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About
India
India, with an area of 1,2
69,346 sq. mi. (3,287,590 sq. km) is one of the
largest countries in the world. With a population of
over 100 million, it is the second largest country in
the world in population. Only China, its neighbor to
the north, has more people. About one out of every six
people in the world lives in India.
India has
great varieties and differences in both its land and
its people. The land includes the mighty rivers and
coastal areas, a desert, extensive tropical lowlands,
wide plateaus, jungles, one of the world's rainiest
areas and the tallest mountain system in the world.
The Great Mountains of the North, the Great Plains of
Northern India and the Great Plateau of Peninsular
India reflect the vast and varied attractions of this
unique country.
The people of India belong to
many different ethnic groups and religions. They speak
16 major languages and more than 1,000 minor languages
and dialects.
Many ways of life in India have
stayed the same for hundreds of years. These ancient
customs may be seen side by side with the latest
advances of civilization and science. For example,
many workers in modern Indian factories wear
traditional costumes and carry supplies in woven
baskets on their heads. Cows, which India's millions
of Hindus consider sacred, often roam freely in modern
business districts.
For hundreds of years,
India meant mystery, wealth, and excitement to people
of the Western world. Early European explorers,
traders, and adventurers traveled to India for jewels,
rugs, silks, spices, and other valuable articles.
Christopher Columbus was looking for an easier route
to India when he arrived in America. Present day
explorers can enjoy the charm of this all along with
some taste of the modern era.
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