India Today by Rajani Palme Dutt, first published in 1940, is a comprehensive analysis of the political, economic, and social conditions of India under British rule, written from a Marxist perspective. Dutt (1896-1974) was a journalist and theorist. The book examines the historical impact of British imperialism on India, the rise of the Indian national movement, and the challenges facing the country in its struggle for independence.India Today provides a detailed account of British rule in India, highlighting its destructive impact on the Indian economy and society. Dutt argues that British imperialism led to the impoverishment of India, the destruction of its traditional industries, and the exploitation of its resources. The book also examines the growth of the Indian national movement, analyzing the various political forces and ideologies that shaped the struggle for independence. Dutt discusses the role of the Indian National Congress, the rise of socialist and communist movements, and the impact of Mahatma Gandhi's leadership. The book offers a critical assessment of the social and economic problems facing India, including poverty, inequality, caste discrimination, and communalism. Dutt advocates for a radical transformation of Indian society based on socialist principles. Later editions of the book, published in 1947 and 1949, and an abridged version in 1955, updated the analysis to reflect the changing political landscape in India.

Historical Analysis: It provides a detailed and comprehensive analysis of British rule in India, offering a critical perspective on its impact on Indian society and economy. Political Commentary: The book offers a sharp critique of the social, economic, and political conditions in India, advocating for a radical transformation of society based on socialist principles. Influence on the Left: India Today had a significant impact on the Indian left, shaping the ideology and strategy of communist and socialist movements in the country. Anti-Imperialist Perspective: The book provides a powerful anti-imperialist perspective on Indian history, challenging mainstream narratives and highlighting the role of imperialism in perpetuating poverty and inequality. Call to Action: It serves as a call to action for progressive forces in India to unite and struggle for a more just and equitable society.

Imperialism and Exploitation: A central theme of India Today is the destructive impact of British imperialism on India. Dutt argues that British rule led to the systematic exploitation of India's resources, the impoverishment of its people, and the destruction of its traditional industries. Nationalism and Independence: The book examines the rise of the Indian national movement and its struggle for independence. Dutt analyzes the various political forces and ideologies that shaped the movement, highlighting the role of key leaders and organizations. Social and Economic Inequality: India Today addresses the deep-rooted social and economic inequalities in Indian society. Dutt discusses the problems of poverty, unemployment, caste discrimination, and communalism, arguing that they are a legacy of British rule and the persistence of feudal social structures. Socialism as a Solution: Dutt advocates for a socialist transformation of Indian society as the solution to its problems. He calls for land reform, nationalization of key industries, and the abolition of caste discrimination to create a more just and equitable society. Anti-Imperialist Struggle: The book emphasizes the importance of the anti-imperialist struggle in achieving national liberation and social progress. Dutt argues that India's liberation is linked to the global struggle against imperialism and the building of a socialist world order.

Shaping Left-Wing Thought: India Today played a significant role in shaping left-wing thought in India, influencing generations of activists, intellectuals, and political leaders. Promoting Anti-Imperialism: The book helped to promote anti-imperialist sentiments in India and around the world, contributing to the global struggle against colonialism and neo-colonialism. Raising Awareness: It raised awareness about the social and economic problems facing India, prompting discussions and debates about the need for social and economic reforms. Influencing Historiography: Dutt's work is said to have heralded the egalitarian approach in Indian historiography.

Inspiring Activism: India Today inspired many activists to join the struggle for independence and social justice, contributing to the growth of socialist and communist movements in India. Informing Policy Debates: The book informed policy debates about economic development, land reform, and social welfare, influencing the direction of government policies in the post-independence era. Promoting Social Change: It contributed to the promotion of social change by advocating for the abolition of caste discrimination, the empowerment of women, and the protection of the rights of marginalized communities. Providing a Framework: India Today provided a framework for understanding India's past and present, helping to shape the country's intellectual and political landscape.

Despite its influence, India Today has also faced criticism. Some scholars have argued that Dutt's Marxist perspective led him to oversimplify the complexities of Indian society and to downplay the role of cultural and religious factors in shaping its history. Others have criticized his support for the Soviet Union and his adherence to communist ideology. However, India Today remains a significant work that offers valuable insights into the history of India and its struggle for independence and social justice.