New Delhi, May 14 -- Recall the long-forgotten presidential speech on August 15, 1947, by the Constituent Assembly chairman, Dr Rajendra Prasad. This speech can hardly be improved upon as the national charter for creating a vibrant, humane and progressive India. It is a coherent and comprehensive expression of all that humanity may aspire for.

One faces intense frustration when contrasting India's global comparative ranking in most socio-economic indicators, as also various assessments of the 'state of the nation'. Particularly pointed have been the findings of the Socio-Economic Caste Census, 2011. They tend to spread gloom and dim hopes. This shows how we in India talk big but deliver little and excruciatingly slowly. However, come ele...