United News of Bangladesh

Even as winter sets in, the coastal district of Barguna remains gripped by dengue, with new infections being reported daily and the death toll continuing to rise. As of November 18, the district has recorded at least 15 dengue deaths, while more than 9,000 people have been affected this year.  According to data shared on Tuesday by the district civil surgeon’s office, 117 dengue patients are currently receiving treatment at the Sadar and upazila hospitals across Barguna. Within the past 24 hours alone, 21 new patients were admitted to the 250-bed Barguna General Hospital, which is now treating 60 dengue patients.  During the same period, the upazila health complexes saw 18 fresh admissions—three in Amtali, two in Bamna, four in Betagi and nine in Patharghata.  A total of 67 patients are currently under treatment at these facilities. Official records show that 9,029 dengue patients have been treated in Barguna this year, of whom 8,927 have recovered and returned home.  Barguna District Hospital treated 7,044 of these cases, while 1,985 patients received treatment at upazila-level health complexes. DSCC Administrator visits dengue control activities at Green Road, Dhanmondi Patharghata ranks second in infection numbers after Barguna Sadar, having treated 910 patients so far. The upazila has reported two hospital deaths. Government data confirm 15 dengue-related deaths within the district—12 at Barguna General Hospital, one in Amtali and two in Patharghata. However, an additional 49 residents of Barguna died while undergoing treatment outside the district, pushing the unofficial death toll to around 64. Barguna Civil Surgeon Dr Mohammad Abul Fattah noted that the district had been declared a dengue ‘hotspot’ as early as March. ‘Through multiple cleanup drives, coordinated efforts by the local administration, and the relentless work of health workers, we were able to keep the situation under control.  Keeping deaths at 15 despite such a large patient count was a major challenge,’ he said. While dengue cannot be fully eradicated, raising public awareness, keeping surroundings clean and eliminating mosquito breeding sites could significantly reduce future risks, he said.  Meanwhile, Bangladesh recorded four more dengue deaths in the 24 hours till Tuesday morning, raising the nationwide fatality count to 343 this year. During the same period, 920 new patients were hospitalised, bringing the total number of infections to 86,924, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). Health Ministry issues dengue awareness alert amid rising cases DGHS data show that the new cases were reported as follows: 146 in Barishal Division (outside city corporation areas), 116 in Chattogram Division (outside CC), 147 in Dhaka Division (outside CC), 211 in Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC), 151 in Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC), 72 in Khulna Division (outside CC), 65 in Mymensingh Division (outside CC), two in Rangpur Division (outside CC) and 10 in Sylhet Division (outside CC). Last year, dengue claimed 575 lives. In 2023, the country experienced its deadliest year on record, with 1,705 dengue deaths. The DGHS recorded 321,179 dengue cases and 318,749 recoveries that year.

