Development in Practice Readers draw on the contents of the acclaimed international journal Development in Practice. They offer thematic collections of papers by practitioners, policy makers, scholars, and activists. Each book includes an original introductory essay and an annotated resource list of recent publications, as well as relevant journals, organisations, and websites, constituting an essential guide to cutting-edge thinking and action on the chosen topic.

This article describes the activities of an indigenous NGO in Ahmedabad, India in attempting to prevent communal violence. It attempts to explain why the use of religious symbols seems to be particularly potent in causing slum riots. Finally, it discusses various lessons learned for international and indigenous NGOs which are attempting to counteract communal violence.