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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.
Maldivian President Mohammad Muizzu Consolidates Control
By Umang Bhansali
With his People’s National Congress gaining a supermajority in parliament, the pro-China tilt in Muizzu's foreign policy will become more pronounced.
Inter-group Militant Cooperation and Rivalries in Pakistan’s Newly Merged Districts
By Abdul Basit
ISKP has survived the hostile environment of the NMDs through alliances with like-minded groups like Lashkar-e-Jhangvi and Jandullah.
Will the Uma Oya Multipurpose Project Impress Sri Lankan Voters?
By Rathindra Kuruwita
Many are concerned about the negative environmental and social impact of the project, and see the publicity surrounding the inauguration as an election gimmick.
Strategic Policy Needed for Pakistan’s SMEs
By Rameen Shahid
Implementing a proactive strategic policy for Pakistani SMEs is imperative, as the performance of domestic industries is the biggest advertisement for outsiders to follow suit and invest in the country.
Voters Back Maldives Change in Foreign Policy
By Athaulla A Rasheed
A parliamentary supermajority is a chance for Mohammad Muizzu’s government to overhaul foreign policy, but Maldives thrives by embracing all willing partners.
Iran and Pakistan’s Peace Pipeline Conundrum
By Namita Barthwal
Pakistan faces a difficult decision: penalties for failing to construct a gas pipeline to Iran, or U.S. sanctions for building it.
Pakistani Business Leaders Pitch for Trade Talks With India
By Umair Jamal
But the country’s aggressive posturing against India will make it difficult for the government to take the process forward.
A Way Forward in the India-US Critical Minerals Defense Partnership
By Akshat Singh
They can de-risk supply chains by creating a multilateral knowledge bank, promoting technical cooperation and improving financing mechanisms.
India Votes in Second Phase of National Elections
By Ashok Sharma
Around 160 million people in 88 constituencies across 13 states are eligible to vote in this phase of the election.
Extreme Heatwaves in Bangladesh: The Environmental Governance Perspectives
By Sharif Mustajib
Extreme weather reflects the country’s environmental vulnerability and weak environmental governance.
Delhi’s Dilemma: A Growing Economy and Growing Unemployment
By Rajat Kathuria
India is on its way to becoming the third-largest economy in the world, yet unemployment among young people with graduate degrees is at an all-time high.
Pakistan, Iran to Enhance Efforts at a ‘United Front’ Against Afghanistan-based Militants
By Munir Ahmed
The two countries allege that the TTP and Islamic State are operating from bases in Afghanistan.