Patriotism is key for servival , western nations development also based on Patriotism , that is reason they developed the concept of europian union which is successful venture, similarly muslim umah concept could be revived but due to lack of education and greedy leadership and secterianism ,this idea could not be implemented easily.
India has no its own economic system, it is country of many nations which has its own limitations and draw backs but young and educated population is a plus point.
It is in intrest of both Muslim nations and India to make a economic block and develop friendship.It will be benficial for whole region and both nations could spend more on public welfare projects.
My friend, the idea behind European Union is not religion. It is trade, which is a big motivation for the improvement in the quality of life of its individuals. The erstwhile CIS countries are also keen to join the EU, not for love of any religion but for the betterment of the lives of their people via trade and business.
So I disagree with your idea of everything being religion centric. It is not. I would like to leave this here for I believe that my religion is between me and my god. But as part of a community, a nation & a region, my view will be to focus on moving towards a scenario where we are all doing what each of us can do best and trade bases on our competencies. Opportunities for all you see.....
Re your comment about India, I completely agree with you that we are nation of diversities. Probably most diversities in the world. Isn't it amazing that our social fabric is such a collage and yet we gather under same colors. Look at other nations in the world with diversities, say even China. All the diversities and the religion never comes in the way of national policies. This is also common amongst all thriving nations with diverse populace.
Ever wonder why, let me let you in on this secret. You see we never put religion in the centre of our lives, religion for us is our compass of morality. The core desire and motivation of each individual is the their betterment and that of their families. The goal is always to reach the next income level or buy that next comfort for our families, education for children or hell, that nice dress for our women. But all this to be done in human and honest ways, that is where my religion is my compass.
South Asia will realize its true potential when we will have a common objective, which can motivate the whole region. That can only be the upliftment of the quality of our lives, removal of poverty, improvement in the available opportuities to our children, better health care for our elderly and increased acceptance and respect amongst us for each other values and beliefs.
Take care.