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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 Reiterates Mauritius’ Centrality to Its Indian Ocean Region Strategy

India Reiterates Mauritius’ Centrality to Its Indian Ocean Region Strategy

By Sudha Ramachandran
Prime Minister Modi announced India’s new MAHASAGAR policy from Mauritius, just as he had unveiled the SAGAR policy 10 years ago.

A Bleak Future for Rohingya Refugees 

A Bleak Future for Rohingya Refugees 

By Jannatul Naym Pieal
Despite the U.N. secretary-general’s visit to Bangladesh this week, the outlook for Rohingya refugees remains bleak.
Are India-UK Ties on Track to Achieve Vision 2030?

Are India-UK Ties on Track to Achieve Vision 2030?

By Rushali Saha
Recent developments on the defense and security front confirm the positive momentum in bilateral ties. But practical steps in difficult areas are needed.

Why India Should Not Delay the Delimitation Exercise

Why India Should Not Delay the Delimitation Exercise

By Akhilesh Pillalamarri
The southern states, with smaller populations, are opposed to the Modi government’s proposed delimitation of electoral boundaries.

Jaffar Express Hijacking Exposes Pakistan’s Failing Strategy in Balochistan

Jaffar Express Hijacking Exposes Pakistan’s Failing Strategy in Balochistan

By Mehrzaad Baluch
The hijacking of the Jaffar Express signals that the conflict in Balochistan is reaching a dangerous new phase.

What’s Driving Taiwan’s Mass Protests?
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What’s Driving Taiwan’s Mass Protests?

India’s Nascent Blue Economy: Structural Constraints and Climate Change Challenges

India’s Nascent Blue Economy: Structural Constraints and Climate Change Challenges

By Shanthie Mariet D’Souza
As the Indian government finalizes its blue economy policy, there is a clear case for open, inclusive, and transparent dialogue with all stakeholders.

Pakistan’s Counterterrorism Capacity Tested as Militants Hijack Train

Pakistan’s Counterterrorism Capacity Tested as Militants Hijack Train

By Umair Jamal
The hijack shows the capacity of groups like the BLA to not only carry out complex attacks but also engage in disinformation against the state.
Can IMEC Transition From Vision to Reality?

Can IMEC Transition From Vision to Reality?

By Moksh Suri and Shashank Tiwari
A year and a half after its launch, the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor remains at best a political statement of intent.

Regional Inequity in Menstrual Health Persists in India

Regional Inequity in Menstrual Health Persists in India

By Karan Babbar and Mahashweta Chakrabarty
Central, eastern, and northeastern India lag behind in access to the government’s menstrual health and hygiene programs. 

Pakistan and the US Join Hands in Counterterrorism Operation

Pakistan and the US Join Hands in Counterterrorism Operation

By Umair Jamal
Is the recent arrest of an ISKP commander a one-off instance, or will it lead to wider counterterrorism cooperation?

The Rise of the National Citizen Party: A New Dawn in Bangladeshi Politics?

The Rise of the National Citizen Party: A New Dawn in Bangladeshi Politics?

By Shafi Md Mostofa
A new political party formed by the students who led the July 2024 uprising represents a bold attempt to redefine Bangladeshi politics.
Sri Lankan Defense Budget Grows Despite Troop Reductions

Sri Lankan Defense Budget Grows Despite Troop Reductions

By Rathindra Kuruwita
Colombo’s selection of partners for weapons and training will be a significant strategic decision for the NPP government, which India views as pro-China.

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