The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia announced that Friday, June 7 will be the first day of Zil Hajj after the crescent moon was sighted on Thursday evening. Arafat Day will fall on Saturday, June 15, while Eid-ul-Azha will begin on Sunday, June 16 in Saudi Arabia. For Bangladesh, the dates for celebrating Eid-ul-Azha will be confirmed on Friday after local moon sightings are reviewed by religious authorities.
Category: Archive
Grealish, Maguire left out of England Euro squad
Jack Grealish, Harry Maguire and James Maddison were surprise omissions from England’s 26-man squad for Euro 2024 announced by Gareth Southgate. Manchester City’s Grealish paid the price for a dip in form, while injuries hampered Maguire and Maddison missed out amid stiff competition. Notable inclusions were teenager Kobbie Mainoo, Luke Shaw despite recent lack of game time, and uncapped Adam Wharton after his impressive form for Crystal Palace. Photos: Reuters
Swiatek returns to French Open final
Iga Swiatek advanced to her third straight French Open final by defeating Coco Gauff 6-2, 6-4, extending her winning streak at Roland Garros to 20 matches. The world number one will face first-time Grand Slam finalist Jasmine Paolini, who cruised past 17-year-old Mirra Andreeva 6-3, 6-1. Andreeva’s remarkable run ended in tears. Meanwhile, Novak Djokovic underwent surgery on his injured right knee and said the operation “went well,” though his Wimbledon participation remains uncertain. Photo: AFP
USA stun Pakistan in Super Over thriller
The United States beat Pakistan in a thrilling T20 World Cup match in Dallas after the game went into a Super Over finish. Both teams scored 159 in their 20 overs, but the United States set Pakistan a target of 19 in the Super Over. Saurabh Netravalkar’s tight bowling restricted Pakistan to 13/1, handing the United States a historic win over the 2009 champions. Photo: AFP
Expatriate workers left in the lurch
The proposed national budget for FY2024-25 has failed to address the continuous sufferings of expatriate workers, according to experts. Despite hopes for new schemes, incentives, and allocations to support migrant workers, the budget prioritized skill development programs like language training. It missed opportunities to increase remittance incentives from the current 2.5% or announce special allocations to tackle issues faced by expatriates. The allocation for the expatriate welfare ministry saw a minor rise but lacks measures to provide substantive relief to this vulnerable workforce.
Mehedi, Eshrak clinch 17th DBL Cup Snooker Championship
Engineer Mehedi Hasan and Eshrak-E-Moazzem emerged champions of the 17th DBL Cup Billiards & Snooker Tournament on Wednesday. In a thrilling best-of-five frames snooker doubles final, the duo defeated Mostaqur Rahman and Ziyan Waasif by winning the decisive fifth frame. After trading frame wins earlier, Mehedi and Eshrak won the fourth and fifth frames to clinch the title amidst an electrifying atmosphere.
Spain joins S Africa’s Gaza case at UN top court
Spain has announced that it will join South Africa’s case against Israel at the UN’s International Court of Justice (ICJ), where Pretoria has accused Israel of “genocide” during its military offensive in Gaza. Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares stated their goal is to end the war and advance the two-state solution. Several Latin American nations have already joined the proceedings, but Spain is the first European country to do so. The ICJ’s rulings are legally binding, though it lacks enforcement mechanisms. Photo: AFP
Tk 100cr allocation proposed for tackling climate crisis
The Finance Minister has proposed allocating Tk 100 crore as a special fund for climate change and environmental protection in the national budget for FY2024-25. The fund will support Bangladesh’s Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan (BCCSAP), which has guided the nation’s climate actions so far. From FY10 to FY24, Tk 3969 crore was allocated to the Climate Change Trust Fund facilitating 969 projects. The new allocation highlights Bangladesh’s vulnerability to climate impacts and the need for adaptation efforts.
Good news for kidney patients
The proposed national budget for FY2024-25 has reduced import duties on key kidney dialysis components from 10% to 1%. This includes dialysis filters that remove waste from blood and dialysis circuits that facilitate blood flow through dialysis machines. The move will significantly lower the cost of kidney dialysis treatment across the country, providing much-needed financial relief to thousands of kidney patients.
