United News of Bangladesh

With winter’s first chills settling over the northern districts, Lalmonirhat’s quilt makers are bustling with activities, as demand for quilts and mattresses soars. Thick morning fog, cool evening breezes and the nightly dew signal the changing season, prompting residents to prepare for colder days ahead. As temperatures dip, workshops and markets in Lalmonirhat are buzzing with both artisans and eager buyers. A stroll through the markets of the district’s five upazilas revealed shops adorned with vibrant fabrics and cotton, catering to a growing crowd. Some customers opt for ready-made quilts, while others place bespoke orders, leaving the workers fully absorbed in their stitching. Situated along the Teesta River and bordering the northern frontier, Lalmonirhat experiences harsher winters than much of the country. This year, preparations began earlier than usual, prompting a rush in quilt and mattress production. From dawn till dusk, shops remain alive with activity, as middle- and upper-middle-income families flock to purchase winter essentials. Read more: Dense fog blankets Lalmonirhat as signs of winter emerge Rising costs are, however, casting a shadow over the seasonal bustle. Traders report that increasing prices of cotton, fabric, foam, and other materials have pushed up the cost of producing quilts and mattresses. Currently, quilt fabric is selling for Tk 50–60 per yard, mattress fabric Tk 50–55, and jajim—a heavier mattress—Tk 160–190. Meanwhile, karpash cotton fetches Tk 180–200 per kilogram, poly-cotton Tk 120–130, wool Tk 55–60, and jute Tk 40–45 per kilogram. Ready-made quilts are priced between Tk 1,600 and Tk 2,600, mattresses from Tk 1,700 to Tk 3,500, jajims from Tk 3,500 to Tk 6,500, and pillows range from Tk 150 to Tk 400. Belal Mia, a seasoned quilt maker at Shialkhowa Bazar, said, “I’ve been making quilts and mattresses for nearly 10 years. With another worker, I can finish seven to nine orders a day.” Customers, too, are adjusting to the rising costs. Samad Mia, a local resident, explained, “We heard this winter may be colder, so I’m making my quilt in advance. We are poor people—the price of a blanket is beyond our reach. So, we are making quilts at a relatively lower cost.” Read more: Early winter chill grips Bangladesh’s northern districts Md Hamidur Rahman said, “It may not feel cold during the day, but nights are getting chillier. A thin sheet is no longer enough. So I made two quilts for my family, which cost Tk 5,300.” Salma Begum remarked, “Everything has become expensive—cotton, fabric, labour costs. Still, we have to make quilts; winter will get harsher ahead.” Shopkeepers remain hopeful despite the challenges. Jalal Uddin said, “Demand is rising as winter gets colder. Sales are not as high as before, but we expect business to pick up in the coming days.” Md Safiqul Islam, owner of Maa Tula Store in Aditmari Bazar, said, “November to February is our busiest season. As the cold intensifies, orders for quilts and mattresses continue to increase.” As winter casts its frosty spell across Lalmonirhat, the rhythmic hum of sewing machines and the vibrant display of fabrics offer a comforting promise: warmth and comfort for all who prepare in time. Read more: Dug-up road turns into knee-deep canal; Kaliganj villagers have to use rafts

Bangladesh’s economy is caught in a debilitating ‘waiting vortex’ of stagnant investment, high inflation and weak business confidence, with experts saying only a credible and participatory election can restore stability and drive recovery. The prevailing consensus across the business and policy landscape is that the economy is currently ‘breathing, but unable to walk’ as it is paralysed by political uncertainty ahead of the general election expected next February. Business owners and entrepreneurs unanimously assert that new initiatives and investments are impossible without political stability and certainty. Professor Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir of Dhaka University, Liaquat Ali Bhuiyan, Senior Vice-President of the Real Estate and Housing Association of Bangladesh (REHAB), Inamul Haq Khan, Senior Vice-President of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), Anwar-ul-Alam Chowdhury (Parvez), President of the Bangladesh Chamber of Industries (BCI), and former Chief Economist of Bangladesh Bank Dr Mustofa K Mujeri talked to the UNB correspondent about the current economic situation in Bangladesh. Read more: Bangladesh’s reserves still remain above $31 billion after ACU payment The economy is sustained by political trust, and it is the government’s responsibility to restore that confidence, said economists, underscoring that without a stable political environment, the recovery process cannot begin. This sentiment is echoed by the country’s development partners. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reportedly linked the disbursement of the next tranche of its $4.7 billion loan to the formation of an elected government. Similarly, both domestic and foreign investors are reluctant to take risks, preferring instead to adopt a cautious ‘wait-and-see’ stance. Worrying Economic Indicators Private Sector Credit Growth: Loan growth to the private sector has dropped to around 6.5 per cent — roughly half the normal rate — signalling a sharp contraction in new business activity and entrepreneurship. Capital Machinery Imports: Imports of capital machinery, a key indicator of future industrial output, have declined by 25 per cent, casting a shadow over upcoming production and employment prospects. Inflation and Savings: Inflation has been persistently high, hitting 8.36 per cent in September 2025, hitting hard the purchasing power of ordinary citizens, with the sales of national savings certificates falling by over Tk 6,000 crore, making it clear that many are being forced to liquidate their savings. Foreign Investment: Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) fell by 22 per cent in the first quarter of the current fiscal year, as international investors remain cautious — with some existing firms even scaling back their operations. Govt moves to make SMEs a driving force of economy: CA’s office “Investment is now not just an economic question, but a question of social confidence,” one analyst observed, noting that political instability and deteriorating law and order are heavily discouraging entrepreneurs. Social Costs and Unemployment The economic stagnation is inflicting a deep social toll, with experts warning of rising poverty and worsening unemployment. Professor Titumir cautioned that high inflation has “reduced the purchasing power of the common people, increased poverty, and may push another 30 lakh people below the extreme poverty line.” The country now faces a mounting unemployment crisis, with around 13 lakh jobless youths — including one in every three university graduates. Industry Leaders Demand Clarity Business leaders across key sectors have emphasised the urgent need to restore political and policy clarity. Liaquat Ali Bhuiyan said that new investment in manufacturing, real estate, banking, and services has “nearly stopped.” Inamul Haq Khan noted that foreign buyers and partners, including the IMF, have little confidence in a temporary setup. Dhaka’s economy driven by manufacturing sector with 56% share: DCCI “IMF and foreign stakeholders are waiting for the new government. Only then will confidence and investment surge,” he added. Path to Recovery Economists argue that the top priority for the current interim administration must be to hold a swift, credible, and widely accepted national election, paving the way for an elected government to take charge. Anwar-ul-Alam Chowdhury (Parvez) told UNB that clarity on the election timeline and assurance of a peaceful process are the most crucial prerequisites for restoring economic stability. Dr Mustofa K Mujeri observed that the economic environment will remain fragile as long as high interest rates persist and political uncertainty continues to limit capital flow. Ultimately, analysts suggest that the nation stands at a “historic juncture,” where it must either accept the current stagnation or move decisively towards a new economic model anchored in political stability and trust. Read more: IMF to decide Bangladesh’s next loan installment after formation of political govt: Adviser

Police blocked a musical procession by Udichi Shilpigoshthi, the cultural collective, on Sunday, organized to demand reconsideration of the government’s decision to cancel recruitment of music and physical education teachers in public primary schools. The march, which began in front of the National Press Club, was stopped by police near the Shilpakala Academy in Segunbagicha. Udichi artists said they intended to proceed to the Chief Adviser’s residence at Jamuna Gate to present their songs. After some discussion, police initially allowed the march to continue, but stopped it again two minutes later after it crossed the Dhaka Range DIG office, preventing further progress. During this time, the artists performed songs while sitting on the road. DU teachers, students protest abolition of music, physical-training teachers’ posts The amended rules, published on November 2, removed the opportunity for recruitment of music and physical education teachers. According to the Secretary-level Committee, the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education has stepped back from the plan. The committee noted that recruiting such a small number of teachers would be ineffective at the primary level and could create inequality, given that there are 65,569 primary schools nationwide. Cluster-based deployment would require a single teacher to serve 20 or more schools, making workload management impossible. Earlier, in late August, the government issued the Government Primary School Teacher Recruitment Rules, which included positions for music and physical education teachers. Just two months later, the rules were amended. Udichi hosts nationwide event against 'conspiracy centring national anthem' The revised rules sparked widespread criticism. The Human Rights Forum Bangladesh (HRFB) stated that the decision is not only unreasonable but reflects succumbing to pressure from a small group, removing two important subjects from primary education. The National Rabindra Sangeet Sammilon Parishad also protested. In a statement Parishad said, "When a small section of society opposes this using a narrow-minded, distorted interpretation of religion, the government abolished assistant teacher posts for music and physical education through a new notification.” On Saturday afternoon, the cultural organization Chhayanaut also requested reconsideration of the cancellation by performing songs collectively. Teachers and students of Dhaka University’s Music Department held a protest on campus on Wednesday demanding reinstatement of the posts. The rally took place in front of Aparajeyo Bangla, with participants singing the national anthem and raising placards. Dr. Priyanka Gope, Chairperson of the Music Department, read out a memorandum. Teachers from various departments—including Dance Department’s Laboni Banya and Clinical Psychology Department’s Kamal Uddin Ahmed Chowdhury—along with students, spoke at the event. Leaders from Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU), including the Literary and Cultural Affairs Secretary and cultural secretaries from different halls, expressed solidarity. Students from Chittagong University protested the decision, stating that it poses a major threat to future artistic practice and cultural development in Bangladesh. Students from Jagannath University protested through music. Two steps backwards Globally, music education is emphasized even in countries with large Muslim populations. Saudi Arabia, the spiritual center of Islam, recently hired over 9,000 teachers to introduce music education in public schools as part of Vision 2030 reforms, led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, promoting arts, entertainment, and education. The kingdom is now qualifying thousands of kindergarten teachers in music skills. In late 2022, over 12,000 female teachers in government and private kindergartens were trained, and the new phase will train about 17,000 female teachers. Other Muslim-majority countries, including Malaysia, Indonesia, Turkey, and Egypt, also retain music in their national curriculum. In Malaysia, formal music education became compulsory in all elementary schools in 1983, with primary-level music as an intra-curricular subject since 1982. In Indonesia, home to over 240 million Muslims, music has been compulsory in primary schools since the 1970s and remains under the 2022 curriculum. In Turkey, primary school students receive one hour of music lessons from 1st to 8th grade, with additional two-hour elective lessons from 5th to 8th grade. In Egypt, music has been part of government school curricula, including Arab and Western music, since 1931. In the United Kingdom, comprising England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, music is compulsory with variations in age and enforcement. In Europe, a meNet study covering 20 countries showed music is compulsory at the primary level; secondary education often offers it optionally. Germany, Japan, Australia, and South Africa also mandate music and dance in primary schools. In the United States, according to the NCES (January 2025), 73% of public schools require students to take at least one arts course, most commonly music (84%) and visual arts (82%). In China, music is a compulsory subject during the nine years of mandatory education and part of the quality-oriented education push, with increased curriculum emphasis in recent standards. But In Bangladesh, despite global trends highlighting the importance of music education, several religious organizations and political parties, including Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and Islami Andolon Bangladesh, oppose music teacher recruitment. They demand religious instructors instead and have threatened street protests if the decision is not reversed, in a seminar held in September at the auditorium of the Institution of Diploma Engineers. MIT study suggests music education A new wave of research from the world-renowned Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) scientists suggest that music lessons may do far more to boost brain development and overall intelligence. The study reveals that learning music-whether through playing an instrument, singing, or reading musical notes, activates and strengthens areas of the brain responsible for memory, attention, problem-solving, and language skills. These neural networks overlap with those used in math and reasoning, giving children a deep cognitive workout that coding lessons can't yet match. Music education engages both hemispheres of the brain simultaneously, forging connections that sharpen focus and enhance long-term learning abilities. Music combines creativity, pattern recognition, and emotional expression, creating a richer and more versatile mental environment. Children who play instruments or participate in music programs often show stronger academic performance, improved verbal abilities, and better emotional regulation. Researchers also emphasize the social and emotional benefits of music. Playing in an ensemble or practicing with others fosters teamwork, patience, and communication-skills critical for success in any field, including technology. By developing these qualities early, children gain confidence and adaptability that can help them thrive in a rapidly changing world.  

