Trending

Sun, 19 Oct 2025
  • Sun, 19 Oct 2025
post
Bangladesh

Passive Smoking Threatens the Health of Mothers and Children

The Formation Meeting of the Anti-Tobacco Mothers' Forum was held on Wednesday morning (October 23) at Krishibid Institute Bangladesh, organized by Nari Maitree. During the event, 18 prominent mothers gathered to raise their voices against the harmful impact of direct and secondhand smoking on women and children. The forum called for the immediate passage of the proposed amendments to the tobacco control law. The program was convened by Shivani Bhattacharya, former Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Social Welfare, co convenor Shahnaz Begum Poly, management committee member at national press Club, afsana nowrin, a prominent mother and the event chaired by Shaheen Akter Dolly, Executive Director of Nari Maitree. The meeting aimed to bring mothers together in a united effort to combat the harmful effects of tobacco. Md. Abdus Salam Mia, Programs Manager at Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids Bangladesh was present as a special guest speaker at the program and he stressed the urgent need for stronger tobacco control measures in Bangladesh.Nari Maitree’s Project Coordinator, Nasrin Akter, presented alarming statistics, revealing that 37.8 million people in Bangladesh are tobacco users, and an estimated 442 people die every day from tobacco-related diseases. To combat this public health crisis, the forum called for the rapid approval of the Ministry of Health’s proposed amendments to the existing tobacco control law. Key provisions of the proposed amendments include eliminating designated smoking areas in public places and public transport, banning the display of tobacco products at points of sale, prohibiting corporate social responsibility activities by tobacco companies, and banning the use and marketing of e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products, stopping all types of retail and loose sales of tobacco products; and increasing the size of pictorial health warnings from 50% to 90%.The forum's convener, Shivani Bhattacharya, believes that the members of the forum will play a significant role in making Bangladesh tobacco-free. She noted that 38.4 million people, mostly women and children, are exposed to secondhand smoke despite not smoking themselves. Secondhand smoke causes several health problems for women, including miscarriages, premature births, low birth weight, bleeding during pregnancy, excessive bleeding during childbirth, and stillbirths. The forum will provide tireless support and advice in demanding the swift passage of the proposed amendments to the tobacco control law to protect women and children's health. Additionally, they will work to keep their families safe from the harmful effects of tobacco and speak to other mothers about this issue.She also emphasized the need for effective taxation on tobacco products and urged the National Board of Revenue and the Ministry of Finance to take action. She assured that the forum would actively stand against the tobacco companies' tactics to hinder tobacco control legislation.Abdus Salam Miah highlighted the crucial role mothers play in shielding young people from tobacco addiction, which has become increasingly prevalent among teenagers. A recent World Health Organization Global Youth Tobacco Survey reported that nearly 12% of Bangladeshi adolescents aged 13 to 15 are regular smokers. "Tobacco addiction is dragging our youth into a dark and dangerous world. Mothers must rise and take action to protect their children from this threat," Furthermore, members of the forum strongly demanded the swift passage of the proposed amendments to the tobacco control law to achieve a tobacco-free Bangladesh.Also attending the event were writer and columnist Sapna Reza, News Editor of Views Bangladesh Maria Salam, Senior Reporter of Ittefaq Rabia Hossain Baby, President of Kheya Women and Child Development Organization Farzana Shammi, and mothers from various professional backgrounds.

