Climate scientists aim to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, as the IPCC report highlights severe consequences beyond this limit. At 1.5°C, extreme land temperatures could rise by 3°C, impacting biodiversity and human lives. At 2°C, the impact intensifies, with potential loss of over half the climate range for numerous species and near-total coral reef destruction. Photo: Reuters
Category: Archive
World Cup-winning stars Yusuf Pathan, Kirti Azad win in India elections
Former Indian cricketers Kirti Azad and Yusuf Pathan have secured impressive victories in the Indian general elections. Representing the Trinamool Congress party in West Bengal, Azad defeated BJP’s former state chief Dilip Ghosh, while Pathan triumphed over Congress’ Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury. Azad, a member of India’s 1983 World Cup-winning team, and Pathan, part of the 2007 T20 and 2011 ODI World Cup squads, have transitioned into politics, defeating prominent candidates in their respective constituencies. X
Ads for online betting apps on government websites
Online betting advertisements have been found on 3,295 web pages connected to 11 government websites in Bangladesh. The Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority website hosted the highest 1,439 betting pages. Other affected websites include those of the Local Government Department, Public Library Directorate, Agricultural Development Corporation, and educational institutions. The Dismislab initiative uncovered this issue, raising concerns over the management and security of government websites being compromised to promote illegal online betting activities.
Peaky Blinders’ returns: Cillian Murphy to star in Netflix film
Netflix has officially announced a “Peaky Blinders” film continuation of the beloved British gangster saga. Cillian Murphy will reprise his iconic role as Tommy Shelby and also serve as a producer. The film will be directed by Tom Harper and written by creator Steven Knight. It promises to be an “explosive chapter” in the Peaky Blinders story set in lawless 1900s Birmingham. Production is set to begin later this year, with the film being made in association with BBC Film. Photos: Collected
Mustafizur’s LPL franchise gets new owner
Sequoia Consultants, Inc., a Los Angeles-based civil engineering firm, has taken over the ownership of the LPL team Dambulla. The team will now be known as “Dambulla Sixers”. The majority stake in Sequoia is owned by Priyanga De Silva, a former Sri Lankan cricketer. This new ownership comes after the previous owner was arrested last month. Despite the change, the players, including Mustafizur Rahman, will remain the same for Dambulla Sixers in the upcoming LPL starting July 1.
HSC exams: All coaching centres to remain shut from Jun 29 to Aug 11
All coaching centers across the country will remain closed from June 29 to August 11 ahead of the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) and equivalent examinations starting on June 30. The decision was announced by the Education Minister at a press conference. The 44-day closure of coaching centers is aimed at ensuring fair conduct of the HSC and equivalent examinations this year. The HSC and equivalent exams are scheduled to begin on June 30.
RAB new DG Harun takes charge
Md Harun or Rashid has taken over as the new Director General of Rapid Action Battalion (Rab), replacing M Khurshid Hossain. The appointment was announced through a gazette notification issued by the Public Security Division of the Home Ministry on May 29. Harun or Rashid joined the police force in 1995 and has held various positions, including Deputy Inspector General of Mymensingh range in 2019. He holds an MSc, LLB, and MBA degree.
