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The Pulse

South Asia is a story of promise and peril where Asia’s conflicting forces of modernity and reaction meet head on. Home to a multitude of different cultures, ethnicities, and religions, The Diplomat's regional correspondents and experts will provide the insight you need to navigate one of the world's most consequential regions.

India’s Election Will Stretch Over 44 Days. Why Does It Take So Long?

India’s Election Will Stretch Over 44 Days. Why Does It Take So Long?

By Krutika Pathi
India’s 28 states and eight federal territories will vote at different times, with the first phase held on April 19 and the last on June 1.

India Suffering a Quiet Decline in Foreign Direct Investment

India Suffering a Quiet Decline in Foreign Direct Investment

By Mohamed Zeeshan
Since 2016, net FDI inflows have fallen from about 1.7 percent of GDP to a little over 0.5 percent, according to the RBI.
Pakistani Airstrikes Target Suspected Pakistani Taliban Hideouts in Afghanistan

Pakistani Airstrikes Target Suspected Pakistani Taliban Hideouts in Afghanistan

By Munir Ahmed and Rahim Faiez
A few hours later, the Afghan Taliban retaliated by targeting Pakistani military posts near the border.

Nepalis Stuck in the Russian Army: A Familiar Tale for Nepal

Nepalis Stuck in the Russian Army: A Familiar Tale for Nepal

By Rishi Gupta
Once again, Kathmandu finds itself ill-equipped to defend the interests of its citizens abroad.

Where Do Taliban-Pakistan Relations Stand Now?

Where Do Taliban-Pakistan Relations Stand Now?

By Shanthie Mariet D’Souza
One reason driving Islamabad’s renewed efforts in Afghanistan may be India’s continuing moves to expand its dealings with the Taliban.

How Should Bangladesh Handle Myanmar’s Fleeing Soldiers?

How Should Bangladesh Handle Myanmar’s Fleeing Soldiers?

By Shahariar Sadat and Arafat Reza
More and more Myanmar troops are seeking refuge in Bangladesh. Dhaka can use this situation to its advantage.

An ‘India Out’ Campaign Gathers Pace in Bangladeshi Social Media

An ‘India Out’ Campaign Gathers Pace in Bangladeshi Social Media

By Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb
Activists have called for a boycott of Indian products in protest against India’s support of the Awami League’s manipulation of elections in Bangladesh.
PM Modi Begins Implementing Controversial Citizenship Law Ahead of Elections

PM Modi Begins Implementing Controversial Citizenship Law Ahead of Elections

By Kavita Chowdhury
It is aimed at the communal polarization of India to solidify Hindu votes, and deflect attention away from disclosures of the government’s controversial party funding scheme.

Catalyzing Renewable Energy: Path to Afghanistan’s Economic Revival

Catalyzing Renewable Energy: Path to Afghanistan’s Economic Revival

By Hamayun Khan
Developing water, solar and wind power could reduce Afghanistan’s import of electricity from abroad and help it emerge a regional renewable energy hub.

From India to China, Nepal’s Maoist Prime Minister Displays His Hindu Diplomacy 

From India to China, Nepal’s Maoist Prime Minister Displays His Hindu Diplomacy 

By Birat Anupam
While it has foreign policy overtones, PM Dahal's embrace of Hindu diplomacy is more motivated by domestic politics.

Nepal’s Prime Minister Dahal Changes Partners Mid-stream

Nepal’s Prime Minister Dahal Changes Partners Mid-stream

By Santosh Sharma Poudel
This is the second time that he has joined hands with CPN-UML chief Oli since becoming prime minister in December 2022.
Manipur in India’s Northeast Remains in the Grip of Uncertainty and Fear

Manipur in India’s Northeast Remains in the Grip of Uncertainty and Fear

By Rajeev Bhattacharyya
Rumors are circulating in Imphal that the government is considering ceasefire agreements with Indian separatist groups sheltering in Myanmar.

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