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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.
Modi Government’s Growing Use of the Iron Fist
By Kavita Chowdhury
The BJP is trying to intimidate critics by accusing them of tax evasion or charging them with sedition.
Sports Amid Chaos in Afghanistan
By Sajad Jatoi
During its first period of rule the Taliban banned sports, even cricket. Will they view sports differently this time around?
Iran and Pakistan: Bilateral Bonding Over the Taliban
By Umair Jamal
Mutual interests are prompting Iran and Pakistan to work together to prevent Afghanistan from descending into another civil war.
India’s Farmers Renew Protests, Challenging Modi Government
By Rishi Lekhi
The farmers have renewed their protests with calls for a nationwide strike on the anniversary of last year’s controversial legislation's passage.
No One to Speak for Afghanistan at UN General Debate
By Catherine Putz
Who sits at the high table of international politics when the political arena back home is embroiled in unrest or irregular transition?
Border Roads Bring India and Nepal Closer
By Arun Budhathoki, Nitesh R Pradhan , and Sravan Chettri
The 35-km-long Uttarey-Chiwanbhangjyang road will link western Sikkim in India not just to areas on the Nepali side of the border but to western Nepal.
Will Bangladesh Recognize the Taliban Regime?
By Asif Muztaba Hassan
Dhaka’s criteria for according diplomatic recognition, which drew on its historical experiences, seem poised now to expand.
Has China Encroached into Nepali Territory in Humla District?
By Santosh Sharma Poudel
Prime Minister Deuba has ordered a "study" into the long-standing allegations.
Does Sri Lanka Really Have a Food Crisis?
By Kalani Kumarasinghe
The problem isn’t the availability of food items or essential goods, but skyrocketing prices of essentials due to stockpiling.
The Taliban’s False Amnesty
By Mehdi J. Hakimi
When they first captured Kabul back in 1996, the Taliban promised amnesty. It wasn’t a genuine offer then, and it isn’t now either.
Top Pakistan Diplomat Details Taliban Plan
By Edith M. Lederer
"Yes, there are no women yet," Pakistani Foreign Minister Qureshi said of the Taliban government. "But let us let the situation evolve."
Blame Game Won’t Help Pakistan’s Cricketing Cause
By Umair Jamal
No Pakistani official has admitted to concerns emerging from the deteriorating security situation in Pakistan and the region.