South Asia Today
News & Views from the Indian Neighbourhood
South Asia Today, 16 July, Wednesday
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South Asia Brief Team 30 June 2025
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30 JUNE 2025, MONDAY PAKISTAN Pakistan urges India to restore the Indus treaty mechanism after the Hague award SOCIETY POLITICS SOCIETY Heavy rains flood Dhangadhi ECONOMY BHUTAN SOCIETY BANGLADESH Artificial intelligence impacting the electoral politics MYANMAR SRI LANKA SOCIETY 29 JUNE 2025, SUNDAY PAKISTAN External POLITICS ENVIRONMENT EXTERNAL SRI LANKA Sri Lankan navy seizes Indian fishing boat 28 JUNE 2025, SATURDAY BANGLADESH POLITICS ECONOMY Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari announces her return to politics as a member of the CPN-UML PAKISTAN ECONOMY SOCIETY Government extends Dr Mahrang's detention again 27 JUNE 2025, FRIDAY PAKISTAN ECONOMY SOCIETY Pakistan records its 13th polio case in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province EXTERNAL NATIONAL ENVIRONMENT BANGLADESH SOCIETY EXTERNAL 24 JUNE 2025, TUESDAY PAKISTAN ECONOMY EXTERNAL NEPAL Government forms committee to probe visa scam BHUTAN ECONOMY ENVIRONMENT
EXTERNAL
Dar says Pakistan’s foreign policy anchored in geo-economics and peace
On 27 June, Dawn reported that Ishaq Dar, the deputy prime minister emphasized that Pakistan is committed to a geo economic and peaceful foreign policy during an event hosted to celebrate the 52nd anniversary of the Institute for Strategic Studies, he stated that Pakistan seeks economic integration, regional connectivity and neutrality in International conflicts.
On 27 June, Dawn Reported that Pakistan asked India to resume the Indus water treaty, which came following a supplemental award by the permanent court of arbitration in the Hague. The foreign office stated that India's unilateral suspension of the treaty undermines international obligations, the court upheld Pakistan’s position on dispute resolution channels related to hydroelectric projects.
Government seeks Rs1.15 per unit cut in electricity tariff
On 27 June, Dawn reported that the federal government requested the national electric power regulatory authority to approve a reduction of rupees 1.15 per unit in power tariffs under the monthly fuel cost adjustment. The central power purchasing agency mentioned that the relief is based on lower generation costs in May. If this is approved the revised billing would start from the July cycle.
NEPAL
EXTERNAL
Chairman of the National Assembly Narayan Dahal leads delegation to China in July
On 30 June, The Kathmandu Post reported on Chairman of the national Assembly on leading a large delegation to China in July to take part in an event, “Beyond the Himalayas: Schedule for the Yushu International Nepal Trade Exchange Series on the 70th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations Between China and Nepal.” The Yushu International Nepal Trade Exchange Series is to commemorate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Around 200 Nepali traders and members of the business community are about to take part in the exhibition.
Election Commission of Nepal has announced by-election in Rupandehi Constituency -3 on 3 November
On 30 June, The Kathmandu Post reported on the announcement of the by-election of Rupandehi Constituency-3 on 3 November by the Election Commission. The seat was vacant since the death of Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) lawmaker Deepak Bohara in April. The election is aimed to fill the vacant seat in the House of Representatives.
Six hours daily long walk for students to attend school located on the bank of the Daramkhola river
On 30 June, The Kathmandu Post reported on long walk for children of Baglung village to attend school which is located on the banks of Daramkhola river. By giving a case study of a fourteen year old Sharmila BK of Thalepokhara in ward-8 in Baglung district, stating the hardships children have to go through to attend school embarking a three-hour journey early in the morning to returning home late in the evening. Chham Bahadur Galami, a local guardian said, “The school children are suffering greatly. They are not only walking long hours but also missing out on proper study time.” The ward chair Tej Prasad Sapkota stated, “We’ve decided to build a hostel so children can stay closer to school and focus on their studies. If the municipality provides support, great. If not, we’ll use our ward budget to make it happen.”
On 30 June, The Himalayan Times reported that there was continuous overnight rainfall which flooded several areas of Dhangadhi. The areas included in Bishalnagar, Milanchowk, Shivanagar, and Campus Road. Locals blamed unplanned urbanisation and poor drainage infrastructure for the recurring incident. Despite severe waterlogging, the Kailali District Police confirmed that no casualties were reported.
NICCI and FICCI sign deal to boost Nepal-India trade
On 29 June, The Kathmandu Post reported that Nepal-India Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NICCI) and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) signed an MoU in New Delhi to boost Nepal-India trade and investment. The deal includes joint business events, exchange of trade data, and reciprocal participation in exhibitions. NICCI will act as FICCI’s partner in Nepal, and FICCI will serve as NICCI’s exclusive counterpart in India.
ECONOMY
Remittance inflow surges by over 80 percent
On 30 June, Kuensel reported that inward remittances to Bhutan saw an increase of 84.2 percent between January and April 2024 in comparison to the same timeframe last year. The net import remittances totalled Nu 3.56 billion, driven primarily by an increasing number of Bhutanese working abroad and the improved digital remittance structures. The sharp spike in remittances is expected to relieve pressure on the country's foreign currency reserves and improve household incomes.
Integrated farming transforms rural livelihoods in Lhuentse
On 30 June, Kuensel reported that integrated farming is changing lives in Lhuentse. Farmers in Kurtoe are taking on diversified ventures by bringing together livestock, crops, and horticulture. This has helped to improve food self-sufficiency, increase household income, and minimize the dependence on mon-cropping systems. Integrated farming is emerging as a sustainable rural development strategy in the eastern districts of Bhutan, with technical support and market linkages provided by agencies.
POLITICS
China wants to deepen ties with Bangladesh
On 30 June, China expressed hope that it will work with Bangladesh's next elected government. With even greater sincerity steadfastness, love and affection. BNP has also stated that if they come to power, they will take up the Teesta river water management project and have requested China to ensure more safe, voluntary and dignified return of Rohingya refugees to the homeland in Myanmar's Rakhine state.
On 30 June, the pre-election political landscape in Bangladesh is having the AI effect on it. For which many videos generated using Google's Vivo 3 text to video tool featuring in totally fictitious characters. 70 such AI generated videos has been published between 18 and 28 June. AI is being used by all parties, which has turned into some sort of mud-slinging.
SOCIETY
The junta's 'Peace Forum' masks brutal war and election fraud
On 30 June, a guest column in the Irrawaddy highlighted that the "Peace Forum" conducted by the junta from June 25 to 27 was nothing but a false facade for waging war on its people. On one side, the junta tries peace talks and elections on stage, but on the other side, it intensifies the offensive towards the people. Military help by Belarus and Russia increases the offensive. The column also urges people to unite against the junta violence.
EXTERNAL
Sri Lankan Airlines and Tourism Malaysia partner up to strengthen tourism
On 30 June, the Daily Mirror reported that Sri Lankan Airlines and Tourism Malaysia are getting into a promotion drive to boost leisure travel tourism between the countries. Malaysia with its diverse and dynamic mix of tourism has emerged as a happy choice among Sri Lankan travelers. The efforts for promotion have intensified as World Tourism Day is fast approaching on September 27, 2025.
A sharp surge in reported child abuse cases in the eastern province
On 30 June, the Daily Mirror reported that there has been a significant increase in child abuse cases reported in the eastern province. These cases involve children below 16 years of age and 304 cases have been recorded in 2024. Senior DIG Waruna Jayasundara said that almost 101 children were reported as victims of abuse in the Ampara district. This draws attention to how children are being exploited in vulnerable parts of the country.
ECONOMY
ADB, UN agencies join hands with Pakistan to implement Pandemic Fund
On 29 June, Dawn reported that the Asian Development Bank and two United Nations specialised agencies, the World Health Organisation have joined hands with the government to start implementation of Pakistan's Pandemic Fund through a national consultation to establish 'One Health Units' across the country. Under the leadership of the ministry of Health, ADB,FAO and WHO are the implementing partner of Pakistan's Pandemic Fund,while the National Institute of Health will host it's secretariat.
