United News of Bangladesh

The government has taken a move to introduce a programme to modernise the existing systems and establish new institutions to provide training to technical teachers on topics related to the 'industrial revolution' and modern technology. It is set to launch a major initiative titled 'TVET Teachers for the Future (TTF) Programme', aimed at modernising the training system for technical and vocational education teachers involving  Tk 2,009.32 crore. The programme will be implemented by the Directorate of Technical Education under the Technical and Madrasah Education Division. Of the total cost, Tk 209.32 crore will come from the national exchequer and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) will provide Tk 1,800 crore in project loans. The project will be implemented in Dhaka North, Chattogram, Khulna, Barishal, Sylhet, Mymensingh, Rangpur City Corporations and Bogura Sadar Upazila by December, 2029. Under the initiative, new training institutions will be set up and existing facilities will be modernised to enhance the capacity of technical teacher training in Bangladesh. The project will focus on equipping teachers with knowledge and skills aligned with the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and emerging technologies. Key components of the project include the construction of residential and non-residential buildings, procurement of engineering and other equipment, computer and ICT accessories, as well as both domestic and overseas training for technical educators. There are currently 55,304 technical teachers in Bangladesh, of them 20.52 percent are women (Banbase, 2022), according to the project document. Currently, the scope of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is increasing, so it is necessary to bring the quality of technical education in line with international standards, it said. It is necessary to include soft skills necessary to increase the chances of getting a job and technologies related to the Fourth Industrial Revolution in technical education programmes. Reforms, higher incentives push Bangladesh’s remittances to record $30.32 bln In order to ensure quality training facilities for technical teachers at all levels of government and private sector in the country and to increase the scope of training, the project titled TVET Teachers for the Future (TTF) Programme was proposed by the Directorate of Technical Education. The Planning Commission thinks that the project will modernise the existing training system and establish new institutions to increase the opportunities for technical teacher training, including training technical teachers in subjects related to the Fourth Industrial Revolution and modern technology, which will play an important role in increasing employment. According to the ADB, the TVET Teachers for Future (TTF) programme will support the government of Bangladesh's Integrated TVET Development Action Plan (ITDAP) to improve equitable availability of qualified TVET teachers, especially outside of Dhaka. The programme will benefit at least 10,000 new and existing TVET teachers within its period and establish a system for continuous professional development that will substantially improve the quality and relevance of TVET in Bangladesh.  

Farmers across the north-western district of Chapainawabganj, also renowned for its mango production, are passing busy days with Aman paddy cultivation, as timely monsoon rains have signalled the start of the season. From transplanting seedlings to preparing fields and repairing bunds, agricultural lands across the district are abuzz with activities. Shah Lal Ali, a farmer from Baliyadanga village in Sadar upazila, said he is cultivating Aman paddy on 12 bighas of land and plans to plant on another six bighas soon. “The rains arrived early this year, which has been good for farming. The initial abundance of rainwater meant there was no need for irrigation in the beginning, helping reduce costs. If the rainfall continues like this, irrigation expenses will largely reduce,” he said. Akbar Ali, a farmer from Atahar area, echoed the sentiment. “Aman paddy must be planted during the rainy season. I’ve seen my forefathers rely solely on rainwater for this crop. In years without rain, we’ve had to depend on deep tube wells for irrigation. But this year, timely rains have allowed all the farmers to begin cultivation,” he said. Akbar said he has already planted paddy on eight bighas of land and plans to cultivate another two bighas once the standing rainwater recedes from a low-lying field. “The market price of paddy is good right now, which has encouraged more people to grow rice this season,” Akbar added. Golden fiber in trouble: Kurigram’s jute farmers struggle amid water crisis Meanwhile, Jahangir Hossain, another farmer in the area, expressed concern over rising costs. “The price of ploughing and labour has gone up. On top of that, we have to feed the workers and even provide cigarettes,” he said with frustration. Calling farming the only way to survive, Jahangir said he has planted paddy on five and a half bighas so far and has another six bighas to go. In Nezampur of Nachol upazila, farmer Serajul is also preparing his land for cultivation. “Timely rain has helped us a lot. I plan to cultivate three bighas this year. If we continue to get periodic rainfall, it will be a good season,” he said. According to the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), the target for Aman paddy cultivation in the district this year has been set at 54,415 hectares. This includes 10,695 hectares in Sadar, 22,400 in Nachol, 15,670 in Gomastapur, 5,050 in Bholahat, and 600 hectares in Shibganj upazila. Agricultural officials and farmers expect that 193,144 metric tonnes of paddy will be produced from the cultivated land, helping meet local demand for rice. Kurigram char residents pay for power they never receive Dr Yasin Ali, Deputy Director of the DAE, said farmers are planting both Ufshi (high-yielding) and hybrid varieties of Aman paddy. “There is no shortage of fertilisers or seeds, and we are providing full technical support to the farmers,” he said, expressing optimism that the district will exceed its cultivation target this year.

