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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.
Does the Sri Lankan Election Herald a Viable Indo-Pacific?
By William Bullock Jenkins
“Sri Lanka’s democratic transition and the pragmatic decision to not exclude China bode well for a positive Indo-Pacific pluralism.”
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Prepares for an Indian Ocean Tour
By Ankit Panda
Modi will visit Mauritius, Sri Lanka, and the Seychelles. A planned visit to the Maldives has been cancelled.
‘India’s Daughter’ Stirs Controversy
By Sanjay Kumar
India has opted to ban a BBC produced documentary that covers a 2012 gang rape in Delhi. The film has caused a furor among conservatives and women’s rights advocates.
How to Approach Religion in the 21st Century: Lessons from India’s Traditions
By Akhilesh Pillalamarri
India's religious traditions bear incredible relevance for contemporary approaches to religion and religious diversity.
Afghans Yearn for New Icons
By Sanjay Kumar
Afghanistan's youth turn to the national cricket team for a new source of inspiration.
India's 2015 Budget: Neither 'Big Bang' Nor Bust
By Ankit Panda
While falling short of expectations, India's 2015 budget charts a gradualist path to reform.
Pakistan's Terrorism Accusations Against India: Bizarre But Calculated
By Rohan Joshi
Amid a declining domestic situation, senior Pakistani officials see it fit to blame India -- an unproductive endeavor.
Blasphemy and the Case of Mumtaz Qadri
By Kunwar Khuldune Shahid
Can Pakistan’s judiciary take a stand against religious extremism?
Blogger Avijit Roy’s Killing Shows Bangladesh’s Culture of Violence
By Vishal Arora
More than 100 have been killed in political violence in recent weeks.
Afghanistan's Women Strive for Political Influence
By Jack Detsch
All three of President’s Ashraf Ghani’s female cabinet picks have been rejected by parliament.
Understanding Pakistan’s Civil-Military Divide
By Uzair Kayani and Sikander Shah
To understand Operation Zarb-e-Azb, remember Pakistan's long history of competition between various state institutions.
The Inaccuracies of South Asian Maps
By Akhilesh Pillalamarri
South Asia lacks standardized and accurate maps.