The government engages with the UK to get the PIA ban lifted
On 29 June, Dawn reported that Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Ishaq Dar said that the Ministry of foreign affairs is "actively engaged" with the UK authorities to secure the lifting a ban on Pakistan International Airline Flights. Flights to the UK and Europe were halted in June 2020 in the aftermath of the May 22, 2020 crash of Flight PK 8303 in Karachi which claimed 97 lives, after which roughly one-third of the country's commercial pilots held "dubious".
President declares Justice Dogar senior most IHC Judge in revised seniority list
On 29 June, Dawn reported that President Asif Ali Zardari declared Justice Sarfaraz Dogar the “senior-most judge” of the Islamabad High Court (IHC), according to a fresh seniority list released by the Ministry of Law and Justice. The development followed the Supreme Court’s verdict on June 19, declaring the transfer of IHC judges constitutional and referring the matter of seniority determination to the president. Earlier this year, the law ministry’s transfer of three judges to the IHC had disrupted the seniority list. President Zardari also declared that the status of the transfer of all three judges would be permanent.
BHUTAN
SOCIETY
Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche reflects on AI, attention, and the search for truth
On 28 June, Kuensel reported insights from Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche, who raised a warning about what he referred to as the rapid development of artificial intelligence - but with the main problem being that the technology itself is not the real challenge: it is the loss of our own human attention and discernment. He highlighted the need to cultivate our own inner clarity and self-awareness as information intoxication and surface-level engagement with what can be considered true grips the world.
Transboundary elephant raids force Bhutanese farmers to abandon croplands
On 29 June, The Hindu reported that elephants annually crossing the Assam-Bhutan border (where they may be coming from the Birding, Buriram, and Sandrup Jongkhars) have caused severe crop destruction in southern districts, including Samtse, Sarpang, and Dagana. These continuing threats led many farmers to abandon their lands to fallow. The government of Bhutan is developing a coordinated impact response strategy with Indian officials from the neighbouring states of Assam and West Bengal, but it would appear that a successful long-term coexistence with these 'aggressive' elephants is a burgeoning environmental and livelihood challenge.
BANGLADESH
SOCIETY
39-day event to celebrate July Uprising
On 28 June, Secretary General Mia Golam Parwar of the Jamaat-e-Islaami stated that they would have a 39-day programme to both celebrate and mourn the July Uprising. Rallies, prayer sessions, seminars and symposiums, cultural programmes and documentary screenings are some of the events planned for the celebration.
China interested in development of Mongla Port
On 28 June, Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam stated that China has expressed interest in developing industries around Mongla Port and Khulna. There has been no clarification from Chinese authorities on this statement.
SOCIETY
Ceylon Electricity Board reports a 72 percent increase in renewable electricity generation
On 29 June, the Daily Mirror reported that Sri Lanka has achieved an increase in renewable electricity generation by 72 percent in June 2035. This marks a major milestone in the shift from a 100 percent hydro-based to a mixed hydro-thermal system signifying a clean energy transition.
On 29 June, the Daily Mirror reported that the Sri Lankan navy seized an Indian fishing boat with a crew of eight members on grounds of illegal poaching in Sri Lankan waters. The boat was seized during a special operation in the waters north of Mannar. For further legal proceedings, the fishermen were handed over to the Fisheries Inspector of Mannar.
EXTERNAL
"China's progress will benefit Bangladesh: BNP Secretary General
On 28 June, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir claimed that China's progress would be important in maintaining global balance, after his five days visit. He claimed that the CPC was also happy with the acting chairman Tarique Rahman's leadership.
Corridor of safe passage for Rohingyas
On 28 June a corridor was designed to help the affected community in conflict zones during a humanitarian crisis. Access that was denied to the Rohingyas is now provided by Bangladesh through this passage. The whole idea of this passage is to provide humanitarian assistance for the Rohingyas in Rakhine state.
BHUTAN
POLITY
Constituency Development Grant returns as Priority Development Fund
On 28 June, Kuensel reported that Bhutan's National Assembly has revived the Constituency Development Grant with a revised title - the Priority Development Fund (PDF). Now each MP will receive Nu 10 million a year for urgent local priorities and needs. Some MPs welcomed the action as facilitating rapid grassroots action while others requested clear oversight mechanisms to protect misuse and ensure transparency.
Finance Ministry extends vehicle import quota deadline
On 28 June, Kuensel reported that the Finance Ministry has announced an extension of the deadline for public servants that qualified to use vehicle import quotas, under the new quota system. This extension applies to all eligible public servants who qualified prior to January 2023, but were unable to avail of the benefit, because of time constraints. The extension address implementation issues and added the principle of fairness to help facilitate the country's larger fiscal management and import management objectives.
NEPAL
POLITICS
Tarai-Madhes centric parties express dissatisfaction with their support to the government amid the ongoing budget discussions
On 28 June, The Himalayan Times reported on increased dissatisfaction of Tarai-Madhes centric parties over the budget of 2025-2026. The Janata Samajwadi Party (JSP-N) has dropped its support for the Lumbini provincial government. Janamat Party, Nagarik Unmukti Party, Loktantrik Samajwadi Party-Nepal are also dissatisfied with the current government’s performance. Mahaseth, a leader of the Rastriya Mukti Party said, “Prior to budget sessions, the front has made a few budget and programme recommendations. However, it appears that front members are unhappy with the government’s actions. So this could lead to a decision similar to what the Upendra Yadav led party made in Lumbini today.”
On 28 June, The Kathmandu Post reported on Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari return to active politics as a member of CPN-UML. Previously, she served as the country’s President for seven years continuously. “I have renewed my membership of the party (CPN-UML) with an objective of giving continuity to the party’s political journey. Now, I am reunited with the CPN-UML as a member of this family and I feel proud of this,” said Bhandari at a function organised in Kathmandu.
POLITICS
PTI's hopes dashes as rivals set to receive reserved seats
On 28 June, Dawn reported that the Constitutional bench overturned the Supreme Court's earlier judgement in the reserved seats case, effecting taking away reserved seats from RTI and handing them to their rival parties in the national and provincial legislature. The decision, handed down by a majority of seven judges, superseded the July 12, 2024 majority judgement by eight judges, which had declared the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf eligible for reserved seats for women and non muslims in the assemblies.
Government increases gas charges by 50 percent
On 28 June, Dawn reported that the government has increased the price of gas by 50 percent in an apparent move to meet the demand of the International Monetary Fund. The Economic Coordination Committee of the federal cabinet approved the hike fixed charges for all consumers from 1 July 2025. The rate for non- domestic consumers have been increased by 29 percent to cumulative raise an additional PKR 72 billion.
Government deploys Army across the country for security during Muharram
On 28 June, Dawn reported that Interior ministry approved the nationwide deployment of the Pakistan Army for security during Muharram-ul-Haram. Federal government authorised the deployment of army troops under sections 4 and 5 of the Anti terrorism Act,1997.
On 28 June, Dawn reported that the Balochistan government extended the detention of Dr Mahrang Baloch, chief organiser of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), and four other leaders for another 15 days under Section 3 of the Maintenance of Public Order. This marks the fourth extension of their detention. After completing three months in custody, the authorities issued a fresh notification extending their imprisonment by another 15 days. The BYC spokesperson strongly criticised the provincial government for the repeated extensions and termed the fresh orders illegal. He demanded the immediate release of all detained leaders.
SRI LANKA
ECONOMY
The 3.7 billion USD investment by Sinopec is yet to take off
On 28 June, the Daily Mirror reported that the largest foreign direct investment of 3.7 billion USD in Hambantota, Sri Lanka is yet to take off due to differences between the government and Sinopec over the local market share component. The project agreement was signed on an early state visit to Beijing this year between the company, which is a leading Chinese international petroleum corporation and Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Energy. The project involves the construction of an oil refinery with a capacity of 200,000 barrels to be constructed in Hambantota. Discussions are taking place to ensure the implementation of the project.
POLITICS
National Assembly passes PKR 17.6 trillion budget, amid opposition outcry
On 27 June, Dawn reported that National Assembly passed the federal budget for the upcoming fiscal year with an outlay of PKR 17.57 trillion. The House passed the Finance Bill for 2025 with incorporating around half of the suggestions put forward by finance committees of both houses of Parliament, whereas all amendments proposed by opposition were rejected. The Budget projects an economic growth rate of 4.2 percent and inflation rate of 7.5 percent. Key allocations include PKR 2.55 trillion for Defense, PKR 1.19 trillion for Pension expenditure, PKR 1.19 trillion for Subsidies on electricity and other areas.
Fuel stations in Capital to have EV Charging points by 2030
On 27 June, Dawn reported that as part of the government's plan to make the Capital a green fuel city, all fuel stations at key points in Islamabad are scheduled to have electric vehicle charging points by 2030. The decision was made at the fifth meeting of the steering committee on the Electric Vehicle Policy. It aligns with government's new EV policy introduced recently to steer Pakistan toward a greener, cleaner and more sustainable transport system.
Monsoon haunts damaged Mohenjo Daro site amid delays in conservation project
On 27 June, Dawn reported that the work on conservation, preservation and restoration of the rain-damaged ruins of Mohenjo Daro undertaken in the wake of 2022 downpour has not been finished yet while another monsoon season is set to bring rains upon the World Heritage site.
On 27 June, Dawn reported that Pakistan is one of the last two countries in the world, alongside Afghanistan, where polio remains endemic. Despite global efforts to eradicate the virus, challenges such as security issues, vaccine hesitancy, and misinformation have slowed progress. This year, Pakistan has undertaken three nationwide Polio campaigns so far — in February, April, and May. Polio eradication efforts in Pakistan routinely face security issues.
NEPAL
SOCIETY
Scrub typhus emerges as a major health concern in Nepal
On 27 June, The Kathmandu Post reported that scrub typhus has become a major public-health concern in Nepal, with 16,597 confirmed infections in 2024-25. Lumbini Province recorded the highest case-load (4,322). As cases increased it showed that this infection is no longer limited to rural areas. Doctors warn that late diagnosis can lead to multi-organ failure, yet many health centres still lack testing equipment and staff training. The treatment is quite accessible and available with antbiotics used often like doxycycline and azithromycin . The health officials also stated that better awareness among clinics and the public is urgently needed to curb rising cases and fatalities.
PM Oli heads to Spain for global development summit
On 27th June, The Kathmandu Post reported that Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli will depart for Seville, Spain on June 28 to attend the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4) which is to be held from June 30 to July 3. Oli will participate in the summit as Chair of the Global Coordination Bureau of the Least Developed Countries (LDCs). He is scheduled to deliver key addresses, chair high-level events, and hold bilateral meetings with world leaders.
The ruling CON-UML has begun preparations for its second National Statute Convention
On 26 June, The Kathmandu Post reported on ongoing preparations for the second National Statute Convention by the ruling CPN-UML. One of the major agenda taken up by the convention is the issue of age limit for office bearers.
BHUTAN
ECONOMY
Govt to create jobs at home to curb migration
On 27 June, Kuensel reported that the Bhutanese government will focus on local economic opportunities in response to the increasing youth emigration. The Prime Minister emphasised plans to support entrepreneurship, enhance the private sector and bolster the skilling agenda through the 13th Five Year Plan approach. With a growing number of youth moving overseas for employment, the government is concerned with ensuring that staying in Bhutan is a viable, valued option.
Bhutan feels the heat as Asia’s climate crisis escalates
On 27 June, Kuensel reported that Bhutan is facing increased temperatures and more frequent extreme weather events in a deteriorating climate situation in Asia. Research shows diminishing snowfall in the Himalayas, melting glaciers, and increasing heat stress affecting crops, water supply, and human health overall. Experts have also emphasized the immediate need to scale up adaptation strategies, improve ecosystem resilience and cooperation on climate response at the regional scale
POLITICS
Daily Star accused of bias by Law Advisor
On 26 June, Law Advisor Asif Nazrul accused The Daily Star and Prothom Alo of bias, citing an incident that happened 14 years ago. However, when asked for further clarification, he claimed that the incident took place 20 years ago and could not provide specifics and then reassed his mentioning of the case.
