India is a country located in South Asia, bordered by the Indian Ocean to the south, the Arabian Sea to the west, and the Bay of Bengal to the east. It is the seventh-largest country by area and the second-most populous country in the world, with over 1.3 billion people. India is known for its diverse cultures, religions, and languages, with over 2,000 ethnic groups and more than 1,600 languages spoken. The country has a rich history and has been home to several ancient civilizations, including the Indus Valley Civilization and the Maurya Empire. Today, India is a rapidly developing economy and a major player in the global tech industry. Its capital is New Delhi, and its largest city is Mumbai.

ABOUT

India is a country located in South Asia, bordered by Pakistan to the northwest, China and Nepal to the north, Bhutan to the northeast, Bangladesh and Myanmar to the east, and the Indian Ocean to the south. It is the second most populous country in the world with over 1.3 billion people and has a rich history and diverse culture.

India has a federal parliamentary democratic republic form of government with the President as the head of state and the Prime Minister as the head of government. The country is divided into 28 states and 8 Union territories, with New Delhi as its capital.

India has a rapidly growing economy, driven by industries such as textiles, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and information technology. The country is also known for its diverse cuisine, art, music, and Bollywood film industry.

India is home to a wide range of religions, including Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, and Jainism, among others. The country has over 22 official languages and a rich cultural heritage dating back thousands of years.

India is also known for its diverse geography, from the towering Himalayan mountain range in the north to the vast Thar Desert in the west, and from the lush tropical forests of the south to the snow-capped peaks of the northern regions. The country is also home to the mighty rivers such as Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Yamuna.

Overall, India is a unique and fascinating country with a rich cultural, historical, and geographical diversity that attracts visitors from all around the world.

NAME AND ETYMOLOGY

India’s name and etymology have a long and complex history. The name “India” is believed to have originated from the ancient Persian word “Hindu,” which referred to the people who lived across the Indus River. Over time, the word “Hindu” came to refer specifically to the religion practiced by many of these people, which eventually became known as Hinduism.

The earliest known reference to India by name is found in the ancient Indian epic, the Mahabharata, which was written between 400 BCE and 400 CE. In this epic, India is referred to as “Bharata Varsha,” meaning the land of Bharata, a legendary king.

The name “India” began to be used by the Greeks in the 4th century BCE, who referred to the country as “Indos” or “Indoi.” The Romans later adopted the name, calling the country “India” or “Indica.”

During the medieval period, India was known as “Hindustan” or the “Land of the Hindus.” This name was used by the Muslim rulers who came to India from the 12th century onwards, and it continued to be used even after India gained independence from British rule in 1947.

Today, the official name of the country is the Republic of India, and it is commonly referred to simply as India.

HISTORY

India has a rich and complex history that spans thousands of years. The earliest known civilization in the region was the Indus Valley Civilization, which flourished from around 2600 BCE to 1900 BCE. The Aryans, who were a nomadic people from Central Asia, migrated to the region around 1500 BCE and established the Vedic civilization.

In the centuries that followed, the region was ruled by various empires and dynasties, including the Maurya Empire, Gupta Empire, and Mughal Empire. During this time, India was a center of trade and culture, and the development of religion, philosophy, and the arts flourished.

In the 18th century, European powers began to establish trading posts in India, which eventually led to British colonization. The British East India Company controlled much of India until the Indian Rebellion of 1857, after which the British government took direct control of the region.

The struggle for Indian independence began in the early 20th century, led by figures such as Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru. India gained independence in 1947, and was partitioned into India and Pakistan.

Since independence, India has experienced significant social, economic, and political changes. The country has become a global economic powerhouse and a leader in technology, but still faces challenges such as poverty, corruption, and social inequality.

GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS

India is a federal parliamentary democratic republic, with the President of India serving as the head of state and the Prime Minister of India serving as the head of government. The government is divided into three branches: the executive, the legislative, and the judiciary.

The executive branch consists of the President, the Vice President, and the Council of Ministers headed by the Prime Minister. The President is elected by an electoral college consisting of the elected members of both houses of Parliament and the Legislative Assemblies of the States. The Prime Minister is appointed by the President, and the other members of the Council of Ministers are appointed by the President on the advice of the Prime Minister.

The legislative branch consists of two houses: the Rajya Sabha (Council of States) and the Lok Sabha (House of the People). The Rajya Sabha has 245 members who are elected by the members of the State Legislative Assemblies, while the Lok Sabha has 545 members who are directly elected by the people of India. The Parliament has the power to make laws on subjects listed in the Union List, the State List, and the Concurrent List.

The judiciary branch is independent of the executive and legislative branches, and its highest authority is the Supreme Court of India. The Supreme Court has the power of judicial review, and it can strike down any law or executive action that it deems unconstitutional.

India has a multi-party system, with several national and regional parties vying for political power. The Indian National Congress, the Bharatiya Janata Party, and the Communist Party of India are some of the major political parties in the country.

There are also several autonomous regions in India, such as Jammu and Kashmir, which have a special status and a separate constitution. The central government has the power to impose President’s rule in any state in case of a breakdown of constitutional machinery.

ECONOMY

India has one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing economies, with a nominal GDP of around $3.1 trillion and a population of over 1.3 billion people. The country has undergone significant economic liberalization since the early 1990s, and has been able to capitalize on its large and growing middle class, as well as its abundant labor force and natural resources.

India’s economy is diverse and includes a variety of industries, such as agriculture, manufacturing, services, and information technology. Agriculture is still an important sector, employing over half of the country’s workforce, but it contributes only around 16% to the country’s GDP. The manufacturing sector is the second-largest employer and contributes around 29% to the GDP, while the services sector is the largest employer and contributes around 55% to the GDP.

India has been successful in attracting foreign investment in recent years, particularly in the technology sector. It is home to a number of multinational companies, and its IT industry has become one of the largest in the world. However, the country still faces significant challenges, such as widespread poverty, income inequality, and high levels of corruption.

The government has implemented various economic reforms in recent years, such as the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), to further strengthen the economy and attract foreign investment. Despite these efforts, the country still faces significant economic challenges, particularly in terms of infrastructure development and job creation.

GEOGRAPHY

India is a vast country located in South Asia, covering an area of approximately 3.3 million square kilometers. It is the seventh-largest country in the world by land area and the second-most populous country, with over 1.3 billion people. It shares borders with Pakistan to the northwest, China and Nepal to the north, Bhutan to the northeast, Bangladesh and Myanmar to the east, and Sri Lanka to the south.

India is known for its diverse landscape, which includes the Himalayan mountain range in the north, the Thar Desert in the northwest, the Deccan Plateau in the south, and the coastal regions surrounding the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean. The country is also home to several major rivers, including the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Indus.

India has a tropical climate, with variations depending on the region. The northern parts of the country experience hot summers and cold winters, while the southern parts have a more humid and tropical climate throughout the year.

India is divided into 28 states and 8 Union territories, each with its own capital city. The national capital of India is New Delhi, which is located in the northern part of the country.

TRANSPORT

India has a well-developed transportation system, with a range of options available for both domestic and international travel.

Air travel is a popular mode of transportation, with India having one of the world’s largest domestic aviation markets. The country has several major international airports, including Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai, and Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore.

Rail travel is also widely used in India, with the country having one of the largest rail networks in the world. Indian Railways is the national railway system, which connects all major cities and towns. The network includes several luxury trains, such as the Palace on Wheels and the Maharaja Express, which offer a unique travel experience.

Road transport is another important mode of transportation, with the country having a vast network of national and state highways. Buses are the most popular mode of road transport, with several public and private operators providing services across the country. Taxis and car rentals are also widely available.

Water transport is mainly used for cargo transportation, with India having several major ports, including Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust in Mumbai and Chennai Port Trust in Chennai. The country also has a network of inland waterways, which are being developed for both cargo and passenger transport.

In recent years, India has also made significant investments in developing its metro systems, with several cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai having operational metro systems.

INDUSTRY SECTORS

India’s economy is diverse and includes various industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, services, and mining.

Agriculture is an important sector, with over half of the population relying on it for their livelihoods. India is a major producer of crops such as rice, wheat, sugarcane, and cotton.

Manufacturing is also a significant sector, with industries such as textiles, automotive, and electronics playing a major role. India has emerged as a global hub for information technology services, with cities such as Bangalore and Hyderabad known for their software development and IT outsourcing capabilities.

Services, including finance, retail, and hospitality, are the largest contributor to India’s GDP. The country has a rapidly growing middle class, which has increased demand for consumer goods and services.

Mining is another important sector, with India being a major producer of coal, iron ore, and other minerals. However, the industry has faced criticism for its impact on the environment and the displacement of local communities.

Overall, India’s economy is one of the fastest growing in the world, although it still faces challenges such as high unemployment and income inequality.

DEMOGRAPHICS

India is the world’s second-most populous country with a population of over 1.3 billion people. It is a diverse country with a variety of ethnic, linguistic, and religious groups. The majority of the population is Hindu, but there are also significant Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Buddhist, Jain, and Zoroastrian communities.

India has a relatively young population, with around 65% of the population under the age of 35. It is also one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, with a rapidly expanding middle class. However, there is still significant poverty and inequality, particularly in rural areas.

India is also known for its diaspora, with Indian communities living all over the world, particularly in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. In recent years, there has been a significant brain drain of highly skilled professionals leaving India for better opportunities abroad.

EDUCATION

India has made significant strides in education since independence in 1947. The government has prioritized education and made it a fundamental right for all children between the ages of 6 and 14.

However, there are still significant challenges in providing quality education to all students, particularly in rural areas and for marginalized communities. There are also concerns about the quality of education provided in many schools, as well as issues with teacher training and retention.

In recent years, the government has taken steps to address these issues, including launching initiatives to improve teacher training and increase access to technology in schools. Private education has also grown in popularity, particularly in urban areas.

India has a large and diverse higher education system, with hundreds of universities and thousands of colleges across the country. Many of these institutions are highly respected both nationally and internationally, particularly in fields such as engineering, medicine, and information technology.

However, there are also concerns about the quality of higher education in India, particularly in terms of research and innovation. The government has launched initiatives to address these issues, including increasing funding for research and development and promoting collaborations between industry and academia.

HEALTHCARE

India has a mixed healthcare system that includes both public and private providers. The public healthcare system is managed by the government and provides free or subsidized healthcare to the majority of the population. However, the quality of care can be uneven, particularly in rural areas.

Private healthcare providers are also widely available, particularly in urban areas, and are generally considered to provide higher quality care. However, they can be expensive and often inaccessible to the poor.

India has made significant progress in improving healthcare in recent years, particularly in reducing infant mortality rates and improving access to healthcare for women. However, there are still significant challenges, particularly in addressing the high burden of communicable diseases such as tuberculosis and malaria, as well as addressing the growing burden of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. Access to healthcare is also a significant issue, particularly in rural areas and among marginalized communities.

CULTURE

India is a diverse country with a rich cultural heritage. Its culture has been shaped by centuries of history, religion, traditions, and customs. The country is known for its festivals, dance forms, music, literature, architecture, and cuisine.

Religion plays a major role in the culture of India, with Hinduism being the dominant religion, followed by Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, Jainism, and others. The country is known for its many temples, mosques, churches, and other places of worship.

Indian cuisine is also diverse and varies from region to region. Some popular dishes include biryani, curry, naan, dosa, samosas, and chai tea. The country is also known for its textiles, with traditional clothing such as saris and dhotis being popular.

India is home to many classical dance forms, including Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, Mohiniyattam, and Odissi. Bollywood, the Hindi film industry, is also a major part of Indian culture, with its movies, music, and dance influencing popular culture across the country.

India is also known for its literature, with works dating back centuries. Some of the country’s most famous authors include Rabindranath Tagore, Salman Rushdie, Arundhati Roy, Vikram Seth, and Jhumpa Lahiri.

India’s architecture is also varied, with ancient structures such as the Taj Mahal, Red Fort, and Qutub Minar coexisting with modern skyscrapers and buildings.

Overall, India’s rich and diverse culture is a major source of pride for its people and a draw for tourists from around the world.

NATURAL RESOURCES

India is rich in natural resources, with significant reserves of coal, iron ore, petroleum, natural gas, bauxite, and numerous other minerals. The country is also endowed with vast arable land, extensive forests, and a diverse array of flora and fauna.

