Every citizen of India feels proud when he calls himself or herself an Indian. I take pride in calling myself an Indian -- a country that is the world's largest democracy, which has people of all religions living harmoniously.

The best thing about our nation is that today more then 50 per cent of its population is under the age of 25. As a parliamentarian I have been travelling through the length and breadth of India. Our economy is booming, our trade is increasing. India is a vibrant nation.

Independence means self rule. I would like to see India break free from religious intolerance, caste hatred, poverty, hunger and illiteracy. I would like to see my nation eradicating major diseases like polio etc.

I would like to see the people of India being empowered. I would like to see an equitable growth in all the sectors so that we could realise the dream of Mahatma Gandhi and ensure that there is a smile on every face.