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Superpower?: The Amazing Race Between China's Hare and India's Tortoise
Is India ready for superpower status or too far behind China to ever catch up?
In his career as one of India's leading journalists and entrepreneurs, Raghav Bahl has often faced this question, and many others, from bewildered
* Why are Indian regulations so weak and confusing?
* Why is your foreign investment policy so restrictive?
* How come your hotels are world class, but the roads leading to them are so potholed?
* Why don't you lower your voice when you make fun of your politicians?
* Why do you control the price of oil and cable TV?
Clearly there's a huge difference in how India and its arch-rival China work on the ground. China is spectacularly effective in building infrastructure and is now reinvesting almost half its GDP. Meanwhile, India is still a "promising" more than half its GDP is consumed by its billion-plus people, yet India has some unique Half its population is under twenty-five, giving it a strong demographic edge; 350 million Indians understand English, making it the largest English-speaking country in the world; and it's the world's largest democracy.
In the race to superpower status, who is more likely to China's hare or India's tortoise? Bahl argues that the winner might not be determined by who is investing more and growing faster today but by something more who has superior innovative skills and more entrepreneurial savvy.
He notes that China and India were both quick to recover from the financial crisis, but China's rebound was accompanied by huge debt and deflation, with weak demand. India's turnaround was sturdier, with lower debt and modest inflation. So India's GDP grew twice as fast as China's for a few quarters-the first time that had happened in nearly three decades. And in contrast to China's Yuan, which is pummeled for being artificially undervalued, India's rupee largely floats against world currencies. In the end, it might come down to one deciding can India fix its governance before China repairs its politics?
With insights into the two countries' histories, politics, economies and cultures, this is a well-written, fully documented, comprehensive account of the race to become the next global superpower. For anyone looking to understand China, India and the future of the world economy, this is the book to read.
In his career as one of India's leading journalists and entrepreneurs, Raghav Bahl has often faced this question, and many others, from bewildered
* Why are Indian regulations so weak and confusing?
* Why is your foreign investment policy so restrictive?
* How come your hotels are world class, but the roads leading to them are so potholed?
* Why don't you lower your voice when you make fun of your politicians?
* Why do you control the price of oil and cable TV?
Clearly there's a huge difference in how India and its arch-rival China work on the ground. China is spectacularly effective in building infrastructure and is now reinvesting almost half its GDP. Meanwhile, India is still a "promising" more than half its GDP is consumed by its billion-plus people, yet India has some unique Half its population is under twenty-five, giving it a strong demographic edge; 350 million Indians understand English, making it the largest English-speaking country in the world; and it's the world's largest democracy.
In the race to superpower status, who is more likely to China's hare or India's tortoise? Bahl argues that the winner might not be determined by who is investing more and growing faster today but by something more who has superior innovative skills and more entrepreneurial savvy.
He notes that China and India were both quick to recover from the financial crisis, but China's rebound was accompanied by huge debt and deflation, with weak demand. India's turnaround was sturdier, with lower debt and modest inflation. So India's GDP grew twice as fast as China's for a few quarters-the first time that had happened in nearly three decades. And in contrast to China's Yuan, which is pummeled for being artificially undervalued, India's rupee largely floats against world currencies. In the end, it might come down to one deciding can India fix its governance before China repairs its politics?
With insights into the two countries' histories, politics, economies and cultures, this is a well-written, fully documented, comprehensive account of the race to become the next global superpower. For anyone looking to understand China, India and the future of the world economy, this is the book to read.
272 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2010
19 people are currently reading
232 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
March 26, 2013
I think the book is wrongly marked. It does compare the Indian (Turtle) and Chinese (Hare) economies in quite a bit, complete past, present and future aspiration but is unfortunately heavily prejudiced towards India rising and presenting China about to collapse any moment. The book is very well researched but very well crafted to present India as a better option for foreign investors. I think the author is plagued with the common Indian disease of self-glorification which I have noticed in quite a few Indians. But what he fails to present in this crafty book is the fact that India is coming out of a very long stretch of colonialism while China has not been similarly afflicted. Which for me that leadership will be always an issue because the confidence is not just there. Therefore I agree to disagree with the author that India is well placed to achieve a Super Power status as compared to China, only because its failure to deal effectively with poverty. China has not only done a far better job at looking after its poor but also invested very heavily into its infrastructure which places it very nicely on a launching pad to a great success.
