6 Must-Read Memoirs for Every IAS Aspirant - Testbook

A Deep Dive into Indian Bureaucracy – Key Memoirs

1. Bureaucrazy Gets Crazier: IAS Unmasked – M.K.Kaw

First published in 1993, this book quickly became a bestseller. It provides an insider's perspective into the workings of the civil services and highlights the system's strengths and weaknesses at all levels.

2. Not Just an Accountant —The Diary of the Nation’s Conscience Keeper – Vinod Rai

Vinod Rai, the 11th Comptroller and Auditor General of India, reveals the truth behind major scandals such as the Commonwealth Games, Air India, 2G, and Coalgate in this enlightening book.

3. The Service Of The State: The IAS Reconsidered – Bhaskar Ghose

With 36 years of experience in the field, Ghose discusses the relevance and appropriateness of the Indian Administrative Service in present-day India.

4. Untouchables: My Family’s Triumphant Escape from India’s Caste System – Narendra Jadhav

This autobiography of an IAS officer born into a Dalit family sheds light on the struggles, trials, and tribulations his family faced due to the caste system, as well as their eventual escape from its clutches.

5. Poor But Spirited in Karimnagar – Sumita Dawra

Sumita Dawra, the Collector of Karimnagar district in Andhra Pradesh from 2001-2004, shares her experiences as an IAS officer in this book. It highlights the significant gap between policy planning and implementation.

6. The Honest Always Stand Alone – C. G. Somiah

An IAS officer of the 1953 batch, Somaih retired as the Comptroller and Auditor General of India in 1996. His book provides insights into the political discussions at the highest level during the tenure of Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.

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