A CIVICS HANDBOOK

Civics- This used to be a separate chunk of 50 pages in the history books when I was in school. By looking at the design of the books and syllabi, would feel that much importance is given to history and it is complemented by civics in the end. Another impression we could get would be that history, civilization and civics go hand in hand. It helps us understand the path we have taken and the significant episodes that have transformed our society during this journey. This book has compiled this journey in a simplified manner. The writer has tried to cover all the major aspects of the Constitution, Government, and Judiciary and has been substantially successful in producing a quality result. In many areas, the Indian Constitution is referenced through the mention of Articles and Sections. There are also criticisms in the form of appreciation and assessments in various chapters. My favourite part is where the statement of CN Annadurai "Autonomy to states and Coalition in Center" resonates in various parts of this book. It has also quoted statements and highlighted instances that endorses the independent functioning of the Judiciary. The procedures followed in the appointment of Government officials and administrative heads are clearly laid out for a novice reader to understand. The need for limitation of powers to prevent exploitation of resources and authority can be understood while reading about the roles and responsibilities of various heads functioning in the Government machinery. This also reckons the vital yet invisible role played by pressure groups in influencing political parties. I was able to make connections with the text in this book with various events that had happened and have been happening in the country. If anyone wants to know the substantial characteristics of political parties, government set-up, and Law-making in our country, this book would be a good start.