The book still makes very interesting reading as it provides rich information about the backgrounds and strategies adopted by China and India over the years to progress in public sectors like energy, educations etc. Just be careful of the author's tilt towards India, which for me was very obvious and biased.
The book still makes very interesting reading as it provides rich information about the backgrounds and strategies adopted by China and India over the years to progress in public sectors like energy, educations etc. Just be careful of the author's tilt towards India, which for me was very obvious and biased.
August 26, 2013
The title of the book "Super Power : The Amazing Race Between China's Hare and India's Tortoise" made me curious at first. The metaphors- a hare, a tortoise and a race - suggested that the author is going to present some insights which may bring some things that went unnoticed by the rest of the world dazzled by the stories of the rise of China. As in the childhood story, the hare, having an initial advantage, becomes careless while the tortoise keeps moving, though at a slower pace, but finally wins the race.
The two countries had started the race at the same time in history with India's independence and the rise of Mao in China. China's hare, according to the author, is 'Steroid-Injected' time and again by the government by measures like special incentives for the infrastructure sector - which, builds the basic infrastructure for the country and is supposed to yield in the future. On the other hand, India, starts slow. Mostly because of it's political diversity at the time of independence, with politics mostly influenced by socialist ideas. And then with time, adopting the liberalization policies and opening its doors to the international free market. China, though having all infrastructure in place, will soon be having most of its population aged and with population control policies, will be unable to infuse required manpower to fully leverage what their previous generation had built. India, on the other hand currently has comparatively younger population and this is going to be its advantage over its neighbor. The future generation of India may not inherit the framework from its predecessors, but may build its own. This way, the book keeps highlighting many differences in the current positions of the two countries.
The hare and the tortoise story continues throughout the book in one liners. But as I initially thought from the title, I coudnt find where the author directly said that he sees the tortoise about to touch the finish line. The result of the race is still awaited.
The author presents ample data and facts to support his thoughts and they are very informative for the reader. The data, though becomes too much to remember but when reading, clearly presents what the author intends to state. The comparison between the two countries in unbiased and in my opinion, its a good book to read.
The two countries had started the race at the same time in history with India's independence and the rise of Mao in China. China's hare, according to the author, is 'Steroid-Injected' time and again by the government by measures like special incentives for the infrastructure sector - which, builds the basic infrastructure for the country and is supposed to yield in the future. On the other hand, India, starts slow. Mostly because of it's political diversity at the time of independence, with politics mostly influenced by socialist ideas. And then with time, adopting the liberalization policies and opening its doors to the international free market. China, though having all infrastructure in place, will soon be having most of its population aged and with population control policies, will be unable to infuse required manpower to fully leverage what their previous generation had built. India, on the other hand currently has comparatively younger population and this is going to be its advantage over its neighbor. The future generation of India may not inherit the framework from its predecessors, but may build its own. This way, the book keeps highlighting many differences in the current positions of the two countries.
The hare and the tortoise story continues throughout the book in one liners. But as I initially thought from the title, I coudnt find where the author directly said that he sees the tortoise about to touch the finish line. The result of the race is still awaited.
The author presents ample data and facts to support his thoughts and they are very informative for the reader. The data, though becomes too much to remember but when reading, clearly presents what the author intends to state. The comparison between the two countries in unbiased and in my opinion, its a good book to read.
August 3, 2017
Lots of data, but not very insightful. The minimal use of economic jargon and the analogy with a children's fable makes it a relatively easy read, and definitely more interesting than a textbook.
My summary:
China has inherited its philosophy from Mao, a martial leader whereas India has done so from British-educated lawyers like Gandhi, Nehru. So China's leaders are aggressive whereas India's leaders are filled with self-doubt. So China is happy to build infrastructure capacity in far excess of current or even potential demand whereas India struggles to keep up with its demand.
Chinese state interferes in business., e.g. the managers of Rio Tinto were arrested because it jilted a merger with a local outfit and refused to lower iron ore prices for Chinese state-owned companies. Rizhao, the largest private steel company was forced to part with majority equity to Shandong Iron and Steel. It also has weak capital markets. On the other hand, the Indian economy suffers from corruption and the slow-pace of decision-making in a multi-party, multi-tiered democracy.
