Independence Day 2025 Specials: Books To Read On R&AW, Missions, Agents, And More

Celebrate the prestige of the 79th Independence Day of India by reading books about the unsung heroes who protect the country, staying in the shadows.
Books On Missions And Agents Of R&AW

15th August this year will be marked as the 79th year anniversary of India’s Independence from a long-standing colonial period of more than 800 years. The Independence 2025 theme is expected to be around ‘Operation Sindoor’ that was launched on May 7, 2025, by the Indian Armed Forces. Speaking of the defence forces, there is also an organisation that operates in shadows to protect the country, and it is called R&AW (Research and Analysis Wing). Founded under the leadership of legendary IPS officer R.N Kao in 1968, it has been continuously involved in protecting India from external threats. This article lists down some of the best books on RAW that deal with the life of spies, agents, secret missions, and multiple covert operations conducted by them in order to protect the sovereignty and integrity of the country. Check out these books to know more about the unsung heroes of the country, many of whom died protecting the nation without even getting the privilege of taking their last breath on their motherland.

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  • R.N. Kao: A Complete Biography

    Explore the life and legacy of Rameshwar Nath Kao, the visionary IPS officer who established India's premier external intelligence agency, the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW), in 1968. This account is a full-bodied biography of Kao and his vital role in developing India's intelligence machinery; his methods, the covert operations he led, and his abiding dedication to India's national security. Read the unheard story of the man who constructed R&AW as a capable units defending India's interests in the global arena. A page-turner for all those who are interested in the history of intelligence in India, and the unsung heroes of its most important missions.

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  • Raw Secret Agents: Thrilling Stories of Intelligence Operations By Indian Spies

    Dive into the hidden world of Indian intelligence with the exciting "RAW Secret Agents: Thrilling Stories of Intelligence Operations By Indian Spies." Raw Secret Agents contains plenty of action, and also document the courageous missions, complex strategies and ultimate sacrifice undertaken by the best of the best of raw spies. You will be astonished with the detail that the journalists brought forward with battles against seasoned infiltrators, the rescue of hostages, and counter-terrorism operations conducted in foreign countries. If espionage and true life thrillers are your thing, then you must read Raw Secret Agents to access insights and details on RAW's most complex agents.

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  • Raw : A History Of India's Covert Operations

    "RAW: A History of India's Covert Operations" gives a unique sneak peek of the unknown world of India's Research and Analysis Wing detailing significant missions from the beginning of the agency through the complicated operations that changed geopolitical landscapes. Inside, you will learn about R&AW agents' strategies, challenges, and accomplishments; you will discover high-stakes decisions and gains. Enjoy this journey into the lives of unsung heroes and heroines who made sacrifice for national security. It is an essential work for readers fascinated with intelligence, espionage and the untold stories and history of India's intelligence.


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  • Mission RAW: IndiaS Secret Services Unraveled

    "Mission RAW: Unravelling India's Secret Services" gives us a unique and analytical view of the mysterious Research and Analysis Wing of India. In this riveting book, we explore the high stakes operational planning, risk-taking events and sacrifices made by the elite agents who comprise the intelligence agency. From espionage, counter espionage, and counter-terrorism, read about some of India's critical and under-reported national security success stories. In short, this is an excellent book for anyone interested in the international intelligence business and the people who fly beneath the radar to protect a nation.

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  • Simon & Schuster India R.A.W. Hitman

    Simon & Schuster India has released "RAW: Hitman" and you're put in the thick of the action of India's intelligence agency. It takes readers through the not-so-casual lives of R&AW agents, detailing the harrowing, thrill-seeking, and often life-threatening missions they face. You get a taste of how a high-stakes spying operation unfolds, you explore the challenges of counter-terrorism, and you learn of the sacrifices this cadre of heroes performs on behalf of the nation. The detail illustrates what as yet remains some bold and daring operations and strikes at the heart of our national security. Highly recommended read for anyone who finds the intriguing world of international espionage fascinating and wants to understand the bravery the denizens of the dark perform on behalf of their nation. 

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Read More: Independence Day Reading List: Best Books To Read On Dr. Ambedkar

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Faq's

  • Is 2025 the 78th or 79th Independence Day?
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    2025 marks the 79th Independence Day. The first Independence Day was in 1947, and the count begins from that year. This is the 79th time India will observe the day.
  • What are some traditional ways of Independence Day celebration India?
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    The Prime Minister hoists the national flag at the Red Fort in Delhi and addresses the nation. Across the country, people celebrate with flag-hoisting ceremonies, parades, and cultural programs.
  • What will be the special honouring during the Independence Day 2025?
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    As per reports, during the 79th Independence day celebration of India, PM Narendra Modi will be honouring 50 sanitation workers for their unwavering commitment towards maintaining the cleanliness.