The annoying habbit of incessant honking is surprisingly effective though - I've found it safer to bike in India than the US (statistically verified in terms of crashes). At least it would be if you don't account for stray dog who chase you for fun.
Honking is encouraged during driving lessons. Many drivers rely on the fact that overtaking vehicles honk as they pass by - the mirrors of many Indian vehicles have too many blind spots, so noise is more reliable. This is also encouraged when coming around a blind curve.