China's one-child policy will lead to it becoming older a lot faster than India. Also, government interference has crowded out the private sector. However, for all these flaws, the author concludes that the world appears to be underestimating China's strengths and overestimating India's potential.
My summary:
China has inherited its philosophy from Mao, a martial leader whereas India has done so from British-educated lawyers like Gandhi, Nehru. So China's leaders are aggressive whereas India's leaders are filled with self-doubt. So China is happy to build infrastructure capacity in far excess of current or even potential demand whereas India struggles to keep up with its demand.
Chinese state interferes in business., e.g. the managers of Rio Tinto were arrested because it jilted a merger with a local outfit and refused to lower iron ore prices for Chinese state-owned companies. Rizhao, the largest private steel company was forced to part with majority equity to Shandong Iron and Steel. It also has weak capital markets. On the other hand, the Indian economy suffers from corruption and the slow-pace of decision-making in a multi-party, multi-tiered democracy.
China's one-child policy will lead to it becoming older a lot faster than India. Also, government interference has crowded out the private sector. However, for all these flaws, the author concludes that the world appears to be underestimating China's strengths and overestimating India's potential.
April 1, 2012
India and China are the two of the greatest emerging economies world is witnessing today. Ever wondered what we know about the two countries? What point of inflections happened due to which both of these economies differed? What past decisions by both the countries have carved the today's economies? What things are currently happening in these two economies? What will be their role in shaping the future? How will they do it?
The book gives a very comprehensive view of both of these economies and takes you on a ride right from the early independence days till now and somewhat gives a glance of future of these economies. An amazing read for beginners particularly the ones who are treading into economics just now. Will be an eye opener for many people who don't clearly know how the businesses are done in both these economies. Supplement it along with some documentaries and TED talks and you can broaden your horizon.
The book gives a very comprehensive view of both of these economies and takes you on a ride right from the early independence days till now and somewhat gives a glance of future of these economies. An amazing read for beginners particularly the ones who are treading into economics just now. Will be an eye opener for many people who don't clearly know how the businesses are done in both these economies. Supplement it along with some documentaries and TED talks and you can broaden your horizon.
October 16, 2012
An extremely fascinating and well researched book that provides interesting insights into the developments that are taking place in India and China.
April 13, 2018
It was an expected one:p that's the least i can say about this book. Raghav Bahl, the author, was an unknown figure to me but after reading this book, hats off to the man. Apart from the literary success, for which I'm extolling his virtues, he's an exceptional entrepreneur himself. He was the owner of Network 18 group before Reliance group took over and that's just one of the media group I've mentioned here. He's associated with so many more which includes Viacom, Bloomberg, Moneycontrol.com, yatra etc
I have been waiting for this story of India vs China for long and fortunately I discovered that it was in my possession very recently only. As per my expectations, the book has downplayed both the overestimated and over-celebrated democratic success of India and economic success of Chinese totalitarianism. The commentary in this book is not political per se but has conformed to the tradition of economic comparison. I won't bore you with numbers here as the author has put more than his share of efforts to do so in the book but there is one very important realization that i would like to share here regarding numbers. Both India and China story have tutored me very differently as far as numbers are concerned. Let's take Indian's case first--> Indian story would tell you that numbers, though are very important, they are not the exhaustive indicators of a nation's health. A very impressive example of this statement was captured in the story of youth of India. In the story, the author has highlighted both the conventional and pragmatic wisdom regarding the population that goes around in India. The comparison was done between the value system of youth of India Vs youth of China. The author has noted that youth of China has been showing a lot of individualistic characteristics than that of India which means that on average, Indian youth is more attached to its family as compared to that of China's youth. The reason for this has been directly attributed to the "One child policy" that Mr Deng Xiaoping had so efficiently established. Gen X Chinese kids have been born and brought up in an extremely pampered environment which has led to the development of extremely self centered temperament. Consequences of actions intended with some different results also lead to by-production of other different (unwanted) results can be very is the best explanation of this situation. Indians have fared better in at-least this one front than their neighbors but I'm skeptical regarding the longevity of this trend
Lets talk about the Chinese story now--> Learning from this story was also in the same lines as far as judging a nation's health on the basis of numerical parameters were concerned. But the way in which this story taught me was very different. It is a well known fact that China from the start itself has been a very secretive nation. Always suspecting some mischief wherever they appear in an international forum. But as globalization hit the world, it realized that it cannot achieve the dream of a superpower by being a closed state. So they have very selectively globalized certain sectors of their country which they are comfortable with. Now Chinese outlook towards any of the internationally acclaimed parameter is dead centered at its definition. Let me clear this out for you with 2 examples:
