United News of Bangladesh

Call it a new kind of medical advice: find a shady tree, breathe deeply and check back tomorrow. Healthcare providers in the United States have long encouraged patients to spend more time outside. Now, hundreds of them are formalizing that guidance by issuing prescriptions for nature outings, as stress fueled by social media, politics and global conflict continues to weigh on Americans. No one needs a doctor’s note to step outdoors, but some practitioners say the written prescription helps people treat the advice as a priority rather than a luxury. “When I bring it up, it’s almost like granting permission to do something they may think is frivolous at a time when everything feels serious and stressful,” said Dr. Suzanne Hackenmiller, a gynecologist from Waterloo, Iowa. She began prescribing nature after finding comfort outside following her husband’s death. Research shows benefits in natureStudies have consistently found that time in natural environments can lower blood pressure, reduce stress hormones and strengthen the immune system. “Study after study says we’re wired to be out in nature,” said Dr. Brent Bauer, director of the Mayo Clinic’s complementary and integrative medicine program in Minnesota. The program explores treatments such as meditation, massage, acupuncture and nutrition. “There’s real science behind it.” Making the advice stickTurning suggestions into prescriptions began gaining momentum around a decade ago. Dr. Robert Zarr, also a certified nature guide, founded Park Rx America in 2016 to help doctors incorporate outdoor time into treatment plans. A cheese lover’s guide to choosing the right mozzarella for every dish The group’s guidelines encourage providers to discuss a patient’s interests, how often they can get outdoors and nearby parks to visit. The details are written into a prescription, and patients receive reminders. Nearly 2,000 providers worldwide have joined Park Rx America, including in Australia, Brazil, Cameroon and Spain, and more than 7,000 nature prescriptions have been issued since 2019, said Dr. Stacy Beller Stryer, the group’s associate medical director. About 100 similar programs have emerged in the U.S. For some, the prescription itself is motivation. Bauer, who treats business executives, said he writes about 30 nature prescriptions each year. “When someone hands me a piece of paper telling me to take a medication, I’m more likely to act on it,” he said. “The same idea works here.” Nature as a refugeHackenmiller said more patients are searching for breaks from a world filled with constant crisis. “When so many things are out of our control, it can help to step away from the media and immerse ourselves in nature,” she said. “People often reconnect with moments when nature brought them comfort before.” Proper timing key to successful shrub transplants, experts advise Measuring impact still underwayA 2020 study by the U.S. Forest Service and researchers from two universities found more research is needed to assess how often patients follow through and what long-term health results emerge. Still, experts agree that getting outdoors is beneficial unless conditions like smoke or insects pose a hazard. At William & Mary in Virginia, students prescribe outdoor time to fellow students through an online system. Applicants list when they can go outside, how far they’re willing to travel and what activities they enjoy. The program issued an average of 22 prescriptions per month in 2025, up from 12 in 2020. Senior Kelsey Wakiyama, from Villanova, Pennsylvania, said she relied on nature prescriptions after arriving on campus and not knowing the local trails. “I love the greenery,” she said. “When you’re indoors for hours, the fresh air feels incredible. It calms my nervous system and brings back good memories.” Source: AP

President Vladimir Putin has spent his 25 years in power confronting Russia’s worsening demographic crisis, as the country battles a shrinking and aging population amid war, economic uncertainty and a migration exodus. The number of babies born in Russia hit a record low in 1999, just before Putin took power, and despite periodic improvements births have again fallen sharply. Speaking at a Kremlin demographic conference on Thursday, Putin called boosting births “crucial” for the nation’s future. Over the years, he has introduced policies to encourage bigger families, including free school meals for large households and reinstating Soviet-style “hero-mother” medals for women who raise at least 10 children. “Many of our grandmothers and great-grandmothers had seven, eight, and even more children,” Putin said in 2023. “Let’s preserve and revive these wonderful traditions.” Births initially rose alongside economic gains, from 1.21 million in 1999 to nearly 1.94 million in 2015. But the progress has slipped away as Russia faces declining living standards, the war in Ukraine and resistance to immigration. Russia’s population has dropped from 147.6 million in 1990 to about 146.1 million this year, including Crimea’s population since its illegal 2014 annexation. The population is also rapidly aging: 30% are now 55 or older, compared to 21.1% in 1990. Deaths exceed births, and only 1.22 million babies were born last year, barely above the 1999 low. Demographer Alexei Raksha recently reported February 2025 saw the lowest monthly birth figure in more than 200 years. Bangladesh faces a challenge in ensuring welfare of its aging population War casualties and emigration have deepened the demographic gap, particularly among young adults. “You’ve got a much-diminished pool of potential fathers in a diminished pool of potential mothers,” said analyst Jenny Mathers. Putin has long tied population strength to national security, she noted. To reverse declining births, Russia is embracing what it calls “traditional family values.” That has led to laws banning promotion of abortion and “child-free ideology,” along with a sweeping crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights. Officials view these values as a “magic wand,” said feminist scholar Sasha Talaver, arguing the state expects women to bear children “in the name of patriotism and Russian strength.” Some social benefits remain popular, such as parental cash certificates used for education or subsidized mortgages. Others spark debate, including one-time payments to pregnant teenagers in some regions. New symbolic initiatives include Family, Love and Fidelity Day and a state holiday celebrating pregnant women. Still, Russia’s fertility rate stands at just 1.4 children per woman, below the replacement rate of 2.1. Access to abortion is increasingly restricted. Private clinics have stopped offering the procedure, pills are harder to obtain, and mandatory waiting periods have lengthened. Critics warn the crackdown will drive abortion underground. “The only thing you will get from this is illegal abortions. That means more deaths,” said journalist and activist Zalina Marshenkulova. Immigration could bolster the population, but tightening controls and surging anti-migrant sentiment push away workers from Central Asia, long a source of labor. Experts say no set of incentives can overcome the uncertainty of wartime Russia. “When people lack confidence about their prospects, it's not a time for having children,” Mathers said. “An open-ended major war doesn’t really encourage people to think positively about the future.” One 29-year-old Moscow woman who has chosen to remain child-free said stability matters most. “The happiest and healthiest child will only be born in a family with healthy, happy parents,” she said. Source: AP 

Across the globe, working on online platforms redefines lifestyle by flexibility, mobility, creativity, and independence. To accommodate this shift, many nations are now offering digital nomad visas that legitimise remote work while ensuring local compliance. European countries have positioned themselves at the forefront of this trend by creating pathways for gig workers. Let’s take a look at the top 10 European destinations welcoming global professionals under digital nomad visas in 2026. 10 Best European Countries for Digital Nomad Visas in 2026 . Spain For those planning to live in Spain while working remotely, this visa allows foreigners to become legal residents without switching their professional base. The applicant must be employed by or offer freelance services to companies located outside Spain. They have to use only digital and telecommunication systems to carry out their work. Self-employed professionals can, however, take up local projects, as long as those assignments do not exceed 20% of their total workload. Eligibility requires either a recognised undergraduate or postgraduate degree from a reputed university or college or a proven three-year track record in the applicant’s current field. To qualify, applicants must earn at least EUR 2,763 monthly, equivalent to BDT 3,92,512 (EUR 1 = BDT 142.06).  Read more: China’s K Visa For Bangladeshi Professionals: Eligibility, Application Process, Fees Italy The remote working framework attracts skilled remote professionals who wish to combine career flexibility with Italy’s distinctive work-life balance. It opens a path for non-EU citizens to live amidst Italian culture while maintaining employment abroad. Candidates are required to present an accredited university or college degree of no less than three years and demonstrate notable achievement in their respective fields, proving their ability to work independently. A minimum of six months’ documented experience in telecommuting areas such as digital marketing, design, or writing is mandatory. Since the visa prohibits employment with Italian-based companies, all professional ties must remain outside the country. Moreover, applicants must maintain an income of not less than EUR 2,006 per month (BDT 2,84,973). Iceland Home for digital nomads, Iceland offers a temporary visa to live and work remotely for either 90 or 180 days. The longer duration applies to applicants who submit their request from their home country rather than from within Iceland. Read more: Top 10 Countries Offering Post-Study Work Visas for International Students To be eligible, the applicant must be from a nation with a Schengen visa-waiver agreement and should not have held an Icelandic long-term visa in the past 12 months. The visa is strictly for short-term remote work, meaning the holder cannot plan to settle permanently. Applicants must show proof of a minimum monthly income of EUR 6,750 (BDT 9,58,905). Romania Remote professionals who plan to work while living in Romania can apply for a digital nomad visa that remains valid for one year, with the option to renew it for another year. Eligibility depends on being employed by or providing services to a company based abroad. Candidates also need to maintain an average income at least three times higher than Romania’s gross monthly salary. Proof of earnings of no less than EUR 3,700 (BDT 5,25,622) over the previous six months is required. Portugal Cross-border freelancers from outside the EU or EEA can work remotely from Portugal under a visa category, which comes in two forms: short-stay and long-stay. Both follow similar procedures, but the timeframes differ. The short-stay version lasts up to a year and cannot be renewed or converted into a residence permit. The long-stay alternative, however, grants an initial two-year residence permit, extendable for another three years. Read more: Thai e-Visa for Bangladeshis: Step-by-Step Guide to Apply Online After five years of living in the country, one may apply for permanent residency or citizenship. To qualify, professionals need to show a monthly income of a minimum of EUR 3,480 (BDT 4,94,369). Hungary Through the White Card, Hungary has a visa program for self-sufficient professionals or entrepreneurs. This immigration framework lets them live in the country for up to 12 months while continuing to work for companies abroad. Eligibility rests on proving foreign employment or ownership of a business outside Hungary, along with a steady income of at least EUR 3,000 (BDT 4,26,180) per month. Unlike other countries, the programme is designed for independent workers only, meaning spouses or dependants cannot be included in the same application. Croatia Freelancers and independent workers looking to base themselves in Croatia can obtain a permit valid for up to one year. Once it expires, they must wait six months before applying for another.  Read more: How to Get a German Opportunity Card From Bangladesh To qualify, proof of a minimum monthly income of EUR 2,540 (BDT 3,60,833) is required, ensuring sufficient financial stability during their stay. Employment with Croatian companies is not allowed, as the visa is strictly for those working for foreign employers or clients. Greece For online platform-based gig workers, Greece offers a one-year visa, with the option to extend it for up to three years. Applicants need to show verified remote employment or freelance contracts with clients based outside Greece. The minimum monthly income requirement stands at EUR 3,500 (BDT 4,97,210). Open to non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss citizens, the programme excludes anyone working for Greek companies. Estonia The online workforce can be based in Estonia for up to 12 months, but this permit is limited to professionals whose main employer lies outside the country. While visa holders may collaborate with Estonian companies, their primary work relationship must remain abroad. Read more: How to Become a Virtual Assistant: Ultimate Career Guide The visa cannot be extended, nor does it lead to permanent residency or citizenship. Applicants must show proof of earning at least EUR 4,500 (BDT 6,39,270) per month to qualify. Malta Independent professionals looking for a remote working opportunity can apply for Malta’s Nomad Residence Permit to work remotely. The programme covers individuals employed by companies registered outside Malta, shareholders, or business operators representing foreign entities. Even they can be self-employed professionals providing services to clients based abroad. Only non-EU and non-EEA citizens are eligible, and their required monthly income is set at a baseline of EUR 3,500 (BDT 4,97,210). Initially granted for one year, the permit can be renewed up to three additional times, allowing a total stay of four years. Giveaway Several countries in Europe are granting digital nomad visas in 2026. Among them, the above-mentioned 10 European countries offer comparatively wider scopes to global remote talents. Spain, Italy, and Iceland stand out for their clear structures, blending work flexibility with scenic living. Romania, Portugal, and Hungary shape appealing mid-term options, balancing income standards with accessibility. Croatia, Greece, Estonia, and Malta complete the list with distinct, short-to-extended visa frameworks. Altogether, these policies mark an ambitious shift empowering freelance professionals to work without borders. Read more: Which Outsourcing Skills Could Be Replaced by AI?