Exports fall 16% in May
Bangladesh’s merchandise exports fell 16.06% year-on-year to $4.07 billion in May 2024, according to the Export Promotion Bureau. This was 23.75% below the monthly export target. In the July-May period, exports grew a marginal 2.01% to $51.54 billion. Garment exports, contributing over 84% of total exports, grew only 2.86% year-on-year to $43.85 billion in the first 11 months of the fiscal year, indicating challenges in economic recovery despite robust remittance growth.File photo/Star
BTS’ RM earns first No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Rap Albums chart
BTS leader RM has achieved his first No. 1 debut on the Billboard Top Rap Albums chart with his solo album “Right Place, Wrong Person.” The album also reached No. 5 on the Billboard 200, while tracks like “Heaven” and “TT TT (Credit Roll)” made impressive debuts on other charts. RM’s solo success expands his collection of chart-topping tracks, further solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the music industry. Photos: Collected
No extension of deadline for Bangladeshi workers’ entry: Malaysian high commissioner
The Malaysian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Haznah Md Hashim, confirmed that her government will not extend the May 31 deadline for foreign workers’ entry into Malaysia. Speaking after a meeting with Bangladesh’s Expatriates Welfare Minister, she stated that Malaysia wants to maintain uniformity in applying the deadline across the 15 source countries for foreign workers. Photo: Md Abbas
Modi, allies to meet after humbling election verdict
Indian PM Narendra Modi was set to meet allies on Wednesday after his BJP party lost its outright parliamentary majority in a surprise election result. The BJP won 240 seats, short of the 272 needed, forcing it to depend on regional parties. The opposition INDIA alliance led by Rahul Gandhi made gains but endorsements from BJP allies make an opposition government unlikely. Despite a reduced mandate, Modi promised to work harder in his third term after what some termed a “victory that feels like defeat.” Photo: Reuters
Relentless Ronaldo chasing more Euro glory with Portugal
At 39, Cristiano Ronaldo aims to prove he can still make an impact at Euro 2024 after his move to Saudi Arabia. The Portugal captain, international football’s all-time top scorer with 128 goals, will lead a talented team under Roberto Martinez. Ronaldo has scored in five consecutive Euros and edges closer to 900 career goals. With 10 goals in his last 12 Portugal games, his relentless mentality could propel him to a statement performance in Germany. PHOTO: REUTERS
A humbled Modi needs allies, and answers to India’s unemployment, inflation
Narendra Modi’s BJP has won a third term but fell short of a majority, forcing him to lean on allies. Key issues like unemployment, inflation, and economic disparities must be urgently addressed. Though Modi claimed a ‘historic’ win, his smaller mandate means regional parties will extract concessions on populist welfare policies. Managing coalition pressures will test Modi’s strongman leadership style. Photo: Reuters
Rohit tried to get Dravid to stay on as India coach
India captain Rohit Sharma expressed disappointment over Rahul Dravid’s decision to step down as the team’s head coach after the T20 World Cup. Rohit praised Dravid as “a big role model” and said he tried unsuccessfully to convince him to stay on. Dravid’s contract expires at the end of the month, and he has decided not to reapply after nearly three years in charge of the Indian team. PHOTO: X
India election results: Which party won how many seats?
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has emerged as the single largest party by winning 240 seats in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, but fell short of a majority. The Congress won 99 seats, while key opposition alliances like INDIA performed well in states like Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. With the support of allies like TDP and JD(U), the BJP-led NDA is expected to form the government. Photo: Reuters
World Environment Day: Land the size of Dhaka city degrades every year
Soil degradation in Bangladesh is occurring at an alarming rate, threatening food security. Every year, around 270 sq km of cultivable land loses its fertility due to deforestation, excessive use of chemical fertilizers, industrial pollution, and improper waste disposal. Experts warn that if immediate actions are not taken, Bangladesh may lose all its arable land within 63 years, jeopardizing the country’s agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability. Photo: Reuters
Agencies blame Malaysia govt for mess in labour migration
Recruiting agencies blamed the Malaysian government for the rise of syndicates and failure to send thousands of Bangladeshi workers within the deadline despite having valid visas. BAIRA leaders, including MPs who own recruiting firms, denied any wrongdoing or involvement in syndicates. They accused Malaysia of selecting the agencies and providing visas until the last moment, making it difficult to arrange travel. BAIRA claimed some of its MP members rightfully own recruiting agencies and were selected by Malaysia. photo: prothom alo
Benazir, Aziz not our men: Quader
Obaidul Quader clarified that former IGP Benazir Ahmed and ex-army chief Aziz Ahmed were appointed based on merit and seniority, not political links. He warned of trying them if found involved in misdeeds. Quader accused BNP of corruption, claiming evidence against Tarique. He questioned the neutrality of watchdogs TIB and SHUJAN, suspecting opposition ties. The ACC is probing Benazir’s wealth accumulation, while the US imposed sanctions on Aziz over corruption allegations. photo: prothom alo
What if Modi wins for the third term
