This paper provides an overview of groundwater management modelling, with particular reference to the situations prevalent in the developing countries of Asia. A state‐of‐the‐art review of mathematical models, developed primarily in the advanced countries is first made. Different approaches and techniques of systems analysis are considered. Due to their increasing importance, water quality aspects are included and emphasized. Key issues and problems including important research needs for the future are highlighted. Some recommendations are made on appropriate modelling strategies for groundwater management in Asian developing countries.