India is the largest democracy in the world and the second most populated country after China, with more than a billion people. It is the sixth largest country in the world, with one of the most ancient civilisations, dating back at least 10,000 years. Its name derives from the River Indus.
The number system was invented in India. The Indian mathematician and astronomer Aryabhatta came up with the concept of zero. Algebra, trigonometry and calculus also evolved first on the subcontinent, along with the decimal system.
Sanskrit is considered the mother of all higher languages - and suggested to be the most precise, suitable language for computer software.
Chess was invented in India. So was the game of snakes and ladders, created by the 13th-century poet saint Gyandev, with ladders representing virtues and snakes vices.
India has the most post offices in the world. Its largest employer, the Indian railway system, employs more than a million people.
The world's first university was established in Takshila in 700BC, teaching more than 60 subjects to more than 10,500 students from all over the world.