Once hailed as the ‘golden fiber’ of Bangladesh, jute is now fighting for survival in Fulbari upazila of Kurigram district, as a persistent water crisis stalls the crucial retting process, leaving farmers anxious and uncertain about their yields. Despite fields brimming with ripe jute, many farmers are hesitant to begin harvesting.  Without sufficient water for retting -- the vital step in extracting fibre -- they fear their crops may rot, pushing them into heavy losses. A recent visit to different areas of Fulbari revealed growing frustration among jute farmers. Most local water bodies have dried up, offering little to no help for retting. Only those residing near the Dharla, Baromasia and Neelkamal rivers have managed to begin harvesting and retting over the past week. Others are left with no choice but to transport their jute to distant locations, some two to four kilometres away, in search of suitable water bodies. The extra labour and transport costs are adding to their woes. “If there is no significant rainfall within the next week, we will be in serious trouble,” said a farmer, worried about their looming losses. This is not a one-off incident. Many farmers say the problem has been recurring for years. Without proper retting facilities or assured water sources, their interest in cultivating jute is dwindling fast. Adding to the crisis, farmers are also grappling with rising production costs and a lack of fair market prices for their jute. “I cultivated jute on one and a half bighas of land but I can’t ret it due to a lack of rainwater,” said Badiuzzamal, a farmer from Anantapur village under Kashipur union. Echoing the concern, Kishab Chandra Roy and Dhiren Chandra Roy from Gojerkuti area, said despite occasional rains over the past few days, it has not been enough to fill ponds or paddy fields for retting. Farmers from various areas reported that while those near rivers have started retting, most agricultural fields remain dry, and nearby ponds are unable to serve the purpose. Khulna falls short of jute production target for lack of incentives Unless long-term measures are taken, they warned, interest in jute farming – once a major cash crop and pride of the region – may continue to decline. Experts and farmers alike stressed that if the government is serious about building a polythene-free country, it must prioritise the jute sector through modern training, technical support and fair market policies. Upazila Agriculture Officer Nilufa Yasmin said the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) has been providing advice and incentives to encourage jute cultivation. “This year, farmers in six unions of the upazila have cultivated jute on 480 hectares of land. So far, around 75 hectares near river areas have been harvested and retted. With the onset of the monsoon, we hope heavy rainfall in the coming week will solve the water crisis for jute retting,” she added. But until the rains come, Kurigram’s golden fibre remains in peril.

Seven months after mourning the death of a father working abroad, a Shariatpur family has been shattered once again -- this time by an even more devastating tragedy. Their youngest member, Abdullah Shamim, 14, a bright Class VI student at Milestone School and College in Dhaka, lost his life in a tragic aircraft crash on campus. The shocking incident has plunged the grieving family into silence and disbelief, as loved ones now demand a thorough investigation and urgent action. No reason to underreport jet crash casualty figures: CA’s Press Secretary Abdullah Shamim was the youngest son of Abul Kalam Majhi and Julekha Begum, residents of Majhikandi in Dmkhali, under Bhedarganj upazila of Shariatpur. The family had been living in Diabari Khalpar area of Uttara, Dhaka. From a young age, Shamim had shown remarkable academic promise and dreamt of becoming a doctor. Initially enrolled in a madrasa, he was later admitted to Class VI at Milestone School and College in Uttara to further his education. His father, Abul Kalam Majhi, died in December last year while working in Saudi Arabia. Since then, Shamim had been living under the care and affection of his mother, elder brother, and sister. On Monday, as usual, he was attending classes with his fellows when a Bangladesh Air Force fighter jet suddenly crashed into one of the school’s buildings, just 10 minutes before the scheduled tiffin break. The deafening crash left many injured, including Shamim. Members of the armed forces arrived promptly at the scene and rescued the injured, informing family members shortly afterwards. Shamim was rushed to Dhaka Medical College and Hospital by ambulance and admitted to the burn unit due to the severity of his injuries. Despite all efforts, he succumbed to his injuries later that night around 11 pm. As the tragic news of his death reached his ancestral village, a blanket of mourning descended over the entire community. 'Unbearable Tragedy’: Stars share trauma, grief after Milestone School plane crash On Tuesday morning, Shamim’s body was brought back to his native home in Majhikandi. After the janaza prayer held at 9 am on the grounds of Char Vayra High School, he was laid to rest beside his father’s grave in the family cemetery. His relatives remain inconsolable, with his mother Julekha Begum frequently falling unconscious from grief. Shamim shared a close bond with his cousin, Abdullah Hossain.  

