If India was not a democracy, it would have significant implications for the country's unity and stability. Let's explore what could have happened if India was not a democracy, based on the NCERT Class 9 Civics textbook.

1. Unity and Diversity:
India is known for its diverse culture, languages, religions, and ethnicities. The democratic system in India provides a platform for all these diverse groups to coexist peacefully. Without democracy, there would be a higher possibility of conflicts and tensions among different groups. The idea of a single nation may have been challenged, resulting in the possibility of fragmentation.

2. Historical Context:
The textbook, as per the NCERT Class 9 Civics syllabus, covers the historical context of India's struggle for independence and the formation of the Constitution. It emphasizes the significance of democracy in ensuring the unity and integrity of the nation. Understanding this context is essential to comprehend the potential consequences of India not being a democracy.

3. Democratic Principles:
The textbook covers various democratic principles, such as equality, justice, freedom, and respect for diversity. These principles form the foundation of India's democracy and are essential for maintaining the unity of the nation. Without democracy, these principles may not be upheld, leading to social, economic, and political disparities among different groups.

4. Challenges to Governance:
The textbook discusses the challenges faced by India in terms of governance, such as corruption, poverty, and inequality. Democracy provides avenues for citizens to participate in decision-making processes and hold the government accountable. Without democracy, these challenges may become even more pronounced, potentially leading to increased dissatisfaction and unrest among the people.

5. Secularism and Social Harmony:
India's democracy ensures the principle of secularism, where the state treats all religions equally and does not promote any particular religion. This promotes social harmony and unity among various religious communities. Without democracy, there could be a risk of religious conflicts and the marginalization of certain religious groups, further threatening the unity of the nation.

In conclusion, if India was not a democracy, the unity and integrity of the nation could have been severely challenged. The democratic system provides a platform for diverse groups to coexist peacefully, upholds important principles, addresses governance challenges, and ensures social harmony. The NCERT Class 9 Civics textbook covers these aspects, highlighting the significance of democracy for India's unity and stability.