India in the 21st Century: What Everyone Needs to Know (R)

India is fast overtaking China to become the most populous country on Earth, with its 1.7 billion people living in the world's second-largest economy. Assertive Hindu nationalism poses new challenges to India's democratic freedoms and institutions, while illiberal democracies and autocratic leaders are on the rise worldwide. Mira Kamdar's book "India in the 21st Century" offers an introduction to India today in all its complexity, exploring its history, religious plurality, colonial legacy, political and social structures, rapidly growing economy, financial system, geopolitical landscape, climate change, wealth concentration, social inequalities, rise of big data and robotics, and the role of social media.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 28 June 2018
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

India is rapidly catching up to China in terms of population, with projections suggesting that its 1.7 billion citizens will make it the world's second-largest economy by the middle of the century. While India boasts democratic values and a vibrant open society, assertive Hindu nationalism is emerging as a significant challenge to its democratic freedoms and institutions. This phenomenon is particularly concerning in a global context where illiberal democracies and autocratic leaders are on the rise.

The future trajectory of India holds immense significance for the world, as the West's influence in shaping the 21st century is gradually diminishing, while the influence of China and other emerging economies in Africa and Latin America is on the rise. In her book, "India in the 21st Century," Mira Kamdar, a former member of the New York Times Editorial Board and an acclaimed author, provides a comprehensive introduction to India's complex present.

Kamdar delves into India's rich history, encompassing its ancient civilizations, diverse religious traditions, colonial past, and struggle for independence. She explores the political and social structures that shape India today, highlighting its rapidly growing economy and financial system. Additionally, she examines India's geopolitical significance in the 21st century, considering its role in regional and global affairs.

Kamdar also addresses the challenges India faces, such as climate change, resource depletion, wealth concentration, and stark social inequalities. She explores the impact of technology, including big data and robotics, on India's society and economy. She also examines the role of social media and other forms of communication in shaping Indian culture and society.

Throughout the book, Kamdar offers a balanced and nuanced perspective on India, exploring its contradictions and complexities while celebrating the country's rich cultural heritage and intellectual traditions. She highlights the ways in which India is blending its multicultural landscape with the advancements of the Information Age and the expansion of mass media.

With her extensive knowledge of India and her eloquent writing style, Kamdar provides readers with a comprehensive and insightful introduction to the country in the 21st century. "India in the 21st Century" is a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding India's past, present, and future, and its role in shaping the global landscape.

Weight: 314g
Dimension: 139 x 209 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780199973590