  • 23 Oct 2024
Read More
post
Bangladesh

Journalists Demand Swift Passage of Amendments to the Tobacco Control Law

Nari Maitree, a leading non-governmental development organization, organized a pivotal roundtable discussion meeting "The Role of Journalists in Making a Tobacco-Free Bangladesh: Expectations and Actions" aimed at addressing urgent amendments to the tobacco control law and to encourage effective action from journalists in controlling tobacco use. The event, held on Wednesday (9 October), at Bishwo Shahitto Kendro, provided a platform for key stakeholders to engage in a thoughtful dialogue on this critical issue.Shaheen Akter Dolly, Executive Director of Nari Maitree, presided over the session, lending her expertise in advocating for women's rights and public health, thereby bringing valuable insights to the discussions.Featured distinguished guest speakers Professor Dr. Golam Mohiuddin Faruque, an oncologist and President of the Bangladesh Cancer Society, and Mr. Md. Mostafizur Rahman, Lead Policy Advisor for the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids (CTFK), Bangladesh, and former Chairman of BCIC. Their expertise added valuable insights into the ongoing efforts to control tobacco use in Bangladesh.The special guests included several distinguished personalities from various media backgrounds, notably Mr. Rashed Rabbi, President of the Health Reporters Forum; Shamim Mehedi, Chief Executive Officer of Global TV; Mr. Sohrab Hasan, Joint Editor of Prothom Alo; Shahnaz Begum Polly, Member of the Executive Committee of the National Press Club; and Zulhas Alam, Dhaka Bureau Chief of the New York-based international news agency Associated Press (AP) and member of the Executive Committee of the National Press Club. The main presentation was delivered by Nasrin Akter, Project Coordinator at Nari Maitree, highlighting critical issues concerning youth addiction to e-cigarettes. Suggestions were put forward, including halting the manufacturing of e-cigarettes, discontinuing single-stick cigarette sales, and amplifying health-conscious imagery on tobacco product packaging.Sushanta K Sinha warned against the misleading tactics of tobacco companies, highlighting the Ministry of Health's timely and public-friendly initiative to amend the tobacco control law. He urged caution as the law awaits approval, with potential obstacles from tobacco companies spreading false information.Rashed Rabbi pointed out that the cost of treating tobacco-related diseases is 34% higher than the revenue generated from tobacco, making stronger laws essential.Sohrab Hasan stressed the urgent need to strengthen tobacco control laws to prevent more lives from being lost to tobacco's harmful effects.Shamim Mehedi emphasized the increasing addiction to e-cigarettes among youth and the importance of stopping their marketing.Md. Mostafizur Rahman highlighted the deadly impact of tobacco, with 161,000 deaths annually in Bangladesh, and urged the media to play a key role in pushing for stronger tobacco control laws.Professor Dr. Golam Mohiuddin Faruque stated, "Tobacco is responsible for nearly one-third of all cancer-related deaths worldwide, significantly increasing the risk of lung, pancreatic, and oral cancers. Controlling tobacco use is critical to reducing these risks. Bangladesh was among the first countries to sign the World Health Organization's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). However, the latest WHO report on the global tobacco epidemic indicates that Bangladesh still falls short of the highest standards in banning smoking in public places and prohibiting tobacco advertising and incentives. Therefore, it is essential to swiftly pass and strengthen the proposed amendments to the tobacco control law to create a healthier, tobacco-free Bangladesh."Shaheen Akter Dolly emphasized, "Tobacco is extremely harmful to health. In Bangladesh, around 38.4 million people are exposed to secondhand smoke each year, with women and children being the most affected. Passing the amended tobacco control law is essential to protect the health of women and children from the dangers of secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke leads to a reduction in women's reproductive health, increased miscarriage rates, and fatalities in both mothers and children during childbirth. We strongly urge for the swift passage of the proposed tobacco control law amendments to protect the health of women and children."Other speakers also called for the urgent passage of the tobacco control law amendments to achieve a tobacco-free Bangladesh. They emphasized the need to align the existing tobacco control law with FCTC guidelines, which include eliminating designated smoking areas in all public places and public transport to protect non-smokers, banning the display of tobacco products at retail outlets, prohibiting corporate social responsibility activities by tobacco companies, banning the import, production, use, and marketing of e-cigarettes and emerging heated tobacco products, ending all forms of loose and retail tobacco sales, and increasing the size of graphic health warnings from 50% to 90%.The session witnessed impassioned calls from various media representatives and journalists urging for stronger laws against tobacco, advocating for smoke-free environments, and promoting gender-sensitive measures in combating tobacco-related challenges.Nari Maitree remains committed to championing public health initiatives and looks forward to the fruition of these discussions leading to strengthened tobacco control laws for a healthier society.

