Central Asia: Economy, Environment and Culture

Book Details:

• Author: Mohammad Shafi

• Publisher: Rawat Publications

• Language: English

• ISBN: 8131600602

• Pages: 224

• Cover: Hardcover

• Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.6 x 0.8 inches

About the Book:

Central Asia stands as a vital geographical and political bridge between the East and West. Comprising five states—Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan—it is surrounded by powerful nations like China, Russia, Iran, Afghanistan, Turkey, and European countries. Despite the presence of ethnic minorities in each state, the region's policy is primarily based on secularism.

The economy, which was once dominated by nomadic herding, is rapidly evolving. Although more than half of Central Asia’s landscape is desert, extensive irrigation has transformed much of the land into fertile fields. However, this has come with significant environmental costs, including the shrinking of the Aral Sea. The future of the region lies in sustainable development, addressing these environmental challenges while promoting economic growth.

This introductory text on Central Asia delves into a wide range of political, historical, economic, and cultural issues affecting the region. With a comprehensive analysis of the modern states of Central Asia, the book provides critical insights into the geopolitics of the area. It serves as an invaluable resource for students and teachers of geography, history, economics, and politics, offering both informative and in-depth research on this crucial region.