"The Social and Economic Profile of India" contains maps and written text illustrating India's current state of affairs on a wide range of demographic, social and economic variables as well as information based on the 2001 census, various NASSO (National Sample Survey Organization) surveys as well as other published data from public sources. It also presents composite ratings of states and districts. Each map is accompanied by a brief commentary highlighting the key features. Map commentaries also refer to national and state values and averages to allow a more thorough appreciation of such characteristics. Readers interested in more information have been referred to other publications and sources. Consequently this is a desk guide as well as a 'first resort' reference on India.