Despite notable progress in education, employment, and local-level political participation, women in Bangladesh remain significantly underrepresented at the national level, raising serious concerns among gender equality advocates. While Bangladesh had been historically led by female heads of government — including a female Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition — experts argue that such symbolic leadership masks the broader exclusion of women from meaningful political power. Currently, 50 seats in the Jatiya Sangsad (National Parliament) are reserved for women. However, a 2024 study by Democracy Watch reveals that women secured only 8% of the general parliamentary seats through direct elections, underscoring limited access to political power through open competition. Major political parties, including the Awami League, BNP, and Jatiya Party, have been criticised for marginalising women in nominations, leadership roles, and campaign funding. At the grassroots level, many women in local government report being undermined by male relatives or party operatives who control their decisions. Female union parishad members often lack the authority to act independently. “Democracy without women is not democracy at all,” said a statement from Bangladesh Nari Progati Sangha (BNPS), urging political parties to establish minimum representation targets for women in leadership positions. As the country prepares for its next general election, women’s rights activists are calling for structural reforms to ensure women’s voices are not just seen, but meaningfully heard in policymaking. On Saturday (July 12), the Bangladesh Mahila Parishad organised a rally and public gathering at the Central Shaheed Minar, demanding direct elections to the reserved seats for women in parliament. Addressing the rally, the organization's president Dr. Fauzia Moslem said, “The struggle for women’s political empowerment has continued since 1972. We are in search of our own identity. Now is the time to ensure our participation in decision-making.” Structural exclusion within political parties Despite women's increasing visibility in other sectors, their participation within political party structures remains minimal. A 2024 policy review by the Election Working Group found that women hold less than 10% of decision-making roles in major political parties — including the ruling Awami League, the opposition BNP, and the Jatiya Party. Int’l Day for Women in Diplomacy: Dialogue focuses on women's challenges in politics, diplomacy “Women are often confined to auxiliary bodies like the Mohila League or Jubo Mohila Dal but are rarely elevated to central leadership,” noted political analyst Dr. Dilara Chowdhury. “This kind of systemic exclusion weakens the foundation of inclusive democracy.” According to the Representation of the People Order (RPO), political parties were supposed to ensure 33% representation of women at all levels of their committees by 2020. However, most parties remain far from meeting this goal in 2025. The Election Commission is reviewing compliance and may impose stricter measures if progress remains stagnant. Civil society organizations are urging the Commission to enforce these requirements more robustly across all parties, including religious ones, to ensure equal participation. Islamic parties continue to exclude women Islamic political parties in Bangladesh have shown little commitment to women's political empowerment. Despite women’s growing roles in national life, parties such as Jamaat-e-Islami, Islami Andolon Bangladesh, and Khelafat Majlish feature minimal — or no — participation of women in leadership or decision-making. “Most of these parties maintain either segregated structures or no formal space for women at all,” said Dr. Ali Riaz, Vice Chair of the National Consensus Commission and South Asian politics expert. Jamaat-e-Islami’s women’s wing, Bangladesh Mohila Jamaat, remains largely symbolic and organizationally isolated from the central Majlis-e-Shura.  Public rallies and political programs by these parties rarely include women as speakers or participants, reflecting deeper ideological and institutional resistance. “They speak of justice but deny women basic political rights,” said rights activist Taslima Akhter.  Some Islamic leaders defend their position by claiming to assign “separate but equal” roles to women, but critics argue that these roles rarely translate into actual political power. Forgotten legacy of women in political uprisings Speaking at a recent public discussion, Samanta Sharmin, senior joint convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP), expressed concern over the erasure of women’s contributions during political uprisings. “We inspired people. We led. But now our role is being forgotten — and that’s why it’s easier to humiliate women on social media today,” she said. Sharmin stressed the importance of preserving the collective memory of women’s political agency, particularly during the July 2024 uprising. “Women’s participation was not symbolic — it was real, spontaneous, and courageous.” Prof Ali Riaz seeks women’s equal dignity in ‘reshaped Bangladesh’ She called for the archiving and recognition of women’s roles in moments of national crisis. “When the nation is in danger, it is women who rise. We must never forget that.” Constitutional equality in state reform On Monday (July 14), Prof. Ali Riaz, speaking during the 13th day of a second-round dialogue on political reform at the Foreign Service Academy, emphasised the need to institutionalise women’s equality as part of state reconstruction. “We must embed women’s dignity and rights constitutionally and institutionally if we truly wish to rebuild Bangladesh,” he said. Recalling the role of women in the July 2024 uprising, Prof Riaz said the way the movement gained momentum due to the glorious participation of women can be institutionalised in the context of restructuring the state. From 1971 to 2025: A legacy of resilience Women have played pivotal roles throughout Bangladesh’s history — from the Liberation War to the democratic movements of the 1990s, and recent youth-led mobilizations. Figures like Shaheed Dr. Shirin Banu Mitil, Taramon Bibi, and Noorjahan Begum symbolize the historic depth of women’s political courage. Women's Reform Commission recommends expanding parliament to 600 seats In later years, leaders like former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia and Sheikh Hasina dominated political narratives. While their rise was often aided by family lineage, their influence reshaped national politics. Others like Ivy Rahman, Matia Chowdhury, and Rasheda K. Chowdhury contributed meaningfully in policy and governance. At the grassroots level, women have slowly begun to transform local governance by contesting union and upazila elections — often without adequate institutional support — helping build a culture of accountability and inclusivity. In every movement — from Shahbagh to anti-rape protests — women, especially students, have remained at the frontlines, redefining political activism through both street power and digital tools. As Bangladesh looks ahead, activists say the next chapter must not only include women but be co-written by them — equally, unapologetically, and visibly.

Uncertainty has mounted in Bangladesh’s manufacturing sector as the United States has officially imposed a 35 percent tariff on all goods imported from Bangladesh, effective August 1, 2025. The decision, outlined in a letter from US President Donald Trump to Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of Bangladesh's interim government, marks a significant escalation in trade tensions and is expected to have a severe impact on Bangladesh's robust export sector, particularly the vital ready-made garment (RMG) industry. This new tariff, a slight reduction from an earlier proposed 37 percent but still substantially higher than the previous average rate of 15 percent, places Bangladesh at a significant disadvantage compared to regional competitors like Vietnam, which reportedly faces a lower 20 percent tariff. US President Donald Trump's letter to Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus announcing the new rate also said it would be "separate from all sectoral tariffs", which means RMG could face an effective rate of 50% for entry into the US market.  Bangladesh's RMG industry, which accounts for over 80 percent of its total exports and nearly 8 percent of its GDP, is projected to be the most severely impacted. With the US being Bangladesh's single largest export destination, importing around $8 billion worth of Bangladeshi goods annually (over $6 billion of which is garments), the increased tariff will dramatically raise the cost of Bangladeshi textiles in the US market. Experts warn this could lead to a significant decline in demand, factory slowdowns, and widespread job losses for the estimated 4 million people employed in the sector. "This will be devastating," stated Katrina Ell, Director and Head of Asia-Pacific Economics at Moody's Analytics, highlighting that around 20% of Bangladesh's garment exports are shipped to the US. Trump administration limits Mexican flights, threatens Delta-Aeromexico alliance amid trade dispute In response, the Bangladeshi government is engaged in a diplomatic push, with Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashiruddin  leading negotiations with the United States Trade Representative in Washington, D.C. Bangladesh has offered several concessions, including boosting duty-free imports of American goods such as wheat, cotton, LNG, and soybeans, to narrow the more than $6 billion trade surplus it enjoys with the US. The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) is hiring US lobbyists to address potential US tariff hikes on Bangladeshi garment exports. This decision reflects the industry's concern about the government's progress on the issue. BGMEA President Mahmud Hasan Khan said that the US is a very lucrative market for Bangladesh, so the government has to make a concerted effort to reduce tariffs to a reasonable level. The BGMEA aims to influence US trade policy and protect the interests of Bangladeshi garment manufacturers in the US market. The lobbyist appointment is a lengthy process which needs some time. The government has already sent some lucrative proposals for the US including bonded warehouse for US cotton exporters, he said. “Tariff reduction or extension of time for imposing new tariffs for Bangladesh, all the matters are depending on the US president. So we do more while the tariff will be reduced, otherwise an alternative way would be a better option,” said BGMEA President. Zahid Hussain, former lead economist, World Bank Dhaka office, told UNB that Bangladesh will be ahead of some countries while behind some countries in apparel tariffs imposed to access the US market. “As the issue under discussion between US and Bangladesh, the tariff is not fixed yet for some other countries, so, in plus-minus what our position will be, it will take some more time to know,” he pointed out. “If Bangladesh faces a 35 percent tariff while India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka face lower tariffs, then we (Bangladesh) may lose upto 20 percent of our existing export volume in the US market,” he opined. Mustafa K. Mujeri, former Chief Economist of Bangladesh Bank (BB), said that Bangladesh has to give priority to increasing its adaptation in the manufacturing sector, which is more important than allowing duty-free entry of US products in the domestic market. He said that US’s present trade policy is not stable as it is continuously violating trade rules set by the World Trade Organization (WTO). Khondkar Golam Moazzem, Research Director at the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) told UNB that Bangladesh needs to influence US buyers who build their billion dollar businesses based on the country’s (Bangladesh) apparel sector. He opposed excessive and unnecessary import from US, which will be economically very costly. Rather US buyers and farmers could work in favour of Bangladesh as their products (cotton) is used in the apparel sector.    The immediate outlook for Bangladesh's export economy remains uncertain. While some top exporters believe the 35 percent figure is a negotiating tactic and will eventually be reduced, economists caution that the outcome depends on the corresponding tariffs levied on other major garment exporters like China, India, and Pakistan. Trump sues Wall Street Journal and Rupert Murdoch over Epstein coverage For Bangladesh, the tariffs serve as an urgent wake-up call to diversify its export markets beyond the US and to explore new opportunities in regions like the EU, UK, Canada, and Australia. Industry experts are also calling for a shift towards producing more value-added products, strengthening trade relations through robust government-to-government diplomacy, and ensuring internal political stability to attract and retain international buyers. The focus is now on strategic choices to navigate this complex global trade landscape.

As Bangladesh’s women footballers continue to capture hearts at home and abroad, experts and players alike are calling for a stronger professional pipeline to ensure their success turns into a lasting legacy. Despite limited resources, their growing success proves that women's football is no longer an afterthought—it's a national movement taking center stage. From humble beginnings in the early 2000s, women’s football in Bangladesh has grown into a dynamic force. Tournaments, leagues, and school-level programs have opened doors for thousands of young girls, many from remote and rural areas, to dream beyond social norms and shine on the international stage. The movement gained traction with the Inter-district Women’s Football Tournament (2006–2007)-the first of its kind in Bangladesh. Eight district teams made history, setting a foundation for what would become a broader sporting revolution. Momentum continued with the National Women’s Championship (2009–2016), which welcomed teams from districts and government institutions. The championship’s inaugural sponsor, Citycell, signaled a crucial shift—corporate Bangladesh had begun to notice. Crucial grassroots initiatives soon followed. The Dhaka Metropolis Women’s School Football Championship (2008–2010) introduced structured competition among schoolgirls. Another game-changing moment came with the launch of the Bangamata Primary School Gold Cup in 2011. Initiated by the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education, the tournament saw over one million female students from more than 60,000 schools participate in its first edition. “When I first saw my daughter play in the Bangamata Gold Cup, I realized football could change her life. She’s more confident now,” said Arifur Rahman, a proud parent. Sagorika's hat-trick powers Bangladesh to retain SAFF U-20 Women’s crown At the club level, the Bangladesh Women’s Football League (2011–present) remains the country’s only domestic competition for women. Though interrupted by funding gaps and management challenges, the league still acts as the primary pathway for women to move from grassroots to the national team. Despite progress, significant hurdles remain—poor infrastructure, limited investment, and persistent social stigma. Yet, the will to overcome is undeniable. “We didn’t have a girls’ team in our school before 2010. Now, we practice regularly and even won a local tournament. Football gave us a new identity,” said Shahana Begum, a parent from Rajshahi. “People used to laugh at the idea of girls playing football. But now they cheer for us in the stands. Times are changing,”* added Ruma Akter, a school player from Dhaka. “There is no shortage of talent in rural Bangladesh. What we need is consistent support, training, and visibility,” emphasized Munira Sultana, a grassroots coach in Khulna. “These girls are not just playing football—they’re breaking stereotypes,” said Tahmid Hossain, a local sports journalist. Recent years have seen a golden era for Bangladesh’s women footballers showing their strength on the international platforms. Ritu Porna Chakma, a standout from the Hill Tracts, became a national sensation after scoring the winning goal in the 2024 SAFF Women’s Championship final and earning MVP honors. She followed that up by netting both goals in a historic 2–1 victory over Myanmar during the 2025 AFC qualifiers, securing Bangladesh’s first-ever spot in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup. Following the win, celebrations erupted in Yangon and Dhaka’s Hatirjheel, with fans dubbing her “Bangladesh’s own Messi.” SAFF U-20 Women's: Holders Bangladesh to face Nepal on Monday in hopes of retaining title The entire SAFF Championship-winning squad including stars like Sanjida Akhter and the dynamic Shamsunnahar Sr. & Jr., were awarded the Ekushey Padak 2025—the country’s second-highest civilian honor. This was an unprecedented moment for a sports team in Bangladesh. Afeida Khandaker, the newly appointed national captain, has been praised for her leadership in guiding the team to Asian Cup qualification, while Sabina Khatun, the country’s all-time top scorer (38 international and 333 club goals), continues to inspire as a living legend of Bangladeshi football. “Our women’s team is our pride. They’ve shown that with dedication and the right support, Bangladesh can shine globally,” said Ahmed Rahman, a fan from Chattogram. “My experience as a player helps me shape others. As I train to become a coach, I want to combine skill with experience to build the next generation,” said national star Sanjida Akhter who has begun formal coaching training. At a recent celebration at Hatirjheel Amphitheater, BFF President Tabith Awal pledged full institutional support for the women’s team. “You have accomplished two things: you are making history, and you are taking us forward in changing our society’s mindset,” he said. Public rallies, packed stadiums, and vibrant social media campaigns have propelled women’s football into the spotlight. Groups like the Bangladesh Mahila Parishad have also rallied behind the team, calling their journey a triumph of both sport and gender justice. SAFF U-20 Champs:Shanti Mardi's hattrick helps Bangladesh to maintain all-win run beating Bhutan 4-1   With continued investment, institutional backing, and grassroots nurturing, Bangladesh’s women footballers are not just changing the game—they're rewriting the future.

Dispute among family members of the July Uprising martyrs over right to benefits is hampering the government's assistance distribution programme, according to officials. Disagreements between wives and parents of the martyrs have led to administrative delays and complications, said officials of the the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs and the July Uprising Directorate. They said the authorities are struggling to disburse both one-time financial assistance and monthly allowances due to these internal conflicts. "Who gets how much — that’s now the biggest issue," said Liberation War Affairs Adviser Faruk-e-Azam. "Some complain the wife is getting more, others say the parents are. The martyr’s parents argue that a wife may remarry, but they’ve lost their child forever. Meanwhile, the widows claim they too lost everything with the death of their husbands," he said. According to officials, the family feud has escalated to the point where separate WhatsApp and Facebook groups have formed — one supporting the parents, the other backing the widows. These groups often arrive at the ministry en masse lodging complaints against each other, they said. The ministry follows the Muslim Family Law Ordinance, 1961 for Muslim families and the Hindu Succession Act, 1956 for Hindu families to determine the rightful recipients of the aid. However, many family members are opposing to the legal framework being applied, officials said. “Even when we calculate based on religious laws, many are not satisfied. So we’re having to go case by case which is wasting both time and manpower,” Faruk-e-Azam told UNB. “When money becomes the focus, people tend to forget the martyrdom and sacrifice. But the government’s goal is to honour and preserve the spirit of their ultimate sacrifice,” he added. The government is providing each martyr’s family a total of Tk 30 lakh in savings certificates — Tk 10 lakh was disbursed last fiscal year, and Tk 20 lakh is scheduled for this fiscal (2025-26). Besides, each family is entitled to a monthly allowance of Tk 20,000. So far, the government has officially recognised 844 martyrs. Among them, 774 families have received the first Tk 10 lakh installment. The remaining 70 families are yet to receive the initial installment due to unresolved inheritance issues which has also stalled the second phase of disbursement. “We are distributing funds according to established rules but these internal disputes force us into daily negotiations,” said Md Mashiur Rahman, Director General of the July Uprising Directorate. He noted that just last Thursday, 59 widows came to the ministry together to press their claims while parents of martyrs had previously done the same. “Each martyr has multiple heirs. Determining who gets what share is time-consuming, and this is slowing down the entire process,” he said. Meanwhile, the government has also initiated assistance programmes for the injured victims of the July Uprising. As per official classification: Category A (critically injured): 493 individuals will receive a one-time grant of Tk 5 lakh and a monthly allowance of Tk 20,000. Of this, Tk 2 lakh has already been disbursed, with the remaining Tk 3 lakh to be provided this fiscal year.Category B (seriously injured): 908 individuals will get a one-time grant of Tk 3lakh  and Tk 15,000 monthly. Tk 1 lakh has been paid in advance.Category C (moderately injured): 10,642 individuals will receive Tk 1 lakh one-time and Tk 10,000 monthly.All injured individuals, regardless of category are entitled to lifetime free medical care, opportunities for treatment abroad, and guaranteed rehabilitation support. Eligible members of the martyrs' families will also be given priority for employment in government or semi-government sectors. Liberation War Affairs Secretary Israt Chowdhury  said, “Once we complete the aid disbursement we will move on to the rehabilitation phase. Our goal is to directly transfer funds to beneficiaries’ accounts through Sonali Bank.” She added, “We are hoping to begin disbursing monthly allowances in at least one division by next week. The quicker families provide the necessary information the faster we can proceed.” Regarding reclassification of injury categories, the secretary said, “If someone wishes to move from Category C to Category A that assessment will be made by the Ministry of Health.”

What was once a revered national landmark honouring three of Bengal’s most influential political figures has now become a sanctuary for drug dealers, addicts and the homeless. The Mausoleum of the three leaders -- dedicated to AK Fazlul Huq, Huseyn Shaheed Suhrawardy and Khwaja Nazimuddin -- stands in quiet neglect beside Dhaka University, its symbolic gravitas now lost amid open drug trade and structural decay. Built in 1985 to commemorate these stalwarts of pre-independence Bengal, the mausoleum was meant to serve as a site of reflection and national pride. Today, it tells a different story -- one of administrative indifference, lawlessness and societal failures. Security Lapses The collapse of order around the mausoleum worsened following the murder of Dhaka University student Shammo on May 13. In a subsequent crackdown, police launched raids to clear vagrants and drug users from the adjacent Suhrawardy Udyan. That campaign, however, merely displaced the problem: many of the evicted people moved straight into the nearby mausoleum grounds. A recent on-site inspection revealed a complete absence of security or maintenance staff. A large section of the front boundary wall is missing and several portions lack iron fencing, allowing unrestricted entry. The entire wall facing Dhaka Gate has disappeared. Locals blame scrap thieves for the damage. “Street kids and vagrants have been removing the iron bars to sell them,” said a nearby footpath vendor, requesting anonymity out of fear. Shelter for the Homeless, Hub for Drugs Throughout the day, people can be seen loitering or sleeping on the main platform and around the graves. Some are visibly under the influence, others are openly using drugs. When asked, a man in his fifties who was seated on a grave responded bluntly, “Where else can we go? We live here now.” Multiple sources said the majority of people occupying the site are involved in drug use or distribution. Flourishing Open Drug Market With Suhrawardy Udyan now off-limits, the mausoleum has become a new hub for narcotics. Witnesses said drugs are sold openly near the Dhaka Gate, beneath metro rail pillars and along surrounding roads. Consumers often use the mausoleum grounds immediately after purchasing drugs. Karwan Bazar Railway: The go-to place for illegal drugs in Dhaka Although the Public Works Department officially oversees the site, no permanent security or caretaking staff are posted. On Thursday (July 17), a team from Shahbagh Police Station carried out a brief raid around 5:30pm. Several people were detained and addicts removed—but within minutes, the dealers were back and business resumed as usual. A teenage drug peddler, looked to be around 14 or 15, told UNB, “We used to sell in the park. After getting kicked out, we now sell here.” Asked where he lives, he pointed directly to the mausoleum platform. He named his supplier as a man called ‘Nabi’. Murder Linked to Drug Network On June 15, an 18-year-old named Mobarak was stabbed to death near Shishu Park in Shahbagh. His cousin, Rabiul, said the killing stemmed from a drug-related dispute with Nabi, the same person allegedly operating in the mausoleum area. Police Admit Challenges Officer-in-charge (OC) of Shahbagh Police Station Khalid Mansur told UNB, “We are conducting daily raids and mobile court operations. Just last night (Thursday), we detained three drug dealers and seized over 1 kg of cannabis. One of them has been arrested under the Narcotics Control Act.” He mentioned the limitations of police action alone: “But without a coordinated initiative, this drug trade cannot be stopped. We are planning a joint operation soon with the Department of Narcotics Control and RAB. We've also notified the Public Works Department to repair the boundary wall around the mausoleum. We’re doing our part, and we've repeatedly urged them to step up as well.” Public Works Department Silent Despite several attempts, UNB was unable to reach Abul Kalam Azad, the designated official from the Public Works Department, for comment on the site’s restoration or security fencing. Court destroys large haul of seized drugs in Brahmanbaria A Heritage Site in Peril More than just a burial ground, the Mausoleum of the three leaders was meant to serve as a lasting tribute to the vision and contributions of three key architects of Bengal’s political past. Today, its symbolic power is being eroded -- both literally and figuratively -- by systemic neglect, criminal infiltration, and a lack of institutional accountability. Unless urgent, coordinated efforts are undertaken, this national monument may soon be remembered not for its historical significance, but for how it was allowed to fall apart.

  The interim government has decided to nearly double wheat imports in the current fiscal year (2025–26) in a bid to bridge the widening gap between local production and rising consumption. Wheat is fast becoming a dietary staple in urban and semi-urban areas in the country with demand surging for wheat-based products such as bread, noodles, and biscuits. However, domestic production remains limited—only around 1.1 million tonnes—compared to a national requirement of over 7 million tonnes. According to a Food Planning and Monitoring Committee document, the government has planned to import around 8 lakh (800,000) metric tonnes of wheat this fiscal year—almost double the previous year's government procurement of 4.66 lakh metric tonnes. The document notes that wheat has not been available for domestic procurement in recent years, prompting the need for increased imports. 52,500 mt wheat imported from Ukraine reaches Chattogram It said the import plan will be re-determined in coordination with the possible distribution target and safety stock of wheat in the current fiscal year. “Tenders have already been invited for the import of one lakh metic tonnes of wheat and the process of importing 2.20 lakh metric tonnes of wheat from the United States is underway,” according  to the document . The wheat import through government initiative in 2024-25 fiscal was 4.66 lakh metric tonnes while it was 7.84 lakh metic tonnes, 6.86 lakh metic tonnes, 5.46 lakh metic tonnes and 4.79 lakh metic tonnes in 2023-24 fiscal, 2022-23 fiscal, 2021-22 fiscal and 2020-21 fiscal years respectively. Bangladesh on Sunday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the US under which the country will import 700,000 metric tonnes (MTs) of high-quality wheat annually from the US over the next five years at competitive prices. Historically, Bangladesh imported wheat from Russia, Ukraine, Canada, Australia, and India. Shipments from Ukraine have decreased since the war with Russia began in 2022, forcing local traders to diversify sources often at higher costs. Currently, Russia and India are Bangladesh’s primary wheat suppliers. India has intermittently imposed export restrictions, affecting supply stability and prompting Bangladesh to explore deals with alternative markets. Bangladesh Bank data shows that the country imported approximately $635.8 million worth of wheat in FY24. The government has taken steps to stabilise the wheat market including lowering import duties to encourage private sector imports and ensuring food security amid fluctuating prices. The state-run Trading Corporation of Bangladesh has also increased its procurement to strengthen public stockpiles. Despite the import surge, Bangladesh faces risks from global price hikes, shipping disruptions, and currency fluctuations. Bangladesh is seeking to expand wheat imports from the United States as part of its broader trade strategy. Officials say deals are being negotiated for bulk shipments of high-quality US wheat varieties like Hard Red Winter and Soft Red Winter. The move also aims to offset the impact of the Trump administration’s recent imposition of a 35% tariff on Bangladeshi products. The government is also considering reducing import tariffs to encourage private sector participation in sourcing wheat from the US.