The book covers the evolution of public administration in India from its earliest beginnings to the present. It is based on the knowledge an administrator has acquired during more than 35 years of experience at the state, national, and worldwide levels. This book avoids theoretical discussion or examination of topics on the basis of ideology and is written in plain language in an easy and direct approach. It is an educational, practical book on Indian administration that will meet the demands of both laypeople and students. It will act as a useful manual for anyone considering joining the civil service and those who have never worked in government or administration before. Institutions of higher learning at the federal and state levels that specialise in public administration. Padma Ramachandran is currently Vice-Chancellor, M.S. University, Baroda. She has had an illustrious career as a member of the Indian Administrative Service from 1956 to 1992, holding responsible positions in the State (Kerala), in the Government of India and with the United Nations. The first woman civil servant in Kerala to become District Collector, Secretary to Government and later Chief Secretary to Government, she was also the Director, Asia and Pacific Centre for Women and Development, UNESCAP, Bangkok. Widely travelled, she has studied different systems of governance and the problems of women's development in many countries. She has authored several short stories, and written articles and papers on management, training and women.