Book Name: Uncoded – A Technological History of Independent India
Author: Meghaa Gupta
Publisher: Penguin
Illustrations: Sayan Mukherjee
Length: 256 pages
Type: Paperback
Recommended Age: 11 years+
Rating : *****
Have you ever wondered how a potato chip comes to existence or about the working and making of the EVMs or did you know that ISRO was earlier known as INOCOSPAR? Uncoded traces India’s transformation from a newly independent nation in 1947—struggling with poverty, low literacy, and scarce resources—to striving and becoming the “Aatma Nirbhar Bharat” it is today.
Here is a review by my 12 year old daughter Ayesha.
What is the Book About ?
Uncoded takes us on a journey through India’s technological progress from 1947 to today. It shows how science and innovation helped shape modern India. The book covers many fields—space, farming, medicine, transport, and digital tools—and explains how Indian scientists, engineers, and leaders worked hard to solve problems and build a better future. Uncoded is a fun and informative book that tells the story of how technology grew in India after independence. It’s perfect for young readers and curious minds who want to know how India became a tech-savvy nation.
Why is it Special ?
- Simple Language: Meghaa Gupta’s strength lies in making complex developments digestible, weaving together the lives of scientists, policymakers, and entrepreneurs who shaped the country’s tech landscape. The book uses easy words and short sentences, so even middle school students can understand it.
- Real Stories: It shares true stories of Indian inventors and changemakers, like how ISRO launched satellites or how digital payments became popular.
- Fun Format: It includes timelines, pictures, and activities that make learning exciting.
- STEM + Social Studies: It connects science with society, showing how technology affects our daily lives.
Key Highlights
- Green Revolution: How technology helped farmers grow more food
- White Revolution: How India became a top milk producer
- Digital India: How mobile phones and the internet changed communication
- Space Missions: From Aryabhata to Chandrayaan, India’s space journey explained in a fun way
- Women in Tech: The book also highlights women scientists and their contributions
Final Thoughts
Uncoded is my new favourite book —reading it felt like watching India’s tech journey in some sort of a movie hall. Meghaa Gupta’s storytelling mesmerised me. The way she weaved together personal struggles, national ambition, and scientific breakthroughs is very inspiring. I loved how each chapter revealed not just facts, but the heart and effort behind India’s rise in innovation. It made me more curious and deeply moved me—and I know that I’ll keep returning to its pages whenever I need a reminder of what vision and determination can achieve.
If you want to understand India’s tech history in a simple and inspiring way, Uncoded is a great choice. It’s not just a history book—it’s a celebration of Indian creativity and problem-solving. Whether you’re a student, teacher, or just curious, this book will make you proud of India’s journey from “Jugaad to Genius”.
To India and its People…
The Development of a nation is intimately linked with the understanding and application of science and technology by its people . – Vikram Ambala Sarabhai
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CLICK & BUY NOW!Disclaimer: Ayesha is part of the #kbcReviewerSquad and received this book as a review copy from the publisher via kbc.
