Home to a fifth of humankind, and to almost half of the people living in poverty, South Asia is also a region of marked contrasts: from conflict-affected areas to vibrant democracies, from demographic bulges to aging societies, from energy crises to global companies. The South Asia Development Forum series explores the challenges faced by a region whose fate is critical to the success of global development in the early 21st century and that can also make a difference for global peace. The volumes in it organize in an accessible way findings from recent research and lessons of experience across a range of development topics. The series is intended to present new ideas and to stimulate debate among practitioners, researchers, and all those interested in public policies. In doing so, it exposes the options faced by decision-makers in the region and highlights the enormous potential of this fast-changing part of the world.