Where is the Indian political grouping that emphasises growth over equity, seeks equality of opportunity rather than outcome, celebrates the private sector as an engine of economic prosperity, and champions the cause of a strong military?

Millions of voters will head to the polls this week for the first phase of what are often called India's second-most important elections -- for a new government in Uttar Pradesh, the country's largest state and home to about one in six of its 1.2 billion citizens. In the drama of Indian democracy, UP has always played a starring role.

India's big, new foreign policy idea is even worse that its last one. And that's saying something.

In discussions about the Middle east, it's said that the greatest mistake was the partition of Palestine and the creation of the state of Israel in 1948. That's not my view.

As Washington braces for another $400 billion in defense spending cuts, the urge to find a strategic partner in Asia is gaining steam. In that search, India often seems like the dream option—almost by default.

For India, Kerala should not just be an example of successful human development; it should be a warning about economic underachievement.

India is more important to America than most Americans realize.

India has long experienced terrorism--usually from isolated ethnic insurgencies in remote parts of the country. More recent attacks--including in Mumbai in 2008--are being committed by urban, middle-class jihadists, often with the tacit support of Pakistan.