NEW DELHI : Trade is the building block of society and the lifeblood of civilizations. Trade played a profound role in influencing history and shaping societies which goes far beyond just economic benefits. The Silk Route passing through India is the best example of this. Not only did it supply tea and spices to the British and silk to Italy but it also ensured Aryabhata’s zero reached the Romans. At the centre of global trade was India, a country blessed with resources and vast coastline to facilitate sea transportation. At one point of history, India accounted for one . . .