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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 Visits Kashmir for the First Time Since Revoking Region’s Autonomy
By Associated Press
In his speech in Srinagar, the Indian prime minister made no mention of plans to hold elections.
The India Factor in Sri Lanka’s Renewable Energy Sector
By Rathindra Kuruwita
A recent India-Sri Lanka agreement for constructing renewable energy systems in three islands off the Jaffna coast reaffirms India’s domination of the sector.
How Many Times Must Gwadar Suffer Flooding for Authorities to Wake Up?
By Mariyam Suleman Anees
Its port and connectivity infrastructure are impressive. However, drainage systems are unable to withstand even a few days of heavy rain.
Sexual Violence Grows in 10 Years of Modi Rule in India
By Kavita Chowdhury
As disturbing as the assaults is the response of ministers and officials who accuse those that speak out against rape culture of defaming India.
The Return of the Left Alliance in Nepal Changes Regional Power Dynamics
By Rishi Gupta
With the pro-India Nepali Congress out of the ruling coalition, and the China-friendly CPN-UML back in, Nepal's diplomacy looks set to change.
Saudi Arabia Lauds Pakistani Cop Who Stood Up to Islamist Radicals
By Umair Jamal
It signals a shift in Riyadh’s position on Pakistani religious radicals, who traditionally seek moral guidance and support from the Kingdom.
Gang Rape of a Tourist in India Highlights Culture of Downplaying Sexual Violence
By Sheikh Saaliq
Police recorded 31,516 rape cases in 2022, a 20 percent increase from 2021, according to the National Crime Records Bureau.
Rain Causes Havoc in Balochistan’s Coastal Region
By Zeeshan Nasir
Gwadar, the centerpiece of CPEC, is among the worst-affected areas, exacerbating local complaints of official neglect.
India’s Firm Foreign Policy or Indian Firms’ Foreign Policy?
By Krzysztof Iwanek
When it comes to the balance of power between the government and large firms, India is going the U.S. way.
Shehbaz Sharif Returns as Pakistan’s New Premier
By Munir Ahmed
Sharif secured 201 votes, defeating Omar Ayub, who was backed by Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf
5 Years After Pulwama Attacks and Balakot Strikes
By Christopher Clary
Will the memory of Balakot as stressed by Indian officials make escalation more appealing and de-escalation harder for Indian leaders when confronting the next crisis?
As Death Toll Climbs, Bangladeshi Leader Says Shopping Mall That Burned Had No Emergency Exits
By Associated Press
Experts say lax monitoring and violation of building codes by construction companies and owners have proved deadly in Bangladesh.