 A population of nearly one billion. The largest economies. An aggregate private consumption which is among the highest in the world. It is a market that annually consumes over 63 million cakes of detergent. Over 60 million branded edible oil. Over 30 million TV sets. Over 40 million bicycle. 20 million pressure cookers. 15 million motorcycles and scooters. An economy expanding at over 7% annually. It is a country of contrasts. A functioning democracy. The largest in the world. A pluralistic society. A rich civilization. And a middle class which is larger than the combined population of France, Germany and Spain. Welcome to India. Keeping its many trists with destiny. India is a unique lifestyle. A melange of cultures. And a multi-religious society which learnt early on to co-exist. Part of its democracy rolls on inexorably. Always finding a colourful vocabulary. Searching for that unique and humane blend between the rights of the individual and the progress of society. India has coped with this effort to give its citizens a sense of fair play. This huge and gigantic subcontinent that is attempting to give every citizen a life of economic prosperity and spiritual dignity. It is this India that has now integrated itself to the global economy. The new business environment in India envisages a greater role for the private sector and encourages direct foreign investment. A country whose democratic credentials are impeccable. Whose commitment to pluralism unchallenged. Whose judicial system is among the most enlightened in the entire world. Whose freedom of press is unmatched in any developing nation. India is a country which has in the past kept many trists with destiny. Now as it marches forward it looks towards another appointment with history.