Croeso i India. This series of four programmes is presented by Beth Angell who has a special interest in the country as her grandfather and grandmother were missionaries here in Bryniau Casia (the Khasi Hills) in the 1930s.
Over a billion people now live in India – many in the vibrant cities. India is expected to be one of the superpowers of the 21st century.
Since the 1990s the economy has been growing and technology has been the key to much of India’s success. Six million mobile phones a month are sold here. A new middle class has emerged.
This new wealth however has not reached everyone and the gap between the rich and the poor has widened immensely.
Now over eighty per cent of the population of India practise the Hindu faith.
In the 19th century many missionaries were sent from Wales to spread Christianity. The last missionaries didn’t leave until 1969.
Missionaries such as Bethan’s grandfather and grandmother in Bryniau Casia became part of the community and learnt the language. For this they were greatly respected.
The missionaries brought practical benefits too – schools and hospitals. This missionary hospital in Jowai has 250 beds – but only six doctors.
Bryniau Casia has much heavy industry – mining and coal. However, the area remains poor and there is little sign of the benefits of new technology here.
The roads are in a dire state and as lorries are not allowed to drive through the cities during the day they often have to queue for hours to drive through them at night.
