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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.
4 Obstacles to India Joining the UN Security Council
By Dhananjay Tripathi
Despite persistent lobbying, experts say it’s unlikely India will gain permanent membership of the U.N. Security Council anytime soon for several reasons.
Assembly Elections Begin in Indian-controlled Kashmir for First Time After Losing Autonomy
By Aijaz Hussain
People say they knew their votes won't solve the dispute over Kashmir, but provided a rare window to express their frustration with direct Indian control.
New Delhi’s Chief Minister Resigns After Being Released on Bail in a Bribery Case
By Ashok Sharma
Arvind Kejriwal, a fierce critic of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, left open the prospect of a return following Delhi’s next assembly election. For now, Kejriwal's ally Atishi holds the CM post.
India’s Strategic Stakes in Sri Lanka’s Presidential Election
By Rathindra Kuruwita
New Delhi is said to be backing Sajith Premadasa of the SJB, a party that is not only more pro-India but also committed to implementing the 13th Amendment.
100 Days of Modi 3.0: 5 Takeaways
By Arvind Mohan
The BJP is putting on a show of undimmed power even as the opposition displays a newfound confidence.
Islamist Parties Gaining Ground in Bangladesh Amid Post-Hasina Political Vacuum
By Saqlain Rizve
However, the Jamaat-e-Islami will have to overcome the stain of collaboration with Pakistan during the liberation war.
Adani Airport Controversy in Kenya Discredits India’s Reputation in Africa
By Rushali Saha
As India leans more toward the private sector to fulfill its overseas economic goals, it must take measures to ensure its credibility remains unaffected.
India’s Struggle to Find a Meaningful Role in Southeast Asia
By Sandeep Bhardwaj
To establish itself as a significant actor in the region, India needs to consciously seek common ground with Southeast Asian countries on fundamental questions of regional order.
Can Afghanistan’s Economy Survive Without Aid?
By Gul Maqsood Sabit
The Taliban government must acknowledge the potential loss of international aid and cash shipments next year, and focus on identifying alternative ways to support livelihoods.
Maldives President to Visit India Amid Danger of Debt Default
By Ahmed Naish
Malé is hoping for a bailout from New Delhi after credit rating agencies downgraded the country’s debt over a high risk that it could default on an Islamic bond.
Is Pakistan on the Brink of Another Political Showdown?
By Umair Jamal
At a recent rally – its first outside Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province since the general elections – the PTI adopted a confrontationist posture vis-à-vis the civilian government and the military leadership.
Sajith Premadasa Says the Rich Will Pay More If He Becomes Sri Lanka’s President
By Krishan Francis
He has said that if he wins the presidential election, his government will renegotiate the terms of the IMF loan so that the lives of the poor improve.