Bangladesh’s shrimp industry, once a $500 million export engine but now earning less than $300 million, could scale up to $5 billion within five years with the right policy support, industry leaders say. An analysis of export data from the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) shows that in the 2015-16 fiscal year, the country earned $529 million from shrimp exports. Since then, exports have dropped sharply. While shrimp exports rose by 19 percent in the 2024-25 fiscal year, the figure is still far from the sector’s past heights. Addressing why this promising industry has faltered and whether the current upward trend signals a strong future, Professor Asif Wares Newaz of Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University’s Department of Fishing and Post-Harvest Technology said that the use of antibiotics against international standards, White Spot Disease in Bagda shrimp, and issues like jelly-pushing and using inappropriate antibiotics have negatively affected shrimp exports. “Even if exporters process shrimp properly, most farmers remain outside monitoring. Without monitoring disease detection, control measures, and proper drug use, regaining lost reputation will be challenging,” he explained. Asif added that Belgium once was a major market for Bangladeshi shrimp. That market is now dominated by India, the Netherlands, and Vietnam. India alone exports nearly $100 million worth of shrimp to this market, while Bangladesh’s share remains below $25 million. Shrimp: Khulna’s ‘white gold’ eyes Tk 22,600cr export goal Entrepreneurs believe Bangladesh has the potential to compete with India in shrimp exports. “India produces shrimp on 102,000 hectares of land. Bangladesh cultivates over 250,000 hectares. Yet India produces over one million metric tons of shrimp, while Bangladesh produces around 100,000 metric tons of Bagda shrimp,” said SK Kamrul Alam, vice president of the Bangladesh Frozen Food Exporters Association (BFFEA). Kamrul noted that India’s lead is primarily due to its production of Vannamei (white leg) shrimp. Bangladesh received approval to produce Vannamei shrimp several years ago but has not yet started exports. He said leveraging Bangladesh’s shrimp farming land for Vannamei production could break records in exports. “Once Vannamei shrimp exports start, it will be possible to earn $5 billion solely from shrimp by 2030,” Kamrul added. Experimental Vannamei shrimp farming began in 2021 at the research center in Paikgacha, Khulna. The following year, eight companies received experimental cultivation permission, followed by approval for four more firms. Commercial production began last year. Businessmen cite bureaucratic delays as a major reason for the slow roll-out of Vannamei farming. They said an investment of 2–2.5 million Vannamei shrimp could yield sales worth BDT 4.5 million. “Per hectare, Bagda production is around 500 kg, while Vannamei yields 12–15 tons. Eighty percent of the world’s shrimp exports are Vannamei. Yet we are still stuck with Bagda shrimp. Bureaucratic hurdles delayed approval for almost a decade,” said Kamrul. 500 shrimp enclosures washed away after an embankment collapsed  in Satkhira Farmers, however, still face challenges obtaining permits for Vannamei shrimp farming. Farmers in Satkhira and Bagerhat said that special approval from the Department of Fisheries is required, which is a lengthy process, preventing them from taking advantage of this profitable crop. “Vannamei shrimp farming requires compliance with multiple guidelines. While it can yield 30–50 percent profit, high initial investment deters common farmers,” said Awal Haque, a shrimp farmer from Shyamnagar, Satkhira. Seafood manufacturers say they are ready to enter contract farming with shrimp farmers once Vannamei cultivation starts, which would reduce costs for farmers and ensure profits for companies. BFFEA Senior Vice President Tariqul Islam Zaheer emphasized that adequate preparation is essential before starting Vannamei shrimp exports. “Initial investment exceeds BDT 2 million. If farmers are not properly trained, starting Vannamei cultivation could backfire. Training is needed for pond preparation and shrimp rearing practices,” he said. Zaheer also highlighted old challenges in shrimp farming, noting that despite being a large sector, farmers have no insurance, and loans for shrimp farming do not enjoy special benefits. Even with low-interest loans available for other crops, fish farmers get no similar support. Subsidies in electricity for fish farming are also absent. Faced with these difficulties, many farmers are filling ponds and moving to land-based farming, causing the fading of the once-famous “white gold” shrimp legacy. “Although exports reportedly increased, the real picture is different. The rise largely reflects higher dollar prices, not actual export volumes,” Zaheer said. BFFEA members revealed that while around 100 companies are engaged in shrimp exports, 70 have shut down due to raw material shortages. Without government support, there are fears that the sector could collapse again. Read more: Chinese Ambassador expresses interest in importing hilsa from Bangladesh Experts also stress the need for further research on the genetics of Vannamei shrimp. Unlocking the genetic potential, as done with hilsa and jute, could enable Bangladesh to produce high-quality shrimp seedlings adapted to its climate, reducing reliance on harmful antibiotics. Adviser to the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, Farida Akhter, told UNB that while shrimp farming has potential, Bangladesh is yet to fully benefit. The ministry is observing how countries like Vietnam and India are succeeding and will soon introduce business-friendly measures for shrimp farming. “One cannot look only at the business side; climate and environmental factors also matter. In areas like Satkhira-Bagerhat, lands have been illegally acquired for shrimp farming, increasing salinity and reducing crop yields. Scientific decisions are needed,” she said. Farida added that low-interest loans are being arranged for fish farmers. Steps have been taken to free farmers from predatory lending and restrictive enclosures, and special emphasis is being placed on subsidised electricity. BFFEA has independently prepared a research report on measures to boost shrimp farming. They will soon present their findings to the government, believing that with support, Bangladesh can revolutionize shrimp exports and reclaim its “White Gold” legacy. Read more: Shrimp: Khulna’s ‘white gold’ eyes Tk 22,600cr export goal

Once a vibrant fixture of rural Bengali culture, the traditional ‘Nabanna Utsab’, the festival celebrating the first harvest, is quietly fading from many villages across Lalmonirhat, according to local residents. With the end of the Bangla month of Hemanta and the touch of approaching winter, farmers across the district are busy harvesting Aman paddy. Golden fields still stretch across the horizon, carrying the familiar scent of new grain, yet the festive celebration that once marked this season is rarely seen nowadays. Villagers said that although the joy of harvesting remains, the communal spirit of sharing the first cooked rice from the new crop—a hallmark of the ‘Nabanna Utsab’ —has largely diminished. “We heard from our parents how festive the day used to be. People would go to each other’s houses to eat the first rice. But now we hardly see such practices,”said Saiful Islam, an SSC student from Shialkhowa village in Kaliganj upazila. Recalling the joy and celebrations of the past, 70-year-old farmer from Aditmari upazila, Shafique Mia said they were poorer 30 years ago, but the joy of the new harvest was greater. “We used to make pitha, polao and share with neighbours after offering the first rice to the imams. Now income has increased, but happiness has decreased. The young generation doesn’t even know what ‘Nabanna’ really means,” he said. Farmer Jomir Ali, drying paddy in the field, shared a similar memory. “We used to cook rice from the new crop and give the first plate to the imam of the mosque for blessings. We did doa and ate together. That tradition is almost gone now,” he said. Read more: Continuous rain flattens half-ripe paddy in Lalmonirhat, farmers worried Saleha Begum, another elderly villager, said people once respected tradition and valued togetherness.

