India as a Secular State

The most significant single influence on India's civilisation throughout its history has been religion. India is evolving into a secular state today despite her long history of religious culture. Donald E. Smith examines the roots of the idea of secularisation in this work, looking at both Indian culture and the examples of western countries. He highlights the crucial role that secularisation has played in India's overall democratic experience and points out that the extent to which it is achieved will surely influence the final form that democracy will take in India. Additionally, the success or failure of India's secular state will undoubtedly have an impact on her neighbours' attitudes. Professor Smith analyses the components and effects of India's effort to secularise its government.