  • 09 Oct 2024
Read More
post
Bangladesh

Nari Maitree Hosts Knowledge Sharing Meeting to Enhance Collaboration

Nari Maitree, a national development organization dedicated to empowering marginalized communities, held a knowledge-sharing meeting on 25 September 2024 between its Dhaka and Ukhiya (Cox’s Bazar) offices. Supported by the Core Group, the meeting served as a vital platform for fostering improved communication and collaboration among staff across different project locations. It focused on exchanging insights related to the organization's work in Cox's Bazar, particularly in the areas of protection, health, nutrition, and climate change.The Cox’s Bazar office is actively addressing major humanitarian and environmental challenges in the region. Nari Maitree has been implementing programs to ensure the protection and well-being of vulnerable populations, particularly women and children. Additionally, initiatives in health and nutrition have been essential in improving the quality of life for local communities, while the organization's climate change efforts continue to address the pressing environmental concerns impacting the area. During the meeting, representatives from both offices shared key strategies, lessons learned, and best practices from their respective regions. Nari Maitree’s Executive Director, Shaheen Akter Dolly, was also present, adding valuable insights to the discussions. The Ukhiya team provided updates on their ongoing projects, offering detailed insights into the challenges and opportunities encountered in the field. This exchange of information aimed to strengthen cross-departmental collaboration, ensuring that the knowledge and expertise from different locations are effectively integrated into the organization’s wider efforts. During the meeting, Shaheen Akter Dolly, Executive Director of Nari Maitree, expressed her appreciation for the staff’s dedication and emphasized, “This knowledge-sharing meeting is vital for our team’s capacity building and professional growth. By enhancing our communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork, we can foster a supportive and collaborative work environment. I truly believe that investing in our staff’s development is essential for achieving our mission and creating a positive impact in our communities.” The meeting emphasized the importance of ongoing communication within Nari Maitree to improve program outcomes and achieve its mission of sustainable community development. By enhancing internal communication, the organization can better address the challenges faced by vulnerable communities, ensuring resources are used efficiently and solutions are delivered effectively. Nari Maitree remains dedicated to promoting teamwork and innovation, ensuring a united effort to bring lasting positive change to communities across Bangladesh.

  • 29 Sep 2024
Read More
post
Bangladesh

Youth Advocates Demand Stronger Tobacco Control Laws

In an urgent call to strengthen tobacco control laws, youth from various educational institutions have raised concerns over the alarming rise in tobacco-related deaths in Bangladesh, which claim 161,000 lives annually. On Saturday (21 September 2024), a workshop titled "Capacity Building Workshop for Youth Advocates against Tobacco" was organized by the women’s development organization Nari Maitree at the Krishibid Institute in Dhaka. Forty students participated in the workshop, advocating for amendments to the existing tobacco control laws.The Event Presided over by Nari Maitree’s Executive Director Shaheen Akter Dolly, the event featured Dr. Gazi Md. Saifuzzaman, Director General of the Department of Youth Development, as the chief guest. Special guests included Tanusree Halder , Associate Professor at Sher-E Bangla Agricultural University along with Youth Social Media Influencer and presenter of Channel i Dipty Chowdhury.Key speakers at the event included Mr. Md. Abdus Salam Miah, Programs Manager at Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids Bangladesh (CTFK), Humaira Sultana, Communications Manager at CTFK and Ataur Rahman, Advocacy Manager at CTFK. Key speakers emphasized the need to pass the proposed amendments to the Tobacco Control Act, drafted by the Ministry of Health. These amendments aim to align the law with the WHO's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) by eliminating designated smoking areas in public places and transport, banning tobacco displays at retail points, prohibiting CSR activities by tobacco companies, banning e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products, and increasing health warnings on packaging to 90%.Nari Maitree’s Project Coordinator Nasrin Akter highlighted the critical need for these reforms, stating that around 37.8 million people in Bangladesh use tobacco, and 442 individuals die daily from tobacco-related illnesses. Shaheen Akter Dolly, in her address, underscored the importance of a tobacco-free Bangladesh in building a healthy future generation, while Tanusree Halder emphasized the growing trend of e-cigarette use among youth, warning that it poses a severe threat to public health.Youth social media influencer Dipty Chowdhury encouraged everyone to use digital platforms to speak out against tobacco, highlighting how important social media is for raising health awareness. She praised Nari Maitree for hosting the event and expressed hope that young people would use their platforms to actively support anti-tobacco campaigns and advocate for stronger tobacco control in online spaces. Additionally, she urged the youth to avoid tobacco use themselves and to speak out against its harmful effects.Dr. Gazi Md. Saifuzzaman, Director General of the Department of Youth Development, emphasized the alarming reality that 442 people in Bangladesh die every day due to tobacco-related illnesses such as lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory disorders. He urged the youth to raise their voices and advocate for critical amendments to the tobacco control law, not only to protect themselves but also to shield their families from the harmful effects of tobacco. Dr. Saifuzzaman called on young people to take an active role in inspiring others to do the same. He further encouraged the youth to lead enthusiastic social media campaigns, pushing for the swift passage and approval of the proposed amended law by the cabinet to protect public health. Additionally, he pledged that, if given the opportunity, he would personally speak to the government about the need for the speedy passage of the proposed tobacco control law amendments.The workshop concluded with inspiring closing remarks from Khaled-bin-Yousuf, Program Director of Nari Maitree, who emphasized the vital role of youth in the fight against tobacco and encouraged participants to carry the message forward toward a healthier future.