India’s agriculture sector is a major contributor to the country’s economy, with crops such as rice, wheat, sugarcane, cotton, and tea among the main agricultural products. The country also has a significant fishing industry, with marine and freshwater fish being caught in large quantities.

India has substantial reserves of coal and is one of the world’s largest producers and consumers of coal. The country also has significant reserves of iron ore, manganese, bauxite, and other minerals. India is one of the world’s largest producers of chromite, mica, and barite.

The country has significant reserves of petroleum and natural gas, with exploration and production activities being carried out by both state-owned and private companies. India is also investing in renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, in order to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels.

India’s forests cover about 22% of the country’s land area, and the country has a diverse range of flora and fauna. The country is home to several important wildlife reserves, including the Bengal Tiger, Indian Rhino, Asiatic Lion, and Indian Elephant.

India also has significant water resources, with several major rivers such as the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Indus flowing through the country. However, the country faces significant challenges in managing its water resources, with issues such as water scarcity, pollution, and inefficient use of water resources being major concerns.

ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

India faces a range of environmental challenges. One of the most pressing issues is air pollution, particularly in urban areas, where levels of particulate matter and other pollutants frequently exceed safe limits. This has significant implications for public health, with air pollution linked to respiratory illnesses, heart disease, and other health problems.

Water pollution is also a major concern in India, with many rivers, lakes, and other water bodies contaminated by industrial waste, sewage, and agricultural runoff. This has led to water scarcity and health problems for people who rely on these water sources.

Deforestation and habitat loss are ongoing problems, with rapid urbanization and industrialization leading to the destruction of forests and other natural areas. This has significant implications for biodiversity and the long-term health of India’s ecosystems.

Climate change is also a major concern, with rising temperatures and changing weather patterns leading to more frequent and severe natural disasters, such as floods, droughts, and storms. This has significant implications for food security, infrastructure, and public health.

The Indian government has taken steps to address these issues, such as the introduction of clean energy targets, the implementation of stricter environmental regulations, and efforts to promote sustainable development. However, significant challenges remain, and continued action is needed to protect India’s environment and the health and well-being of its people.

HUMAN RIGHTS

India has been criticized by human rights organizations for its treatment of marginalized communities, including Dalits (formerly known as “untouchables”), women, religious minorities, and tribal groups.

Discrimination and violence against Dalits remain a significant human rights issue in India. Despite legal protections, Dalits continue to face caste-based discrimination, including violence, forced labor, and restricted access to education and employment opportunities.

Gender-based violence and discrimination against women are also prevalent in India, with reports of rape, domestic violence, and dowry-related deaths making headlines regularly. Additionally, members of religious minority groups, particularly Muslims, have been targeted in communal violence and face discrimination in various aspects of life, including employment and housing.

India’s human rights record has also been criticized for its treatment of activists, journalists, and political dissidents. Human rights organizations have documented cases of arbitrary arrests, torture, and extrajudicial killings by police and security forces.

The Indian government has taken some steps to address these issues, including passing legislation to protect Dalit and women’s rights and establishing commissions to investigate human rights abuses. However, many human rights activists and organizations argue that these measures are not sufficient and that more needs to be done to ensure the protection of human rights in India.

FOODS

Indian cuisine is known for its diverse and flavorful dishes, which vary from region to region. Some popular dishes include:

• Butter chicken – a creamy and tomato-based chicken dish
• Biryani – a fragrant rice dish usually served with meat or vegetables
• Samosas – crispy, fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes or meat
• Masala dosa – a crispy rice and lentil crepe filled with spiced potatoes and served with chutney and sambar
• Chole bhature – spicy chickpea curry served with fluffy fried bread
• Tandoori chicken – chicken marinated in yogurt and spices and cooked in a clay oven
• Paneer tikka – grilled cubes of spiced cottage cheese
• Vada pav – a popular street food consisting of a potato fritter served in a bread roll
• Palak paneer – creamy spinach curry with chunks of paneer cheese
• Rasgulla – a soft and spongy dessert made from cheese curds soaked in a sweet syrup.

