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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.
In Kashmir, ‘Conscious Music’ Tests India’s Limits on Speech
By Sheikh Saaliq and Aijaz Hussain
The strife-torn region is seeing the rise of protest music in English-language hip-hop and rap, a new anthem of resistance.
Islamophobia Exists in India’s Private Sector
By Tarushi Aswani
A recent study reveals that there is significant discrimination against Muslim women across industries in entry-level jobs.
Afghan Clerics’ Assembly Urges Recognition of Taliban Government
By Rahim Faiez
The gathering of Taliban officials and supporters warned Afghans against "any kind of cooperation" with the ISKP, the Islamic State’s Afghan affiliate.
Amid Shortages and Turmoil, Sri Lanka Grinds to a Halt
By M.R. Narayan Swamy
Sri Lankan economists warn that the country could face a famine-like situation in a few months.
Modi’s UAE Stopover to Give a Fillip to the India-UAE Partnership
By Rajeswari Pillai Rajagopalan
India had several reasons to seek a quick stabilization and reaffirmation of its relationship with the UAE.
Can India and ASEAN Lean on Each Other Amid ‘Systemic’ China-US Competition?
By Shruti Pandalai
New Delhi, viewed by ASEAN as independent from both the U.S. and China, could help build this strategic trust.
Cups, Straws, Spoons: India Starts on Single-use Plastic Ban
By Aniruddha Ghosal
As a first step, India has identified 19 plastic items that aren't very useful but have a high potential to become litter, including plastic cups, straws, and ice cream sticks.
Bangladesh’s Padma Bridge Built Against All Odds
By Shafi Md Mostofa
Will the multi-purpose bridge, which is expected to boost the economy, yield electoral and political dividend for the ruling Awami League?
India Hindus Begin Pilgrimage in Kashmir Amid Heavy Security
By Aijaz Hussain
Officials say pilgrims face heightened threat of attacks from rebels fighting against Indian rule in Kashmir.
Rohingya Man Sentenced to Death in Bangladesh
By Samaya Anjum
The language of the ruling reveals racist treatment of the Rohingya community amid growing calls for their repatriation.
Sri Lanka Overestimates its Importance to China
By Rathindra Kuruwita
India is a massive market that has great potential. If letting go of Sri Lanka allows China to improve its relationship with India, it will.
Nepal Plans to Lower Age at Marriage
By Santosh Sharma Poudel
The minimum age was set higher to ensure that girls finish school, become independent and make informed choices. Will the proposed change reverse the gains achieved?