Central Secretariat Library, Ministry of Culture

Saints and Singers: Sufi Music in the Indus Valley by Peter Pannke

A fascinating exploration of the rich tradition of Sufi music in the Indus Valley, this book beautifully captures the spiritual, cultural, and musical heritage of the region. Peter Pannke combines travel, history, and personal encounters to reveal how music serves as a bridge between devotion and everyday life. An insightful read for anyone interested in Sufism, South Asian culture, and the enduring power of music to unite communities.

@topfansMinistry of Culture, Government of India

A mesmerizing visual journey into the heart of Ladakh, Ladakh: Himalayan Buddhist Kingdom beautifully captures the region’s spiritual heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture. Through stunning photography and insightful narration, Nicholas Eakins presents Ladakh as a land of peace, resilience, and timeless Buddhist traditions. This book is a perfect blend of travel, culture, and history for every reader and explorer. A must-read for those fascinated by the Himalayas and India’s cultural richness. @topfansMinistry of Culture, Government of IndiaCentral Secretariat Library, Ministry of Culture

A remarkable historical work, The I.C.S.: The Indian Civil Service by Sir Edward Blunt provides valuable insights into the functioning of the British Indian administration. Published in 1937, the book reflects the structure, discipline, and influence of the prestigious ICS during colonial India. A must-read for history enthusiasts, researchers, and civil service aspirants interested in India’s administrative heritage. @topfansMinistry of Culture, Government of IndiaCentral Secretariat Library, Ministry of Culture

📚 Rare Book Spotlight

Essays on Indian Art, Industry & Education
E. B. Havell · Published by G. A. Natesan & Co., Madras

A remarkable collection of essays by E. B. Havell — erstwhile Principal of the Government School of Art, Calcutta — this rare volume champions the revival of India's artistic and cultural heritage at a time when it was under threat from colonial neglect. Spanning topics from the genius behind the Taj Mahal to the Swadeshi movement, Havell argues passionately for placing Indian art and craft at the heart of education and national identity. A prescient and beautifully argued work, it remains a landmark in the discourse on Indian aesthetics and indigenous industry.

📢 Job Opportunity: Assistant Library & Information Officer (Kannada)
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is inviting applications for a permanent, Gazetted Group “B” post at the Central Secretariat Library, Ministry of Culture.

This is a fantastic opportunity for library professionals with a background in the Kannada language to join a prestigious national institution in New Delhi.

📌 Vacancy Details
Post: Assistant Library & Information Officer (Language – Kannada).

Vacancy No: 26050401409.

Reservation: 01 Vacancy, exclusively reserved for Persons with Benchmark Disability (PwBD).

Pay Scale: Level-07 in the Pay Matrix as per 7th CPC.

Headquarters: New Delhi.

🎓 Essential Qualifications
Education:

Bachelor’s Degree with Kannada as a major subject from a recognized University.

Bachelor’s Degree in Library Science or Library and Information Science.

Experience: Two years of professional experience in a Library under Government, PSU, University, or recognized Research/Educational Institutions.

📝 Key Responsibilities
Supervising library affairs and coordinating book selection/purchase.

Organizing language seminars and book exhibitions.

Handling technical processing, preservation, and supply of information specifically for the Kannada language.

🔗 How to Apply
Interested candidates must apply online through the UPSC recruitment portal:
👉 https://upsconline.nic.in/ora/

Important Dates: Please refer to Advertisement No. 04/2026 on the official UPSC website for the closing date of applications.

For Detail Advertisement :https://upsc.gov.in/sites/default/files/AdvtNo-04-2026-Engl-080526.pdf

Wanted Cultured Ladies Only! by Neepa Majumdar is a fascinating deep dive into the evolution of female stardom in Indian cinema between the 1930s and 1950s. The book brilliantly explores the cultural tensions and shifting societal expectations that shaped the lives of early screen icons. Through meticulous research, Majumdar highlights how the "actress" transitioned from a figure of scandal to a celebrated professional. It’s an essential read for anyone interested in film history and the complex journey of women in the spotlight. of Culture, Government of IndiaCentral Secretariat Library, Ministry of Culture

Dr. Ajit Kumar, Director, Central Secretariat Library (CSL), inaugurated the newly established “Digital Reading Room” at the Central Secretariat Library (Text Book Branch), R.K. Puram, in the presence of library readers and CSL officials. During the event, the Director conducted an awareness session for users on the digital resources available at the library. Readers were also invited to share suggestions for the further improvement and enhancement of library services.

latest additions to our Reference Collection, bringing cutting-edge knowledge and interdisciplinary insights for our readers:

🔹 The Oxford Handbook of AI Governance
🔹 The Oxford Handbook of Behavioral Political Science
🔹 The Oxford Handbook of Digital Religion

These authoritative volumes offer valuable perspectives on emerging global trends in technology, politics, and society.

📖 Available now in the Reference Section for consultation.

@topfans Ministry of Culture, Government of India

Precious Pills by Audrey Prost offers a compelling look at how medicine shapes the lives of Tibetan refugees in India. The book thoughtfully explores the intersection of healthcare, culture, and social change. It highlights how medical practices are not just about healing the body, but also about identity and adaptation in exile. A deeply insightful read for anyone interested in medical anthropology and refugee studies. @topfansMinistry of Culture, Government of IndiaCentral Secretariat Library, Ministry of Culture