India is a unique country with an enviable past and blessed with immense potential to develop itself into a position of prominence. We are one of the best democracies in the world notwithstanding the inherent ills allied to the system. Our Constitution embodies the comprehensive vision enshrining the aspirations of more than hundred crores of people in the world.
We have achieved significant strides in many fields from agriculture to satellite engineering. Our endeavour has been to narrow the gap between the privileged and the underprivileged through community development programmes.
Yet, when we look behind we cannot remain satisfied with our achievements. Something more should have been done. But we should not settle ourselves on should have beens and might have beens. We should look ahead and set our goals and strive to achieve this.
My vision of a free India is a self-sufficient India capable of harnessing its resources for the common weal of the people. A country which can set an example for the whole world to emulate as a healthy social order. A country that can contribute for enriching global peace and harmony.

—A. K. Antony