Publisher's Synopsis
This volume covers a crucial period of eight weeks from 20 December 1948 to 15 February 1949, during which nation-building was Nehru's major concern. Recasting the finances, setting up new industries, inculcating a scientific outlook, promoting self-sufficiency in food and suggesting changes in the food habits of people absorbed much of his attention. These went along with a general concern for educational and cultural advancement and keen interest in the development of languages. By convening the Delhi Conference in support of Indonesia's struggle for independence from the Dutch, Nehru initiated Asian attempts at dealing with Asian problems, hitherto left with the Western Powers as `fringe' issues. Simultaneously, Nehru was engaged in securing India's entry into the Commonwealth as a republic and on terms of equality with other nations. In bilateral relations, his efforts were directed to strengthening friendship and raising India's standing in the world.
