Edition – 2025 – 26

Science and technology have always been an integral part of Indian culture. Natural philosophy, as it was termed in those ancient times, was pursued vigorously at institutions of higher learning. The Indian Renaissance, which coincided with our independence struggle at the dawn of 1990s witnessed great strides made by Indian scientists. This innate ability to perform creativity in science came to be backed with an institutional setup and strong side support after the country’s independence in 1947. Since then, the Government of India has spared no effort to establish a modern S&T infrastructure in the country. The Department of Science and Technology plays a pivotal role in promotion of science and technology in the country.

Like any other discipline, the discipline of Science is vast it is universal its concepts and principles and their application is of global interest. A beginner in the subject finds himself lost and seeks useful effective directions. We are responding to his needs.

This is not yet another book on the subject. The literature on the subject abounds both in terms of quality and numbers. In fact, research in various aspects of science and technology has attracted the sharpest brain in the country. We have no conflict with them; we rather feel proud of the presence and active contribution made by the science scholars.

Our only submission is that the ‘discipline of science’ has become a whole web of academic and professional knowledge. Breaking through this mob is the job for trained scientists. But IAS aspirants find it difficult to unlock he complex world of science. And as a matter of fact IAS aspirants need not have knowledge of the different aspects covered under the generic name ‘General Science’: UPSC syllabus for the examination (both preliminary and mains) makes it explicitly clear that the aspirants are to be tested on general science as it finds application in our daily life. This maxim has guided us in preparing the present volume. Simple scientific aspects as discussed as they find expression in life around us. Those who have the simple skill of reading English text will find the book extremely useful: More knowledge from little text-material, or the well-meaning Hindi maxim ‘xkxj esa lkxj’. We will feel adequately compensated if the students for it useful for the examination.