A short, subject-wise reading list for GATE Economics (XH-C1) — standard references, not an exhaustive library. Reading builds the concepts; the real past papers below are what turn them into exam-ready speed and accuracy under negative marking.
Mathematics
Fundamental Methods of Mathematical Economics
Alpha C. Chiang & Kevin Wainwright
The standard reference for the calculus, optimisation and linear algebra tested across every one of these exams.
Macroeconomics
Macroeconomics
Olivier Blanchard
Clear, exam-relevant coverage of IS-LM, AD-AS and open-economy macro.
Statistics
Probability and Statistics for Economists
Bruce E. Hansen
A widely used, freely available graduate-level text covering exactly the probability and inference syllabus these exams share.
Development Economics
Economic Development
Michael P. Todaro & Stephen C. Smith
The standard reference for growth models, development theory and human development indices.
Microeconomics
Advanced Microeconomic Theory
Geoffrey A. Jehle & Philip J. Reny
Matches GATE XH-C1's depth on general equilibrium, welfare and choice under uncertainty.
Econometrics
Basic Econometrics
Damodar N. Gujarati
Standard reference for the regression and CLRM topics on the syllabus.