A boat carrying over 200 migrants sank off Yemen’s coast, leaving at least 39 dead and 150 missing, the International Organization for Migration said. The tragedy highlights the perilous migration route from Africa to the Gulf, with the agency recording at least 698 deaths on the route in 2023 alone. Survivors were provided immediate aid as migrants often face further dangers in war-torn Yemen while attempting to reach Gulf countries for work. Representational image. Photo: AFP
Category: Archive
Lt Gen Waker-Uz-Zaman named new army chief
Lieutenant General Waker-Uz-Zaman has been promoted to General and appointed as the new Chief of Army Staff of Bangladesh Army for three years from June 23, 2024. He will replace the current army chief General SM Shafiuddin Ahmed. An alumnus of Bangladesh Military Academy, Gen Waker has an illustrious 35-year career holding key command, staff and instructional positions including Chief of General Staff. He is an alumnus of defence colleges in Bangladesh and UK with masters degrees in Defence Studies.
I stand for humanity, Coca-Cola ad only part of professional work: Zibon
Actor Saraf Ahmed Zibon faced backlash for directing and acting in a Coca-Cola Bangladesh advertisement amid calls to boycott the company over perceived Israeli links. Zibon clarified the ad was professional work, stating he stands against human rights violations. He denied supporting Israeli actions against Palestinians, asserting he sides with justice and humanity. The ad aimed to showcase Coca-Cola’s global presence beyond Israel. The incident underscores the importance of effective crisis communication by brands.
Animals killed as fire rips through Bangkok pet market
A fire broke out early Tuesday at pet shops adjacent to Bangkok’s famous Chatuchak market, killing caged dogs, cats, birds and snakes, and damaging over 100 stalls. The blaze, believed to have started in the ornamental fish zone around 4am, spread across 1,300 square meters before being extinguished two hours later. While no human casualties were reported, hundreds of pets reportedly perished. The Bangkok governor visited the site and urged housing surviving animals. The cause is under investigation. Previous concerns were raised about endangered species traded in the area.
Man held for raping schoolgirl in Jashore
A 40-year-old man named Mizanur Rahman was arrested in Jashore’s Jhikargacha upazila for allegedly raping a 14-year-old girl at gunpoint after luring her to his house on the pretext of domestic work. Though locals attempted arbitration imposing a fine, the victim’s family filed a case with police. The victim underwent medical examination. Police arrested the accused and a case was filed against him for the rape of the minor.
PM provides 18,566 more houses to homeless as Eid gift
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina handed over 18,566 more houses to homeless and landless families across Bangladesh as an Eid gift under the government’s Ashrayan-2 project. She also declared 12 more districts and 123 upazilas free of homelessness, raising the totals to 58 districts and 464 upazilas. Each beneficiary family receives a semi-pucca house on 2 decimals of land co-owned by husband and wife. Since 1997, over 771,000 families have been rehabilitated through the Ashrayan project.photo: Collected
Grameenphone launches latest episode of Lumière featuring Rezwana Choudhury Bannya
Grameenphone’s Lumière series spotlights luminary Rezwana Choudhury Bannya, celebrated for preserving and promoting Rabindra Sangeet. The episode offers an intimate look into Bannya’s life, philosophy, artistic journey, passion for music, experiences at Shantiniketan, and profound influence on Bangladesh’s cultural landscape. Hosted by Nabila Khalid, it aims to inspire youth through candid conversations unveiling lesser-known facets of remarkable individuals shaping the nation’s fabric.
Nearly 400 million young kids violently disciplined at home: UNICEF
According to new UNICEF estimates, nearly 400 million children under age 5 globally experience violent physical or psychological discipline at home, like spanking or insults. Around 330 million face physical punishment. Though more countries are banning corporal punishment, nearly 500 million young kids lack legal protection. UNICEF says positive, nurturing parenting aids child development, but data shows many children lack adequate playtime, toys and meaningful interaction vital for cognitive and emotional growth. UNICEF urges recommitting to ending violence against kids on the first International Day of Play. AFP
Singapore Airlines offers $10,000 to passengers hurt by turbulence
Singapore Airlines is offering $10,000 compensation to passengers who suffered minor injuries when flight SQ321 encountered severe turbulence last month, killing one passenger. Those with more serious injuries are invited to discuss higher payouts. The airline is providing $25,000 advance payments to seriously injured passengers requiring long-term care. It is also refunding airfares of all passengers on the diverted flight and providing delay compensation per regulations. The move comes as investigations continue into the cause of the sudden turbulence incident.AFP
Bangladesh dreaming of humbling Lebanon
Bangladesh are aiming to secure all three points against Lebanon in their final FIFA World Cup Qualifier match today to boost their ranking ahead of the upcoming Asian Cup Qualifiers draw. The match kicks off at 10pm Bangladesh time in Qatar. Though beating the superior Lebanese side will be tough, captain Jamal Bhuiyan believes Bangladesh can capitalize on Lebanon’s recent coaching instability. Coach Javier Cabrera says a good result will improve Bangladesh’s ranking for a better Asian Cup Qualifiers draw. Photo: BFF
Search continues for Malawi vice president’s missing plane
Malawi’s president says all available resources are being deployed to find a missing military plane carrying Vice President Saulos Chilima and nine others. The plane lost contact after failing to land in Mzuzu due to bad weather. Search operations continue despite unconfirmed reports of a crash. The president has sought international help, including specialized technologies, and canceled an overseas trip. Chilima, previously stripped of powers over a bribery case, had the charges recently dropped. Photo: AFP
Donald Trump completes mandatory presentencing interview after less than 30 minutes of questioning
Donald Trump completed a mandatory pre-sentencing interview on Monday, lasting less than 30 minutes, with a New York City probation officer via video conferencing. The confidential report, required by law, will aid the judge in determining Trump’s punishment for his conviction in the hush money case when he is sentenced on July 11. Trump’s lawyers and prosecutors will receive copies of the report before sentencing.
Jurors in Hunter Biden’s gun trial begin deliberating whether he’s guilty of federal firearm charges
Jurors in Wilmington, Delaware began deliberating on Monday whether to convict Hunter Biden on federal firearms charges over a 2018 gun purchase when prosecutors say he was addicted to crack cocaine. Prosecutors used testimony, texts, and photos alleging drug use, while the defense argued Biden didn’t consider himself an addict at the time. The high-profile trial has exposed details of President Biden’s son’s troubled past with substance abuse.
Apple finally unveils its own AI: Meet, Apple Intelligence
Apple has unveiled “Apple Intelligence,” its new AI suite, at WWDC 2024, aiming to catch up with rivals. The on-device AI features, including a revamped Siri, will enhance user experience across apps while ensuring privacy. Apple has introduced a “Private Cloud” and “semantic index” for cloud-based AI processing and personal data retrieval, respectively, with independent verification of privacy claims. Apple finally unveils its own AI
Those four runs could have changed the match scenario: Hridoy
Bangladesh narrowly missed out on a crucial four leg-bye runs in the 17th over against South Africa after Mahmudullah was initially given out LBW before DRS overturned it. Tawhid Hridoy, who top-scored with 37, felt those four runs could have changed the match scenario as Bangladesh fell short by just four runs chasing 114. Hridoy also rued a few debatable umpiring calls against them in the low-scoring thriller, stating those tight calls are crucial on tough wickets. Bangladesh’s chase derailed after Hridoy’s dismissal in the 17th over. Photo: BCB
UN Security Council backs plan for Israel-Hamas ceasefire
The UN Security Council adopted a US-drafted resolution backing President Biden’s proposal for a ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. Russia abstained, while 14 members voted in favor. Biden outlined a three-phase plan, which the resolution calls on Hamas to accept. It also details the proposal, stating the ceasefire will continue if negotiations take longer than six weeks. The council had previously demanded an immediate ceasefire and hostage release by Hamas amid months of violence that has killed over 37,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza authorities.PHOTO: REUTERS
Apple AI, new Siri, iOS 18 and more: Everything Apple just announced
Apple unveiled Apple Intelligence, its first AI system, integrating generative models into iPhone, iPad, and Mac for capabilities like image generation and text summarization. It will debut on iPhone 15 Pro, iPads, and Macs with M1 chips or newer. Siri also received an AI upgrade, appearing as a pulsating light on device edges. With large language models, Siri will better understand queries, manage follow-ups, and locate specific information like emails or photos of friends. Image: Apple.
Drive against VoIP: BTRC seized 17,354 SIMs
Bangladesh’s telecom regulator conducted drives against illegal VoIP operators in Dhaka’s Nayapaltan and Khilgaon areas today. The enforcement team seized over 17,354 SIMs, 56 SIM boxes, routers, modems, and other VoIP equipment. Two individuals involved in the illegal VoIP business were arrested. Cases are being filed against the detainees under the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulation Act for operating unauthorized VoIP services that bypass regular telephone networks.
New ‘Doom’ game coming in 2025
id Software and Bethesda Softworks have announced “Doom: The Dark Ages”, the latest entry in the popular Doom video game series. Directed by Hugo Martin, this medieval fantasy-themed first-person shooter will launch in 2025 for PlayStation 5, Windows, and Xbox Series X/S. A prequel to previous Doom games, it explores the origins of the Doom Slayer in a kingdom under attack by Hell’s forces. Using modern graphics, it promises new weapons, enemies, and environments inspired by the Middle Ages, along with single-player and multiplayer modes.Image: Collected
Water levels in 39 rivers rise, 67 fall
Water levels have risen at 39 river stations monitored by Bangladesh’s Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre (FFWC), while levels fell at 67 stations. All 110 monitored stations are flowing above the danger level. The Brahmaputra-Jamuna and Padma rivers are in a falling trend, while the Manu, Someswari, and Bhugai rivers in the northeast are rising. Significant rainfall was recorded in several districts over the last 24 hours, with the highest of 135mm in Sylhet. Neighbouring Indian states like West Bengal and Assam also saw heavy rains. FILE PHOTO: Teesta river
Mamata ‘sat in darkness’ during Modi’s oath-taking
Trinamool Congress lawmaker Sagarika Ghose said West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee switched off all lights and sat in darkness at her home during Narendra Modi’s swearing-in as Prime Minister on Sunday. Ghose claimed Modi had “lost the mandate” and should be replaced as BJP leader despite winning a third term. The TMC boycotted the ceremony while the main opposition Congress attended. Ghose alleged Modi could not get a majority despite campaigning centered around himself. Photo: Collected
Real Madrid will not participate in Club World Cup, says Ancelotti
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti said the club will not participate in FIFA’s revamped 32-team Club World Cup, claiming the compensation offered is too low for a club of Real’s stature. Ancelotti, who has won the tournament three times, said “a single Real Madrid match is worth 20 million and FIFA wants to give us that amount for the whole cup.” He expects other top European clubs to also decline the invitation amid concerns over an overcrowded calendar.
Armed conflicts in 2023 highest since end of WWII: study
A Norwegian study found that 2023 witnessed the highest number of armed conflicts globally since World War II, with 59 conflicts, 28 of which were in Africa. While the number of countries experiencing conflicts decreased, the number of combat deaths, though halved from the previous year to around 122,000, was still the third highest since 1989 due to the Ukraine war and the Israel-Palestinian conflict. The rise in conflicts is attributed to the spread of Islamic State and the involvement of more non-state actors. Photo: Reuters
Light to moderate rains likely across the country: BMD
Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has forecasted light to moderate rain or thundershowers across the country in the next 24 hours commencing from 9 am today. Many areas of Rangpur, Mymensingh, and Sylhet divisions are likely to experience these showers along with temporary gusty winds. Day and night temperatures may fall slightly over the country, while a mild heat wave is sweeping over Khulna division and some other districts which may continue. Photo: Prabir Das
Study confirms harmful bacteria presence in street foods
A recent study in Dhaka has revealed the presence of harmful bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, and Vibrio in popular street foods such as chotpoti, chola-muri, sandwiches, juices, and salads. Researchers found alarmingly high levels of these bacteria, which can cause stomach diseases. The contamination is attributed to factors like unclean water, utensils, hands, and environments used by the vendors. The study highlights the urgent need for training vendors and strict monitoring to ensure food safety standards.
Shanta FORUM wins 5-Star recognition at the Prestigious Asia Pacific Property Awards 2024
Bangladesh’s Shanta Forum, a 25-storied Twin Towers project, has created history by becoming the first ever project from the country to be recognized at the Asia Pacific Property Awards. It has achieved a distinguished 5-star rating in the “high-rise commercial development” category, highlighting its exceptional design, quality, and commitment to excellence. This prestigious global award signifies Shanta Forum’s world-class standards and Bangladesh’s capability to develop projects of an international level.
