South Asia is facing water insecurity due to climate change induced uncertainties, weak governance, infrastructural gaps and rapid urbanization. This region is also a home for more than 1.891 billion people making it the most densely populated geographical region in the world. Further, this region is inhabited by the highest number of people living under absolute poverty. These dynamics has led to a growing problem of water insecurity in the South Asian region. The current COVID-19 pandemic has further deteriorated the situation and this demands credible knowledge to inform policy making.
In this context, Southasia Institute of Advanced Studies (SIAS) with technical support from the Institute for Study and Development Worldwide (IFSD) introduces a new policy relevant knowledge outlet, Policy Perspective – Water and Development in South Asia. This outlet intends to foster science informed policy making in the region so as to ensure water security and promote sustainable and equitable water management. This outlet is being launched in an event hosted by SIAS.
