The Unexpected Similarities between Mexico and India
Discover how Mexico can learn from India's experiences in poverty alleviation, technology, and tourism. Read this article for insights on shared similarities and lessons learned.
Mexico and India share many similarities in terms of territorial extension, cultural diversity, and population. Although replicating the experiences of other nations is not possible, it is essential to take a closer look at India's development to gain a broader perspective.
Formal relations between Mexico and India began in 1947 when India achieved independence from the British Empire through the Satyagraha movement led by Mahatma Gandhi.
India integrated more than 500 former principalities and lordships that renounced their power and privileges. Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, led the first steps of the nascent nation by replicating certain elements of the Soviet system, such as the Planning Commission.
The Planning Commission was created to overcome ancestral poverty and backwardness, which affected a population of more than 500 million, with methodically conceived and executed programs.
Shared Similarities of India and Mexico
Both countries have significant similarities in terms of territorial extension, cultural diversity, and population. Mexico is the third largest country in Latin America and ranks 14th globally in terms of land area. India, on the other hand, is the seventh-largest country globally in terms of land area. Mexico has a population of approximately 130 million, while India is the second-most populous country globally, with a population of approximately 1.3 billion.
India is home to diverse cultures, religions, and languages, with Hindi and English being the official languages. Mexico, on the other hand, has Spanish as its official language, with indigenous languages also spoken by the indigenous population.
Economic Development
India and Mexico are both developing countries, but they have different economic strengths and weaknesses. India has a much larger population than Mexico, and it is also a much more diverse country. India's economy is growing rapidly, and it is expected to become one of the world's largest economies in the coming decades. However, India still faces several challenges, including poverty, inequality, and corruption.
Mexico's economy is also growing, but it is not growing as rapidly as India's. Mexico has a smaller population than India, and it is also more homogeneous. Mexico's economy is more diversified than India's, and it is more integrated into the global economy. However, Mexico faces several challenges, including drug violence and a lack of investment in infrastructure.
Political Systems
India and Mexico are both democracies, but they have different political systems. India is a federal republic, while Mexico is a unitary republic. India has a two-party system, while Mexico has a multi-party system. India's political system is more stable than Mexico's, but it is also more bureaucratic. Mexico's political system is more fluid, but it is also more prone to corruption.
Social Challenges
India and Mexico both face several social challenges, including poverty, inequality, and violence. However, the two countries have different approaches to addressing these challenges. India has a more centralized approach to social policy, while Mexico has a more decentralized approach. India's social programs are more comprehensive, but they are also more bureaucratic. Mexico's social programs are less comprehensive, but they are also more flexible.
What Can Mexico Learn from India?
India's Planning Commission successfully executed programs to overcome ancestral poverty and backwardness. Similarly, Mexico can learn from this approach and execute similar programs to address poverty, social inequality, and other related issues. India's experience in developing affordable and sustainable energy solutions can also be useful to Mexico as it faces similar energy-related challenges.
Another lesson that Mexico can learn from India is the importance of leveraging its technology sector to drive economic growth. India is a leading IT hub, with technology exports accounting for a significant portion of its economy. Mexico has a thriving technology sector, which can be harnessed to drive economic growth.
The tourism sector is also an area where Mexico can learn from India's experience. India has a rich cultural heritage and diverse tourism offerings, which attract millions of tourists every year. Mexico can leverage its rich cultural heritage and diverse natural beauty to attract more tourists.
Conclusion
Mexico and India have many similarities, which provide an opportunity for both countries to learn from each other's experiences. Mexico can learn from India's experience in executing successful poverty alleviation programs, leveraging its technology sector, and developing its tourism industry. By leveraging these lessons, Mexico can address its challenges and drive economic growth while building a more equitable society.
