India is a country located in South Asia, known for its diverse cultures, languages, religions, and rich history. It is the seventh-largest country by land area and the second-most populous country in the world. Bounded by the Indian Ocean to the south, the Arabian Sea to the southwest, and the Bay of Bengal to the southeast, India shares land borders with several countries, including Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.
India is a federal parliamentary democratic republic, which means it has a government with elected representatives and a president as the head of state. The country is divided into 28 states and 8 Union territories. Its capital is New Delhi, while Mumbai is its largest city and a major economic center.
The country has a rich heritage encompassing various languages, religions, and traditions, with Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism originating from the Indian subcontinent, alongside a significant presence of Islam, Christianity, and other religions. India is known for its contributions to art, science, mathematics, and philosophy throughout history.
Economically, India is classified as a developing country, with a mixed economy encompassing agriculture, manufacturing, and services. It plays a vital role in global affairs and is a member of various international organizations.