Former American President Richard Nixon once made a piercing observation about India that continues to resonate decades later. In his book 'Victory without War', Nixon stated, "Those who believe India is not governed well should remember how miraculous it is that India is governed at all." This remark, while perceived as harsh by many, presents a profound challenge rather than a mere insult. The true response lies not in resentment but in introspection and dedicated national reconstruction.
The Challenge: From Resentment to Reconstruction
Nixon's critique of the Indian social setup should be viewed as a catalyst for internal focus. Instead of directing anger at the critic, the energy must be channeled into building the nation from within. The goal must be to elevate the country to such a stature that no foreign voice would dare make similar remarks. A powerful model for this transformation is Japan. Reduced to insignificance after World War II, Japan, through four decades of relentless struggle, rebuilt itself into a global power that commands respect. India's journey requires a similar, unwavering commitment to addressing its foundational issues.
Mulgaonkar's Analysis: System vs. People
This perspective finds strong support in the analysis of senior Indian journalist S. Mulgaonkar. In his seminal article 'Can systemic changes provide the entire answer?' published in The Indian Express on February 7 and 14, 1987, he took stock of the nation's progress four decades after Independence. Mulgaonkar acknowledged advancements but stressed that serious, multifaceted problems seemed to outweigh the progress made. Crucially, he disagreed with those calling for a mere change in the political system. His core argument was that "in the final analysis, a system is only as good as those who operate it."
The Three Bases of India: The Missing Moral Pillar
Building on Mulgaonkar's view, it becomes clear that India's development rests on three critical bases. Mahatma Gandhi provided the nation with its indispensable political base. Subsequently, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru laid down the robust industrial base. However, the third and most urgent task remains incomplete: establishing a strong moral base for the country. This moral foundation is not a vague ideal but the decisive factor that will determine the future course of national life. It is a reality acknowledged by every right-thinking individual. The construction of this ethical bedrock is the paramount need of the hour.
The path forward is clear. Fresh, earnest thought must be given to persistent national problems. Following this, immediate and concerted action in the right direction is non-negotiable. The objective is to ensure a future that is markedly better and brighter than the present. Nixon's remark, therefore, transcends being a historical comment; it stands as a perpetual reminder and a call to build a India governed not just miraculously, but magnificently, on the strength of its character.
