Unlocking Success: Must-Read Books By IAS Officers For UPSC Civil Service Exam Preparation

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) administers one of India’s most challenging exams for the Civil Services post. Annually, millions of individuals undertake the UPSC exam in pursuit of their dream of securing a government job, requiring unwavering dedication and hard work. While some aspirants succeed in their first attempt, others struggle to pass even after multiple tries. Thus, the right approach to preparation is crucial for exam success. Retired IAS officers, successful aspirants and various professors play pivotal roles in guiding candidates through their preparation journey for the UPSC Civil Service Exam (CSE). With the advent of the internet, accessing information and study materials for UPSC CSE preparation has become more accessible, yet selecting the right study material remains a daunting task. In such scenarios, exploring books authored by IAS officers can be immensely beneficial.

Bureaucracy Gets Crazier: IAS Unmasked

Published in 1930 by senior IAS officer MK Law, this book provides an unfiltered view of the Indian Administrative Service, shedding light on its inner workings. Translated into Hindi and Punjabi under the title “Bureaucracy Exposé,” it offers insights into the ground realities of the job and the essential knowledge required for it.

The Service of the State: The IAS Reconsidered

Drawing on his 36 years of experience in the IAS, author Bhaskar Ghose outlines the roles and responsibilities of IAS officers in this book. Addressing the significance of the Indian Administrative Service in contemporary India, Ghose’s work aids aspirants in understanding the true nature of their responsibilities and the necessary preparations for them.

The Steel Frame: A History of the IAS

Penned by IAS officer Deepak Gupta, who served as the Chairman of the Union Public Service Commission from November 2014 to September 2016, this book delves into the history and significance of civil services in India. Gupta examines past changes, the present scenario and the prospects of the IAS. Furthermore, he offers suggestions for aspirants to redefine the role envisioned by the framers of the Indian constitution. A must-read for every UPSC aspirant, Deepak Gupta’s book provides invaluable insights into the realm of civil services.

By exploring these books authored by IAS officers, UPSC aspirants can gain a deeper understanding of the administrative service and enhance their preparation strategies for the exam