The Manila Times

ASIAN CENTURY: IMAGINE THE WORLD WITHOUT INDIA

Dr Carl E. Balita

THIS column celebrates the Asian Century and shall feature a series of articles that amplify the contributions of the East to the universe and promote Eastern cosmology that transforms towards harmony (not homogenization) and that allows co-existence amid diversity. After a feature on China (https://www.manilatimes. net/2023/05/26/opinion/columns/asiancentury-imagine-the-world-without-china/1893110), the article is all about India.

As the world was Europeanized in the 19th century and Americanized in the 20th century, it is being Asianized in the 21st century. Global leaders acknowledged that the Asian Century is set to begin (Financial Times, 2019) and there is no turning back (WEF) and there are reasons to be optimistic (Nikkei). Asia’s rise has been swift. Looking ahead, Asia is expected to rebound faster, post-pandemic (IMF). The region is home to 21 of the world’s 30 largest cities, and four of the 10 most visited.

Home to more than half of the world’s population, Asia has climbed from low- to middle-income status within a single generation. By 2040, it is likely to generate more than 50 percent of world GDP, and could account for nearly 40 percent of global consumption.

India in numbers

India, the second most populous country in the world (estimated population of 1.4 billion), is a vibrant tapestry of diverse cultures, languages and religions with growing population and unique demographic characteristics captivating human diversity. A majority of its inhabitants are below the age of 35 (mean age 28) and life expectancy of 70 years.

India boasts incredible linguistic (22 official languages) and ethnic diversity, home to numerous ethnic groups and tribes, each with distinct cultural practices, traditions and languages. Known for its religious pluralism, with major religions, including the predominant Hinduism, with Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism and Jainism.

It is home to the booming cities of Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore

Promising economic outlook

India is positioned to emerge as one of the world’s leading economies. India’s economy will continue to grow at a robust pace and among the fastest-growing major economies in the coming years (WEF).

India has the potential to become a global digital powerhouse. It has become a major player in software development, IT services and business process outsourcing. India’s government initiatives, including Digital India and Make in India, have propelled the digital ecosystem, fostering innovation, entrepreneurship and job creation. Contributory to its economics includes its attractiveness for foreign direct investment (FDI), large consumer base, skilled workforce, and favorable business environment, especially in manufacturing, renewable energy, infrastructure, and technology.

India’s contribution to the world

India is a great nation that has been a cradle of innovation and intellectual prowess, giving birth to remarkable inventions that have shaped humanity. These areas of technology, space exploration, pharmaceuticals and renewable energy gave India the platform for international acclaim. Entrepreneurial and innovative Indians have fostered a thriving startup ecosystem, attracting investments from around the world.

Indian mathematician Aryabhata was the first person to create a symbol for zero, including the simplicity of the decimal notation (Gupta Empire, AD 4th to 6th centuries), which facilitated the calculation system that made the uses of arithmetic in practical inventions much faster and easier. The binary number system was first described by the Vedic scholar Pingala, which is the earliest known Sanskrit treatise on prosody.

Ancient Indian mathematicians (Aryabhata and Brahmagupta) made significant advancements in algebra, trigonometry and geometry as well as contributions to astronomy like calculation of eclipses, planetary positions, and the concept of heliocentrism.

Indians pioneered the measuring ruler, indoor games like chess, snake and ladders, playing cards, the gymnasium, geometric instruments and even the concept of the gross domestic product. India’s textile industry has a rich legacy dating back thousands of years.

In science, a notable ancient Indian, Kanad, devised the atomic theory centuries before John Dalton was born. This steel was used to make the famed Damascus swords. India was the first to smelt zinc from a long experience of ancient alchemy.

In medicine, Charakasamhita was the first physician to present the concept of digestion, metabolism and immunity in his book. Yoga (the art of unifying the mind and body) and Ayurveda (a holistic system of medicine) originated in India and are widely practiced all over the world even today. India is now established as the “pharmacy of the world” for producing affordable generic drugs and vaccines. Plastic and cataract surgery were pioneered by Indians.

The Taj Mahal is the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world’s heritage. The Ramayana and Mahabharata are perhaps India’s most prominent ancient texts about one of the most illustrious characters of Hindu mythology.

And there is more…

Sublime depths of India’s existence

India offers a profound understanding of the cosmos and the nature of existence which is rooted in ancient scriptures and philosophical traditions to provide a road map for self-discovery and spiritual growth and deeper understanding of interconnectedness with the universe.

The concept of Brahman (the supreme cosmic principle) and the concept of Atman (the eternal and unchanging essence that resides within all beings) lie at the heart of Indian cosmology and ontology, respectively. According to ancient Indian scriptures, the universe undergoes cycles of creation, preservation and dissolution, with each cycle spanning vast eons of time. Indian ontology delves into the nature of being, consciousness, and the self.

Indian philosophy also examines the nature of Maya (the illusionary aspect of reality that veils the true nature of Brahman). By transcending Maya through spiritual practices and self-realization, one can attain Moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death, and merge with the ultimate reality).

As the world’s largest democracy, India’s role in global governance and diplomacy is significant. It is a member of BRICS and G20 which is widely considered the main economic locus of emerging and developed nations. It is a founding member of the Non-Aligned Movement, a forum of countries not formally aligned with or against any major power bloc. And while the Indian’s average IQ is only 82 and ranks only 85 among 110 countries, it ranks 40th among 132 countries in the Global Innovation Index and its educational system ranks 33rd in the world.

In the context of the Asian Century, India is a major player. Now, imagine the world without India.

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2023-06-02T07:00:00.0000000Z

2023-06-02T07:00:00.0000000Z

https://digitaledition.manilatimes.net/article/281676849295173

The Manila Times