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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.
Can a Global Pandemic Resuscitate SAARC?
By Bansari Kamdar
SAARC has been reactivated as South Asia braces for the worst of COVID–19.
Coronavirus, Geopolitics, and Nepal Between Great Powers
By StoriesAsia
The United States risks falling behind China as Nepal weighs its options in dealing with the pandemic.
Can Afghanistan Weather the Coronavirus Storm?
By Mohammad Azeem Zmarial Kakar
An already weak health infrastructure coupled with a lethargic response to the COVID-19 pandemic could be a recipe for disaster.
How Committed Is India to Mental Health?
By StoriesAsia
India spends the equivalent of less than a cent per mental health patient annually.
In India, Kashmiris Face Deepening Discrimination
By Danish Pandit
Already the subject of suspicion, following the abrogation of Article 370, Kashmiris in India have faced escalating prejudice.
Nepal’s Economy Is on Edge As Concerns of a COVID-19 Outbreak Loom Large
By Brabim Karki
Nepal fears the long-term economic consequences of COVID-19.
Lack of Clean Water for India’s Poor Spawns Virus Concerns
By Associated Press
The Indian government has promised clean water to many, but failed to deliver.
US Diplomats Urge Afghans to Set Political Squabbles Aside
By Catherine Putz
Top U.S. diplomats dealing with the Afghan conundrum have urged unity and progress; but the political impasse in Kabul persists.
India’s Assault on Muslims Is Rooted in Economic Incompetence
By Shruti Rajagopalan
Modi is solidifying his core Hindu base because, with his economic record, he cannot count on support from a broader constituency.
Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan Warns New Virus May Devastate Developing Nations
By Associated Press
"If it spreads, we will all have problems with our health facilities. We just don't have that capability. We just don't have the resources."
Can India Coordinate a SAARC Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic?
By Kamal Madishetty
A recent virtual meeting of SAARC leaders was a welcome revival of regional cooperation amid a health crisis.
What Will It Take For Pakistan to Impress the FATF?
By Umair Jamal
Why is the FATF not impressed by Pakistan’s massive counterterrorism gains?