PAKISTAN READER

The Indian Neighbourhood Today 
#254, 24 October 2026, Saturday
Namrata L Ghanghatkar, Priyanka Makhijani, and Sreemaya Nair

External
Nepal: Former President Bhandari urges long-term climate support for vulnerable countries, Himalayan cooperation at China forum
On 24 October, Kathmandu Post reported that former President Bidya Devi Bhandari called for reliable, long-term international support to help climate-vulnerable countries cope with global warming, speaking at the Global Governance Forum 2026 in Xiong’an, China, on 23 October. She urged the United Nations and international financial institutions to provide sustained support to help vulnerable nations reduce climate risks. Bhandari also asked Himalayan countries, including China and India, to cooperate on meteorological data exchange, glacier monitoring, early warning systems, and disaster preparedness. She described the Himalayas as a shared natural heritage essential to regional water systems and biodiversity. She said smaller and vulnerable countries must have a greater say in global decision-making, backed Chinese President Xi Jinping’s Global Governance Initiative, and reaffirmed Kathmandu’s commitment to the one-China policy.
(“Bhandari calls for long-term climate support for vulnerable countries,” Kathmandu Post, 24 October 2026)

Bangladesh: Dhaka seeks grant-based climate finance ahead of COP31
On 24 October, Dhaka Tribune reported that State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam urged developed nations to provide climate finance through grants rather than loans, so as not to add to the debt burden of vulnerable countries, speaking at a national dialogue on Bangladesh's COP31 position in Dhaka. She said coordinated efforts across government, the private sector, and civil society were needed to strengthen the country's negotiating position, and announced plans to showcase jute products at a dedicated pavilion at COP31. Figures presented at the dialogue showed Bangladesh's updated NDC 3.0 targets a 20.31 per cent emissions cut by 2035, requiring USD 116.18 billion, including USD 90.23 billion in international support, while the National Adaptation Plan needs approximately USD 230 billion.
("Bangladesh seeks grant-based climate finance ahead of COP31," Dhaka Tribune, 24 October 2026)

Maldives: Colombo donates essential medicines worth MVR 250,000
On 24 October, SunOnline International reported that the Sri Lankan government donated a consignment of essential medicines worth over LKR 05 million (approximately MVR 250,000) to the Maldives, following a request from Maldivian Health Minister Geela Ali. Sri Lankan Health Minister Dr Nalinda Jayatissa handed over the donation to Maldivian High Commissioner Masood Imad at a ceremony in Colombo, with support from the Medical Supplies Division, the State Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Corporation, and the Chamber of Pharmaceutical Industry. Imad thanked the Sri Lankan government, highlighting the longstanding friendship between the two countries.
("Sri Lanka donates MVR 250,000 in essential medicines to the Maldives," SunOnline International, 24 October 2026)

Afghanistan: Mujahid accuses Pakistan of participating in projects meant to destabilise Taliban government 
On 24 October, Afghanistan International reported that Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid rejected Pakistan’s allegations of Taliban involvement in the country’s insecurity, saying instability in Pakistan was against Afghanistan’s interests. Mujahid accused Pakistani security agencies of blaming Afghanistan for attacks and Islamabad of pursuing projects to destabilise Afghanistan. On 22 October, Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, said that militants were entering Pakistan from Afghanistan and targeting civilians and security forces. Pakistan has accused the Taliban of sheltering Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) fighters and Baloch militants, all of which the Taliban denies. UN Security Council reports have confirmed the presence of TTP members and other militant groups in Afghanistan. Militant-related casualties in Pakistan rose 83 per cent in the third quarter of 2026.
("Instability In Pakistan Is Not In Afghanistan’s Interest, Says Taliban," Afghanistan International, 24 October 2026)

Society
Nepal: Kathmandu Valley Road accidents drop from 155 to 105 during Dashain, deaths fall from 10 to three
On 24 October, Kathmandu Post reported, citing Rastriya Samachar Samiti (RSS), that road accidents in the Kathmandu Valley fell during this year’s Dashain festival, with 105 crashes recorded against 155 last year, according to the Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police Office. Fatalities dropped from 10 to three. Superintendent of Police Naresh Raj Subedi, the office’s spokesperson, said most accidents involved two-wheelers, which often went out of control because of excessive speed. He attributed the improvement to planning and coordination among traffic police, transport operators, and workers. Senior Superintendent of Police Suresh Prasad Kafle, chief of the office, said checks, traffic monitoring, joint inspections, and a festive-period security plan helped reduce crashes, while prompt rescue and medical treatment saved injured people’s lives. Drivers were urged to control speed and obey traffic rules.
(“Road accidents in Kathmandu Valley fall during Dashain,” Kathmandu Post, 24 October 2026)

