have been periods when its culturewas as brilliant and creative as any in history.

India's leaders have played a prominent role in world affairs since                   the country became independent in 1947. Nevertheless, the standard of living of most of its citizens is low. The huge population strains the nation's limited resources. Fertile, cultivable land is scarce, yet more than two thirds of the people depend directly on agriculture for their livelihood. Many millions of Indians are inadequately nourished, poorly housed, and lacking in basic educational, medical, and sanitary services.