Indian Polity is a core subject not only for the Civil Services Preliminary Examination but also for the Mains Examination. The knowledge in this field aids aspirants in understanding the political and administrative mechanisms of the country and is also instrumental for their future roles as civil servants.
Best Polity Books for UPSC Prelims Exam
Here are five indispensable books that can fortify your understanding of Indian Polity:
‘Indian Polity’ by M. Laxmikanth
This is the ‘Bible’ for Indian Polity preparation for UPSC aspirants. Written in an easily comprehensible language, the book covers a wide range of topics, starting from the historical background of the Constitution to its various features, schedules, articles, and amendments.
Its systematic presentation of the subject matter, supplemented with multiple diagrams, tables and charts, makes it an excellent starting point for beginners and a handy tool for revision for advanced learners.
‘Introduction to the Constitution of India’ by Durga Das Basu
This comprehensive book offers an in-depth analysis of the Constitution of India. While Laxmikanth simplifies the subject, Durga Das Basu helps you delve deeper.
It provides detailed insights into the philosophical, sociological, and legal aspects of our Constitution.
The book also illustrates how the Constitution has been modified over time, thus providing a dynamic perspective of the constitutional provisions.
‘Our Parliament’ by Subhash Kashyap
This is a crucial read to understand the functioning of the Indian Parliament in detail. Kashyap’s lucid description of the Parliament’s structure, composition, and functioning, along with the various Parliamentary procedures, makes it an insightful read.
This book is essential for answering questions related to the Indian legislative system.
‘Pax Indica: India and the World of the 21st Century’ by Shashi Tharoor
While not directly a book on Indian Polity, Tharoor’s ‘Pax Indica’ provides essential insights into India’s foreign policy, an important part of polity and governance.
Tharoor’s lucid and engaging writing style makes the understanding of complex international relations relatively easy.
‘Governance in India’ by M. Laxmikanth
This book offers comprehensive coverage of various topics under governance, like social justice, comparing constitutions, and public policy. It complements the study of polity and provides conceptual clarity on various aspects of governance.
This book is specifically tailored to suit the requirements of General Studies Paper II of the UPSC Mains exam.
In addition to these books, regularly reading newspapers and following Rajya Sabha TV debates are crucial to stay updated with the latest developments and debates related to Indian Polity.
Read also: How to Prepare Indian Polity for UPSC?
In the end, you can also refer to Prelims and Mains Compass of Indian Polity which we have prepared taking into account to have a firm grip over Indian Polity for the Civil Services Examination, a thorough reading of the aforementioned books is highly recommended.
Alongside, aspirants should supplement their preparation with previous years’ question papers and regular writing practice to ensure a well-rounded preparation.