1) A country's prosperity attracts applause from the world through a measurement of per capita electricity consumption of the country. It is believed to be an excellent indicator of economic activity and future economic possibilities for the country so, higher the better. In order to achieve a higher number for this, Chinese government had mandated that every building with more than certain number of floors will be keeping all the lights fans and air conditioning switched on 24x7 irrespective whether or not people were there in the buildings or not
2) Conventional wisdom says that more the exports from a country, more will be the forex reserves thus better the economic situation of the country. Now exports are of 2 types one is of merchandise and other is of services. India is known for its services exports whereas China is known for its merchandise exports. Chinese growth story is the most popular export oriented successful growth story which at-least i had ever heard of. Lets what do they do for it. The less known detail of this story is that the net value addition by the Chinese mainland in the products is miniscule. In simple words, suppose that China is exporting $100 worth of a mobile, then the net forex earnings of the country is not $100 but only around $12 as they import the raw materials for it worth of $88
In a nutshell, the reason I would like to cite here as to why you should read this book is that firstly you will get well versed regarding the rivalry of these 2 nations. the other very important reason would be to understand that numbers are neutral, don't curse or praise solely on the basis of this. Dig a little deeper
"One who says he can or he can't, both of them are usually right"- Confucius
I have been waiting for this story of India vs China for long and fortunately I discovered that it was in my possession very recently only. As per my expectations, the book has downplayed both the overestimated and over-celebrated democratic success of India and economic success of Chinese totalitarianism. The commentary in this book is not political per se but has conformed to the tradition of economic comparison. I won't bore you with numbers here as the author has put more than his share of efforts to do so in the book but there is one very important realization that i would like to share here regarding numbers. Both India and China story have tutored me very differently as far as numbers are concerned. Let's take Indian's case first--> Indian story would tell you that numbers, though are very important, they are not the exhaustive indicators of a nation's health. A very impressive example of this statement was captured in the story of youth of India. In the story, the author has highlighted both the conventional and pragmatic wisdom regarding the population that goes around in India. The comparison was done between the value system of youth of India Vs youth of China. The author has noted that youth of China has been showing a lot of individualistic characteristics than that of India which means that on average, Indian youth is more attached to its family as compared to that of China's youth. The reason for this has been directly attributed to the "One child policy" that Mr Deng Xiaoping had so efficiently established. Gen X Chinese kids have been born and brought up in an extremely pampered environment which has led to the development of extremely self centered temperament. Consequences of actions intended with some different results also lead to by-production of other different (unwanted) results can be very is the best explanation of this situation. Indians have fared better in at-least this one front than their neighbors but I'm skeptical regarding the longevity of this trend
Lets talk about the Chinese story now--> Learning from this story was also in the same lines as far as judging a nation's health on the basis of numerical parameters were concerned. But the way in which this story taught me was very different. It is a well known fact that China from the start itself has been a very secretive nation. Always suspecting some mischief wherever they appear in an international forum. But as globalization hit the world, it realized that it cannot achieve the dream of a superpower by being a closed state. So they have very selectively globalized certain sectors of their country which they are comfortable with. Now Chinese outlook towards any of the internationally acclaimed parameter is dead centered at its definition. Let me clear this out for you with 2 examples:
1) A country's prosperity attracts applause from the world through a measurement of per capita electricity consumption of the country. It is believed to be an excellent indicator of economic activity and future economic possibilities for the country so, higher the better. In order to achieve a higher number for this, Chinese government had mandated that every building with more than certain number of floors will be keeping all the lights fans and air conditioning switched on 24x7 irrespective whether or not people were there in the buildings or not
2) Conventional wisdom says that more the exports from a country, more will be the forex reserves thus better the economic situation of the country. Now exports are of 2 types one is of merchandise and other is of services. India is known for its services exports whereas China is known for its merchandise exports. Chinese growth story is the most popular export oriented successful growth story which at-least i had ever heard of. Lets what do they do for it. The less known detail of this story is that the net value addition by the Chinese mainland in the products is miniscule. In simple words, suppose that China is exporting $100 worth of a mobile, then the net forex earnings of the country is not $100 but only around $12 as they import the raw materials for it worth of $88
In a nutshell, the reason I would like to cite here as to why you should read this book is that firstly you will get well versed regarding the rivalry of these 2 nations. the other very important reason would be to understand that numbers are neutral, don't curse or praise solely on the basis of this. Dig a little deeper
"One who says he can or he can't, both of them are usually right"- Confucius
August 9, 2023
Are you curious about the ongoing race between India and China for superpower status? Do you find yourself pondering the key factors that could determine the winner? Look no further than the compelling pages of "Super Power" by Raghav Bahl. This thought-provoking book offers a comprehensive analysis of the contrasting paths taken by these two nations and unveils the fascinating dynamics that will shape the future of the global economy.