These are just a few examples of the wide variety of dishes that make up Indian cuisine. Spices and herbs play a crucial role in Indian cooking, and vegetarian options are widely available due to the prevalence of vegetarianism in certain regions of the country.

TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

India has a rich cultural and historical heritage, making it a popular travel destination for both domestic and international tourists. Here are some of the most popular travel destinations in India:

• Taj Mahal: Located in Agra, the Taj Mahal is one of the most famous and iconic landmarks in India, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Rajasthan: Known for its magnificent forts, palaces, and colorful markets, Rajasthan is a popular destination for those interested in history and culture.
• Goa: A popular beach destination, Goa is known for its laid-back vibe, scenic beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
• Kerala: Known as “God’s Own Country,” Kerala is a beautiful state in southern India that is famous for its backwaters, beaches, and Ayurvedic treatments.
• Ladakh: Located in the northernmost part of India, Ladakh is known for its rugged terrain, stunning landscapes, and vibrant Tibetan culture.
• Varanasi: One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Varanasi is a holy city for Hindus and a popular destination for those interested in spirituality and culture.
• Darjeeling: Known for its picturesque tea plantations and stunning views of the Himalayas, Darjeeling is a popular destination for nature lovers.
• Jaipur: Known as the “Pink City,” Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan and is famous for its beautiful palaces, forts, and colorful markets.
• Hampi: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hampi is an ancient city in southern India that is famous for its magnificent ruins and impressive temples.
• Delhi: The capital of India, Delhi is a bustling city that is home to many historical and cultural landmarks, including the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and Humayun’s Tomb.

CELEBRITIES

India has a rich cultural and entertainment industry, and many notable celebrities have emerged from the country. Here are some of the most well-known Indian celebrities:

• Shah Rukh Khan – a Bollywood actor and producer known as the “King of Bollywood”
• Priyanka Chopra – an actress, singer, and former Miss World who has achieved global recognition
• Amitabh Bachchan – a veteran Bollywood actor and film producer known for his iconic roles
• Virat Kohli – the captain of the Indian cricket team and one of the best batsmen in the world
• A.R. Rahman – a musician, composer, and singer known for his work in Indian and international films
• Deepika Padukone – a Bollywood actress who has also worked in Hollywood films
• Sachin Tendulkar – a retired cricketer and former captain of the Indian cricket team, regarded as one of the greatest batsmen in the history of cricket
• Aishwarya Rai Bachchan – a former Miss World and Bollywood actress
• Salman Khan – a Bollywood actor and producer known for his action and romantic roles
• MS Dhoni – a former captain of the Indian cricket team and one of the most successful captains in Indian cricket history.

NEWSPAPERS

India has a thriving print media industry with a number of prominent newspapers in circulation. Some of the most widely read newspapers in India include:

• The Times of India – English-language daily newspaper with a circulation of over 3 million copies.
• Hindustan Times – Another popular English-language daily newspaper with a circulation of over 1.5 million copies.
• The Hindu – One of the most respected English-language newspapers in India, known for its in-depth coverage of national and international news.
• The Indian Express – English-language newspaper that focuses on investigative journalism and in-depth reporting.
• Dainik Bhaskar – Hindi-language daily newspaper with a circulation of over 4 million copies, making it the most widely read newspaper in India.
• Amar Ujala – Another popular Hindi-language daily newspaper with a circulation of over 3 million copies.
• Malayala Manorama – A Malayalam-language daily newspaper based in the state of Kerala, with a circulation of over 2 million copies.
• Eenadu – A Telugu-language daily newspaper based in the state of Andhra Pradesh, with a circulation of over 1.5 million copies.
• Anandabazar Patrika – A Bengali-language daily newspaper based in the state of West Bengal, with a circulation of over 1 million copies.
• Rajasthan Patrika – A Hindi-language daily newspaper based in the state of Rajasthan, with a circulation of over 1.5 million copies.

