PMO Through the Ages: Himanshu Roy Explores the Nerve Centre of Indian Governance

A new book titled “PMO: Prime Minister’s Office Through the Years” by author and academician Himanshu Roy has been released, offering a detailed examination of the evolution and growing influence of India’s most powerful administrative institution—the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). Published by Rupa on April 15, 2025, the 192-page hardback delves into the operational, historical, and political dimensions of the PMO from India’s independence to the present day.

Why in News?

The book’s publication comes at a time when public interest in the centralization of power in the PMO has been rising. The author presents meticulous research and rarely known insights into the PMO’s growth over the decades, making it highly relevant for students, scholars, and observers of Indian politics and governance.

Key Highlights of the Book

• Title: PMO: Prime Minister’s Office Through the Years
• Author: Himanshu Roy
• Publisher: Rupa Publications
• Release Date: 15 April 2025
• Format: Hardback | Language: English | ISBN: 978-93-6156-920-3
• Length: 192 pages

Objectives and Scope

• To trace the institutional evolution of the PMO since India’s independence.
• To analyze the administrative structure, functioning, and influence of the PMO.
• To examine how individual prime ministers have shaped the PMO.
• To understand the interplay between politics and bureaucracy within this office.
• To contribute to academic and public understanding of India’s executive governance.

Background of the PMO

• The Prime Minister’s Secretariat evolved into the PMO over time, gaining significant administrative and policy-shaping influence.
• Initially conceived to assist the Prime Minister, the PMO now serves as the command centre for policy execution, security, and national strategies.
• Key PMs—Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Manmohan Singh, and Narendra Modi—have each redefined the PMO’s role in different ways.

Significance of the Book

• First of its kind to offer an integrated historical and political analysis of the PMO.
• Useful for aspirants of civil services, researchers, and general readers interested in governance and institutional studies.
• Sheds light on the relationship between the PMO, ministries, and bureaucracy.
• Highlights how the PMO became the epicentre of India’s executive decision-making.