From the very beginning, "Super Power" captivates the reader with its intriguing premise: who is more likely to emerge as the next global superpower, the swift hare that is China or the steady tortoise that is India? Raghav Bahl, a prominent journalist and entrepreneur with a deep understanding of both countries, embarks on a compelling exploration to shed light on this critical question.
Bahl confronts the pain and problem that many observers face when trying to comprehend the contrasting realities of India and China. He raises thought-provoking questions surrounding India's weak regulations, restrictive foreign investment policies, and the stark disparity between its world-class hotels and potholed roads. The reader is invited to explore the unique advantages India possesses, such as its youthful demographic, large English-speaking population, and vibrant democracy. Through these insights, Bahl presents a promising benefit and promise: the winner of the superpower race may not be determined solely by economic growth but by innovative skills and entrepreneurial savvy.
In "Super Power," Bahl provides readers with a comprehensive overview of the histories, politics, economies, and cultures of India and China. Through well-researched documentation and compelling storytelling, he navigates the complex landscape of these two nations, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of their strengths, weaknesses, and future trajectories. The author's authority is established through his extensive career as a journalist and entrepreneur, offering a unique perspective on the subject matter.
As readers delve into the pages of "Super Power," they will find themselves committed to unraveling the captivating race between India and China. The tone is both analytical and engaging, balancing insightful observations with a sense of curiosity and discovery. The book's relevance is unquestionable, as it sheds light on the future of the world economy and provides crucial insights into the global power dynamics of the 21st century.
Throughout the journey, Bahl masterfully engages the reader by presenting a balanced and well-documented account of the race to superpower status. The thought-provoking questions, historical context, and cultural analysis leave a lasting impression, encouraging readers to contemplate the impact of innovation and entrepreneurship on the global stage.
In conclusion, "Super Power" is a compelling and timely exploration of the race between India and China for superpower status. Raghav Bahl's authoritative voice, comprehensive overview, and thought-provoking insights make this book a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of these nations and their role in shaping the future of the world economy. Prepare to be enlightened and inspired as you journey through the pages of this impactful and thought-provoking work.
From the very beginning, "Super Power" captivates the reader with its intriguing premise: who is more likely to emerge as the next global superpower, the swift hare that is China or the steady tortoise that is India? Raghav Bahl, a prominent journalist and entrepreneur with a deep understanding of both countries, embarks on a compelling exploration to shed light on this critical question.
Bahl confronts the pain and problem that many observers face when trying to comprehend the contrasting realities of India and China. He raises thought-provoking questions surrounding India's weak regulations, restrictive foreign investment policies, and the stark disparity between its world-class hotels and potholed roads. The reader is invited to explore the unique advantages India possesses, such as its youthful demographic, large English-speaking population, and vibrant democracy. Through these insights, Bahl presents a promising benefit and promise: the winner of the superpower race may not be determined solely by economic growth but by innovative skills and entrepreneurial savvy.
In "Super Power," Bahl provides readers with a comprehensive overview of the histories, politics, economies, and cultures of India and China. Through well-researched documentation and compelling storytelling, he navigates the complex landscape of these two nations, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of their strengths, weaknesses, and future trajectories. The author's authority is established through his extensive career as a journalist and entrepreneur, offering a unique perspective on the subject matter.
