India is the second most populous country in the world, with more than 800 million people. It is also one of the poorest countries, with a 1991 gross national product (GNP) of $330 per capita ("India," 1993, p. 1394). The nation became independent within the British Commonwealth in 1947 after a protracted and bitter struggle against British colonial rule. Internal political turmoil, cultural clashes among various subgroups and the overpopulation of the country have all contributed to its slow economic development, but recent governments have taken steps to improve the nation's economic standing. This research examines the current economic position of India and the efforts being undertaken to improve that position.
India is a federal republic with legislative power in Parliament, composed of two houses. The president is the constitutional head of state, elected for five years by an electoral college made up of both houses of Parliament and the state legislatures. The president exercises executive power based on the advice of the Council of Ministers, which is responsible to Parliament. The president also appoints ministers, including the Prime Minister. Despite the official hierarchy provided by the constitution, the president is largely a figurehead, with power resting in the hands of the Prime Minister.
Culturally, the nation is defined by a rigid class (caste) system which traditionally has defined the jobs and functions that any one individual could accomplish in his life. Recent protests by middle class students have led to some eradication of the caste system, but its influence remains pervasive and provides one of the greater challenges to those seeking to improve the economic lot of the nation as a whole ("India," 1993, p. 1391).
Geographically, India is a subcontinent with the Himalayan mountain range to the north. Neighboring countries include the People's Republic of China, Bhutan, Nepal, Pakistan, and Myan...