Largest Democracy

In 1975, India declared martial law. The news prompted the U.S. ambassador, Daniel Patrick Moynihan, to inform President Gerald Ford that the U.S. had reclaimed its position as the world's most populous democracy.

Democracy returned to India long ago. The country stages robust elections that, from time to time, have been plagued by violence. India does not vote on one day but rolls balloting over many. The Indian National Congress won the most recent race. For the U.S. the news is good. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has been a friend; he also has led the opening of India's economy, albeit at a measured pace -- which is to say, at a wise one.

Congress occupies a storied place in Indian history. It is associated with Jawaharlal Nehru and his family -- principally his daughter Indira Gandhi and her successors. Although Nehru established India as the putative leader of the putative non-aligned movement, during the twilight struggle he often tilted toward Moscow. Relations with the U.S. were not always smooth, a condition for which he did not bear exclusive blame. During the war between Pakistan and India, which resulted in the creation of Bangladesh, the U.S. favored Pakistan. Today India is America's most reliable partner on the subcontinent.

Once associated with a closed economy, the INC has embraced reform. India generates great wealth, yet suffers heart-rending poverty. The spirit of Mother Teresa is as needed now as it was during her span. India has endured terrorism, as last year's attacks in Mumbai attest. Sectarian abuses occur. Indian Christians must watch as they pray.

Yet despite all its challenges and problems, India can be proud of what its has accomplished since the sun set on the British Empire. India's growth and flourishing democracy implicitly rebuke other countries in a region unsettled and explosive.