Blog
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.
Indian Tea Plantation Workers Look to the World Bank to Prevent a Coronavirus Disaster
By Anirudha Nagar
Thousands of workers vulnerable to COVID-19 on Indian tea plantations expect urgent investment from a new World Bank funding package.
Bangladesh Arrests Fugitive Killer of Independence Leader
By Associated Press
Abdul Majed, a former military captain, was arrested in Dhaka. It’s not clear when or how he returned to Bangladesh.
Nepal Extends Ongoing Lockdown to Combat COVID–19
By Brabim Karki
Nepal’s poor stand to be hard hit by the freeze on economic activity.
Can India Organize Post-COVID–19 Global Action?
By Mohamed Zeeshan
Does India have a post-pandemic template for global leadership in the 21st century?
From Iran’s Hot Zone, Afghans Flee Home, Spreading Virus
By Associated Press
"This virus is like the wind," said one returnee. "You do not know where it comes from and how you get infected."
Sikkim Glaciers Melting Faster Than Other Himalayan Regions
By StoriesAsia
Glaciers in the small Indian state are experiencing a massive threat.
How a Tiny South Indian State Is Using Transmedia Storytelling to Fight COVID-19
By Mufsin Puthan Purayil and Sayani Malakar
Creating relevant content, available through multiple platforms, is helping Kerala combat the coronavirus.
Mosques Stay Open in Pakistan Even as Virus Death Toll Rises
By Associated Press
Mosques remain open in Pakistan, even as they have been shut down across much of the Middle East and elsewhere.
Rohingya Refugees in India Fear Dying of Hunger Before Being Killed By Coronavirus
By Tasnim Nazeer
“Our people will die of hunger before they are killed by the coronavirus if we don’t get enough help."
Virus Lockdown Changes How Hindus Celebrate Holy Period
By Associated Press
Devout Hindus are adapting to religious practice under lockdown.
Pakistan Court Overturns Conviction in Death of Daniel Pearl
By Associated Press
The court instead found Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh guilty of the lesser charge of kidnapping.
How Is COVID-19 Reshaping China-India Relations?
By Rajeswari Pillai Rajagopalan
The global pandemic has hit amid the 70th anniversary mark for relations and affected perceptions and realities in ties.