Kangana Ranaut slapped by security personnel at airport days after Lok Sabha victory
Indian actress-turned-politician Kangana Ranaut was allegedly slapped by a female CISF officer at Chandigarh airport today during a security check. Reports suggest Ranaut pushed the officer after being asked to place her phone in the tray. The incident occurred days after Ranaut’s election victory as MP from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh on a BJP ticket. The National Award winner defeated Congress rival Vikramaditya Singh by over 74,000 votes in her maiden political campaign as an ardent supporter of PM Narendra Modi. Photos: Collected
102, the new hotline number of fire service
The Fire Service and Civil Defence has introduced a new easy-to-remember hotline number 102 for any fire-related emergency services. The hotline replaces the existing landline number and the 16163 hotline as it is simpler to recall. Users of all mobile operators except T&T landlines can now call 102 to access fire services. T&T landline support will be added soon. However, the previous 11-digit landline 02223355555 and 16163 hotline will remain active until December 31st.
Education allocation raised by 7.42pc
The government has proposed increasing the allocation for the education sector by 7.42% to Tk 94,710 crore in the budget for the fiscal year 2024-25, compared to the previous year’s allocation. This allocation accounts for 11.88% of the total budget and 1.69% of the GDP. The finance minister emphasized the importance of training the future generation in science, technology, and technical education to build a “Smart Bangladesh” by 2041.
Afzal Hossain’s poetry comes alive in Tanvir Tareq’s new song
Celebrated actor-director Afzal Hossain and acclaimed musician Tanvir Tareq have joined forces to release a new song titled “Kobe O Kivabe” this Eid-ul-Azha. Composed and performed by Tanvir, the song is based on Afzal Hossain’s acclaimed poetry collection “Amra Dhulokonar Amra Adarsholipir”. Directed by Yamin Ilan, the song will be released on Tanvir’s YouTube channel and distributed globally via Shadhin Music app, bringing Afzal’s poetic lyrics to life through Tanvir’s musical rendition. Photos: Collected
Train passenger punched to death following feud over window seat
A 42-year-old garment worker, Jhumor Kanti Baul, was killed after being punched by another passenger, Monjur Mia, 55, over taking a window seat in a Dhaka-bound train at Narsingdi Railway Station on Thursday morning. An altercation ensued when Jhumor tried to occupy the window seat after the previous passenger disembarked. During the argument, Monjur attacked Jhumor, leaving him critically injured. Jhumor succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital, while police detained Monjur at Kamalapur Railway Station. Photo: Collected
Mobile calls and internet services to get costlier
In the FY 2024-25 budget, the Finance Minister announced an immediate 5% increase in the supplementary duty on mobile phone calls and internet services, raising the total VAT to 20% from 15%. This hike will directly increase the cost of mobile recharges and internet usage for consumers across all socioeconomic classes. The cost of buying a new SIM card has also been raised from Tk 200 to Tk 300, adding to the overall burden on mobile users. Public Domain Pictures
Cabinet approves proposed National Budget for FY 2024-25
The Cabinet today approved the proposed national budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 at a special meeting chaired by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The budget, set to be unveiled by Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal, exceeds Tk 8 lakh crore, including an Annual Development Programme (ADP) of Tk 2,65,000 crore. The transport and communication sector received the highest allocation of Tk 70,687.75 crore (26.67%) in the ADP, while the Local Government Division is set to receive around Tk 38,809 crore (15%). Photo: UNB
Ityadi’s’ first-ever ‘zero audiences’ episode to re-air tomorrow
The hit BTV magazine show “Ityadi” is set to re-air its audience-free episode tomorrow after the 8pm Bangla news bulletin. Filmed at the Metrorail Line-6 depot in Diabari in July 2021, the episode features performances by Sabina Yasmin and Tosiba, reports on Metrorail’s history and facilities, an inspirational story of a Natore engineer, and segments exploring contemporary issues like marriage traditions, technology’s impact on children, and more. Photo: Collected
India legend Chhetri set for international swan song
Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri is set to play his final international match against Kuwait in a World Cup qualifier in Kolkata on Thursday. The 39-year-old forward, who has scored 94 goals in 150 appearances for India, is among the world’s all-time leading scorers. His retirement will mark the end of a 20-year international career, during which he became an icon of Indian football and helped the team qualify for the 2011 Asian Cup after a 27-year gap. Photo: X
Sushmita Sen honoured by Int’l Iconic Awards 2024 for ‘Aarya’
Sushmita Sen has been honored with the Popular Actress of India Globally award and the Best Actress award for her performance in the Disney+ Hotstar crime thriller series “Aarya” at the International Iconic Awards 2024. The actress announced the news through a video on social media, expressing gratitude to the award committee, cast, crew, and fans for their support, which enables her to continue her work. Photo: Collected
Rain likely in Dhaka, 4 other divisions: BMD
The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has forecast rain or thundershowers in Rangpur, Mymensingh, and Sylhet divisions over the next 24 hours, with the possibility of moderately heavy to very heavy falls in some areas. Day temperatures may fall slightly in the northern regions, while a mild heatwave is affecting parts of Khulna, Barishal, and other districts. The monsoon is active over Bangladesh, and the country’s highest rainfall of 93mm was recorded in Joypurhat in the last 24 hours. Photo: Prabir Das
UNICEF finds 90pc of Gazan children lack food needed for proper growth
UNICEF reported that 9 out of 10 children in Gaza are suffering from severe food poverty, surviving on two or fewer food groups per day, due to the collapse of food and health systems caused by months of hostilities and restrictions on humanitarian aid. This alarming situation puts children at risk of life-threatening malnutrition and highlights the devastating impact of the conflict on children’s access to proper nutrition for healthy growth and development. Photo: Reuters
Jamalpur’s unused bridge awaits approach road
A 96-meter-long bridge over the Fatika canal in Jamalpur’s Islampur, constructed at a cost of over Tk 5.68 crore, remains unused over a year after its inauguration due to the absence of an approach road. Locals allege that despite the inauguration by the Religious Affairs Minister in January 2023, the bridge lacks a connecting road on the west side, forcing people to use a muddy path to cross the canal.
PM Hasina to leave for India Friday to attend swearing-in ceremony of Narendra Modi
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is set to leave for New Delhi on Friday to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Narendra Modi as the Prime Minister of India for a third consecutive term. Modi extended the invitation during a phone conversation with Hasina on Wednesday, which she accepted. The ceremony is expected to take place on June 8, following the BJP-led NDA’s victory in the 18th Lok Sabha elections. File Photo
Rohit surpasses Dhoni, Babar on day of big career milestones
Rohit Sharma had a record-breaking day during India’s T20 World Cup 2024 opener against Ireland. He surpassed MS Dhoni for most wins as India’s T20I captain, became the third batter to reach 1000 T20 World Cup runs, and moved to second in the list of all-time T20I run-scorers. He also became the first player to hit 600 international sixes across formats. PHOTO: AFP
Trump, now a felon, presents huge political challenge
A felon former president, Donald Trump was found guilty on 34 counts, but remains a strong contender for the 2024 US presidential election. Despite his conviction, he maintains significant support within the Republican Party, setting the stage for an unprecedented and highly polarized election against incumbent Joe Biden, whose stance on the Gaza conflict has antagonized key Democratic voter groups. PHOTO: REUTERS
Australia begin treble bid against self-assured Oman
Australia begin their T20 World Cup campaign against Oman in Barbados today, aiming to become champions across all three formats after winning the Test Championship and ODI World Cup. The experienced squad boasts stars like David Warner, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood. Oman skipper Aqib Ilyas believes his team’s spin attack could trouble Australia, who he feels lack good players of spin. Spin is expected to play a key role at the Kensington Oval venue. Photos: AFP
CoU classes to resume on June 23
Comilla University will resume classes on June 23 after being closed for nearly two months following demonstrations by teachers. The decision was taken at the university’s 95th emergency Syndicate meeting. The university office will reopen on June 9. Deputy Register Officers’ Association President Zakir Hossain was made an OSD for threatening teachers. Academic activities, including departmental exams, have been suspended since April 30 when the university was closed indefinitely amid a feud between the VC and teachers.
Nippon Paint transforms auto refinishing in Bangladesh
Nippon Paint, Asia Pacific’s No. 1 and globally No. 4 paint company, is introducing its Auto Refinish products in Bangladesh to revolutionize automotive finishing. As the total coating expert, they are launching a comprehensive range of auto refinish coatings tailored for the Bangladeshi market. Highlights include their rapid-drying 8100 Ultra Express Clearcoat and the efficient 920 ULTRA-CUT Compound for enhanced gloss. With global expertise and advanced technology, Nippon Paint aims to deliver unparalleled quality and service in Bangladesh’s automotive refinish segment.
20 individuals and organizations received the Tourism Award
Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (TOAB) honored 20 individuals and organizations with TOAB International Tourism Award (TITA) for their contributions to various tourism sectors. The awards were handed over by Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Muhammad Faruk Khan at a ceremony in Dhaka today. Special awards were also given to TOAB founding members and individuals. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries including the Nepal Ambassador, Singapore Chargé d’Affaires, FBCCI President, and Civil Aviation and Tourism Secretary as guests.
Over 8,000 posts of doctors vacant: health minister
The Health Minister Dr Samanta Lal Sen informed Parliament that over 8,000 posts of doctors remain vacant at different hospitals across the country. Responding to queries, he said the government is spending 70% of the medical and surgical requisites allocation on providing drugs free of cost to patients at government hospitals and health centers. He added that nearly 27 types of drugs are being provided free at community clinics, prioritizing health care for marginalized people.
Nvidia overtakes Apple to become second most valuable company
Nvidia’s shares skyrocketed, propelling its market value past $3 trillion and surpassing Apple to become the world’s second-most valuable company. The surge is driven by soaring demand for its AI chips as tech giants like Microsoft and Google race to dominate the emerging AI technology. Nvidia’s stock has rallied 147% this year, while Apple faces weak iPhone demand and lags in AI integration. Photo: Reuters
HSC exams in flood-hit areas to be held later: Education minister
The Education Minister, Mohibul Hassan Chowdhury, stated that the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) and equivalent exams scheduled for June 30 might be postponed in areas affected by worsening flood situations. While preparations are underway for the exams, the minister emphasized that the convenience of examinees is paramount. Initial exams won’t be held in severely flood-affected areas, and alternative arrangements will be made to conduct those exams later without compromising the students’ desired results. Prothom Alo
Cancelling freedom fighter quota in govt jobs illegal: HC
The High Court ordered the government to retain the 30% freedom fighter quota in government jobs and declared illegal the 2018 circular cancelling the quota system. The HC bench passed the order after hearing a writ petition challenging the government’s decision to abolish quotas in Grade 9-13 recruitment based solely on merit. The court issued a rule asking the authorities to explain why the circular should not be deemed illegal. The quota system reserves 56% government jobs for various groups, including 30% for freedom fighters’ children and grandchildren.
Five journalists receive DMF awards
The Digital Media Forum (DMF) honored five journalists with the ‘Digital Media Excellence Award 2024’ and six individuals with special excellence awards for their contributions to media and digital sectors. The award-winning journalists are Eiahia Nakib, SM Marzan Ivan, Jafar Iqbal, Sabbin Hasan, and Yeasin Hasan. DMF introduced the award to uplift Bangladesh’s digital media industry to international standards. Officials highlighted the need for fostering excellence, professionalism, and responsible journalism in digital platforms during the ceremony.
Wives of Aziz Ahmed’s two siblings obtain e-passports with false info
The wives of two brothers of former army chief General (retd) Aziz Ahmed obtained e-passports with false information, like their husbands. Dilara Hasan and Shamim Ara Khan mentioned incorrect names of their husbands and parents in their passports. They received the e-passports with 10-year validity without facing any adversities due to their influential family connections. The immigration and passport officials declined to comment on the matter, which is a punishable offence under the relevant laws.
3 teams win Tk 1m prizes at Robi Datathon 3.0
Robi Axiata Limited concluded the grand finale of Datathon 3.0, Bangladesh’s premier data science competition, at the Bangabandhu International Conference Center. The winners were awarded a total of 1 million taka in prizes. The champion team ‘ACI Server Down’ received 500,000 taka. State Minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak highlighted the importance of data scientists and lauded Robi for organizing the event. Over 3,500 participants showcased their problem-solving abilities and machine-learning expertise in this rigorous 48-hour competition.