This contemporary, reader-friendly textbook of pediatrics, written within the framework of the new CBME curriculum, is designed to prepare students for their role as primary care providers for children in the community. Essentials of Pediatrics will help students face the nation-wide National Exit Test (NExT), which has replaced the final-year MBBS exam, with confidence. This book covers the required competencies systematically, embellished with illustrative case scenarios and self-evaluation questions at the end. Excess information has been consciously avoided. Since the new curriculum comes with fewer lecture hours, this textbook will help faculty cover the topics in the given time without missing out on essential information. In addition, focused history-taking and clinical examination in each system have been included to guide students for their practical exams. Essentials of Pediatrics will be an invaluable text for students aspiring to master the competencies in pediatrics.