Modi takes charge: signs first file for release of ‘Kisan Nidhi’ funds worth Rs 20cr
Assuming office for his third term, Indian PM Narendra Modi signed his first file authorizing the release of Rs 20,000 crore to benefit 9.3 crore farmers under the ‘PM Kisan Nidhi’ scheme. Modi stated it reflects the government’s commitment to farmers’ welfare. The decision comes after his alliance’s poll victory, albeit with a dip in rural and semi-urban votes compared to 2019, prompting a focus on rural outreach. Reuters file photo
India’s heatwave longest ever, worse to come
India’s ongoing heatwave is the longest ever recorded, lasting around 24 days in different parts of the country, according to the head of India’s Meteorological Department. He warned that heatwaves will become more frequent, durable, and intense due to climate change caused by human activities and greenhouse gas emissions. Despite being a major emitter, India aims for net zero emissions by 2070. Photo: AFP
Toofan’ sees record advance ticket sales ahead of Eid premiere
Shakib Khan’s upcoming action film “Toofan” is generating record-breaking advance ticket sales ahead of its Eid-ul-Azha premiere. Remarkably, 40% of tickets for the initial days have already been sold, with cinemas like Roots Cineclub and Cinescope reporting high demand. Director Raihan Rafi attributes the buzz to the intriguing teaser and songs, showcasing a new side of Shakib as a gangster. Co-starring Indian actress Mimi Chakraborty, the film has sparked significant anticipation among audiences eager to witness Shakib’s new avatar.Photo: Collected
100 hectares of arable land waterlogged for 10 years
Nearly 100 hectares of arable land in Jamalpur municipality have been waterlogged for over a decade due to the gradual disappearance of Goba and Baniabazar canals caused by encroachment and unplanned construction. The waterlogging has rendered the once fertile lands unsuitable for cultivation, leaving farmers with barren fields and lost income. Authorities are working on plans to excavate the canals and address the long-standing issue, which has severely impacted agriculture in the area.
Bangladesh second in freshwater fish production
Bangladesh has risen to the second position globally in freshwater fish production, surpassing China, according to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization’s “The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture” report. The country produced 13.22 lakh tonnes of freshwater fish in 2022, accounting for 11.7% of the global total, trailing only India. Conservation efforts and advanced farming techniques have contributed to Bangladesh’s impressive performance in the fisheries sector.
Drain of death
A 7-year-old boy, Saidul Islam, tragically died after falling into an uncovered drain in Chattogram on Saturday. His body was recovered from a canal on Sunday. Despite multiple reports highlighting the dangers of open drains and canals in the city, at least 11 people have died in similar incidents in the past four years, yet authorities lack funds to install protective measures. PHOTO COLLECTED
9 killed as gunmen attack Hindu pilgrim bus: police
At least nine pilgrims were killed and 33 others injured when their bus, reportedly attacked by terrorists, plunged into a gorge in Jammu & Kashmir’s Reasi district. The pilgrims were on their way to the Shivkhodi cave temple. Empty bullet casings were found at the accident site. Kashmir has witnessed an insurgency by rebel groups demanding independence or merger with Pakistan since 1989. The conflict has left many dead. Violence has fallen since 2019 when India revoked Kashmir’s autonomy.
BB allows new entities to assess credit worthiness of borrowers
The Bangladesh Bank has decided to allow private individuals and companies to form ‘credit bureaus’ to assess borrowers’ loan eligibility and repayment capacity. These bureaus will collect data from sources like the central bank’s Credit Information Bureau and provide lenders with credit ratings, helping make informed lending decisions. With a minimum paid-up capital of Tk 10 crore, the licensed bureaus aim to reduce information asymmetry, increase lending competition, and eventually lower default and interest rates through improved credit information sharing. The central bank has issued guidelines on licensing and regulating these new credit assessment entities.Photo: Star/File
Deepika Padukone looks intense in new poster of ‘Kalki 2898 AD’
The makers of the upcoming sci-fi film ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ unveiled an intriguing poster featuring Deepika Padukone in an intense look, wearing a ripped shawl outfit. Sharing it, Deepika captioned “The hope begins with her.” Her husband Ranveer Singh praised her as a “stunner.” Last month, a teaser showed Amitabh Bachchan’s character awaiting the “Dasavatar” in a futuristic setting. Also starring Kamal Haasan and Disha Patani, the Nag Ashwin-directed mythology-inspired sci-fi extravaganza is set for a June 27 theatrical release. X
foodpanda introduces grocery label bright
foodpanda has launched its own private grocery label ‘bright’, offering over 200 items across two sub-brands – ‘brightfarms’ for fresh produce and ‘brightyums’ for pantry staples and ready-to-eat items. By procuring directly from suppliers, ‘bright’ products are priced competitively while ensuring quality. The new label aims to enhance the everyday grocery shopping experience by delivering high-quality yet affordable products conveniently within an hour across Bangladesh.