But the same philosophical system also emphasises the essential oneness of the whole universe. Behind the multi-coloured splendour of the rainbow, it sees the reality of the pure ray of light. Similarly, amidst the many-faceted diversity of India, we have to keep in view constantly the paramount primacy of maintaining and strengthening the unity, integrity and stability of the nation as a whole.
The Indian political system is not an island but an integral part of a larger universe. In the modern world of today, the unity and independence of a nation depend as much on its internal strength as on friendly external relations. That is why India has constantly followed a policy of good neighbourliness and peaceful co-existence.
We wish to promote a climate of confidence and trust in our region and establish a network of co-operative relations with all nations, big and small. The policy of non-alignment was conceived not merely to steer clear of the ideological rivalries and military blocs but also as an instrument for strengthening political sovereignty and economic independence of newly-emerging nations. The validity and relevance of this policy can be seen in the fact that today an overwhelming majority of the newly-independent nations have joined the non-aligned movement. It is in pursuance of this policy that we have taken several steps to strengthen our relations of friendship and co-operation with our neighbours and despite occasional and temporary difficulties, we are determined to pursue this path of co-operation.
Though we believe in the peaceful co-operation of nations with different social, economic and political systems and ideologies, as far as India is concerned, we are convinced that the system of parliamentary democracy is the best suited to our conditions and requirements. We do not believe that the democratic system in India can be or should be a replica of the system in some other country. Social and political institutions cannot be transplanted, and no one should be surprised if democracy in India develops features that are essentially Indian. As a developing nation engaged in a massive socio-economic transformation, there are certain problems which are common with other developing democracies.