Facing mounting internal pressure after widespread protests, resentment and clashes across several districts over its list of 237 election candidates, the BNP high command is now considering revising contentious nominations to ease grassroots anger. Talking to UNB, several senior BNP leaders said the party has begun preparing a list based on feedback from the grassroots, the activities and popularity of the nominated aspirants and the controversies surrounding them. The list, they said, will be used to reconsider and possibly revise the nominations during the final stage—after the announcement of the election schedule. Party sources said a BNP team led by Dr Ziauddin Haider, a member of the BNP Chairperson's Advisory Council, is preparing the list of candidates who may come under review. Besides, the BNP leaders said, they will soon announce some more candidates for the remaining seats as discussions with their alliance partners have begun. Two BNP Standing Committee members indicated that some dedicated leaders like Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, Shamsuzzaman Dudu and Habibun Nabi Khan Sohel, who were initially deprived of nominations, may be nominated in suitable seats during the second phase. “We understand that some of our nominations seem to be incorrect. So, we are in touch with district leaders, taking their feedback about the nominated candidates. We are also receiving applications from some areas requesting changes of candidates on various grounds,” said a BNP Standing Committee member, requesting anonymity. He said they are now considering reviving candidates who have not strong grassroots support and whose performance so far has been poor. As part of its internal review, the BNP leader said the party is closely monitoring the field activities of its prospective single candidates. “Our team is particularly assessing how these nominees are interacting with dedicated local activists, especially those who were denied nominations.” He said the party high command is giving special attention to candidates’ efforts in building unity at the grassroots. “If anyone continues to create division or opposes the official candidate despite sincere reconciliation efforts, the party has decided to take strict disciplinary action against those responsible.” 10 women to compete in 12 seats out of 237 nominations announced by BNP Another BNP Standing Committee member said the nomination of Kamal Jaman Mollah for the Madaripur-1 constituency has been suspended due to allegations. “We are receiving such allegations against some other candidates. We are making a list of controversial and poorly performing nominees to review during the final nomination. When we announced the candidates, we clearly stated that this was a primary nomination and changes can be made by our nomination board,” he said. The BNP leader also said some elderly leaders facing serious health issues, like Mushfiqur Rahman (Brahmanbaria-4), Sardar Sarfuddin Ahmed Santu (Barishal-2), SM Faisal (Habiganj-4), and Jainal Abedin (Feni-2), were given primary nominations but appear physically unfit. “We are keeping a close eye on their activities, and they will be included in the review list.” In addition, he said, primary candidates such as Fakhrul Islam (Noakhali-5) and Mohammad Enamul Haq (Chattogram-12) are under review due to various allegations. The BNP leader said Fakhrul is accused of having links with Jamaat and S Alam Group, while Enamul is said to have connections with the Awami League and S Alam Group. “They are also not very popular or well accepted at the grassroots. Some other nominated candidates will also be reviewed and may be replaced with popular and well-accepted leaders,” Other candidates under review for various reasons include Abdul Gafur Sarker (Nilphamari-4), Farjana Sharmin (Natore-1), Ali Asgar Lobi (Khulna-5), Akhtarul Alam (Mymensingh-6), Nabiullah Nobi (Dhaka-5), Professor SM Rafiqul Islam Bachchu (Gazipur-3), Sardar Sakhwat Hossain Bokul (Narsingdi-4), Emran Ahmed (Sylhet-6), and Monirul Haq Chowdhury (Cumilla-6). Party insiders said internal conflicts persist in over two dozen constituencies where rival aspirants remain in strong positions. Unless nominations in these areas are reviewed, several deprived leaders may decide to contest the polls as independent candidates. They said BNP is evaluating how the announced candidates are behaving with dedicated local leaders and activists, particularly those who were denied nominations. “The central leadership is also giving importance to efforts by the nominated contenders to restore unity at the grassroots. If a nominated candidate fails to build reconciliation despite sincere efforts, the party is considering replacing them in the interest of electoral unity. But those who continue to create divisions even after reconciliation attempts may face strict organisational action,” said a BNP leader in charge of monitoring the activities of the nominated candidates. The BNP leader also said some popular local leaders who were denied nominations are being approached by other political parties to run as their candidates or as independents. “There are attempts to divide BNP’s votes by fielding these leaders as independents,” he added. He said they are verifying the standing of nominated candidates through neutral channels after receiving reports of internal feuds in several districts, and some changes might be made in the initial nomination list following the evaluation. BNP to finalise nominations soon; Tarique’s return ‘imminent’: Dr Zahid Grassroots protests and demands for reconsideration of BNP candidates have erupted in Satkhira-2, Satkhira-3, Mymensingh-3, Mymensingh-6, Brahmanbaria-4, Brahmanbaria-5, Sylhet-4, Chapainawabganj-2, Habiganj-4, Rangpur-3, Cox’s Bazar-4, Narsingdi-4, Narayanganj-2, Meherpur-2, Chattogram-2, Chattogram-4, Chattogram-16, Natore-1, Gazipur-3, Sunamganj-5, Netrakona-3, Chandpur-2, Chandpur-4, Gopalganj-2, Noakhali-5, and Madaripur-1, following complaints over nominations and the perceived bypassing of dedicated local leaders. Contacted, BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed said when the party announced the names of 237 potential candidates, it was clearly stated that some changes might be made later based on the decision of the party’s nomination board. “Since this is not being called a final selection, there remains scope for reconsideration in certain cases. If any decision of the party is found to be incorrect, there is room for review and possible revision,” he added. BNP Standing Committee member Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku told UNB that dissatisfaction in some constituencies is natural. “There might be anger in a few areas. We are observing and handling the situation carefully."

The government has approved a three-year project titled “Basic Self-Defence Training for Youths” to equip young men and women in Bangladesh with essential self-defence skills aimed at boosting their confidence, discipline, and ability to face unsafe situations. The Ministry of Youth and Sports will implement the project through the Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishtan (BKSP) at an estimated cost of Tk 27.82 crore, entirely funded by the Government of Bangladesh, according to the project document. The project will be implemented from September 2025 to February 2028. It received final approval from the Planning Ministry on October 13, 2025, following a review by the Project Evaluation Committee (PEC). According to project documents, the training will be conducted at BKSP’s main centre in Savar, Dhaka, along with its regional training centres in Chattogram, Khulna, Barishal, and Sylhet. Participants from Rajshahi and Mymensingh divisions will be trained at either the Dhaka or Dinajpur centres. The initiative will reach young people from all 64 districts, ensuring wide access to self-defence training opportunities, according to the project document. During the project period, a total of 8,850 youths — including 8,250 young men and 600 young women — will receive basic self-defence training. The project has been included in the Annual Development Programme (ADP) for FY2025–26 under the list of unapproved new projects. The main objective of the initiative is to build the physical and mental capacity of the country’s youths by equipping them with practical self-defence techniques and promoting self-confidence, discipline, and resilience. The training is designed to prepare them to respond effectively to any unexpected or threatening situation and to ensure their personal safety. Officials said that the project will also contribute to the development of a more confident and health-conscious generation of young people. Sports Ministry officials said providing self-defence training to the younger generation is essential for building a confident and resilient society. Beyond personal protection, such training develops physical fitness, enhances mental alertness, and cultivates discipline and self-control. It also encourages civic responsibility and awareness of community safety, particularly among young women who are often more vulnerable to harassment and violence. By introducing structured training at BKSP and its regional centres, the government aims to make self-defence an accessible life skill for all youths, regardless of their background or location. Around Tk 16.51 crore has been allocated for training activities, which include instruction, materials, and participant support. Approximately Tk 7.08 crore will be spent on sports and training equipment, while Tk 2.17 crore has been earmarked for furniture. The project also includes Tk 67.22 lakh for the renovation of trainee dormitories, Tk 44.03 lakh for the procurement of machinery and tools, and Tk 42.45 lakh for vehicle hire. Officials from the Youth and Sports Ministry said the initiative is expected to have a lasting impact on national youth development. It will empower participants with practical self-defence skills, promote gender equality, and help build a generation that is both physically capable and mentally prepared to handle difficult situations.

As early Aman paddy is harvested and threshed across Rangpur, farmers are not only celebrating bumper yields and lucrative prices but also profiting from a soaring demand for straw, which has brightened their harvest season. This year, the price of straw, an essential feed for livestock, has risen significantly compared to last year. Experts attribute the increase to an imbalance between supply and demand, adverse weather events, reduced paddy yields and the scarcity of grazing land. Golam Mostafa, a farmer from Mominpur village in Rangpur Sadar, said, “Earlier, cattle could graze freely in the fields, but now almost no fallow or low-lying land remains vacant. As a result, dependence on cultivated fodder and straw has increased.” Another farmer, Siraj, explained that floods between September and October damaged both natural and cultivated grasslands across the region, intensifying the shortage of fodder. Consequently, farmers who cultivated early paddy are experiencing high demand for straw and are able to sell it at premium prices. Agricultural officials anticipate that the sale of early Aman paddy and straw could generate over Tk 2,500 crore for farmers in the Rangpur region this season.

Bangladesh’s capital Dhaka is on the edge ahead of Thursday’s (13th November 2025) planned ‘lockdown’, as reports of arson and crude bomb explosions have heightened public anxiety. Law enforcement agencies, including the police, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), have been deployed across the city to prevent potential violence. At a press conference on Wednesday, Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Sajjad Ali said the force was fully prepared to avert acts of sabotage associated with the lockdown. “We hope Dhaka residents will stand with us to resist this lockdown and maintain peace,” he said, adding that additional police personnel had been stationed at all city entry and exit points. BGB deployment Fourteen platoons of the BGB have been deployed in Dhaka and surrounding districts since Wednesday morning, according to BGB Public Relations Officer Shariful Islam. Read more: 14 platoons of BGB deployed in Dhaka, adjoining districts Twelve platoons are stationed at key points within the capital, while two are deployed in nearby districts. “BGB members are patrolling strategic areas including Hotel Intercontinental, Dhanmondi-32, Airport, Abdullahpur, Kakrail, Shishu Park, the High Court area, and Abrar Fahad Avenue,” he said. Violence The unrest has already left its mark on the city. On Tuesday night, miscreants set fire to a Malanch Paribahan passenger bus near Sutrapur Fire Station. Crude bomb explosions were also reported in Hatirjheel, Karwan Bazar and other parts of Dhaka. Another bus set on fire in Dhaka’s Sutrapur An official from the Fire Service and Civil Defence told UNB, “At least five arson incidents have been reported in the capital in the past 24 hours. However, no casualties were reported.” Political Backdrop The planned ‘lockdown’ follows an announcement by the Awami League ahead of a verdict by the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and others in a case involving crimes against humanity. Sheikh Hasina fled Bangladesh to India on 5 August 2024, and political instability has since deepened. Read more: Security tightened countrywide ahead of Nov 13 ‘lockdown’: Home Adviser Public Anxiety Despite repeated assurances from law enforcement agencies, fear remains palpable among residents. “We’re scared because buses may not run tomorrow. We’ve already heard about fires breaking out in some areas over the past several nights,” said a passenger at Gabtoli Bus Terminal. Police Warning & Advice The DMP Commissioner warned of strict action against anyone involved in violence or vandalism. “No one will be allowed to take the law into their own hands,” he said, urging residents to remain vigilant.

In the quiet village of Buropara at Alamdanga upazila in Chuadanga, where the hum of engines mingles with the rustle of paddy fields, lives a man whose vision lies not in his eyes, but in his heart and hands. Zahurul Islam Mangal, a sexagenarian mechanic, cannot see the world around him, yet he perceives machines with uncanny precision. Blind since birth, Zahurul has mastered the intricate language of nuts, bolts and gears, guided solely by touch, instinct and faith. He knows by heart which wrench to pick, which bolt to tighten, and where the pulse of a machine falters. His fingers glide across metal surfaces, tracing faults invisible to others and with effortless grace, he brings life back to lifeless engines. For more than a decade, Zahurul has repaired everything from bicycles, vans and shallow engines to power trolleys and tube-wells — entirely on his own. His fascination began early, at the age of seven, when he watched and listened to a local mechanic, absorbing the rhythm of the craft. In 1984, he opened his first repair shop near Chuadanga Sadar Hospital. Later, he returned to his native village to expand his skills, taking on the challenge of shallow engines, power trolleys and a range of complex machines. Since 2004, his modest workshop in Buropara has been a lifeline for farmers and villagers alike. After six years of struggling to find a job, Zahid finds success in strawberry farming “Being able to work without sight is Allah’s blessing,” Zahurul said, his weathered hands moving skillfully over an engine. “I may not have eyes to see outside, but I see with the eyes of my heart. My hands tell me where a screw should go and which wrench to use.” During a recent visit, this UNB Correspondent watched Zahurul at work, diagnosing a farmer’s faulty shallow engine merely by turning its handle. Within minutes, the machine was running smoothly once again. Without resting, he hurried off to another home to repair a tube-well, his movements brisk and assured. “Even after 40 years of working with machines, I cannot fix a single nut,” said local farmer Taijal Sheikh with admiration. “But Zahurul bhai fixes machines without seeing. It’s a gift from Allah.” Another villager, Nazim Uddin, echoed the sentiment, saying, “Though blind, he can dismantle an entire engine and reassemble it perfectly. His work is flawless.” The young entrepreneur who brought orange farming to Naogaon

Once famed for its vibrant water lilies, Lal Shapla Beel in Sylhet's Jaintapur upazila now struggles under invasive water hyacinth, leaving locals and nature lovers frustrated with the committee entrusted to safeguard it. Formed by the upazila administration, the Red Lily Protection Committee has come under fire as residents witness the gradual disappearance of the iconic red lilies that once painted the Dibir Haor region in breathtaking shades of ruby. The region, comprising Yam, Harafkata, Dibi and Kendri beels, together creates the naturally sculpted Lal Shapla Beel, sprawling over approximately 900 acres. The wetland first captured national attention in 2016, drawing tourists both domestic and foreign, enchanted by the dazzling spectacle of red lilies swaying over its serene waters. Read more: Commute woes for Rangamati HSC examinees as Kaptai Lake clogged with water hyacinth Today, however, large swathes of Yam Beel, a prominent section of Lal Shapla Beel, are smothered by the relentless advance of water hyacinth, prompting fears that the ‘Red Lily Beel’ may soon be forgotten, replaced by a sea of invasive greenery. The committee was supposed to identify problems and work with the administration to preserve the red lilies and control aquatic plants, lamented several local residents and nature lovers, speaking on condition of anonymity. Instead of red lilies, they said, hyacinth flowers are now blooming, ruining the beauty of the wetland. Locals have proposed a pragmatic measure to fund the beel’s upkeep: levying a Tk 100 fee on tourist boats, which could be used to finance regular cleaning drives and maintenance efforts to remove the invasive plants. Read more: How to Visit Saint Martin’s Island in Tourist Season 2025-26 They also urged the authorities to undertake an immediate environmental survey, warning that inaction may transform the beloved Lal Shapla Beel into a cautionary tale of neglect. When approached for comment, Jaintapur Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) George Mitra Chakma acknowledged the issue, noting that he had not received prior reports. “We will take initiatives to remove the water hyacinth and protect the red lilies after discussing the matter with the conservation authorities,” he assured. As the waters of Lal Shapla Beel shimmer under the fading light, the fate of its crimson jewels hangs precariously, locals said. Read more: Rema–Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary in Habiganj: A Comprehensive Travel Guide They said without swift action, one of Sylhet’s natural treasures risks being lost beneath a blanket of green, its fiery blooms reduced to memory.

Despite repeated calls for administrative reform, much of the bureaucracy reportedly remains dominated by contractual officials, leaving career officials disheartened over limited decision-making power and stalled promotions. “From the Cabinet Secretary and Principal Secretary to the Secretary of the Ministry of Public Administration, at least 20 key ministries and departments are currently headed by secretaries on contract,” said a frustrated official wishing anonymity. Even within the seven-member Superior Selection Board (SSB) which recommends promotions, four of them are contractual appointees, he said. Many of these officials, he said, have returned to the administration after spending nearly a decade away, creating confusion, stagnation and deep dissatisfaction among regular officers. “Their decisions are influencing promotions, postings and appointments, while their long absence from mainstream administration has led to a loss of continuity and coordination,” the official lamented. Meetings, gatherings inside Secretariat banned; permission required after 6pm Administrative expert and former secretary AKM Abdul Awal Majumder told UNB that while some contractual officers are performing well, many are failing to deliver as expected. “Contractual appointments are holding back the promotion of regular officers, which has caused anger and frustration,” he said, adding, “Opportunities should be given to capable new officers, and the administration should move forward through regular promotions.” According to government data, 71 senior officers are currently serving, including 20 on contract in senior secretary and secretary positions. They include Cabinet Secretary Dr Sheikh Abdur Rashid, Principal Secretary M Siraj Uddin Mia, Public Administration Senior Secretary Ehsanul Haque, Home Ministry Senior Secretary Dr Nasimul Gani, Planning Commission Member Dr Mokhles Ur Rahman, Women and Children Affairs Senior Secretary Momtaz Ahmed, Election Commission Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed, Expatriates’ Welfare Senior Secretary Dr Md Neamat Ullah Bhuiyan and Land Ministry Senior Secretary ASM Saleh Ahmed, among others. Calm returns to Secretariat area as students finally leave after day of drama Other contractual appointments include Dr Md Mahfuzul Haque, now Bangladesh’s ambassador to Portugal, and Begum Sharifa Khan, serving as Alternate Executive Director at the World Bank — both holding secretary-level ranks. Several officials from various ministries told UNB that many contractual secretaries, having been away from the core administration for years, are struggling to adapt to current practices. Some reportedly continue to follow outdated administrative methods and have formed tight networks around their own BCS batch (1982), limiting opportunities for younger and more qualified officers. Insiders say that discipline has not returned to the civil service even after the fall of the Awami regime. Corruption, irregularities, favouritism and abuse of power remain widespread, while political influence in appointments to key posts continues to surface. Following the July uprising, incidents of confrontation during the appointment of Deputy Commissioners (DCs) were reported, including one case where a senior official of the Ministry of Public Administration was allegedly locked inside a washroom. Recent controversies also involve the politically influenced appointments of the Education Secretary and Public Administration Secretary. One senior party leader reportedly held a secretariat meeting with the Cabinet Secretary to retain administrative control, a move widely discussed within bureaucratic circles. Allegations have also surfaced against the then Public Administration Secretary, Dr Mokhles Ur Rahman, over irregularities and financial dealings in DC appointments. He was later transferred to the Planning Commission in September, replaced by Ehsanul Haque, another officer serving on contract. For nearly two decades, the Ministry of Public Administration has not remained without a secretary for even a single day. After a vacancy of about a month, the Secretary of the Secondary and Higher Education Department under the Ministry of Education has been appointed. However, the increasing number of contractual reappointments is now eroding trust and morale within the service, according to the officials who spoke on condition of anonymity. The shortage of skilled officers at the field level particularly for DC positions has become more evident, highlighting the growing strain on the administrative system, they added.