Final answer:
India faced challenges in border disputes, religious and political divisions, and economic development at the time of independence.
Step-by-step explanation:
At the time of independence, India faced several serious challenges. One of the major challenges was the problem of borders. The administrative boundaries drawn by the European imperial powers did not always consider the needs and identities of the people. This led to ongoing tensions and conflicts, such as the dispute over Kashmir between India and Pakistan.
Another challenge was the religious and political divisions within the country. The Indian National Congress, dominated by the Hindu majority, called for a unified India, while the Muslim population feared being marginalized and demanded a separate nation, which resulted in the creation of Pakistan.
Economic challenges were also significant. India had a primarily agrarian economy with limited industrialization, and the task of building a strong and self-sufficient nation was daunting. Overcoming poverty, illiteracy, and underdevelopment became critical goals for the newly independent India.