August 15, 2008

  •  India’s Independence Day

    India became independent from the British rule on August 15, 1947. So today is India’s 61st Independence Day.

     

    India already celebrated its 61st Independence Day several hours ago, because of the time difference between India and USA – where I live. I was reading in the Indian online newspapers about the celebrations and festivities that took place in India today. The Prime Minister as usual “lectured” and talked about big things. But I was more interested in reading the feelings of the public. Thanks to the Internet. Feelings of Indians living in and out of India have filled the newspaper’s Comments section. As expected, opinions and views differ widely. But somebody has almost voiced my opinion about being an Indian, and the progress made by the country in the last 61 years. So I am quoting below his opinion:

     

    Amit, Pune, says: Proud?? Of what?? Poor infrastructure, lack of planning, no vision, corrupt politicians, high inflation, being ruled like a monarchy by one family for decades? Or one gold medal that India won at Olympics after 61 years of independence? There is nothing to be proud of. Look at countries like China achieving and scaling great heights and emerging as a true super power. They have proved that in spite of communist rule, they are a far better nation and a highly advanced and superior nation than India. Where does India stand today? Answer:  No where!! The grave is already dug; it’s just a matter of time [when] we all fall into it.
    [15 Aug 2008, 2105 hrs IST] – Quoted from The Times of India (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/idayopinion/msid-3368191,curpg-4.cms)

     

    Amit, I totally agree with you. Add to it India’s total failure of population control, India’s still prevalent caste system, dowry system, high percentage of illiteracy, lack of enough electricity to support even urban population, lack of clean drinking water for all villagers, etc. and you get the full picture. Three (or is it four?) Indians have been named in this year’s list of 10 richest people in the world. On the other hand, about 30% of Indians live on an income of less than one dollar a day. This is the progress India made in 61 years after Independence. And some people are actually proud to be Indian? I think these people are responsible for India’s plight and standing in the world today.

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