  • 21 Sep 2024
Read More
post
Bangladesh

Demand for speedy Passage of Tobacco Control Law Amendment to Ensure Health of Mothers and Children

The Mothers Forum Against Tobacco has called for the swift passage of the amendment to the tobacco control law to ensure the health of mothers and children. This demand was made during the formation meeting of the "Mothers Forum Against Tobacco" organized by Nari Maitree at the Krishibid Institute Bangladesh on Thursday(4July),at 11 AM.The forum was chaired by Shaheen Akter Dolly, Executive Director of Nari Maitree, with consisting of 15 dedicated Prominent mothers. The forum was convened by former Member of Parliament and previous member of the Women's Parliamentary Forum Against Tobacco, Shirin Nayeem Punam. Former Member of Parliament Nargis Rahman serving as co-convener in this forum. As a Special Guest Mr. Mustafizur Rahman, lead policy advisor, campaign for tobacco free kids Bangladesh and former chairman of Bangladesh Chemical Industry Corporation was present in the event.  Md. Abdus Salam Mia, Program Manager of Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids Bangladesh, was also present as distinguished guest speakers. Shaheen Akter Dolly, Executive Director of Nari Maitree, emphasized "Tobacco poses significant health risks to women, including exposure to secondhand smoke." She also urged the Mothers Forum to advocate for the prohibition of smoking in public places, public transportation, restaurants, and all designated smoking areas. Shirin Nayeem Punam expressed her belief that the forum members will play an essential role in creating a tobacco-free Bangladesh. She stated that, "Every day, 442 lives are lost due to tobacco. To stop this death march, this forum will tirelessly support and provide advice for the amendment of the tobacco control law.They will also keep their families free from the effects of tobacco and will talk to other mothers about this issue. The Ministry of Health promptly submits the amended law to the cabinet and our forum will also advocate strongly on social media for its approval"Additionally, she assured that the forum would strongly demand effective taxation on tobacco products from the National Board of Revenue and the Ministry of Finance, and will take an active stand against the tactics of tobacco companies that aim to undermine the tobacco control law.Abdus Salam Mia, Program Manager of Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids Bangladesh, emphasized that tobacco addiction is drawing the youth into a dark world. Children and adolescents are starting to smoke at a young age, leading to severe physical health issues and mental distress. According to the World Health Organization's ‘Global Youth Tobacco Survey,’ conducted among 13 to 15-year-olds in various countries, the highest rates of smoking addiction among adolescents are found in India, Indonesia, and Bangladesh. In Bangladesh, about 12 percent of adolescents are regularly addicted to smoking.Mustafizur Rahman said, "Secondhand smoke is extremely harmful to women. Due to secondhand smoke, women face early miscarriages, premature births, low birth weight babies, bleeding during pregnancy, and excessive bleeding during childbirth. According to the Global Adult Tobacco Survey 2017, 38.4 million people are affected by secondhand smoke, where women and children being the most harmed. Therefore, I firmly believe that the 'Mothers Forum Against Tobacco' will stand against tobacco for the future generation's health and will take strong steps to demand the speedy passage of the tobacco control law amendment."Other forum members also urged for the swift passage of the amendment to the tobacco control law to fulfill Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's commitment to creating a tobacco-free Bangladesh by 2040

