India Today ─ An Encyclopedia of Life in the Republic

From "Advani, Lal Krishna," the prominent right-wing Hindu parliamentary politician, to "yoga," the physical and spiritual practice said to originate in India, this two-volume encyclopedia, edited by Long (history, Eastern Michigan U.) alphabetically presents some 250 analytical entries (300 to 5000 words each) on modern India. The intention is to present the latest scholarship on India's cultures, societies, religions, politics, and economic and financial policies in terms of present day realities and the historical context of the development of the country since independence in 1947. Broadly speaking, entries are included on political geography, demographics and population issues, diplomacy and international relations, economics and finance, education, government and law, key individuals, media and telecommunication, medicine and health, politics and parties, popular culture, religion, science and technology, social and environmental issues, and transportation. Each entry includes references and recommendations for further reading. The volumes also include maps, photos, and other illustrations; a chronology, and a select bibliography. Annotation c2011 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Arnold P. Kaminsky, PhD, is professor of history at California State University, Long Beach, CA, and former chair of the Department of Asian and Asian American Studies.

Roger D. Long, PhD, is professor of history at Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI.