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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.
By-Election Results a Warning to the BJP
By Sanjay Kumar
India’s ruling BJP suffers a setback in local elections, calling into question the continuing appeal of Modi.
India and Vietnam Seek Stronger Ties
By Akhilesh Pillalamarri
India considers a Vietnamese offer to explore offshore drilling options despite Chinese protests.
Pakistan: A Revolution in the Arts?
By Sonya Rehman
Shoaib Iqbal is working with Pakistani schools to encourage the use of the arts in children’s education.
Karzai Will Leave Office on September 2
By Ankit Panda
Karzai declares that he'll leave office on September 2 to ramp up the pressure on Ghani and Abdullah.
Why India Needs an Opposition Leader
By Sanjay Kumar
The quality of Indian democracy will suffer should India lack an opposition leader.
The Abe-Modi Summit Should Be a Signal to China
By Kunal Singh
The two leaders should coordinate on China while increasing economic cooperation.
Raghuram Rajan: Why Does India 'Tolerate the Venal Politician?'
By Ankit Panda
Also, the Taliban ramps up its attacks, Sushma Swaraj talks Hindu identity and more. Friday links.
How Pakistan's Military Benefits from Civilian Unrest
By Ankit Panda
Pakistan is experiencing its greatest domestic crisis in years. Can democracy and civilian rule prevail?
It's Official: India's Congress Won't Lead the Opposition
By Ankit Panda
The Speaker of the Lok Sabha has decided that the Congress Party can't lead the opposition.
A Coup Is Brewing in Afghanistan
By Zachary Keck
All signs suggest that Hamid Karzai is considering a coup to stay in power in Afghanistan.
New Delhi Cancels India-Pakistan Talks
By Sanjay Kumar
Rapprochement between the two nations suffers as India cancels talks due to Pakistan meeting Kashmiri separatists.
India and China Develop Military-to-Military Ties Along Disputed Border
By Ankit Panda
The Indian Army invited Chinese troops to participate in Indian Independence Day celebrations in eastern Ladakh.