Narendra Modi is widely expected to win a third term as Indian Prime Minister on Tuesday, leading the world’s most populous nation and fastest-growing major economy. The 73-year-old Hindu nationalist has strengthened ties with the US and Europe as a counterweight to China while maintaining relations with Russia. Modi aims to secure a permanent UN Security Council seat and expand India’s global influence through major events. However, his rule faces concerns over rising authoritarianism and discrimination against minorities. photo:reuters
Intel unveils new chip tech in AI battle with Nvidia, AMD
At Computex, Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger unveiled the company’s latest Xeon 6 processors and Lunar Lake chips, asserting Intel’s leadership in the AI revolution. Facing stiff competition from rivals like Nvidia, AMD, and Qualcomm, Gelsinger claimed Intel’s offerings provide the best performance, efficiency, and affordability for AI applications. Amid intensifying AI chip race, Taiwan’s semiconductor prowess positions it as a crucial player, though geopolitical tensions over the island’s status raise concerns. Photo:Reuters
Tracing footsteps of Ronaldo, ‘dream comes true’ for Mbappe
Real Madrid secured the blockbuster signing of Kylian Mbappé following their 15th Champions League triumph. The French superstar expressed excitement on social media, sharing childhood photos of himself donning a Real Madrid jersey, including one with his idol Cristiano Ronaldo, who left an indelible mark with his trophy-laden stint at the Spanish giants. File Photo: Reuters
Modi claims third election victory
In a historic verdict, India’s parliamentary elections saw Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s BJP falling short of a majority, while the opposition INDIA alliance led by Congress performed strongly. Modi hailed the BJP’s rare third term, but Rahul Gandhi said the results sent a clear message against Modi and BJP’s rule. The INDIA bloc will decide on approaching potential allies to attempt government formation. With neither having a clear majority, India faces an intriguing political scenario as parties explore coalition options to form the next government. File Photo: Reuters/Sahiba Chawdhary
De Bruyne not ruling out Saudi move
Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne has expressed openness to a potential move to the Saudi Pro League as he enters the final year of his contract. The 32-year-old Belgian, with an illustrious career at City, acknowledged considering the lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia, citing family discussions and the need to evaluate options towards the end of his playing days. PHOTO: REUTERS
Our children will not lag behind: PM
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina vowed to create an environment enabling children to learn modern technologies so they do not lag behind in the rapidly advancing world. While distributing awards to winners of contests marking Bangabandhu’s birth anniversaries, she said her government is transforming Bangladesh into a Smart nation by 2041 through measures like building computer labs in schools and training centers. She urged children and youths, the future leaders, to take Bangladesh towards becoming a smart country through proper education and technological knowledge. Photo: BSS
Australia arrive for FIFA WC Qualifier against Bangladesh
Australia arrived in Dhaka to play the second leg of the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers against Bangladesh on June 6 at the Bashundhara Kings Arena. In the first leg, the Socceroos crushed Bangladesh 7-0 in Melbourne last November. Despite the previous heavy defeat, Bangladesh are hopeful of avoiding another mauling at home and putting up a better performance, as expressed by midfielder Sohel Rana. Bangladesh will also face Lebanon on June 11 in Qatar after the Australia match. PHOTO: BFF
Gauff beats Jabeur to reach French Open semifinals
Coco Gauff, the world number three and reigning US Open champion, staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Ons Jabeur 4-6, 6-2, 6-3 and reach the French Open semi-finals. The American youngster rallied from a set down against the Tunisian eighth seed to secure her third consecutive Grand Slam semi-final appearance. Gauff will now face either Iga Swiatek or Marketa Vondrousova, with a potential repeat of last year’s final against Swiatek looming. Photo: AFP
Twin sisters separated at birth as one stolen at DMCH
In a shocking incident, one of the newborn twin babies was stolen from the Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) just hours after birth. The 24-year-old mother, Sukhi Begum, gave birth to twins via C-section. A burqa-clad woman reportedly befriended the grandmother and fled with one of the babies from the corridor outside the maternity ward. Despite a search operation, the suspect remains at large. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage to identify the culprit behind this heartbreaking baby theft case. Photo: Collected
Arjun Rampal is set to come to Dhaka this month
Bollywood actor Arjun Rampal is set to visit Dhaka on June 7 after 14 years to attend the fashion show “BHN Experiences Presents Blue Drops by Zurhem.” The heartthrob actor, known for his charismatic personality, confirmed his presence through a personalized video. He expressed excitement about walking the runway and being part of the event’s concept “one touch changes all.” The fashion show is exclusively organized for Zurhem’s loyal customers, requiring registration for attendance. Photo: Collected
Standard Bank celebrates 25th founding anniversary
Standard Bank has stepped into its 26th year of operations after completing 25 glorious years in Bangladesh’s banking sector. Kazi Akram Uddin Ahmed, the bank’s chairman, inaugurated the celebration at the head office in Dhaka. He urged all members of the bank to follow Shariah law and contribute to its development and prosperity. The event was attended by the bank’s top officials, including the acting managing director and CEO, vice-chairman, directors, and independent directors. Photo: Standard Bank.
