Comparing UG Textbook of Pediatrics (2nd Edition, 2026) and Ghai Essential Pediatrics (10th Edition, 2025)
When it comes to pediatric textbooks tailored for Indian medical undergraduates, two prominent titles often come up:
-
UG Textbook of Pediatrics (2nd Edition, 2026) by Piyush Gupta
-
Ghai Essential Pediatrics (10th Edition, 2025) by Vinod K. Paul and Arvind Bagga
Both books are aligned with the National Medical Commission's (NMC) competency-based curriculum, but they differ in their approach, content depth, and presentation style.
📘 UG Textbook of Pediatrics (2nd Edition, 2026) by Piyush Gupta
Key Features:
-
NMC Competency Alignment: The textbook is meticulously structured to cover all "Must Know" competencies as per the 2024 NMC Revised Competency List.
-
Student-Friendly Pedagogy: Incorporates case studies, "In a Nutshell" revision boxes, and real-life scenarios to facilitate experiential learning.
-
Visually Enriched Learning: Features full-color coding, diagrams, tables, clinical photographs, algorithms, and highlighted treatment sections for enhanced understanding.
-
Quick Revision Tools: Concise revision boxes at the end of each chapter allow for comprehensive revision within an hour.
-
Accessible Language: Written in a readable and precise style with minimal jargon, ensuring easy comprehension for undergraduates.
Ideal For: Undergraduate medical students seeking a concise, exam-oriented approach with a focus on core competencies and quick revision tools.
📘 Ghai Essential Pediatrics (10th Edition, 2025) by Vinod K. Paul and Arvind Bagga
Key Features:
-
Comprehensive Coverage: Offers an in-depth exploration of pediatric topics, including growth and development, nutrition, immunization, infectious diseases, neonatology, and genetics.
-
Competency-Based Curriculum Alignment: Structured to meet the requirements of the competency-based undergraduate curriculum prescribed by the National Medical Commission.
-
Clinical Focus: Emphasizes the recognition and management of common pediatric conditions, with liberal use of algorithms and tables to aid differential diagnosis.
-
Contributions from Experts: Written by over 40 highly qualified contributors, ensuring access to the latest information on diagnoses and therapies in pediatrics.
Ideal For: Medical students and practitioners seeking a comprehensive reference that covers a wide array of pediatric topics with detailed explanations and expert insights.
🔍 Comparative Overview
| Feature | UG Textbook of Pediatrics (Piyush Gupta) | Ghai Essential Pediatrics (Vinod K. Paul & Arvind Bagga) |
|---|---|---|
| Curriculum Alignment | NMC 2024 Competency List | NMC Competency-Based Curriculum |
| Pedagogical Approach | Case studies, revision boxes, visuals | In-depth content, expert contributions |
| Visual Aids | High-quality diagrams, photographs | Extensive use of tables, algorithms |
| Revision Tools | Quick revision boxes | Detailed summaries, clinical focus |
| Ideal For | Undergraduates, exam preparation | Undergraduates, practitioners seeking comprehensive detail |
🛒 Where to Buy
-
UG Textbook of Pediatrics (2nd Edition, 2026) by Piyush Gupta: Available for purchase on DNAMart.
-
Ghai Essential Pediatrics (10th Edition, 2025): Available for purchase on DNAMart.
🧠 Final Thoughts
Both textbooks are invaluable resources for medical students. The UG Textbook of Pediatrics by Piyush Gupta offers a concise, exam-focused approach with quick revision tools, making it ideal for undergraduates preparing for assessments. On the other hand, Ghai Essential Pediatrics provides comprehensive coverage with expert insights, suitable for those seeking an in-depth understanding of pediatric topics.
Your choice between the two should align with your learning preferences and objectives. For a focused, competency-based study, Piyush Gupta's textbook is a commendable choice. For a thorough exploration of pediatric medicine, Ghai's Essential Pediatrics stands out as a comprehensive reference.
