For aspiring candidates preparing for the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) examinations, an exhaustive and well-curated booklist on post-independence India is crucial. The period post-independence is a critical phase in Indian history, marked by significant socio-political and economic transformations. To comprehensively cover this era, candidates can begin with “India After Gandhi” by Ramachandra Guha, a seminal work that provides a detailed account of the political evolution of India from 1947 onwards. Another recommended book is “Pax Indica” by Shashi Tharoor, which delves into India’s foreign policy post-independence. “India Since Independence” by Bipan Chandra, Mridula Mukherjee, and Aditya Mukherjee is a comprehensive textbook covering various aspects of post-independence India. For a deeper understanding of economic changes, “India Unbound” by Gurcharan Das is an insightful read. Aspirants should also include “The Argumentative Indian” by Amartya Sen to grasp the intellectual and philosophical dimensions of post-independence India. Additionally, “Emergency: A Personal History” by Coomi Kapoor provides a gripping account of the Emergency period. This well-rounded booklist ensures a nuanced understanding of post-independence India, crucial for success in UPSC examinations.
How to Prepare Post-Independence for UPSC?
Preparing for the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) exam, especially with a focus on post-independence history, requires a structured and comprehensive approach. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare:
- Understand the Syllabus:
- Familiarize yourself with the UPSC syllabus for history, particularly the post-independence period.
- Identify specific topics and themes mentioned in the syllabus.
- Collect Study Material:
- Gather relevant textbooks, reference books, and study materials. Recommended books for post-independence history include Bipan Chandra’s “India Since Independence” and Sumit Sarkar’s “Modern India.”
- NCERT Books:
- Read NCERT textbooks for history from class 8 to 12. The NCERT books provide a solid foundation and help in building a conceptual understanding.
- Newspapers and Magazines:
- Stay updated on current affairs related to the post-independence period by reading newspapers like The Hindu and magazines like Yojana and Kurukshetra.
- Online Resources:
- Utilize online platforms for additional resources and current information. Websites like the Ministry of External Affairs, government reports, and reputable news portals can provide valuable insights.
- Make a Study Plan:
- Create a realistic and time-bound study plan. Allocate specific time slots for each topic, and ensure you cover the entire syllabus.
- Revision:
- Regularly revise what you have studied. Make concise notes to aid in quick revision closer to the exam.
- Previous Year Papers:
- Solve previous year question papers to understand the exam pattern and the type of questions asked. This will also help you manage time during the actual exam.
- Answer Writing Practice:
- Practice answer writing regularly. Focus on presenting your answers in a structured and coherent manner. This is crucial for the mains examination.
- Join a Test Series:
- Enroll in a good test series to practice taking exams under time constraints. This will help you identify your strengths and weaknesses.
- Stay Updated with Current Affairs:
- Stay informed about current events, especially those related to the post-independence period. This knowledge is essential for both prelims and mains.
- Optional Subject:
- If you have an optional subject related to history, make sure to integrate your post-independence history preparation with your overall history studies.
- Discussion and Group Study:
- Engage in discussions with fellow aspirants or join a study group. This can provide different perspectives and enhance your understanding.
- Stay Healthy:
- Take care of your physical and mental health. A healthy body and mind contribute significantly to effective learning and retention.
NCERT Post-Independence Book for UPSC
For the UPSC Civil Services Examination, particularly the Preliminary and Main examinations, candidates often refer to the NCERT (National Council of Educational Research and Training) books as part of their preparation. NCERT books are considered fundamental for building a strong foundation in various subjects. For the post-independence period, the following NCERT books are generally recommended:
- “India Since Independence” (Class XII): This book covers the history of India from 1947 to the present day. It is an essential read for understanding the political, economic, and social developments in the post-independence era.
- “Contemporary World Politics” (Class XII): This book provides insights into international relations and politics since the end of World War II. It covers topics such as the Cold War, global organizations, and contemporary global issues.
