Nucleus and Nation: Scientists, International Networks, and Power in India.

In one of the most awaited books narrating the story of development of science and technology (S&T) in India in the post-independence era, Robert Anderson’s effort is commendable. This book maps not only the history of diverse efforts in the field of nuclear science in India, but also tells the social and political history of evolution of a strong scientific culture in the country. The author has presented a comprehensive sketch of networks of science and scientists in and outside India, and the way they manage the affairs of science. Rather than tracing a linear history of science and technology in India, the book is a thick and rich description of various events that happened at different points of time and their relation with other events in past and future. Anderson’s work also makes a relevant contribution by presenting a detailed narrative of history of S&T in India. An account of events which not only gives an insight into those times but is also relevant in today’s context in terms of understanding the country’s scientific culture.