TV CHANNELS

India has a wide range of TV channels, catering to a diverse audience. Here are some popular TV channels in India:

• Star Plus – A Hindi-language general entertainment channel that airs popular shows like “Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai” and “Kasautii Zindagii Kay.”
• Colors TV – Another Hindi-language general entertainment channel that airs popular shows like “Bigg Boss” and “Naagin.”
• Sony Entertainment Television – A Hindi-language general entertainment channel that airs popular shows like “Kaun Banega Crorepati” and “Indian Idol.”
• Zee TV – A Hindi-language general entertainment channel that airs popular shows like “Kumkum Bhagya” and “Tujhse Hai Raabta.”
• Star Sports – A sports channel that broadcasts cricket, football, and other sports events.
• Sony Six – Another sports channel that broadcasts cricket, football, basketball, and other sports events.
• National Geographic Channel – A popular English-language channel that airs documentaries and shows related to wildlife, nature, and science.
• Discovery Channel – Another popular English-language channel that airs documentaries and shows related to science, history, and nature.
• Cartoon Network – A kids’ channel that airs popular cartoon shows like “Tom and Jerry” and “Powerpuff Girls.”
• Nickelodeon – Another kids’ channel that airs popular cartoon shows like “SpongeBob SquarePants” and “Dora the Explorer.”

RADIO

India has a diverse range of radio channels catering to different interests and languages. All India Radio (AIR) is the national public radio broadcaster, operating a network of AM and FM radio stations across the country. Some popular private FM radio channels include Red FM, Radio Mirchi, Big FM, Fever FM, and Radio City.

In addition to entertainment, many radio channels also offer news, current affairs, and educational programming. Some of the notable news and talk radio channels include Radio NDTV, AIR FM Gold, and FM Rainbow. There are also several community radio stations that operate on a non-profit basis, serving local communities with programming in regional languages and covering issues of local interest.

Overall, radio remains a popular medium of entertainment and information in India, particularly in rural areas where television and internet penetration is relatively low.

FACTS

Here are some interesting facts about India:

• India is the world’s seventh-largest country by land area and the second-most populous country, with over 1.3 billion people.
• The official name of India is the Republic of India, and its capital city is New Delhi.
• India has 22 official languages, but Hindi is the most widely spoken language.
• The Indian flag has three colors: saffron, white, and green. The saffron represents courage and sacrifice, the white represents purity and truth, and the green represents fertility and prosperity.
• India has the world’s largest movie industry, based in Mumbai, which is known as “Bollywood.”
• The Indian national animal is the Bengal Tiger, and the national bird is the Indian Peafowl.
• The Indian national flower is the lotus, which is considered sacred in Hinduism and Buddhism.
• India has a rich cultural heritage, with ancient monuments such as the Taj Mahal, the Ajanta and Ellora caves, and the Konark Sun Temple.
• The game of chess was invented in India.
• India is the birthplace of four major world religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism.
• The Indian rupee is the official currency of India.
• India has the world’s largest postal network, with over 154,000 post offices.
• India’s highest peak is Mount Everest, which is located on the border between Nepal and Tibet.
• The Indian railway system is one of the largest in the world, with over 115,000 km of track and more than 7,000 stations.
• India is home to the world’s largest democracy, with over 800 million eligible voters.
• The Indian national anthem, “Jana Gana Mana,” was written by Rabindranath Tagore in 1911.
• India is the world’s largest producer of milk, with over 22% of the global production.
• The ancient Indian medical system of Ayurveda is still widely practiced today.
• The Indian spice trade was one of the earliest and most lucrative trading routes in the world.
• The Indian space program has successfully launched over 100 satellites into orbit.
• The first recorded account of plastic surgery was found in ancient Indian texts dating back to 600 BC.
• The Indian festival of Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is celebrated by millions of people worldwide.
• India is home to the largest volunteer army in the world, with over 2 million active troops.
• The Indian national emblem is an adaptation of the Lion Capital of Ashoka, which was built in 250 BC.
• India has over 300,000 mosques, making it one of the largest Muslim countries in the world.
• The Indian national sport is field hockey, but cricket is the most popular sport in the country.
• India has the world’s largest youth population, with over 600 million people under the age of 25.
• The Indian national tree is the banyan tree, which is known for its massive size and long lifespan.
• India has a diverse range of wildlife, including tigers, lions, elephants, rhinoceroses, and monkeys.
• The Indian national river is the Ganges, which is considered sacred by Hindus and is home to a diverse range of aquatic life.