UPSC Mains Preparation: A Comprehensive Booklist

Introduction

If you are gearing up for the UPSC Mains examination, having the right resources is crucial. This article offers a detailed booklist that covers all the essential subjects on the Mains syllabus. It is derived from the recommendations of UPSC toppers and strategic resources to ensure a thorough and well-rounded preparation.

Art and Culture

The subject of Art and Culture demands a deep understanding of the historical and cultural tapestry of India. Here is a recommended reading list:

1. NCERT Class 11 - An Introduction to Indian Art

This book serves as an excellent starting point for those who are new to the subject.

2. Nitin Singhania's Indian Art and Culture

For those who have a strong academic foundation, this book delves deeper into the richness of Indian Art and Culture.

3. Old NCERT Class 11 - RS Sharma's Ancient India

One of the most revered texts for ancient history in India.

4. Old NCERT Class 11 - Satish Chandra's Medieval India

This book covers the reign of Mughal and other medieval dynasties in India.

Modern Indian History

Understanding the modern period is vital for UPSC Mains. Here are the recommended books:

1. Spectrum - A Brief History of Modern India

A concise guide to the modern history of India.

2. New NCERTs Classes 6-12 specific topics

These detailed NCERT books cover specific historical periods with precision.

World History

For a nuanced understanding of global history:

1. Vision IAS Notes

Focused and tailored notes for comprehensive coverage.

2. Mrunal Lectures on World History

In-depth analysis of global events and their impact.

Post-Independence India

Maintaining relevancy in today's context is essential:

1. Nitin Sangwan Notes

Insightful notes highlighting recent developments.

2. New NCERTs Classes 6-12 specific topics

Ancient, medieval, and modern history textbooks for specific topics.

Indian Society

The Indian socio-economic scenario is complex and deserves careful attention:

1. Vision IAS Current Affairs Material

Stay up-to-date with crucial socio-economic issues.

2. Vision IAS Mains Test Series

Practice tests to refine understanding and exam skills.

Geography

Explore the physical and human dimensions of India:

1. World Geophysical Impact

Understanding the global impact of earthquakes and tsunamis.

2. Factors for Industrial Location

Impact of geographical factors on industry.

3. Resource Distribution

A critical study of resource distribution in India.

4. New NCERTs classes 6th-10th, 11th, and 12th

A comprehensive study of geography from a macro perspective.

5. Ms. Rajtanil Geo Videos available on Mrunal

Visual aids to aid in learning.

6. GC Leong

Textbooks for comprehensive study.

7. PMF IAS PDF

Quick reference documents for geographical concepts.

8. Oxford Atlas

A reliable reference tool for maps and geography.

Indian Polity and Constitution

A foundational guide is necessary for this section:

1. Indian Polity and Constitution by Laxmikant

A go-to reference book for polity and constitution.

2. NCERT Class VI to XII

General polity and constitution syllabus for a broader understanding.

Social Justice

Explore the socio-economic context in depth:

1. NGOs, SHGs, and Welfare Schemes Bodies

Understanding the social sector, healthcare, and education.

2. Social Sector, Health, and Education

Focus on HRD and development.

Development and Industry

Stay updated with current affairs and editorials:

1. Editorials by Vision IAS, PIB, PRS

Insights into economic and social development.

2. NITI 3 Year Agenda

Current policies and initiatives by the government.

3. Budget and Economic Survey

Financial and economic trends.

Governance

Understand the principles and practices of governance:

1. Governance, Transparency, and Accountability

Making governmental processes more transparent and accountable.

2. e-Governance and the Role of Civil Services

Technological advancements in governance.

3. 2nd ARC Report - 149101112

Reports on recent studies and recommendations.

4. Vision IAS Notes

Comprehensive governance notes and material.

5. Current Affairs : Vision Editorials, PIB, PRS

Stay updated with the latest governance-related news.

International Relations

Understand the complexities of international relations:

1. India and Neighbours

Relations with neighboring countries.

2. Bilateral/Global Groupings

International organizations and their impact.

3. Effect of Foreign Country Policies on Indian Interests

Analyze how other countries' policies impact India.

4. Diaspora and International Bodies – Structure and Mandate

Understanding the diaspora and international bodies.

5. Vision IAS Material

Detailed analysis and notes on international relations.

6. Editorials

Key editorials from significant newspapers.

7. MEA Website PDFs

First-hand material from the Ministry of External Affairs.

NCERT Books as a Foundation

Muhammad Shaheer recommends NCERTs for their foundational value. Multiple readings and highlighting key points are essential:

1. History

Old NCERT for Ancient India by R.S. Sharma Old NCERT for Medieval India by Satish Chandra or Tamil Nadu 11th Class book Old NCERT for Modern India by Bipin Chandra

2. Geography

Physical Geography Class XI India: Physical Environment Class XI India People and Economy Class XII Human Geography Class XII Indian Economic Development Class XI Introductory Macroeconomics Class XII

3. Polity

Indian Constitution at Work Class XI Politics in India Since Independence Class XII Contemporary World Politics Class XII

4. Environment

Class XII Biology - Environment and Ecology Chapters (total 4)

5. Science

Class VI to Class IX NCERT

6. Society

Indian Society Class XI social change and development in India Class XII

With this well-structured booklist, you can effectively prepare for the UPSC Mains examination and achieve your dream of becoming an IAS officer.

Good luck!