  • 04 Jul 2024
Read More
post
Bangladesh

Women MPs Advocate for Swift Passage of Tobacco Control Law Amendment

Women Parliament Members’ Forum Against Tobacco have urged the swift passage of the tobacco control law amendments, proposed by the Ministry of Health, to help achieve Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's vision of a tobacco-free Bangladesh by 2040.To advocate this demand, a discussion meeting was organized by Nari Maitree on Wednesday, June 26, 2024 at the Krishibid Institute in Dhaka. The event provided a platform for members of the Women Parliament Members’ Forum Against Tobacco to highlight the importance of passing the proposed amendments of the tobacco control law without delay and to discuss strategies for achieving a tobacco-free Bangladesh by 2040.The event was chaired by Shabnam Jahan Shila MP, the Convener of the Women Parliament Members’ Forum Against Tobacco. Also the event was honored by the attendance of prominent MPs of the Forum, including-Mahfuza Sultana (Women's Seat-6), Zara Jabin Mahbub (Women's Seat-7), Masuda Siddiq Rozy (Women's Seat-34), Nazma Aktar (Women's Seat-37), Anima Mukti Gomes (Women's Seat-29), Sheikh Anar Koli Putul (Women's Seat-30), Ashrafunnessa (Women's Seat-44), Kanan Ara Begum (Women's Seat-41), Laila Parveen (Women's Seat-13), Sanjida Khanam (Women's Seat-32), Farida Yeasmin (Women's Seat-35), and Hasina Bari Chowdhury (Women's Seat-31).Shabnam Jahan Shila, MP highlighted the various activities of the Women Parliament Members’ Forum Against Tobacco. She said that tobacco causes 161,000 deaths annually. To reduce this death rate, the forum has undertaken several effective measures. Forum members have sent a letter to the Prime Minister urging the passage of the tobacco control law amendment as quick as possible to save lives. Also, the members have continued anti-tobacco campaigns on social media and also in mass media to build greater public opinion. Other forum members also demanded for the swift passage of the tobacco control law. They emphasized that it is their responsibility to protect future generations. They expressed concerns over the habit of smoking among the youth and stressed the importance of a social movement against tobacco at the grassroots level to support the anti-tobacco campaign.Ms. Adrienne Pizatella, representative of Bloomberg Philanthropies, Dr. Maheen Malik, Director of the South Asian Programs for Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, and Masuma Alam, President of Nari Maitree also attended the meeting. They appreciated the initiative of the Women MPs initiative and requested the Forum members to use their influence to expedite the passage of the draft amendment of the tobacco control law to save lives and thereby supporting the commitment of honourable Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to make Bangladesh tobacco-free by 2040.

  • 26 Jun 2024
Read More
post
Bangladesh

Hasina favors India collaboration on Teesta Water Project

Staff Reporter : Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina reassured the nation on Tuesday that the decision to grant rail transit to India will not harm Bangladesh.Seaking at a press conference held at Ganabhaban, she addressed concerns and criticisms that have surfaced following her recent visit to India.“No matter how small, this is our sovereign country. We are working to maintain our sovereignty and individuality while fostering friendly relations,” Prime Minister Hasina stated firmly. She questioned the logic behind the opposition to allowing India to transport goods via Bangladeshi railways.“What harm is there in giving transit to one country through another?” she asked. “Look at Europe. There are no borders there. Does that mean one country has sold itself to another? So why should we lag behind in South Asia?”The Prime Minister emphasised that enhancing rail connectivity with India is intended for the welfare of the Bangladeshi people. “We are gradually reopening the rail links with India that had been closed for so long. This is making our trade and commerce easier,” she explained. “By opening all these communication routes, it is our people who will benefit the most.”Sheikh Hasina highlighted the practical benefits of increased connectivity, including better access to medical treatment, education, and shopping, which would in turn boost trade and commerce.In addressing accusations of compromising national interests for political gains, she declared, “I always protect the interests of the country. Sheikh Hasina does not sell this country as we had liberated this country.”She criticized those who question her patriotism, suggesting that they have metaphorically sold their own minds to India.During her recent trip to India, Prime Minister Hasina signed 10 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), including one for rail transit. If implemented, this agreement would allow India to transport goods directly from one part of the country to another through Bangladeshi territory.Prime Minister Hasina also addressed the ongoing Teesta water-sharing issue, clarifying that no final decision has been made on whether the project will proceed with the assistance of India or China.“China has conducted a feasibility study, and India will do one as well. We will choose the option that is most acceptable and beneficial to us,” she said.However, she noted that since India is already involved in water distribution and has shown interest in the project, it might be more advantageous to collaborate with them.Responding to a letter from West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi concerning the Teesta and Ganges water-sharing agreements, Hasina remarked that it is an “internal matter of India.”She assured that even if the Ganges water-sharing agreement is not renewed, it will continue to be upheld.Professor Yunus IssueDuring the press conference, a question about Nobel laureate economist Professor Muhammad Yunus arose. Referring to a foreign media report, a journalist asked whether the government had taken a stance against Yunus.“We or our government have not taken any action against Dr. Yunus,” Prime Minister Hasina replied, adding that she has no personal animosity towards him. “I have no conflict with anyone, and I have no aspirations for a Nobel Prize. I don’t have the money or resources to maintain a lobbyist for that.”Addressing Banking Sector ChallengesPrime Minister Hasina also touched on the issues plaguing Bangladesh's banking sector, assuring that efforts are underway to resolve them.“The state has the responsibility to safeguard the deposits of those who place them, and that is what we are trying to do,” she said. Acknowledging that some individuals have amassed wealth and moved it abroad, she questioned the logic behind such actions.“What is the benefit of accumulating so much wealth if you can't stay in the country? What’s the point of making so much money if you can’t even live here?”Despite these challenges, she affirmed that the government is working to address the problems. “Wherever there are problems, we are trying to solve them. We have enacted laws and included provisions in this year’s budget,” Hasina concluded.Ends/Jakir 

  • 25 Jun 2024
Read More
post
Bangladesh

Awami League at 75: Steering through inflation and unemployment

Abu Jakir-  The Bangladesh Awami League, one of the oldest and largest political parties in the country, commemorates its 75th founding anniversary today. This milestone comes as the party enjoys an unprecedented period of governance, having led the nation consecutively since 2009 under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.Reflecting on the party’s long journey, senior Awami League leaders acknowledge the initial hardships and the ongoing challenges they face despite their current dominance. Inflation, the rising prices of essential goods, and unemployment remain the primary economic hurdles confronting the government."The main aim of our party now is to complete the unfinished works we promised in our election manifesto. Controlling inflation and the rising prices of essentials is our main challenge," said Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader. He emphasised the party's commitment to serving the people and addressing their immediate concerns.The Awami League also contends with political obstacles, notably the resurgence of fundamentalist forces within the country. These groups, often associated with the inclusion of "outsiders" and "hybrid" leaders and activists, pose a significant threat to the party's secular and progressive stance.Mahbubul Alam Hanif, the party's Joint General Secretary, highlighted the importance of the 75th anniversary message: "Our goal is to implement our election manifesto and build a non-communal country by defeating communal forces and militancy."A Historical JourneyThe Awami League was established on June 23, 1949, by supporters of Huseyn Shaheed Suhrawardy at the Rose Garden of KM Das Lane. Initially named the Awami Muslim League, the party dropped the word "Muslim" in 1955, marking its shift towards secularism.Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani and Shamsul Haq were the first president and general secretary, respectively, with Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman serving as joint secretary while imprisoned. In March 1966, Bangabandhu assumed leadership of the Awami League, shortly after announcing the historic Six-Point Programme in Lahore. His leadership was pivotal in the struggle for Bangladesh's independence, earning him the title of Father of the Nation.The assassination of Bangabandhu and most of his family on August 15, 1975, followed by the killing of four national leaders inside Dhaka Central Jail in November of the same year, left the Awami League without a unifying leader and splintered into factions. Zohra Tajuddin played a crucial role in keeping the party together during these turbulent times.Sheikh Hasina, Bangabandhu's daughter, returned from exile in May 1981 and took the helm of the Awami League, embarking on the arduous task of reorganizing the party. Over the past three decades, her leadership has seen the Awami League form the government four times and lead numerous democratic movements.As the party celebrates its 75th anniversary, the Awami League remains focused on addressing the economic and political challenges that lie ahead. With a steadfast commitment to its foundational principles and the leadership of Sheikh Hasina, the party looks to navigate these hurdles and continue its legacy of governance and progress in Bangladesh.Meanwhile, the party has taken elaborate programmes, marking its founding anniversary.Earlier, the party's General Secretary Obaidul Quader announced a three-day programme to celebrate the 75th founding anniversary.All registered parties will be invited to the founding anniversary programme.Prime Minister and party President Sheikh Hasina will inaugurate the platinum anniversary programme in front of Bangabandhu Bhaban today. On the same day, a discussion meeting will be held at Suhrawardy Udyan at 3 pm followed by a cultural event.Besides, a cultural programme will be held at Rabindra Sarobar and boat race and cycle rally will be arranged at Hatirjheel in the capital.The founding anniversary of the country's oldest political party will be celebrated at each union and ward as well.

