I’ve noticed a surprising number of Indians believe India is more of a middle-income country, and often look down on African nations as "poor." But when you actually look at the data — specifically GDP per capita — India tells a different story.

India’s GDP per capita is around $2,718, which is lower than most South American countries (even ones often considered “backward” by global perception), and closer to Sub-Saharan African nations and the poorest Southeast Asian countries like Cambodia and Myanmar.

Despite being the 4th or 5th largest economy in total GDP, India’s average income per person remains extremely low, with a huge portion of the population still living near or below the poverty line.

So why is there such a disconnect between perception and economic reality?

Me and my friends were a political discussion and the other guy, a pure bjp supporter and what he said really shocked me. We were discussing about who should be our next PM, I said that it should be a highly qualified person and it would be good if hes not old like 40+. And the other said he wants a BJP leader, I was ok with it until he said that it would be good if they destroy more mosques. I was really annoyed like whats the point of a political party if they arent neutral at all and supporting one religion.

Watching this whole Trump-Zelensky Circus, I can’t help but wonder—what if India had made the same mistake Ukraine did? Ukraine is out here begging for support while world leaders debate how much land they should keep. All because in the 90s, they gave up their nukes in exchange for some assurances from the US, UK, and Russia. And when Russia broke that promise? Just statements and aid—no real protection.

India was in the same boat back then. Pressure, sanctions, threats—but we had leaders who didn’t back down. Bhabha, Indira, Ramanna, Kalam, Vajpayee......they knew deterrence is the only real security.

And that’s where I feel a bit of regret. We don’t have leaders like that anymore, and probably never will. The kind who’d take risks, ignore backlash, and think beyond elections.

Ukraine trusted words. India didn’t. That’s why no one decides our fate but us.

Would we be in the same mess if we had made their mistake? What do you think?

It is very clear that Gadkari is indulging in corruption by passing decisions that favour his family. Then why is PM Modi not taking any action?

Why do they get a free hand ? This is seriously insane.