India's strength is its resilience

As India celebrated its 62nd Independence Day, the government has realised that it does not have promises to make but rather promises to keep. And this is the long-term guarantee made by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to the citizens.

It is an apt solution. India's strength lies not in making short-term gains but in its resilience to survive the long and tough road ahead.

The government has its work cut out and the prime minister, true to character, has not flinched against the insurmountable odds of bringing the economy - which is still registering a growth rate, but combating climbing inflation - back on track.

India continues to shine but there are items that must be ticked off the box. The pursuit of nuclear energy is high on the agenda, as is reining in rising inflation. The upliftment of the poor in rural areas and the battle against terrorism also remain a high priority. But the Indian people are nothing if not strong-willed. It is this resolve - coupled with ambition - that has seen the country rise to become a major international force in diverse fields. India is both robust and diverse and this is the key ingredient for its success.