According to the Oxford Dictionary, "India" is defined as a country in South Asia which used to be part of the British Empire. It became independent and a member of the Commonwealth in 1947. India is now the world's largest democracy, with a population of well over one billion. The country has 22 official languages including Hindi and English, and its capital city is New Delhi. Historically, Britain became involved in India in the 17th century through the East India Company, and later the British government took control after the Indian Mutiny. The independence movement, led by figures such as Mahatma Gandhi, culminated in India's independence in 1947, when it was partitioned into India and Pakistan
. The name "India" is derived from the ancient river Indus (Sindhu in Sanskrit) and was mentioned in Greek and Roman writings. The Oxford Dictionary does not define India or its people with any derogatory terms; claims that the dictionary described Indians as "old-fashioned people, criminals, and stupid people" are false and have been debunked
. In summary, the Oxford Dictionary meaning of India is primarily geographical and historical, identifying it as a South Asian country with a rich history and a significant role in global democracy
