With a population second only to China's and the birthplace of Hinduism and Buddhism, it is hard to dispute India's central role in both the history of Asian culture and in the defining position it enjoys today. Although India has grabbed media attention for its armed conflict with Pakistan, it is a nation perhaps more notable for its internal diversity and challenges than for a single external conflict.

"India: A Global Studies Handbook" unites the geography, history, culture, notable people, and events into a wide-ranging yet concise work that brings this fascinating land to the page....