India, a huge land with the second largest population in the world, socially and economically poor, and culturally and linguistically diverse, became the largest democracy in the world on November 26, 1949 with the adoption of the Indian Constitution. The goals of that constitution are: (1) the achievement of national unity and stability; (2) the promotion of democratic political behavior based on parliamentary procedures; (3) the protection of minority interests; and (4) the expression of general principles and humanitarian sentiments. In many ways, the Indian Constitution, its language and provisions, are remarkably similar to the U.S. Constitution. A radio telecast from August 15, 1947 (S. Radhakrishnan) illustrates some of those similarities, as does a side-by-side comparison of parts of U.S. and Indian Constitutions (preamble, rights to equality, freedom, and constitutional remedies). An article by Salman Rushdie, "After Midnight," is included as an appendix, and focuses on the 40th anniversary of Indian independence and the continuing strife between Hindus and Muslims, and asks the question, "Does India exist?" A bibliography of four additional references is included. (PPB)