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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.
Why Pakistan’s Post-Flood Rebuilding Efforts Are Neglecting Balochistan
By Riazat Butt
Balochistan is the country’s poorest province and lacks political patrons.
Government-Opposition Confrontation Looms in Bangladesh
By Shafi Md Mostofa
The ruling Awami League is concerned over the massive rally that the Bangladesh Nationalist Party has planned at Dhaka on December 10.
China’s Blocking Spree in the 1267 Sanctions Committee
By Sudha Ramachandran
Beijing blocked five India-U.S. proposals to get Pakistan-based individuals sanctioned as terrorists over a span of four months.
The Future of Reservations in India
By Akhilesh Pillalamarri
Reservation of jobs and seats in educational institutions, which were based hitherto on caste identity, will now include economic criteria as well.
Could the Quad Help With India’s Space Station Dreams?
By Pranav R. Satyanath
As China finishes its own space station, what India should look to international partners to take its space program to the next level.
Young Candidates Rattle the Old Guard in Nepal’s Elections
By Santosh Sharma Poudel
With young, energetic and independent candidates throwing their hats in the ring, the old and established politicians are having to work harder to impress voters.
Ahead of Nepal’s Election, Many Decry the Lack of Choice
By Pratistha Rijal
The nomination of veteran candidates and their patrons comes at the cost of historically underrepresented and marginalized groups – including women.
Why Are Some Pakistanis up in Arms Against the Film ‘Joyland’?
By Mariyam Suleman Anees
The critically acclaimed film depicts transgender people as normal – something unacceptable in Pakistani society, which has traditionally treated transgender people as outcasts.
Can India Make the G20 Relevant Again?
By Mohamed Zeeshan
In a world that is now defined by geopolitical fissures, New Delhi will need to get the grouping to focus on its economic agenda.
Amnesty International Urges Sri Lanka to Drop Terror Charges Against 2 Protest Leaders
By Bharatha Mallawarachi
It also called for the repeal of the harsh, civil war-era Prevention of Terrorism Act, under which the two protest leaders are being held.
Can India Push for Multipolarity in a Divided G-20?
By Niranjan Marjani
As the next president of the G-20, India has its work cut out.
India’s PM Is Perpetually in Campaign Mode
By Kavita Chowdhury
Preoccupied with inaugurating infrastructure projects and addressing election rallies, Narendra Modi is neglecting governance and the problems confronting the people.