India, officially known as the Republic of India, is a country in South Asia. It is the seventh-largest country by land area, covering approximately 3.28 million square kilometers, and is the most populous country in the world as of 2023, with over 1.4 billion people. India shares borders with Pakistan to the west, China, Nepal, and Bhutan to the north, and Bangladesh and Myanmar to the east. To the south, it is surrounded by the Indian Ocean. New Delhi serves as the capital of India, while other major cities include Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and Bangalore.
India is a federal parliamentary democratic republic, consisting of 28 states and 8 union territories. The country's constitution, adopted in 1950, established a secular and democratic political system. India has a multi-tiered government structure, with the President serving as the ceremonial head of state and the Prime Minister as the head of government.
India's economy is one of the largest in the world, with a mixed economy characterized by agriculture, manufacturing, and services sectors. It is a major global player in information technology, pharmaceuticals, and telecommunications. The country is also known for its large and diverse workforce. In 1991, India underwent significant economic liberalization, which spurred rapid growth and integration into the global economy.
India is rich in cultural heritage, with deep historical roots in art, architecture, literature, music, and religion. It is home to major religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, and it has a long history of religious diversity and tolerance. The country has 40 UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Taj Mahal, Qutub Minar, and the Ajanta and Ellora Caves.
India gained independence from British rule on August 15, 1947, following a long struggle led by figures like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru. Since then, it has emerged as a prominent global player in geopolitics, science, technology, and defense. India is a founding member of international organizations such as the United Nations, the World Trade Organization (WTO), and the Non-Aligned Movement.
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