MY COUNTRY India is my country. It is an anglicized name. Its original name is Bharat after the mythological kings and emperors of Bharat-vansha. A terrible battle was fought among them which is known as Maha-Bharat. India occupies a very important position in the region. The high Himalayan ranges separate India from the rest of Asia. It measures 3,214km from north to south and 2933 km from east to west. Its total land area is 3287, 263 sq km. Its coastline runs 7516 Km. Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands are part of my country.

I am very proud of my country, its history, culture and civilization. India is one of the most ancient countries of the world. Indian civilization has been very rich, ancient and sublime. Many great religious like Hinduism, Buddism, Jainism and Silkism were born here. It is primarily an agricultural country. Its vast plains of Ganga and Yamuna are very fertile and vast. The world?s highest mountain, the Himalya is in my country.

India is very rich in natural resources, scenery, historical places and pilgrimage centres. The Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world, is in India. The world famous Ajanta caves are also here. Indian Ocean is the only ocean named after a country. And this country is my India. India is also famous for its lions, tigers and elephants. The credit to event decimal system and zero also goes to India.

The people of India are large-hearted, colourful and religious. They belong to many different religions and faiths. It is a secular country which means there is no state religion. In population India ranks only second to china. Its present population is 953 million or 95 crore 30 lakh. India, with hundreds of languages, dialects, life styles, sects etc. presents the best example of unity in diversity.

India?s history goes back to Indus Vally civilization and Vedic Culture. It is a land of Buddha, Ashoka, Akabar,Mahatma Gandhi etc. It is the land of Vedas, the Mahabharata. There are many festivals and festivities. They reflect our rich cultural heritage, zest for life and colourfulness. India remained under the British rule for a long time but then became free in 1947 under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi. Since then India has made great progress in agriculture, education, industry and science. It is the biggest democracy of the world. But there are many serious problems being faced by the country. Poverty and illiteracy are two major problems to be solved. But let us hope, these problems will be solved soon. There are many factors which make India a country and nation. But its cultural unity is the most important factor.