Protein has emerged as the new buzzword in the world of nutrition — and for good reason. Health experts say a protein-rich diet keeps you full for longer, maintains energy levels, and helps muscles recover faster after workouts. However, vegetarians often face challenges meeting their daily protein requirements as they avoid major sources like meat, fish, and eggs. According to reports from the National Library of Medicine, people following vegetarian or vegan diets are at a higher risk of bone fractures and haemorrhagic stroke. They may also lack essential nutrients such as vitamin B12, which is found mainly in animal meat, milk, and eggs. Fish and shellfish are also rich in B12, while vegetarians are more prone to iron and zinc deficiencies — conditions that can particularly affect children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and those with heavy menstrual bleeding. The American College of Cardiology has also noted that vegetarian diets heavy in refined flours, artificial sweeteners, excess salt, and preservatives may raise health risks and even increase mortality rates. So, how can vegetarians maintain proper protein intake without relying on supplements? Nutritionists suggest adding natural, plant-based protein sources to everyday meals. Here are five healthy options recommended by WebMD: 1. Beans and legumes: Lentils, kidney beans, soybeans, chickpeas, and black beans are great meat alternatives. They can be added to curries, soups, or salads for a hearty protein boost. 2. Nuts and seeds: Peanuts, almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, pistachios, pecans, and sesame seeds are excellent snack options or can be added to oatmeal or yoghurt for extra nutrition. 3. Whole grains: Unprocessed grains like oats, quinoa, barley, millet, and brown rice are rich in protein and fiber, making them ideal for a balanced diet. 4. Vegetables: Leafy greens and vegetables such as peas, corn, asparagus, and broccoli can naturally increase protein intake when consumed regularly. 5. Dairy products: For those who consume dairy, options like Greek yoghurt, Icelandic skyr, cottage cheese, whole milk, cheddar, and mozzarella cheese are all rich in protein and essential nutrients. Experts advise vegetarians to maintain a balanced diet with a mix of these foods to ensure sufficient protein and nutrient intake while supporting long-term health. Source: NDTV

If you’ve ever stepped into a supermarket thinking you’d simply grab some mozzarella, you probably discovered it’s not that simple anymore. What was once a single white ball wrapped in plastic has evolved into a whole category of cheeses — fresh, low-moisture, smoked, buffalo, burrata — each with its own texture, flavor, and best uses. Here’s how to choose the right one for your next meal. Fresh mozzarella Soft, milky and delicately tender, fresh mozzarella is a little kitchen magic. Best enjoyed soon after purchase, it’s usually packed in water or brine to preserve its creamy texture. Slice it over tomatoes with olive oil and basil for a perfect Caprese salad, tuck it into sandwiches, or use it in pasta and chicken parmigiana. Fresh mozzarella comes in different sizes and shapes — from large balls to smaller varieties like bocconcini, ciliegine (“little cherries”), and perline (“pearls”). These bite-sized pieces are ideal for salads, appetizers or casseroles. Braided treccia mozzarella makes an attractive centerpiece for any cheese board. Because of its high water content, fresh mozzarella can release moisture during cooking. Blot slices with paper towels before baking, and eat within a few days of opening for the best quality. Low-moisture mozzarella The reliable all-rounder of mozzarellas, low-moisture mozzarella comes in blocks or shredded form. It melts beautifully, browns evenly, and doesn’t water down dishes — making it the top choice for pizzas and lasagnas. Its denser texture and saltier flavor hold up well in baked recipes. Unopened, it keeps for weeks in the refrigerator; once opened, wrap it tightly and use within a week. Burrata Think of burrata as mozzarella with a surprise inside. Its soft shell of fresh mozzarella encloses a rich mixture of cream and stracciatella (mozzarella curds mixed with cream). Slice it open and the creamy center oozes out — the dairy equivalent of molten chocolate cake. Serve burrata over warm pizza, with grilled peaches, prosciutto or salad, or drizzle it with balsamic glaze over bruschetta. Enjoy within two days of purchase for its best flavor and texture. Buffalo mozzarella (Mozzarella di Bufala)Made from water buffalo milk, this version is creamier, tangier, and richer than cow’s milk mozzarella, with a higher fat content and price tag. Typically packed in liquid, it’s best eaten fresh and uncooked, ideally the day it’s bought. Look for the label Mozzarella di Bufala Campana DOP — it signifies authentic Italian cheese made in a protected region using traditional methods. Smoked mozzarella (Scamorza Affumicata)For a subtle smoky depth, smoked mozzarella adds a touch of complexity to dishes. Slice it into sandwiches, cube it for grain salads, or layer it into baked pasta. To balance the flavor, pair it with unsmoked mozzarella. Properly wrapped, it lasts up to two weeks in the fridge. Which one to choose? For stretch, melt and longer shelf life: go with low-moisture mozzarella. For luxury and freshness: choose burrata or buffalo mozzarella. For versatility with a light touch: use fresh mozzarella. For a distinct, smoky note: pick smoked mozzarella. Or better yet, try them all. Arrange a mozzarella tasting with olive oil, salt, crusty bread and ripe tomatoes. It might be the most delicious way to appreciate one of the world’s most versatile cheeses. Source: AP

A soulful musical evening of classical music, storytelling, and narration was conducted by Shri Aditya Nirmal, a distinguished disciple of Pandit Samaresh Chowdhury under the school of Pandit Ravi Shankar, from Lucknow, India. Was held in the city.  The soulful and mesmerizing Classical Music Concert was organized by Siddeshwari 69 Batch and held at An Auditorium in Dhaka. The concert drew a full house of music lovers, turning into a celebration of melody, rhythm, and emotion. The concert was inaugurated by the Advisor of Ad-Din Medical College, Dr. Munshi Anwar Hossain, and began with a warm welcome address by the Convener of Siddeshwari Batch ’69, Mr. Fazlul Karim Abid. Professor Mostafizur Rahman, an esteemed alumnus and inspiration for generations of students, graced the event with his presence. Aditya led the session as the principal vocalist, narrator, storyteller, and music presenter, weaving together an intricate musical and cultural dialogue. The event was designed to explore the evolution of Bengali culture, people, and language, intertwined with the historical development of Indian classical music—tracing its roots from Dhrupad to Khayal, Thumri, and Bhajan traditions. The narration was delivered in Bengali, accompanied by live renditions of several classical Ragas, including Raag Kaushik Dhvani, Raag Khamaj, Raag Bhairavi, Raag Yaman, and Raag Vasant. The presentation also featured Chhota Khayal and Bengali Khayal compositions—fields in which Aditya has been recognized as a pioneer and innovator. Aditya Nirmal (Vocal) captivated the audience with his deep and expressive renditions of Raag Kaushik Dhvani, Raag Bhairavi, and Bangla Khayal, creating a serene connection between sound and soul. Aditya also shared the history of the Bangla language and people and its relationship with the history of Indian classical music. Simultaneously, the evolution of society and its interconnection with religion was expressed through Nazrul Sangeet, Hamnad, and Rabindra Sangeet. The evening further included Nazrul Sangeet, among which “Bagichay Bulbuli Tui” and “Bhoriyapuran” were performed and beautifully rendered by Aditya Nirmal on harmonium. Another Nazrul Sangeet composition was also presented, enriching the musical diversity of the evening. Several Rabindra Sangeet pieces were performed, deepening the audience’s connection to Bengali musical heritage. Additionally, the Thumri “Kakaroo Sajni” was rendered with profound emotion and classical depth, highlighting the expressive nuances of Hindustani semi-classical tradition. The instrumental segment featured Dilip Biswas on harmonium, accompanied by Pandit Ujjwal Roy and Rahul Chatterjee on tabla in Teental, presenting an engaging jugalbandi and solo rhythmic dialogue. Pandit Ujjwal Roy, one of India’s eminent tabla maestros, is a disciple of Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri, Pandit Ashok Mehta, Pandit Suresh Talwalkar, Pandit Yogesh Samsi, and Pandit Swaraj Bhattacharya. His co-performer, Rahul Chatterjee, is a devoted disciple of Pandit Ujjwal Roy, while Dilip Biswas has been trained under the guidance of Pandit Jyoti Goho. Alongside the classical and instrumental performances, the session offered Rabindra Sangeet, Nazrul Sangeet, Thumri, and insightful interpretations of Bengali Khayal compositions by Kabir Suman, giving the audience a profound musical experience that seamlessly bridged tradition, innovation, and cultural depth. The narration and session also incorporated the poetic and philosophical points of Jibanananda Das, Kazi Nazrul Islam, and Jasimuddin, as well as Hamnad, enriching the presentation with literary essence and spiritual reflection. Throughout the evening, the audience remained spellbound, responding to every alaap, taan, and rhythm cycle with heartfelt applause. The performers’ dedication and artistry reminded everyone that music, in its truest form, transcends words and unites hearts. The program was beautifully coordinated and hosted by Siddeshwari (69 Batch), whose efforts in promoting classical heritage were widely appreciated.

As the gardening season draws to a close, many home gardeners may be tempted to rearrange shrubs for a better landscape design — but experts caution that timing is key to ensuring healthy transplants. Gardeners should avoid rushing to move late-blooming shrubs. For example, Clethra bushes, which flower in late summer, should be transplanted in spring — right after emerging from dormancy — to allow enough time for roots to establish before blooming begins. Conversely, spring and early summer bloomers are best moved in the fall, after their flowering season has ended. Start with the rootsBefore digging, it’s crucial to understand how deep and wide a shrub’s roots typically grow. Shallow-rooted plants like rhododendrons are easier to move than deep-rooted ones such as manzanita. The plant’s age also matters, as older shrubs have larger, tougher root systems. When preparing the new site, the hole should be roughly twice as wide as the root system and the same depth as the plant’s original location. Always dig the new hole first to minimize the time the roots are exposed to air. Gently tying branches together can prevent eye injuries and provide a clearer view while digging. Use a sharp shovel to carefully loosen soil around the plant’s perimeter, working gradually to lift as much of the rootball as possible. The science behind growing a giant pumpkin Planting with careTo move the shrub safely, place it on a tarp and drag it to its new location. Ensure the rootball sits at the same level as before — not too deep, to avoid rot, and not too shallow, to prevent drying and damage. After positioning the plant, backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down periodically to remove air pockets. Water halfway through, continue filling, then water again before applying mulch over the root zone. Mulch helps retain moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds. Throughout the first year, water the shrub consistently until frost, but avoid fertilizing too soon. Experts recommend waiting until mid-to-late spring to apply a slow-release, low-nitrogen fertilizer — giving the plant time to recover and establish roots before promoting new growth. Proper timing and technique, they say, can make the difference between a struggling transplant and a thriving shrub that flourishes for years. Source: AP 

Through PT Bio Farma (Persero), Indonesia has played a strategic and sustained role in the Developing Countries Vaccine Manufacturers’ Network (DCVMN), working to ensure equitable access to safe, high-quality, and affordable vaccines. Since DCVMN’s founding in 2000, Bio Farma has been a key driver in advancing vaccine self-reliance and public health capacity in developing countries. Collaboration between Bio Farma and DCVMN has been established since the inception of the network. At the first DCVMN Annual General Meeting in Noordwijk in 2000, Bio Farma was one of ten founding members dedicated to advancing vaccine collaboration. In April 2001, Bio Farma in Bandung hosted the 2nd AGM, where the network formalized the DCVMN’s structure and governance. Chaired by then-President Director Thamrin Poeloengan, this meeting established Indonesia as a hub for vaccine collaboration and knowledge-sharing among developing countries. Shadiq Akasya, current President Director of Bio Farma, stated that the company’s participation in DCVMN reflects Indonesia’s commitment to contributing to global health beyond national interests. “Bio Farma’s involvement in DCVMN since its establishment is not merely about representation, but about making a tangible contribution toward global vaccine self-reliance. Through collaboration and innovation, we are committed to delivering equitable and sustainable health solutions for all,” said Shadiq. “We believe that the true strength of the developing countries’ vaccine industry lies in collaboration. Through our active role in DCVMN, we aim to ensure that every nation has access to safe, high-quality, and affordable vaccines, a real manifestation of Indonesia’s contribution to global health security,” he added. In 2004, Bio Farma, together with other DCVMN members, played a vital role in expanding access to the pentavalent (DPT-HepB-Hib) vaccine through a technology-transfer collaboration with the Netherlands Vaccine Institute. This achievement demonstrated that Bio Farma’s contributions within the DCVMN network are not symbolic but deeply technical and practical. Global trust in Bio Farma has continued to grow. In 2012, Indonesia once again hosted the 13th DCVMN AGM in Bali. Mahendra Suhardono, one of Bio Farma’s directors at the time, was elected President of the Executive Committee for the 2013 - 2014 term. Indonesia’s leadership was further recognized when Bio Farma was entrusted to serve as Chair of the Board of DCVMN for the 2023-2025 period, acting as a bridge between network members and global strategic priorities, while showcasing Indonesia’s capacity to lead the vaccine industry in developing countries. Bio Farma’s commitment to innovation goes far beyond collaboration. In 2020, its nOPV2 vaccine became the first to receive an Emergency Use Listing from the World Health Organization, enabling faster deployment of vaccines during global health emergencies.  This achievement reflected not only Bio Farma’s scientific and technical excellence but also effective coordination and communication among multiple international stakeholders, including funders, scientists, academic researchers, policymakers, global vaccine advocates, and vaccine manufacturers. Such collaboration enabled the rapid development, approval, and rollout of nOPV2 during a critical moment for global public health. This milestone demonstrated that a developing-country manufacturer can achieve world-class innovation, meeting the highest international standards of safety, quality, and efficacy recognized by the WHO. Beyond being a scientific breakthrough, nOPV2 represents technological self-reliance and global confidence in Indonesia’s capability to contribute meaningfully to international health security. Bio Farma’s success serves as an inspiration to all DCVMN members to continue strengthening their research, development, and production capacity in pursuit of achieving vaccine self-sufficiency and global health resilience across developing countries. With a production capacity of more than 3.5 billion doses per year, Bio Farma supplies vaccines to over 150 countries and holds WHO Prequalification certification for 12 types of vaccines. As the Center of Excellence for the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in vaccine development, production, and distribution, Bio Farma continues to strengthen Indonesia’s strategic role in the global health landscape. The upcoming 26th DCVMN Annual General Meeting, to be held in Bali on 29–31 October 2025, marks an important moment for Indonesia to reaffirm its leadership in global health diplomacy. Through this forum, Bio Farma is committed to advancing innovation, collaboration, and vaccine self-reliance worldwide, toward a more resilient and equitable global health ecosystem. About DCVMN The Developing Countries Vaccine Manufacturers Network (DCVMN) is a global alliance of 46 vaccine manufacturers from 17 developing countries, established in 2000 to strengthen public health through equitable access to high-quality vaccines.DCVMN promotes collaboration among its members through advocacy, capacity building, professional training, and joint research initiatives, aimed at enhancing global immunization programs. Working closely with international organizations such as WHO, UNICEF, GAVI, CEPI, PATH, CHAI, and the Gates Foundation, DCVMN strives to ensure that every nation has the capability to produce and supply affordable, life-saving vaccines. For further information, please visit dcvmn.org. About Bio Farma PT Bio Farma (Persero) is Indonesia’s state-owned life science company and the largest vaccine manufacturer in Southeast Asia.Founded in 1890 and headquartered in Bandung, Bio Farma produces and supplies vaccines to more than 150 countries, while playing an active role in biotechnology research, innovation, and global health security.As a member of DCVMN, Bio Farma continues to contribute to international collaboration to ensure equitable vaccine access and improved global public health. For further information, please visit www.biofarma.co.id .

“Being bald is sexy. It’s an attitude. It’s a luxury. It’s a lifestyle.” That’s how Brennan Nevada Johnson introduces her video podcast, launched last November to celebrate the confidence and beauty of bald women. Fourteen years ago, Johnson voluntarily shaved her head — a decision that would reshape her life and perspective. For centuries, long hair has been regarded as a symbol of femininity, health and fertility. But a growing number of women are challenging that notion, redefining baldness as bold, beautiful and empowering. “Once you do it, it brings all this confidence into your life,” said Johnson, 34. “Whenever you see someone bald and not wearing a wig, know that they’ve fully embraced themselves — and that’s not easy to do.” Her initial decision was practical. As a college volleyball player, sweat often ruined her costly hair treatments. Once she shaved her head, she never looked back. “It’s such a fashion statement, and it’s a really powerful look,” said Johnson, now a New York-based public relations entrepreneur. Her podcast, Bald and Buzzed with Brennan, aims to create a space where bald women can feel affirmed and celebrated. Across the U.S., many women — whether bald by choice or due to health conditions — are finding solidarity through online communities, conferences and social media. Dash Lopez, a 29-year-old content creator, shaved her head during the pandemic after years of frustration with her hair. “It makes me feel powerful that I’m detaching from things people place so much emphasis on,” she said. Her online videos about bald beauty have reached millions. Lopez briefly enjoyed success in modeling, but said bookings declined when trends shifted. Still, she remains committed to embracing her look. “I’m doing it for my own self-empowerment and a deeper understanding of what beauty means to me.” For others, the journey began with illness. Atlanta flight attendant Felicia Flores lost her hair due to alopecia and initially wore wigs to hide it. Inspired by other bald women, she eventually embraced her look and later founded Baldie Con, an annual event celebrating bald beauty. In Philadelphia, nurse and weekend mechanic Aicha Soumaoro said going bald gave her “a new skin, a new layer, a new personality.” “Being bald is like a boost of confidence out of nowhere,” said Soumaoro, 27. “It feels amazing — like I was born again.” Atlanta performer Tiffany Michael Thomas, who goes by the stage name Amor Lauren, shaved her head in solidarity with her mother during cancer treatment. After her mother’s passing, she kept the look. “Once I embraced it, I felt unstoppable,” said Thomas, 37. “There’s nothing left to hide behind anymore.” Her message to women who hesitate? “Do it scared. The best way to overcome fear is to face it.”   Source: AP  

Cultural Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki has said that around 10 to 12 lakh people attended this year’s Lalon Festival in Kushtia, citing district administration figures. In a Facebook post on Monday, he said the massive turnout might make it “the biggest cultural festival in our history.” “Lalon is deeply rooted in our culture, and probably the biggest cultural ambassador for Bangladesh,” he wrote on Monday. The annual Lalon Festival, commemorating the 135th death anniversary of Baul saint Fakir Lalon Shah, drew an unprecedented number of devotees, artists, and visitors this year in both Kushtia and Dhaka. According to the Kushtia district administration, around 10 to 12 lakh people attended the three-day celebration in Cheuriya, the spiritual abode of Lalon, making it one of the largest cultural gatherings in Bangladesh’s history. From October 17 to 19, the Lalon Akhra in Cheuriya resonated with Baul songs, philosophical discussions, and spiritual exchanges, as devotees and followers gathered to honour the mystic bard. Renowned Baul singers including Tun Tun Baul, Sunil Karmakar, Rowshan Fakir, and Latif Shah, along with numerous other artists from across the country, performed at the festival, filling the air with the melodies of Lalon’s timeless songs. Simultaneously, a Lalon Festival was also held in Dhaka’s Suhrawardy Udyan on October 18, where performances were presented by Emon Chowdhury and Bengal Symphony, Lalon Band, Nirob & Bauls, Pathik Nabi, Suchona Shely, Baula Band, Arup Rahee, Somogeet, and several other musicians and groups. The massive attendance at both the Kushtia and Dhaka events highlighted the enduring appeal of Lalon’s philosophy of humanity, equality, and spirituality, reaffirming his profound influence as a cornerstone of Bangladesh’s intangible cultural heritage.