Book excerpt: Natural Resource Management in South Asia deals with the problems in the management of natural resources in South Asia, and tries to work towards building a collective approach for addressing those problems. It raises reasonable concerns and queries the manner in which developmental polices are implemented, without undermining the importance of the economic development process. Examined in detail from a people-centric view, the topics in this volume include energy, land, biodiversity, water and the atmosphere. There is also a separate chapter on Afghanistan that focusses on the challenges faced by the country in this regard. The volume makes an effort to examine options to ensure food and water security in South Asia, and to suggest an alternative policy framework in ensuring a sustainable environment. It also suggests ways in which natural resources can be utilized for the maximum benefit of the people.