  • 23 Jun 2024
Read More
post
Bangladesh

Relentless rains in Meghalaya and Assam drown Sylhet once again

The persistent monsoon rains in the Indian states of Meghalaya and Assam have once again led to severe flooding in the water basin of Sylhet. The lack of alternative drainage routes for water from these states has resulted in the submersion of large parts of Sylhet, a recurring issue every monsoon season.This year, the first surge of upstream water inundated Sylhet on May 27th. A new surge began on June 17th, causing a second wave of devastation. Currently, half of the Sylhet district remains underwater, affecting approximately 1.2 million people.There is no immediate relief in sight, as the Meteorological Department forecasts further rainfall in the region over the coming days, which will likely exacerbate the situation.Meteorologists point to the upstream surge as the primary cause of Sylhet's floods. Environmentalists have highlighted that the rivers flowing through Sylhet originate in mountainous areas, where dams and barriers at the river mouths are opened during the rainy season, leading to a powerful influx of water into Sylhet. This scenario has unfolded once again this year.However, the Flood Forecast and Warning Centre of the Bangladesh Water Development Board (WDB) has offered a glimmer of hope, predicting an improvement in the flood situation in the low-lying areas of Netrokona, Sylhet, and Sunamganj districts over the next 24 hours.Besides, the flood situation in some parts of Rangpur may deteriorate, according to Executive Engineer Sardar Uday Raihan of the WDB."The water level may rise in the Dudhkumar, Teesta, and Dharala rivers in the northern part of Bangladesh over the next 72 hours. Short-term floods may hit the low-lying areas in Kurigram, Lalmonirhat, and Nilphamari. Additionally, the flood situation may worsen in the low-lying areas of Rangpur," stated Raihan.The Brahmaputra and Jamuna rivers are also rising continuously and are likely to reach the danger level within 72 hours, as per the WDB's flood forecast. Furthermore, the water levels in the Ganges and Padma rivers may continue to rise over the next 72 hours.Regional Rainfall and Weather PatternsMeanwhile, the main rivers in the northeastern part of the country are seeing their water levels drop, a trend that may continue for the next 48 hours. The Teesta, Surma, Kushiyara, and Old Surma rivers are currently flowing above their danger levels at certain points.Moderate rain with gusty winds or thunderstorms is expected in parts of the Rangpur, Rajshahi, Dhaka, Mymensingh, Khulna, Barishal, Chattogram, and Sylhet divisions over the next 72 hours, according to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD).Meteorologist Bazlur Rashid noted that the extended section of western low pressure has spread from West Bengal in India to the northwestern Bay of Bengal, making the monsoon active over Bangladesh.The highest rainfall recorded in the past 24 hours was 163 mm in Khulna's Meherpur. Other notable rainfall amounts include 87 millimetres in Cox’s Bazar, 85 millimetres in Bagerhat's Mongla, and 76 millimetres in Madaripur.The highest temperature recorded in Bangladesh was 35.4 degrees Celsius in Jashore in the past 24 hours, while the minimum was 22.8 degrees Celsius in Joypurhat.The BMD’s five-day forecast showed the likelihood of more rain towards the end of the period.

