Bangladeshi Islamist party Jamaat-e-Islami has backtracked from its initial decision to contest the upcoming upazila parishad elections. After signaling its grassroots units to field candidates, Jamaat’s central leadership has now instructed them to withdraw their nominations. The party cites the “controlled” nature of the election, with opposition parties having little chance of success, as the primary reason behind this reversal. Jamaat’s decision comes after other opposition parties, including BNP, also announced a boycott of the upazila polls. The shift in Jamaat’s stance highlights the increasingly challenging political environment for the party. (photo/jamaatlogo)

At least 13 people were killed in a collision between a bus and a pickup van on the Dhaka-Khulna highway in Faridpur’s Sadar upazila. The accident occurred in the Tetultala area, where a Magura-bound bus collided with a pickup van coming from Alphadanga. 11 people died on the spot, while two others succumbed to their injuries at Dhaka Medical College Hospital. Police have recovered the bodies, but details of the deceased have not been immediately disclosed. The tragic incident highlights the need for improved road safety measures in Bangladesh. (photo/alimuzzaman)

The article highlights a major weakness in Bangladeshi journalism – the lack of follow-up reporting on important stories. It cites examples such as the Bailey Road fire, the crackdown on casinos, and the Bangladesh Bank heist, where journalists have failed to provide continuous updates and hold authorities accountable. The piece argues that follow-up reporting is crucial for journalism to remain relevant, as it not only benefits readers but also provides reporters with opportunities for more in-depth coverage. The article emphasizes the need for Bangladeshi media to address this shortcoming and ensure they are keeping their audience informed. (photo/prothomalo)

BNP has decided to boycott the upcoming upazila parishad elections, citing the party’s policy of not participating in polls under the current government. However, the decision comes only after the deadline to submit nomination papers, with around 45 BNP leaders having already filed their candidacies as independents. The party has threatened punitive action against those who defy the boycott decision, though it remains to be seen how strictly they will enforce it. Jamaat-e-Islami has also withdrawn from the upazila polls after initially fielding candidates.

The escalating tensions between Iran and Israel have added new concerns for Bangladesh’s garment exports. Apparel shipments are already facing delays and higher costs due to the ongoing Red Sea crisis and the Gaza war. Buyers are now pressing for faster deliveries, while some are shifting orders to alternative suppliers like Turkey and Vietnam to avoid disruptions. Experts warn that if the Iran-Israel conflict worsens, it could further drive up shipping and production costs, threatening Bangladesh’s garment trade recovery efforts. (photos/dailystar)

Bangladeshi edible oil refiners seek to raise retail prices by Tk 10 per liter, citing the expiration of a temporary value-added tax (VAT) reduction. However, the state minister for commerce has opposed any immediate price hike, stating that the situation will be reviewed. The refiners claim the reduced VAT, introduced in February to ease prices ahead of Ramadan, has now ended. The government’s stance suggests it aims to maintain stable edible oil prices for consumers despite the refiners’ demands. (photo/dailystar)

Dhaka stock market witnessed a decline in the morning trade for the second consecutive session, as selling pressure dominated the bourse. The benchmark DSEX index fell 4.53 points to 5,773.23. Other indices also declined, with more stocks losing value than gaining. The market turnover, a key indicator of liquidity, stood at Tk 170.61 crore, suggesting tepid investor activity. The continued downward trend reflects the prevailing bearish sentiment in the Dhaka stock market.

Bangladesh offers an array of scenic motorcycle routes for adventurous travelers. Experts highlight five exceptional journeys, including the world-record-breaking Cox’s Bazar-Teknaf Marine Drive, the “Ladakh of Bangladesh” Sindukchari-Mohalchari Road, the tranquil Manikchari-Kaptai Road, the mesmerizing Chalan Beel Road, and the epic 500-kilometer Tamabil-Bhomra cross-country trek. These routes showcase Bangladesh’s diverse landscapes, from majestic mountains to serene coastlines, providing motorcyclists with unforgettable experiences. With careful planning and precautions, these roads present opportunities for thrill-seekers to discover the country’s hidden gems and connect with its vibrant culture. (photo/mirza abidurrahman)

In the digital age, universities in Bangladesh are stepping up to address the growing need for cybersecurity education. The Military Institute of Science and Technology (MIST) has established a cutting-edge “Cyber Range” facility, simulating real-world cyber threat scenarios to provide students with hands-on experience. Integrating cybersecurity into the curriculum not only enhances graduates’ employability but also contributes to Bangladesh’s overall digital resilience. Through initiatives like “Capture the Flag” exercises and hosting national and international cybersecurity events, MIST is leading the charge in equipping the next generation with the skills to navigate the complexities of the cyber world. (Photos: Javed/MIST) 

The Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle, with each month beginning with the sighting of the new crescent moon. This makes astronomy a crucial element in determining Islamic events and festivals, including Ramadan and Eid. While the lunar cycle spans 29.5 days, the Islamic calendar assigns 29 or 30 days to each month, accounting for the practical constraints of the lunar cycle. This adaptability in the calendar ensures the accurate observation of religious milestones in the Islamic tradition.

