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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.
Jobless After Virus Lockdown, Indians Struggle to Eat
By Associated Press
Unable to work, India’s poor find themselves in dire straits.
Via Video Conference, Afghan Government and Taliban Discuss Prisoner Releases
By Catherine Putz
Despite political infighting in Kabul, the government and Taliban are discussing the first step in their peace process.
Amid Coronavirus Trouble, Pakistan Remains a House Divided
By Manik Aftab
The Imran Khan government is still refusing to seek cooperation from the opposition, even amid a health emergency.
Bangladesh’s Leader Urges All Citizens to Stay at Home to Slow Virus Spread
By Associated Press
Dhaka is wary of an outbreak, but hasn’t yet instituted formal lockdown procedures as seen in neighboring India.
India Plans to Augment Presence in Myanmar’s Troubled Rakhine State
By StoriesAsia
India is taking more direct stake in Myanmar’s Rakhine State.
Sociocultural and Religious Factors Complicate India’s COVID-19 Response
By Mufsin P. P. and Muhsin P. P.
Ensuring awareness and dispelling pseudoscientific practices is a necessity for India to confront the coronavirus.
Afghan Officials Say 25 Killed in Kabul Attack on Sikhs
By Associated Press
The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the attack.
India’s Prime Minister Decrees 21 Day Lockdown to Curb Virus
By Associated Press
India becomes the world’s most populous country to enter a total lockdown as COVID–19 spreads.
US Shames Afghan Leaders’ Obstinance as Pandemic Looms
By Associated Press
U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo threatened a $1 billion cut to Afghanistan funding if Afghanistan’s leaders can’t settle their feuds.
Why Did India Decide to Activate SAARC During the COVID-19 Pandemic?
By Brabim Karki
Was India’s decision to convene SAARC a geopolitical masterstroke?
India Halts Its Crucial Train Network to Try to Stop Virus
By Associated Press
The move came as decision-makers in New Delhi prepared for drastic action against the coronavirus pandemic.
Pilgrims First: How Islamists Are Undermining Pakistan’s Fight Against COVID-19
By Umair Jamal
Pakistan is poorly prepared for COVID–19.