Synopsis India is a large country with different facets.  It is known for its diversities, physical and cultural.  It has always been a challenge to depict a broad picture of this nation-state.  Volumes have been written, huge data has been collected and surveys of all kinds have been carried out.  Even such valuable efforts have been less effective in bringing out a comprehensive picture of the country.  Our earlier attempts of preparing the National Atlas of India and other atlases were with an intention to precisely map the patterns, contours and varieties.  Such attempts have definitely met a certain type of users.

Now the printed maps and atlases have to compete with electronic media, television and other forms of colourful products.  Hence our publications have to be handy, attractive and quick to perceive.  With above objectives, this handy publication has been brought out.  It covers a large variety of themes, extending from the physical realities to social and cultural patterns of the country.  About hundred themes covered here are only indicative.   Nevertheless, the spatial comparison of the themes will be interesting.