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Indian Society Books for UPSC Prelims and Mains

Indian Society Book for UPSC is vital to cover the syllabus comprehensively.  A complete list of the best Indian Society Books for UPSC prelims and Mains is provided here.
authorImageSheetal Gaur5 Jun, 2024
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Indian Society Books for UPSC

Indian Society Books for UPSC: Preparing for the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) exam is no small feat. It demands dedication, strategic planning, and access to the right resources. One critical area of focus is Indian Society, a subject that holds significant weightage in the General Studies paper. Here we have provided the best Indian Society books for UPSC preparation along with tips on how to use these resources effectively.

Recommended Indian Society Books for UPSC

The Indian Society segment in the UPSC exam aims to test candidates' understanding of the diverse and complex nature of Indian society. This includes topics like communalism, regionalism, secularism, social empowerment, and urbanization. Check out the list of top Indian Society Books for UPSC prelims and mains.

Indian Society Books for UPSC Prelims

These are the foundational books for UPSC and are highly recommended for building a strong base in Indian Society. The following Indian Society book NCERT textbooks are particularly relevant:
  • Class XI: Sociology – Introducing Sociology
  • Class XI: Sociology: Understanding Society
  • Class XII: Indian Society
  • Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth
  • Class XII: Social Change & Development in India

Indian Society Books for UPSC Mains

The main stage is a subjective one where General Studies Paper-I and General Studies Paper-II cover topics related to Indian Society. This informative Indian Society book for UPSC pdf offers a detailed overview of the structure and evolution of Indian society.
  • Indian Society: Themes and Social Issues by Nadeem Hasnain
  • Social Problems in India by Ram Ahuja
  • Society in India: Concepts, Theories, and Recent Trends by A.R. Desai
  • India’s Social Structure by  T.K. Oommen
  • Social Change in Modern India by M.N. Srinivas
Also read,

Top Indian Society Books for UPSC By Toppers

Here are some books that are excellent resources, offering in-depth coverage of Indian social structures and issues. Ram Ahuja’s writing is detailed and analytical, making it suitable for candidates who are looking to deepen their understanding after going through the NCERT books.
Book Title Author Notable Features
Indian Society NCERT Foundational concepts, simple language
Indian Society Ram Ahuja Detailed analysis, advanced level
Social Problems in India Ram Ahuja Comprehensive, data-backed
Indian Society Rajni Kothari Insightful analysis, focuses on democracy
UPSC Sampoorna Indian Society Physics Wallah Holistic and In-depth discussion of topics, Integrated and Holistic preparation of Preliminary and Mains, PYQs
Prahaar Indian Society - 2023 Edition Physics Wallah Previous Year Questions of Prelims and Mains, Integrated and Holistic Preparation

Benefits of Using Indian Society Book NCERT

NCERT books are widely recommended for UPSC preparation due to several reasons: Clear and Concise Content: NCERT books present information in a clear and concise manner, making it easier for students to grasp fundamental concepts. Standardized Information: Being government-published, NCERT books provide standardized information that is reliable and up-to-date. This ensures that students are learning accurate and relevant content, which is essential for competitive exams like UPSC. Cost-Effective: NCERT books are affordable and widely available, making them an economical choice for students. Structured Learning: NCERT books are designed to facilitate structured learning, with chapters and sections that logically progress from basic to more complex topics.

How to Use Indian Society Books for UPSC Preparation?

Regular revision, practice, and the use of available Indian Society books for UPSC PDFs can significantly enhance your preparation. Check the tips on how to use books for UPSC: Start with NCERT Books: Begin your preparation with the Indian Society book by NCERT. Move to Advanced Books: Once you have a good grasp of the basics, move on to more detailed books like those by Ram Ahuja and Rajni Kothari. Regular Revisions: Revising regularly is crucial to retaining information. Go through your notes and the highlighted sections of the books periodically. Practice Answer Writing: UPSC exams require not just knowledge but also the ability to present it effectively. Discussion and Group Study: Discussing topics with fellow aspirants or joining study groups can provide new perspectives and enhance your understanding.

Indian Society Books for UPSC FAQs

Which Indian Society NCERT books are essential for preparation?

For Indian Society, the NCERT books from Class 11 and 12 are particularly important. The Class 11 book "Introducing Sociology" and the Class 12 book "Indian Society" are highly recommended.

Can I rely solely on NCERT books for Indian Society in UPSC?

While NCERT books provide a strong foundation, it is advisable to refer to additional books like those by Ram Ahuja and Rajni Kothari for a more comprehensive understanding and detailed analysis.

Where can I find Indian Society book PDFs for free?

You can find Indian Society book PDFs on the NCERT official website and other educational websites dedicated to UPSC preparation. 

Which paper is for the Indian Society UPSC?

The topic of Indian Society is covered in General Studies Paper 1 of the UPSC Mains exam. Additionally, certain related topics can also be found in the syllabus for UPSC GS-2.

What is covered under Indian Society in GS 1 for UPSC?

The Indian Society syllabus in UPSC GS 1 includes topics like social structure, diversity, urbanization, globalization, poverty, social empowerment, communalism, regionalism, and issues affecting vulnerable sections.
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