  • 22 Jun 2024
Read More
post
Bangladesh

Sales of Sacrificial Animals Begin in Dhaka: 22 Cattle Markets Open Ahead of Eid

Dhaka, June 13, 2024 – Sales of sacrificial animals at 22 cattle markets, including two permanent haats, have commenced today in the capital, five days before the second largest religious festival of the Muslim community. This announcement was made by officials from the two city corporations overseeing the markets.According to the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) and Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC), 9 temporary markets have been established in the DNCC area, in addition to the permanent Gabtali haat. Meanwhile, 11 temporary markets have been set up in the DSCC area, supplementing the permanent Sarulia haat. Notably, due to a court directive, no cattle market will be set up in Aftabnagar this year.Peal Hasan, the Public Relations Department Information Officer for DNCC, informed the media that a total of 10 haats, including one permanent haat, will be operational in the DNCC area. He emphasized that these markets will be open for five days from June 13 until the morning of Eid. "All necessary arrangements have been made to ensure safe and comfortable trading of sacrificial animals," Hasan stated.Innovative payment solutions have been introduced to facilitate transactions. Buyers can purchase cattle using online banking without carrying cash. Instant bank accounts can be opened under the supervision of Bangladesh Bank, with numerous bank booths available in the market areas for this purpose.In addition to financial facilities, arrangements have been made for ablution and prayers for buyers at the markets. To maintain discipline, leaseholders have been warned against allowing sellers to set up stalls on the streets. Violators will face forfeiture of their security deposits. Law enforcement agencies will be present to ensure the safety and security of buyers and sellers.The temporary haats in the DNCC area will be located at:Open space adjacent to Dhaka Polytechnic InstituteKanchkura Beparipara Rahman Nagar residential project site in Ward No. 44Mostul Check Post in Khilkhet under Ward Number 43Open space adjacent to Sutivola Canal at VataraKaola Shialdanga in Sectors 16 and 18 at UttaraBoubazar areaMirpur Section-06 (Eastern Housing open space)Mohammadpur Bosila 40 feet roadsideAbu Naser, Public Relations Officer of DSCC, announced that the DSCC area will host 11 temporary markets alongside the permanent Sarulia haat starting tomorrow. Each market will have a monitoring committee, including a magistrate, to maintain overall discipline. Any irregularities beyond DSCC guidelines will be promptly addressed.Additionally, control rooms have been set up in each haat, along with a central control room, to ensure smooth operations. Similar to DNCC, DSCC markets will feature instant banking facilities under the supervision of Bangladesh Bank, with adequate bank booths available.The temporary cattle markets in the DSCC area will be established at:Jatrabari Dania CollegeDholaikhal Truck TerminalAmulia Model TownMeradia BazarDesignated place near Kamalapur StadiumRahmatganj ClubShyampur Kadamtali Truck StandNorth Shahjahanpur Khilgaon Railgate BazarInstitute of Leather Engineering and Technology at HazaribagPostogola open fieldNear Bishwa Road beside Little Friends ClubThe authorities are committed to ensuring a safe and organized environment for the trading of sacrificial animals during this important religious period.

  • 12 Jun 2024
Read More

Most Readed

Hot Categories

Tags

Eid Bangladesh Middle East Canada Economics Tollywood WUST Health Remittance IGlobal University

About Us

NRBC is an open news and tele video entertainment platform for non-residential Bengali network across the globe with no-business vision just to deliver news to the Bengali community.

Web

  • www.nrbc.tv