While NCERT books are a good starting point, it’s important to supplement your preparation with additional reading from other sources to gain a more in-depth understanding. Additionally, for current affairs, newspapers, magazines, and online sources are crucial.
UPSC Post-Independence Books for Prelims and Mains
Preparing for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exams, including the Civil Services Preliminary (Prelims) and Main Examination (Mains), requires a comprehensive understanding of various subjects, especially post-independence Indian history, politics, and society. Here is a list of recommended books for UPSC preparation related to post-independence India:
Books for Post-Independence History:
- India After Gandhi: The History of the World’s Largest Democracy by Ramachandra Guha – This book provides a detailed account of India’s political history from independence to the present.
- India Since Independence by Bipan Chandra – A comprehensive overview of political, economic, and social developments in India since 1947.
- Pax Indica: India and the World of the 21st Century by Shashi Tharoor – Focuses on India’s foreign policy and its global positioning after independence.
- India Since Independence: Making Sense of Indian Politics by Rajiv Bhargava – A critical analysis of political developments in post-independence India.
Books for Indian Polity:
- Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth – This is considered the Bible for Indian Polity and covers the constitutional aspects in detail.
- Introduction to the Constitution of India by D.D. Basu – A comprehensive guide to the Indian Constitution.
Books for Economy:
- Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh – A comprehensive book that covers economic concepts and developments in India.
- Economic Survey by the Government of India – Reading the annual economic survey is crucial for understanding the current economic scenario in India.
Books for Geography:
- Certificate Physical and Human Geography by Goh Cheng Leong – This book provides a good understanding of India’s physical geography.
- Oxford School Atlas – An atlas is essential for map-based questions in the exam.
Books for Social Issues:
- Social Problems in India by Ram Ahuja – This book covers various social issues prevalent in Indian society.
Newspapers and Magazines:
- The Hindu / Indian Express – Regularly follow these newspapers for current affairs.
- Yojana and Kurukshetra – These government publications provide insights into socio-economic issues.
Remember to supplement your reading with current affairs and practice solving previous years’ question papers. Additionally, make use of online resources, study materials, and mock tests to enhance your preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the essential books for UPSC preparation focusing on post-independence India?
Answer: There are several important books for UPSC preparation that cover post-independence India comprehensively. Some recommended ones include “India After Gandhi” by Ramachandra Guha, “Pax Indica” by Shashi Tharoor, “India Since Independence” by Bipan Chandra, and “India’s Struggle for Independence” by Bipan Chandra (for a historical context leading up to independence).
2. Is it necessary to read multiple books on post-independence India for UPSC preparation?
Answer: While it’s not mandatory to read multiple books, having a well-rounded understanding is crucial. Different books offer varied perspectives and insights. However, focus on key texts like “India After Gandhi” for a detailed overview and supplement it with other books to deepen your understanding.
3. Can fiction books be useful for UPSC preparation, specifically for post-independence history?
Answer: Yes, fiction books can provide valuable insights into the socio-cultural aspects of post-independence India. Novels like “A Suitable Boy” by Vikram Seth or “Train to Pakistan” by Khushwant Singh offer a nuanced understanding of the period. While not substitutes for history textbooks, they can complement your knowledge.
4. Are there any UPSC-specific study materials available for post-independence history?
Answer: Yes, there are UPSC-specific study materials available for post-independence history. Many coaching institutes and publishers produce comprehensive study materials specifically tailored for the UPSC exam. Ensure that the materials cover the UPSC syllabus and are updated with the latest developments.
5. How can I effectively use documentaries and films to supplement my UPSC preparation for post-independence history?
Answer: Documentaries and films can provide a visual and engaging understanding of post-independence history. For instance, documentaries like “The Story of India” and films like “Gandhi” can offer a different perspective. However, these should be supplementary to your core reading, helping you grasp historical events in a more dynamic manner.
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