The book presents the English translation of the inscriptions of Mauryan Emperor Asoka, a great follower of the Buddha. The objective of the book is to carry the message of Asoka's edicts to the masses. Although the translation closely follows the texts of the epigraphic records, it has been made simple so that it is easily comprehended by the readers. Rediscovered by scholars and researchers, these inscriptions form a vital part of Indian history.

The inscriptions have been rendered into English by Dr. D.C. Sircar, a distinguished scholar.

The chapters contained in this book are extracts from 'The Gazetteer of India - History and Culture'. They deal with the growth and evolution of architecture, sculpture, painting, dance, drama music and crafts during the ancient and medieval periods in India.

This is a biography of great freedom fighter S.Srinivasa Iyengar. The book deals with various aspects of his life S.Srinivasa Iyengar was not only a political leader, he was a successful lawyer and social reformer too. He played an important role in building the modern India.

The chapters contained in this book are extracts from 'The Gazetteer of India - History and Culture' . This book presents an absorbing account of the rise and fall of various dynasties and kingdoms across the country from early 13th century to the Third Battle of Panipat in 1761 AD and its impact on social, political and cultural life of India.

Dr. Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar belonged to the historical genre of patriotic scientists like Homi Bhabha, C. V. Raman, and Satish Chandra, who envisioned India's self reliance in infrastructural areas. Country's flagship science institution CSIR was established with Dr. S. S. Bhatnagar at the helm of its affairs. By his sheer intelligence and hard work, Bhatnagar rose to the status of Fellow of the Royal Society of London, the highest honour that an Indian scientist could aspire for, other than the Nobel.

Whoever came in contact with him was touched by his intellect, diligence, honesty and above all, inherent simplicity.

This account of Bhatnagar's life has been written for young people of India, who will shape the future of this country.

Folk dances of Punjab mirror the cultural vibrance of the state. These dance forms have a special place in the life of the people of Punjab. Most of these dance are closely related to the events and occasions of the community life of the region. Dances of Punjab are popular all along the country for their liveliness and exuberance.

Dr. Jagir Singh Noor, an eminent scholar, is considered an authority on this subject.

This book deals with the working of democracy in India and the country's progress in human development since independence. Expanding the range of people's choices and creating an enabling environment for people to attain important capabilities of leading long, healthy and creative lives, to participate in decision making with focus on poor and the marginalized embodies the idea of human development. There is a need to sensitise government officials, NGOs, media, members of legislature and officials towards the need for concerted human development action. This book will be of use to economists, researchers, planners, administrators, teaching faculty and students of universities and colleges.

The author is an administrator and scholar of repute with keen interest in Gandhian Thought. He has contributed in the finalization of Tamil Nadu's Human Development Report.