Leftist road march in Bangladesh
The Anti-Imperialist Patriotic People movement launched their road march across Bangladesh while protesting imperialist control of ports and seeking complete national independence. Starting from the National Press Club in Dhaka the march leaders presented four demands which included state ownership of Chattogram Port along with ending Rakhine transit corridor plans and stopping Starlink and ending unfair agreements with imperialist powers particularly the US and India.
EU envoy wishes for democracy to be restored in Bangladesh
On 27 June, the EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller told the BNP that he hopes for democratic order to be restored through free, fair and credible elections. The issue of workers in Bangladesh was also mentioned
SOCIETY
Karachi’s KE served notice over failure to restrict loadshedding
On 24 June, Dawn reported that the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority issued a show-cause notice to Karachi's K-Electric for not following the directives that limit loadshedding to the Pole-Mounted Transformer level. NEPRA stated that the KE failed to implement the load management plan which led to extended power outages throughout the city. The company has 15 days to respond to the notice and faces potential penalties under current regulatory laws.
AJK budget debate sparks controversy after approval
On 24 June, Dawn reported that a political controversy emerged in Azad Jammu and Kashmir after a debate was held post the approval of the 2024-2025 budget. Opposition criticized that the move was unconstitutional, pointing out that the discussions should happen before the passage of the finance bill. The current government officials defended the process, stating that it followed procedural norms. This has triggered concerns regarding the transparency and the legislative practices in the region.
China praises Pakistan’s diplomatic stance amid Iran-Israel tensions
On 24 June, The Express Tribune reported that the Chinese government commended Pakistan's diplomatic outreach, which heightened during the ongoing on tensions between Iran and Israel. A statement from the Chinese foreign ministry mentions that Pakistan's call for restraint and dialogue is reflective of a responsible approach to regional stability.
POLITCS
JSP- Nepal indicates reconsideration of its support for the KP Sharma Oli-led government
On 23 June, The Kathmandu Post reported on Janata Samajbadi Part- Nepal reconsidering of its support to the current ruling government. In a central committee meeting, the party expressed dissatisfaction and the failure of the government to deliver on key issues. Party spokesperson Manish Kumar Suman said, “The current government has not met expectations on constitutional amendments, economic recovery, or governance. The central committee has therefore directed the parliamentary party to reconsider its position.”
On 24th June, The Himalayan Times reported that the government has formed a high-level committee, which would be led by former Chief Secretary Shanker Das Bairagi to investigate irregularities in immigration and visit visa processes. The committee includes joint secretaries from six ministries and aims to recommend policy, legal, and structural reforms. The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) and Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) opposed and questioned the committee’s credibility. Both parties boycotted the House meeting in protest.
SOCIETY
NA calls for zero tolerance on online pornography and harmful digital content
On 24 June, Kuensel reported that Bhutan's National Assembly (NA) has resolutely condemned online pornographic content, hate speech, and other harmful or inciting content, and has called for significant regulation and a call to arms against such content. MPs discussed that youth are being exposed to content disorderly and without structure, and called on the government to improve digital literacy, enforce regulations on platforms, and have stricter safeguards. The House emphasized a call for cooperation among the various agencies that want to mitigate digital risk and maintain cultural and moral Bhutanese values.
National Council adopts GST Bill with 5% uniform rate
On 24 June, Kuensel reported that the National Council adopted the Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill 2024, endorsing a uniform 5% GST rate, as passed by the National Assembly. Exemptions include essential goods like rice, salt, and sanitary pads. The revised bill aims to streamline Bhutan’s tax system, improve compliance, and align with international practices. GST is scheduled for implementation from 1 January 2026.
Heavy rains disrupt farm roads and water supply in Mongar
On 24 June, Kuensel reported that Severe flooding in the Sherimuhung and Narang gewogs of Mongar caused extensive destruction to farm roads and disrupted water supply to the valley. Local officials have determined that there are roadblocks in several chiwogs, and landslips have interrupted water supply via irrigation pipelines. Restoration efforts have begun, but further rain is putting this work further behind schedule. These events show how susceptible rural infrastructure is to extreme weather events that are become more common as a result of climate change.