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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.
Is There a Crisis in Pakistan?
By Hamza Mannan
Opposition leaders threaten the new government, while the military balances against Sharif.
Dukhtar: A Woman’s Story in Pakistan
By Sonya Rehman
An independent Pakistani filmmaker defies the odds to tackle an important human rights issue.
India and Pakistan Celebrate Independence
By Akhilesh Pillalamarri
67 years later, Pakistan continues to simmer with violence and uncertainty while India makes slow but steady progress.
Pakistan's Tehreek-e-Insaaf Marches on Islamabad
By Ankit Panda
Plus, Taliban-linked militants attack the Pakistani air force, and Modi speaks on Independence Day. Links.
South Asia: Echoes From Across a Century
By Ali Ahmed
India’s own “two front” doctrine could prove just as dangerous as Germany’s in WWI.
A New Political Realignment Takes Hold in Bihar
By Sanjay Kumar
Can alliances of caste interests challenge Modi’s ideology?
What is the BJP's Ladakh Strategy?
By Akhilesh Pillalamarri
The BJP has grand electoral plans for Kashmir, beginning with the Buddhist-majority Ladakh region.
How Should India Try its Juvenile Criminals?
By Sanjay Kumar
A debate has emerged on whether juvenile criminals should get a chance at reform.
China Wonders if Pakistan Is Responsible for Xinjiang Violence
By Akhilesh Pillalamarri
Continuing violence in Xinjiang could alienate China from Pakistan.
India: Diversifying Arms Purchases
By Siddharth Sivaraman and Rajeswari Pillai Rajagopalan
India should increase its military imports from the U.S., particularly drones.
During Kashmir Visit, Modi Slams Pakistan's 'Proxy War'
By Ankit Panda
Narendra Modi has visited Kashmir twice in two months and is the first Indian PM to visit the region since 1999.
Talking with the Winner of Master Chef Pakistan
By Sonya Rehman
A young housewife wins the Pakistan version of the show, which found an enthusiastic audience.