Bangladesh: Dengue and measles continue to claim lives
On 24 October, Dhaka Tribune reported that Bangladesh's dengue death toll this year stood at 376 after five more people died in 24 hours, according to the Directorate General of Health Services. Separately, the measles outbreak death toll stood at 1,222 after eight more children died, with most of the latest deaths recorded in the Dhaka division. Both outbreaks continue to put pressure on the country's hospitals.
("Dengue: 5 more die, 1,898 hospitalised in 24 hrs," Dhaka Tribune, 24 October 2026; "Measles outbreak: Death toll reaches 1,222 as eight die in 24 hours," Dhaka Tribune, 24 October 2026)

Maldives: Addu farmer grows country's first coffee cherries
On 24 October, SunOnline International reported that Abdulla Ramzy, known as "Zuvaan Dhanduveriyaa" on social media, successfully grew coffee cherries on trees at his farm in Meedhoo, Addu City, a first for the Maldives. Coffee typically needs acidic soil, stable temperatures, and consistent moisture, conditions that are difficult to maintain on Maldivian islands, so Ramzy spent months adjusting soil pH, protecting young plants from salt spray, and balancing sunlight. He shared photos and videos of the fruiting trees on Facebook. Ramzy, who first drew attention for the dragon fruit grown on his farm, said the green coffee fruits made the hard work worthwhile.
("Zuvaan Dhanduveriya's experimental farm produces Maldives' first coffee cherries," SunOnline International, 24 October 2026)

Politics and Governance 
Nepal: Nepali Congress misses mandatory one-third women’s representation on central committee
On 24 October, The Kathmandu Post reported that women secured 69 of the 231 elected positions on the Nepali Congress central committee, accounting for 29.87 per cent and falling short of the party’s mandatory one-third quota. Under the party statute, women must comprise at least one-third of executive committees at every level. The 297-member central committee includes 231 elected members and 66 nominees appointed by party president Gagan Thapa. He must nominate at least 30 women to meet the required 99 seats. All 69 elected women won reserved or inclusion-category seats, while none secured an unreserved seat. Three women were elected to office-bearing positions, including Dila Sangroula, the party’s first woman general secretary. The results expand representation but highlight continuing barriers to women’s participation in open contests.  
(“Nepali Congress falls short of one-third women’s quota in central committee,” The Kathmandu Post, 24 October 2026)

Bhutan: Country to receive USD 17.42 million ADB support to protect vulnerable households
On 24 October, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved USD 17.42 million to help Bhutan protect vulnerable households from rising food and energy costs amid the Middle East conflict. The financing includes a USD 13.45 million grant and a USD 3.97 million loan, supporting Bhutan’s USD 267.88 million Anti-Crisis Action Plan. Measures include monthly assistance of up to BTN 10,000 for eligible women in large families, rural household energy subsidies, expanded school feeding programmes and tax exemptions on essential goods. The programme will also support small-scale public works, replenish fuel storage facilities and procure 45 electric buses. ADB projected Bhutan’s economic growth to slow from 8.5 per cent in 2025 to 6.5 per cent in 2026, before recovering to 7.2 per cent in 2027.
("ADB approves USD 17.4M to protect Bhutanese families from Middle East impacts," Kuensel, 24 October 2026)

Myanmar: Aung San Suu Kyi sounds “fairly healthy” in first call with son in over five years, Kim Aris says
On 24 October, Mizzima reported, citing Agence France-Presse (AFP) and Thai PBS, that Kim Aris, son of detained democratic leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, said she sounded “fairly healthy” after he spoke to her on 22 October, their first conversation in more than five years. The presidential spokeswoman said the pair held a 20-minute “consular telephone conversation” beginning at 14:30. Aris said they discussed family matters, knowing the call was recorded, and that he remains concerned about his mother’s well-being. Suu Kyi, 81, is under house arrest in Naypyitaw. On 19 October, authorities published pictures of her receiving a package from King Charles III. Analyst Morgan Michaels of the International Institute for Strategic Studies told AFP authorities were “using” her to extract concessions from the international community.
(“Aung San Suu Kyi sounded ‘fairly healthy’, son says after first call in years,” Mizzima, 24 October 2026)

Maldives: Former foreign minister says country has lost international confidence
On 24 October, SunOnline International reported that former Foreign Minister and former MDP President Abdulla Shahid claimed the Maldives had lost international confidence, with India remaining the only country providing substantial assistance. Speaking on SSTV's "Baaru Hathareh," Shahid criticised the current administration for beginning its term by creating tensions with the international community, alleging it had tried to pit China and India against each other and noting officials had worn "India Out" T-shirts while in opposition. He said President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's extensive foreign travel had produced no tangible results and that investment forums had failed to attract foreign investors. Relations with India have since improved, with President Muizzu visiting twice and Prime Minister Narendra Modi attending Independence Day celebrations last year.
("Shahid: Maldives has lost confidence of foreign nations, only India providing aid," SunOnline International, 24 October 2026)

Environment
Nepal: Bay of Bengal storm may bring rain, Himalayan snow from 28 October, threatening ripening paddy
On 24 October, The Kathmandu Post reported that clear skies after the monsoon’s withdrawal on 14 October could give way to unsettled weather. A low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal is forecast to intensify into a cyclonic storm by 26 October. It could bring rain to parts of the country and snowfall in the high Himalayas. The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology warned in a special bulletin on 23 October that the system could affect the country from 28 October to 1 November. The low-pressure area formed at 0545 hrs that day. Meteorologist Binod Pokharel said rainfall risk would be highest on 30 and 31 October, with Kathmandu and 28 districts across five provinces likely to be affected. Farmers were urged to protect ripening paddy and harvested crops. Climate expert Ujjwal Upadhyay recommended suspending high-Himalayan trekking during the period.
(“Bay of Bengal cyclone could bring rain, snow to Nepal next week,” The Kathmandu Post, 24 October 2026)

Security
Bangladesh: Crude bomb explodes outside police station
On 24 October, Dhaka Tribune reported that a crude bomb exploded on the road in front of the old Ramna Police Station in Dhaka around 1945 hours on 23 October, according to Ramna Model Police Station duty officer Abdul Al Mohsin. Police said a patrol team visited the scene and was reviewing CCTV footage to identify and arrest those involved, though it could not be confirmed whether anyone was injured.
("Crude bomb explodes in front of old Ramna Police Station," Dhaka Tribune, 24 October 2026)

Myanmar: Junta airstrike kills 11 civilians, including children, in Sittwe, residents say
On 24 October, Mizzima reported that 11 civilians, including children, were killed when the military carried out an airstrike on crowded wards in Sittwe, Rakhine State, shortly after 07:00 on 23 October, according to local residents. A resident said a Y-12 transport plane circled and dropped two bombs near the Shwe Ngar Bakery intersection between Maw Leik and Kyaung Tet Lan wards, and near the Ka Thit Taw junction, hitting many people during the busy morning hour. Five people died immediately. Of the 20 critically injured people taken to hospital, six more died, bringing the toll to 11. Victims’ identities are still being verified. Residents are sheltering as the injured receive treatment. Fighting continues daily as the Arakan Army (AA) pushes to seize Sittwe, while junta forces reinforce the city.
(“Over 10 civilians reported dead in Myanmar junta airstrike on Sittwe in Rakhine,” Mizzima, 24 October 2026)

Myanmar: Junta paramotor bombing kills one, injures two civilians in Mindon, PDF battalion says
On 24 October, Mizzima reported that one resident was killed and two were injured on 22 October when three paramotors bombed civilians travelling in Mindon Township, Magway Region, according to Thayet District Battalion 4 of the People’s Defence Force (PDF). The battalion said the paramotors took off from the Thayet-based No. 12 Defence Equipment Factory and dropped nine bombs at about 17:00 between Ywar Thit and Hnget Pyin villages. Information officer Ko Myat said the group was travelling for work, with no clashes or ground troops nearby. Maung Phoe La Min, 25, was killed. Two men, aged 42 and 62, were injured, one seriously. The battalion accused the junta of war crimes, citing earlier paramotor strikes in Mindon on 8 and 12 October, and urged residents to build bomb shelters.
(“One killed, two injured in Myanmar junta paramotor bombing in Mindon, PDF battalion says,” Mizzima, 24 October 2026)

Myanmar: Junta airstrike kills nine civilians, including infant, at Chin State jetty, rights group says
On 24 October, Mizzima reported that a junta airstrike on 18 October killed nine civilians, including a six-month-old child, at Pi Chaung Sone jetty in the Dai region of Paletwa Township, Chin State, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP). A Chin group condemned the attack in a statement on 22 October, saying the junta used fighter jets and Y-12 aircraft. It called deliberate aerial attacks on civilians cowardly and said they repeatedly amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity, urging the public to stay alert. Reports differ on the toll: the Chin People’s Union said strikes on 18 and 19 October killed nine, according to m.CDM, while other local reports put it at eight and more than 20.
(“Chin group condemns Myanmar airstrike that killed nine civilians, including infant, at Paletwa jetty,” Mizzima, 24 October 2026)

Maldives: Nine arrested over sexual assault of young woman and underage girls 
On 24 October, SunOnline International reported that nine suspects, identified only as Maldivian males, were arrested in the sexual assault of a 22-year-old woman on an island under Upper South Police jurisdiction, a case reported on 20 October. Police said they later found evidence pointing to the sexual assault and exploitation of underage girls, and a special investigative team from Malé has been deployed to the island, with the case being investigated as a serious crime. Police investigated 272 sexual assault cases last year and have received reports of 221 so far this year.
("Nine arrested in south Maldives gang rape involving young woman, girls," SunOnline International, 24 October 2026)