As readers delve into the pages of "Super Power," they will find themselves committed to unraveling the captivating race between India and China. The tone is both analytical and engaging, balancing insightful observations with a sense of curiosity and discovery. The book's relevance is unquestionable, as it sheds light on the future of the world economy and provides crucial insights into the global power dynamics of the 21st century.
Throughout the journey, Bahl masterfully engages the reader by presenting a balanced and well-documented account of the race to superpower status. The thought-provoking questions, historical context, and cultural analysis leave a lasting impression, encouraging readers to contemplate the impact of innovation and entrepreneurship on the global stage.
In conclusion, "Super Power" is a compelling and timely exploration of the race between India and China for superpower status. Raghav Bahl's authoritative voice, comprehensive overview, and thought-provoking insights make this book a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of these nations and their role in shaping the future of the world economy. Prepare to be enlightened and inspired as you journey through the pages of this impactful and thought-provoking work.
January 14, 2019
Great book if you want to understand why China is ahead of India, and why and How India is struggling because of India leaders of self low confidence.. Raghav did an intensive research to find and highlight key points of China's success and India's issues..
January 18, 2016
The book takes off in a diplomatic way. I found this very tactical if there is a neutral reviewer reading it :-)
But in a ghostly running-background of the race between the hare and the tortoise (allusions here are taken to "Little Prince" levels), the author goes onto surgically lay down the argument for the Indian economy. To sustain the diplomacy in spirit, there are instances of substantially repetitive disclaimers that the likelihood still remains of China re-defining the eco text books
All in all , a delightful read. Besides the obviously apparent economics and GDP-growth based theories, there is a 360 degree analysis taking into account histories of the nations, the socio-eco-political decision making over the years, etc.
My only disappointment (probably due to my own cynicism/ insecurity regarding the flawless hope that the author creates for the Indian economy) is that the theories after a few chapters look nitpicky. In a few episodes in between, there is this overwhelming feeling that the author is pitting the need to be objective against a patriotic bias. Thus, this sentiment leading to the odd splurge of examples which have been cherry-picked to show the Indian economy can win the race. But again, thankfully this observed act is definitely not overdone and even the tiny stardust I might be noticing is perhaps , again just me playing the devil's advocate.
But in a ghostly running-background of the race between the hare and the tortoise (allusions here are taken to "Little Prince" levels), the author goes onto surgically lay down the argument for the Indian economy. To sustain the diplomacy in spirit, there are instances of substantially repetitive disclaimers that the likelihood still remains of China re-defining the eco text books
All in all , a delightful read. Besides the obviously apparent economics and GDP-growth based theories, there is a 360 degree analysis taking into account histories of the nations, the socio-eco-political decision making over the years, etc.
My only disappointment (probably due to my own cynicism/ insecurity regarding the flawless hope that the author creates for the Indian economy) is that the theories after a few chapters look nitpicky. In a few episodes in between, there is this overwhelming feeling that the author is pitting the need to be objective against a patriotic bias. Thus, this sentiment leading to the odd splurge of examples which have been cherry-picked to show the Indian economy can win the race. But again, thankfully this observed act is definitely not overdone and even the tiny stardust I might be noticing is perhaps , again just me playing the devil's advocate.
January 14, 2011
An excellently documented book. Raghav Bahl does a fabulous job is drawing inference from the various facts and figures of both the countries. His (or whoever said it) view that India and China are non-identical twins was very apt, given the historical and economic crossroads.
I do find Raghav a little biased about opening up the economy, but isn't really too pressing. But, he does criticize the Indian leaders for not believing in India and underestimating our potential. I would really wish the leaders would take notice of this fact.
The book broadly discusses a few core aspects of growing economy and how both countries tackle and solve them. Few of them are infrastructure, corporate governance, entrepreneurship, social welfare. He also talks about in depth about the "atrocities" of the Chinese govt and the unsustainable model of growth. In contrast, he talks about the slow and lethargic steps taken by the Indian front to tackle many of the problems faced today.
