India is poised to become one of the world’s three largest economies in the next generation and to overtake China as the world’s most populous country by 2032. Well before then India's incipient nuclear deterrent will have acquired intercontinental range and air, sea and land capabilities. India's volatile relationship with its nuclear-armed neighbour, Pakistan, may prove to be the source of the world's next major conflict. And if you call anyone- from your bank to rail enquiries- your query may well be dealt with by a graduate in Gujarat. Any way one looks at it, India's fate matters. Edward Luce, one of the most incisive and talented journalists of his generation, assesses the forces that are forging the new nation. Cutting through the miasma that still clouds thinking about India, this extraordinarily accomplished book takes the measure of a society that is struggling to come to grips with modernity. Drawing on historical research, existing literature and his own unparalleled access as the New Delhi-based, South Asia correspondent of the FT, this is a book that will enthral as well as educate and will remain the definitive book on the country for many years.
- ‘Engrossing… A wonderfully engaging portrait of India' DAILY TELEGRAPH
- ‘Thoughtful and thorough… The research here is formidable’ OBSERVER
- 'An unalloyed treat, rich in information, stimulation and humour. Believe the blurb’ IRISH EXAMINER
- 'Without question the best book yet written on New India’ William Dalrymple
- ‘Luce presents a compelling case . . . a perceptive, witty and readable book’ THE ECONOMIST
Paperback
Published 05/07/2007