All Asia: South & Central
- First LookCitizens in India's capital protest smog, government inaction
Air pollution has become so toxic in New Delhi it triggered a public health emergency this week, closing schools and limiting the number of cars on the street.
- As Kashmir’s blackout continues, they wait for word of their son
Thousands have been arrested in Kashmir since August, when the Indian government stripped the partially autonomous region of its special status.
- First LookNarendra Modi's party falls short in key state elections
With the opposition polling higher than expected, it is unlikely the Hindu nationalists will reach their goal of an assembly majority.
- A city in India almost ran dry. What will prevent a repeat?
After water-supply scares this summer, Chennai is welcoming fall rains. But residents worry better planning is needed to avoid long-term water issues.
- Less Bollywood, more us: How India's weddings are changing
Indian weddings are still sacrosanct. But more couples are changing up traditions, reflecting evolving views on money, gender, and happiness.
- First LookUN mission finds evidence of 'genocidal acts' in Myanmar
The group says it has a list of more than 100 suspected actors in the war crimes that forced 740,000 Rohingya to flee to Bangladesh in 2017.
- First LookBeijing pushes TV, media in Pakistan alongside Belt and Road
China plans to fund roads and other infrastructure through Pakistan, but its soft power also increasingly reaches west.
- Afghan palace restoration: From icon of war to symbol of peace? (video)
The Darulaman Palace, or “Abode of Peace,” has been destroyed by decades of war. Today it’s being restored, as Afghans look for a brighter future.
- First LookIndia, Nepal open South Asia's first cross-border oil pipeline
The 43-mile pipeline will likely strengthen ties between the two countries, free up border traffic, and bring fuel at affordable costs to Nepal.
- Difference MakerThe woman who’s appeared for 700-plus exams – to help disabled students
Pushpa Nagaraj has volunteered as a scribe for hundreds of students with visual impairments in India, helping them navigate an exam-based system.
- Cover StoryIndia rising: Can a giant democracy become an economic colossus?
India is poised to become the world’s next economic colossus. But the culturally diverse country faces several challenges that could stifle its rise.
- First LookIndia citizenship registry could leave millions stateless
India's government will soon release a citizenship list in the state of Assam it hopes will stop unchecked immigration but could exclude millions.
- Inside Kashmir’s lockdown: Barbed wire and a sense of loss
India’s decision to revoke Kashmir’s special status and statehood has prompted a week of curfews, barbed wire, and confusion.
- More like Modi: Hindu nationalists nurture the next generation
Hindu nationalists have launched new leadership programs for educated urban youth, designed to foster qualities that combat corruption.
- First LookKashmir takeover flames tensions between India and Pakistan
Widescale arrests and communications blackout in Kashmir by Indian security forces has prompted Pakistan to suspend rail service and diplomatic ties.
- First LookKashmir annexation reflects Modi's Hindu nationalist agenda
The annexation of Kashmir Monday marked a victory for the Hindu nationalism of Prime Minister Modi's party. The bid faced few obstacles in Parliament.
- First LookIndian government ends Kashmir's special status
India revoked Kashmir's special status Monday, declaring the territory under its control. Pakistan says it will step up efforts to stop the order.
- First LookShanghai tackles 9 million tons of waste one pile at a time
China's largest city has rolled out a campaign to boost recycling and compost. Garbage must be sorted by wet, dry, recyclable, and hazardous waste.
- First LookGeorgia protests lead to speaker resignation, stir tensions with Russia
Protesters Thursday called for the resignation of Georgia's parliamentary speaker and foreign minister, in addition to changes in election law. Georgia and Russia each blame the other for the violent protests sparked by the visit of a Russian lawmaker.
- Difference Maker‘Hope to move forward’: One refugee’s story of resolve
When we think of refugees, we often think of hardship and dependency. One refugee’s story turns that perception on its head.