China lunar probe takes off from Moon carrying samples
China has achieved a historic feat by successfully launching a module from the far side of the Moon, carrying lunar samples to be brought back to Earth. This milestone marks the first time samples have been collected from the Moon’s far side, furthering Beijing’s ambitious space program aimed at sending a crewed mission to the lunar surface by 2030. The Chang’e-6 probe’s technically complex 53-day mission is a significant leap for China’s decades-old space exploration efforts. Photo: Reuters
Mexican mayor killed day after Sheinbaum presidential win: regional govt
The mayor of Cotija town in Mexico’s Michoacan state, Yolanda Sanchez Figueroa, was murdered on Monday, just a day after Claudia Sheinbaum’s historic election as the country’s first woman president. Sanchez, who was previously kidnapped by a criminal cartel, was gunned down on a public road. Authorities have launched a security operation to arrest the killers in the violence-ridden state, which is plagued by drug trafficking and extortion gangs. Photo: AFP
Bangladesh’s fashion pollution: A wake-up call
Bangladesh’s booming fast fashion industry is causing severe environmental degradation, with rivers polluted by untreated textile effluents, rising carbon emissions from energy-intensive production, and mounting textile waste problems. Urgent calls are being made for sustainable practices like eco-friendly dyes, water recycling, circular fashion models, and stricter environmental regulations to mitigate the industry’s environmental impact and pave the way for a greener fashion future in the country.
Flash flood in Sylhet: one lakh more stranded in seven hours
Despite a drop in rainfall in Meghalaya, the flood situation in Sylhet, Bangladesh continues to worsen, with 28 out of 42 wards inundated. The district administration reports that 761 villages under 10 upazilas are flooded, affecting around 7.38 lakh people as of 10:00 pm yesterday. The Surma river is flowing 5 cm above the danger level, while the Sylhet City Corporation has opened 554 shelters for the flood victims, with councillors also providing refuge in their homes. Photo: Sheikh Nasir
What a third term for India’s Modi means for the world
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is widely expected to win a third term in power, solidifying India’s position as a counterweight to China and strengthening ties with the United States, Europe, and Russia. Modi has leveraged India’s G20 presidency and hosting of major events to bolster his diplomatic ambitions. A third term could see further deepening of defense and trade partnerships with the West, while maintaining a delicate balance with rivals China and Pakistan, and asserting India’s role as a voice for the “Global South.”Reuters file photo
Eid collection wrapped with a piece of nobility
SaRa Lifestyle, a renowned fashion brand, has unveiled its Eid-ul-Adha collection featuring eye-catching designs, diverse patterns, and motifs. The collection offers a wide range of traditional and contemporary apparel for men and women, including panjabis, kurtas, sarees, shirts, and more. Customers can order online through SaRa Lifestyle’s website, Facebook, and Instagram, and avail of home delivery within Dhaka or courier services nationwide.
Sri Lanka unhappy with ‘unfair’ travel schedule
Sri Lankan players and management have expressed frustration over their “unfair” travel schedule in the ICC T20 World Cup, where they are one of only two teams playing their four group-stage matches in four different venues. They have raised concerns about the inconvenience and potential disadvantages caused by the frequent travel, including fatigue and lack of familiarity with playing conditions, compared to teams playing multiple matches at the same venue. Photo: AFP