India in 2008: Domestic Turmoil and External Hopes

Abstract

The past year saw significant domestic turmoil in India. The country confronted a series of terrorist attacks including the one in Bombay, witnessed ethno-religious violence, dealt with a resurgent Maoist (Naxalite) guerilla movement, and faced agitations from agricultural communities over the acquisition of land for industrialization. On the external front, India managed to consummate a critical civilian nuclear agreement with the U.S., after much domestic debate and contention.