Bangladeshi startup EdBridge Scholars has won second place at the BobCat Ventures grant competition in the US, earning $4,000 and professional mentorship. Founded by Bates College student Tanvir Thamid, EdBridge Scholars aims to democratize access to higher education abroad, particularly in North America, for Bangladeshi students. The startup’s strength lies in providing free mentoring to Bangladeshi students, helping them gain admission to top US institutions. The grant will be used to expand the company’s mentoring services and support financially-needy students, furthering their mission of bridging borders through education. (photo/tanvirthamid)

Dhaka’s air quality remains a major concern, with the city ranking fourth globally in terms of the worst air pollution today. The air quality index (AQI) measured 157, indicating ‘unhealthy’ levels, primarily due to high particulate matter concentrations. This persistent air pollution issue poses significant health risks, contributing to increased mortality from various respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Authorities must take urgent action to address the sources of pollution and implement effective mitigation strategies to safeguard the well-being of Dhaka’s residents. (photo/dailystar)

Bangladesh Bank has decided to focus on five merger proposals it has already received, rejecting any new proposals for now. The proposed mergers include Sonali Bank acquiring Bangladesh Development Bank, Bangladesh Krishi Bank taking over Rajshahi Krishi Unnayan Bank, City Bank acquiring BASIC Bank, United Commercial Bank buying National Bank, and Exim Bank absorbing Padma Bank. Experts suggest these mergers are not entirely voluntary, as weaker banks are being forced to merge with stronger ones as part of the central bank’s reforms under the IMF’s conditions. (photo/dailystar)

Chachkia, a village in Pabna, Bangladesh, is the last bastion of an ancient weaving tradition. Locals here use traditional “Matir Taat” looms, made entirely of bamboo and wood, to weave durable and soft lungis. This unique handloom technology, passed down through generations, produces a distinct fabric that sets Chachkia’s lungis apart from mass-produced alternatives. As traditional crafts face the threat of modernization, Chachkia’s weavers strive to preserve this centuries-old legacy, offering a glimpse into Bangladesh’s rich textile heritage. (photo/dailystar)

Bangladesh’s economy is in a concerning state, with GDP growth slowing to 3.78% in the second quarter of FY2023-24, the slowest pace in three quarters. Inflation has edged close to double digits at 9.81%, eroding consumer buying power and decreasing domestic demand. Factors such as macroeconomic mismanagement, import restrictions, and a distressed financial sector have contributed to the overall decline. Economists emphasize the urgent need for financial sector reforms and addressing endemic corruption, warning that without immediate action, the economy is heading towards darker clouds. (photo/collected)

Bangladesh Bank has decided to merge several weak banks with stronger ones to reform the banking sector. However, experts are skeptical, as the mergers do not address the root causes of the banking crisis – loan defaults, fraud, and lack of accountability. The guidelines also provide leniency to the owners and directors responsible for the banks’ weaknesses, allowing them to return to the boards after mergers. Experts warn that simply merging the banks may worsen the situation without first addressing the systemic issues. (photo/prothomalo)

Expatriates in Dhaka district sent the highest remittance through legal channels between July 2023 and February 2024, followed by Chattogram, Sylhet, and Cumilla. Bangladesh received $15.07 billion in remittances during this period, with Dhaka alone receiving $5.23 billion. Remittance increased by 3% to $29.10 billion in 2023 from 2021, but was lower than expected due to permanent expatriate settlements and money laundering. Banks purchased dollars at higher rates due to a dollar crisis, leading to increased remittance inflow.(photo/prothomalo)

Somali pirates have released the hijacked Bangladeshi ship MV Abdullah and its 23 crew members after reportedly receiving a $5 million ransom payment. One of the pirates confirmed the ransom was paid and divided among them before they departed the vessel. The ship, a bulk carrier, was hijacked in March while en route from Mozambique to the UAE. This incident marks a resurgence of piracy off Somalia’s coast after a lull, potentially emboldened by regional instability and relaxed security measures. (photo/reuters)

Canadian aerospace company IMP Cascade Aerospace is interested in setting up an aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility in Bangladesh. The project, if approved, will help the country save foreign currency, develop skilled manpower, and generate employment opportunities. Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to Canada says the government and the company have already agreed in principle, and the next steps need to be determined before the agreement expires. The facility could also provide MRO services for neighboring countries, potentially earning Bangladesh foreign revenue. (photo/dhakatribune)

Nine more members of Myanmar’s Border Guard Police (BGP) have taken refuge in Bangladesh, entering through Teknaf borders amid intense fighting between junta forces and Arakan Army in Rakhine state. Residents near the Bangladesh-Myanmar border report hearing loud explosions and shelling since Eid. The new BGP members were disarmed and taken into custody by Bangladesh Border Guards. This follows 179 BGP members fleeing to Bangladesh in March. The repatriation process for those earlier arrivals is ongoing as conflicts escalate in Myanmar. (photo/banglatribune)

The Kuki-Chin National Front (KNF), an armed group in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, has emerged as a new threat to stability in the region. The group, which demands a separate state, has been involved in a series of attacks, including bank robberies and clashes with security forces. Authorities say the group has links with Islamist militant outfits and has been able to recruit new members, taking advantage of the unrest in the hills. The government’s peace talks with the KNF have stalled, raising concerns about the potential for further escalation of violence.

Dhaka’s air quality remained extremely poor throughout March, with no single day of good air quality. Measurements from Dhaka University and Stamford University researchers found significantly higher levels of air pollutants like Aerosol Optical Depth and PM2.5 compared to last year. This has led to a spike in respiratory illnesses, with over 600 patients visiting a Dhaka hospital daily. Experts blame the government’s inability to control construction activities, brick kilns, and waste management as the key reasons behind the worsening air pollution crisis in the capital city. (photo/prothomalo)

The High Court has suspended the BUET’s ban on student politics, but the students themselves oppose such politics on campus. A survey found that 98% of BUET students are against student politics, which they say promotes ragging, abuse of power, and victimization of innocent students. The ruling party’s student wing, Chhatra League, has been accused of dominating university campuses and suppressing opposing views, often resorting to violence. Experts argue that true student politics should be democratic and not serve as a tool for political parties to exert control over universities.(photo/prothoalo)