Best Public Administration Optional Books for UPSC

If you’re preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Mains and have chosen Public Administration as your optional subject, here are some highly recommended books to enhance your preparation:

1. Public Administration by Laxmikanth: This book provides a comprehensive overview of public administration concepts, theories, and practices. It covers topics relevant to both Prelims and Mains exams.
2. Vajiram & Ravi Public Administration Books: Curated by highly expert faculty members, Vajiram & Ravi has a Postal Course for Public Administration Books for both Optional Papers 1 and 2 that covers the entire Optional Syllabus for Public Administration.
3. New Horizons Of Public Administration by Mohit Bhattacharya: A thought-provoking book that delves into contemporary issues and challenges faced by public administrators. It offers fresh perspectives and critical analysis.
4. Administrative Thinkers by D. Ravindra Prasad: This book explores the ideas and contributions of prominent administrative thinkers. Understanding their theories is crucial for answering questions related to administrative thought.
5. Contemporary Debates in Public Administration by Dhameja Alka: An insightful book that discusses current debates, reforms, and trends in public administration. It helps you stay updated with recent developments.
6. Indian Administration by Maheswari: A classic text covering various aspects of Indian administration, including historical context, constitutional provisions, and administrative structures.
7. Introduction to the Constitution of India by D.D. Basu: Although not specific to public administration, this book provides essential knowledge about the Indian Constitution, which is relevant for the subject.
8. Important Judgments that Transformed India by Alex Andrews George: While not solely focused on public administration, this book highlights landmark legal decisions that have shaped India’s governance and administration.
9. Public Administration: Concepts And Theories by Rumki Basu: A comprehensive guide to fundamental concepts and theories in public administration. It covers topics like bureaucracy, accountability, and governance.
10. A Dictionary of Public Administration by Maheswari: A handy reference book for understanding key terms and concepts related to public administration.
11. Administrative Theories And Management Thought by Sapru: Explores various administrative theories and management principles. Useful for answering questions related to administrative theory.