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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.
India Lags Behind China in Social Wellbeing
By K.S. Venkatachalam
When it comes to disease, hunger, and social progress, India is far behind China.
Saying Farewell to Pakistan's Army Chief
By Daud Khattak
As General Raheel Sharif steps down, a look back at his mixed legacy.
Trump Can't End the War in Afghanistan Without Iran
By Adam Weinstein
If the next U.S. president wants stability in Afghanistan, he will have to come to terms with Iran.
Political Scandals Bring Pakistan and Turkey's Leaders Together
By Kunwar Khuldune Shahid
Nawaz Sharif and Recep Erdogan: Two paranoid leaders who need each other.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf's Dharna 2.0: Winners and Losers
By Muhammad Daim Fazil
PTI's much-anticipated sit-in of Islamabad fizzled out before it even began.
Suicide Blast at Shia Mosque in Kabul Kills Over 30
By Catherine Putz
The target and timing suggests the Islamic State's local affiliate is responsible, aiming to stoke sectarianism.
What Afghans Expect From Donald Trump
By Aziz Amin Ahmadzai and Ziauddin Wahaj
President-elect Donald J. Trump must clarify his position on Afghanistan as soon as possible.
Juggling Nationalism and Islam: Pakistan Takes on Militants in the FATA
By Umair Jamal
The Pakistani state must end its support and tolerance of jihadist militants in the country's tribal areas.
Fighting India's Pollution and Climate Change at the Same Time
By Zeenat Masoodi
Short-lived climate pollutants are responsible for both Delhi's choking smog and a significant part of global warming.
The Trouble With India’s Demonetization Gamble
By Padmapriya Govindarajan
The country is in uproar following the bold and risky move.
Modi's Trip to Tokyo: Takeaways for India-Japan Relations
By Prakash Panneerselvam
The India-Japan strategic partnership is enjoying a new synergy.
Can India Capitalize on Its Nuclear Deal With Japan?
By K.S. Venkatachalam
The nuclear deal could hold the key to overcoming India's chronic energy woes.