Abstract

India a nation with rich cultural heritage and immense human capital has faced significant developmental challenges throughout its pre- and post-independence history. Despite being endowed with vast natural resources agricultural potential and demographic advantages the country struggled with structural inefficiencies social inequalities and economic bottlenecks that hindered sustainable development. The process of nation-building and policy formulation often confronted obstacles such as poverty illiteracy inadequate infrastructure regional disparities and governance limitations. This research paper examines the key problems that plagued India’s development trajectory prior to the conceptualization of a “New India” highlighting the multidimensional nature of these challenges. The study employs a comprehensive analytical framework incorporating historical data economic analyses social indicators and policy reviews to identify the structural economic and social impediments that constrain