Raghav Bahl's book wouldn't be really indepth but was very insightful and thats what i loved about the books. He summarises the winner in just one line "Can India fix its governance before China fixes its politics"
I do find Raghav a little biased about opening up the economy, but isn't really too pressing. But, he does criticize the Indian leaders for not believing in India and underestimating our potential. I would really wish the leaders would take notice of this fact.
The book broadly discusses a few core aspects of growing economy and how both countries tackle and solve them. Few of them are infrastructure, corporate governance, entrepreneurship, social welfare. He also talks about in depth about the "atrocities" of the Chinese govt and the unsustainable model of growth. In contrast, he talks about the slow and lethargic steps taken by the Indian front to tackle many of the problems faced today.
Raghav Bahl's book wouldn't be really indepth but was very insightful and thats what i loved about the books. He summarises the winner in just one line "Can India fix its governance before China fixes its politics"
November 26, 2012
Amazing book for a non-fiction. I am glad the writer is not an economist. Because of this he made it easier to understand economics. A lot of the stuff in the book I had known from news and hearsay, but reading it all in comparative and chronological manner along with the world events and philosophies and cultures, the understanding is so much clearer. It is amazing to learn that nationalism/patriotism and confidence can do wonders to a nation and the lack of these very attributes, inspite of best plans and favorable conditions can leave a nation with a lot of potential but little optimism in achieving it. May be the same lesson can be applied on individual level.
Why I gave 4 out of 5 stars is because I think the author was too cautious to give complete details at places. He could have given more details and first time I think the book was not long enough as it should have been.
Why I gave 4 out of 5 stars is because I think the author was too cautious to give complete details at places. He could have given more details and first time I think the book was not long enough as it should have been.
May 15, 2016
This book was very informative about China and India's political and economic situation, but I found it very bogged down with general statistics about the two countries, which reinforce the author's thesis. In short, he claims China has had a large economic head start, but may collapse, while India is slow, but potentially still rising. Small complaint, but I also found the comparisons he makes with a hare and a tortoise really forced and somewhat annoying. SPOILER ALERT In the end, he basically concludes that China has more than likely already defeated India, which makes his entire reason for writing the book somewhat irrelevant.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2015
A classic example of marketing success. He owns a media hub and did a great deal of publicity through it. It sucked me in as well... Compared to the other books that I've read, this was really not a good one. Just a lot of table well kept out in text format, if you ask me. Maybe it taught me something that was worth being taught. But there are a lot of other authors in the market who make lesser amount of noise about their book and who write a lot better. It took me a lot of determination to finish the book. Got kind of bored with the language that he employs.
January 15, 2012
Although Bahl has raised a number of issue on both sides, yet his inability to bring forward any new issue or any new point of debate makes the read seem general. His statistics though good, but give the book a very general sort of feel like reading a newspaper. Had higher expectations from the book, feel let down. Though must praise Bahl on compiling all the points in discussion these days and putting the in an orderly fashion. His writing is simple and lucid which makes it quite an easy read.
February 22, 2017
Heavily biased towards the India story(not surprising since the author is Indian), the book is far far away from a fair comparison of the two economies. At times, Bahl almost gives China the edge but immediately counters it with a "Oh but India has that other thing that is also awesome". Quite frustrating.
June 7, 2012
Awesome compilation of facts regarding India and China.Their economic history etc. .Awesome read if your GK is not phenomenal with a little bit of Authors views on the possible trajectories of the two countries growth.
October 5, 2014
A book written by an entrepreneur when animal spirits were allowed to whizzed off in India. A depressing and non sense ideas of how to extort money by capitalism. Now he has been eaten by bigger fish, it will be wonderful to see his reaction to capitalism.
February 3, 2013
an awesome book to read
April 2, 2013
very informative on ever interesting comparison of china and india. quite unbiased
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August 10, 2013Fact: In 2050, 300 million of China's 1.4 billion strong population will be over 65.
By 2020, India will have a surplus of 47 million people of working age, the only major economy to do so.
By 2020, India will have a surplus of 47 million people of working age, the only major economy to do so.
April 9, 2015
A good book of the time when it was published to know the dynamics of race between India and China.
February 3, 2016
Excellent contribution to the literature of analysis on China and India. Great examples and interesting narrative.
May 12, 2011
An interesting aspect of how the world will be in the near future :)
October 2, 2011
First time read some unbiased analysis.
June 9, 2013
poor researched
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews