This course examines the governance of commons as complex social – ecological systems shaped by institutions, power relations, and ecological dynamics. Building on advanced theories of collective action, institutional analysis, and political ecology, the course critically explores how shared resources — such as land, water, forests, space and knowledge — are governed across diverse contexts, with particular attention to India’s social and ecological realities. Students engage with frameworks such as Institutional Analysis and Development and Social – Ecological Systems and Polycentric Governance to analyse real-world cases, assess equity and sustainability outcomes, and design context-sensitive governance interventions. Through seminar-based discussions, simulations, and applied research, the course prepares students to critically evaluate and contribute to debates on resource access, institutional design, and sustainability in an interconnected world.