B.Mirror Desk: India is celebrating its 80th Independence Day on August 15. India’s long journey is of great significance to Bangladesh because of its geographical location, history, culture, rivers, trade and the bloody relationship of the 1971 Liberation War. A country of immense diversity, India’s domestic politics, foreign policy and economic progress directly impact the entire South Asia. Democratic Continuity and National Unity When India became independent in 1947, hunger, poverty, illiteracy and weak infrastructure were its constant companions. There were also doubts about how long the country would survive as a democracy with so much linguistic, religious and cultural diversity. But India’s greatest achievement in the last eight decades has been its preservation of constitutional and democratic continuity. One of the country’s strengths is its ability to maintain regular transfers of power through elections, in contrast to the history of political instability and military intervention in South Asia. Despite its diversity, it remains united under a single political structure, a lesson for other countries in South Asia. However, internal challenges such as communal tensions and political polarization are also part of India’s reality. Economic and technological transformation: Once a food-producing country, India is now self-sufficient in agriculture and the world’s fourth largest economy. The country has proven its capabilities worldwide in information technology, pharmaceuticals, infrastructure and digital transactions. The successful space missions of Chandrayaan and Mars Mission are a great example of achieving world-class scientific achievements even on a limited budget. India’s vaccine production capacity in the health sector is particularly respected at the international level. The strategy of connecting a large number of people to the institutional economy by providing digital government services to such a large population can also be emulated by Bangladesh.
Opportunities and unresolved challenges for Bangladesh
India’s infrastructural and economic progress can further strengthen the South Asian region. However, increasing regional connectivity through roads, railways and waterways must be based on mutual benefits for the two countries. Despite increased cooperation in trade, energy and security sectors in recent years, some unresolved issues raise questions between the people of the two countries – the sharing of water from a common river, border killings, the trade deficit and the recent political sensitivity surrounding former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s stay in India. As there is mutual respect in a mature relationship, there must also be an urge to resolve areas of disagreement with sensitivity. Future Path and Regional Prospects Like the youth of Bangladesh, the main aspiration of India’s large youth population is not only freedom from colonial rule; but also to ensure a better life by getting rid of poverty, discrimination and bureaucratic complexities. Both countries face similar challenges such as job creation, women’s empowerment and quality education. India’s core strength is its ability to accept its differences and freedom of speech. Just as a strong democracy cannot function without fearless criticism and strong institutions, a strong, stable and diverse India as a neighboring country is positive for the entire South Asia. Bangladesh welcomes India’s 80-year achievements while maintaining its independent outlook. The future of our relationship should be based on mutual respect, sovereign equality, transparency and sensitivity to each other’s interests. The bright future of our relationship depends on how India uses its vast economic and strategic power to build an inclusive society and a prosperous and peaceful South Asia.