Nearly three months have passed since the Paturia ferry ghats suffered extensive damage, yet substantial repairs have not been carried out, leaving commuters and transport workers grappling with severe difficulties. Locals blame the prolonged delay on the inaction of the local administration. Of the five ghats at the terminal, only Ghat No 3 is fully operational for vehicle crossings, while the other four are partially functional or completely closed. This has left passengers from 21 southwestern districts facing long delays, with many forced to wait for hours to cross the Padma River, locals alleged. A recent visit to the terminal revealed that Ghats No. 1 and 5 remain completely shut. Ghats No. 2 and 4 are only partially operational, while Ghat No. 3 handles almost all vehicle traffic. Ghat No. 5 has become entirely unusable, with both pontoon ramps stuck at an elevated angle, while Ghat No. 1’s ramp has detached from the ground and the approach road is heavily damaged. At Ghat No. 2, a wide gap between the pontoon ramp and the connecting road hampers vehicle movement, limiting ferry operations. Meanwhile, the front section of the low-water-level zone at Ghat No. 4 has collapsed, causing heavy vehicles to become stuck and requiring towing before others can pass. Officials explained that all five ghats were damaged in August by the strong currents of the Padma River. At the time, pontoons were moved to higher ground. However, as water levels dropped sharply, the elevated pontoons became unusable. Padma swallows Paturia terminals amid administrative standoff Erosion of the lower approach roads has made repositioning the pontoons impossible, creating a depth of around 30 to 40 feet under the pontoon that requires major reconstruction. Without significant repair work, four ghats cannot be restored. Drivers and passengers alike described long waits and mounting frustration. Shafique Mia, a driver for the Faridpur-bound ‘Golden Line Paribahan’, said, “If all ghats were functional, we wouldn’t have to wait. Now we wait one to two hours before crossing.” Farid Khan, a passenger heading to Jhenaidah on the ‘Purbaasha Paribahan’, recalled waiting nearly one and a half hours at the Paturia terminal. Truck driver Bashir Ahmed, travelling to Khulna with vehicle parts, said his truck became stuck on the approach road due to heavy load, forcing him to pay Tk 1,500 for towing. “Drivers and owners are suffering badly,” he said. Terminal staff highlighted that the lack of repair work over the past three months has caused immense hardship for passengers on the Paturia–Daulatdia route, particularly as heavy vehicles frequently get stuck while boarding or disembarking from the ferries. They urged the government to initiate urgent repairs to alleviate public suffering. Ferry services disrupted as two ghats collapse in Paturia  Abdus Salam, deputy general manager of the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation (BIWTC), noted that ferry traffic has declined due to the non-operational ghats, resulting in reduced government revenue. He said the maintenance and repair of ferry ghats fall under the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA), which has received multiple letters requesting immediate repairs. BIWTA Executive Engineer Robiul Islam confirmed that the collapse of the low-water-level sections has been reported to higher authorities. “Once funds

The recent reshuffle and appointments of district commissioners (DCs) in 52 districts ahead of the national elections have sparked fresh controversies, raising concerns over neutrality, election management and administrative credibility. Experts warn that politically influenced appointments in field administration could pose risks and undermine trust in governance. Although no major financial irregularities have surfaced in the recent appointments, several civil servants perceived as beneficiaries of the Awami League government have been entrusted with crucial administrative roles, reigniting debate within the bureaucracy. Rizvi alleges govt appointing members of an Islamic party as DCs, SPs According to sources, officials who previously served as personal secretaries (PS) to ministers and secretaries under the Awami League government were among those promoted. Appointments in Kurigram and Rangpur districts have drawn criticism from senior bureaucrats, as selection committees reportedly had not recommended these officers. It is alleged that the placement of party-affiliated and controversial officers in key districts is a ‘strategy to control the electoral field’, intensifying the ongoing debate over DC appointments. Over the past week, the government reshuffled DCs in three phases. Government appoints new DCs in 23 more districts On the night of November 13, 23 new DCs were appointed through two government notifications covering nine districts in one and 14 in the other. Earlier, on November 8 and 9, the interim government appointed DCs in 15 and 14 districts respectively, though some appointments were later canceled. The latest appointments have sparked renewed criticism within the bureaucracy as seniority, experience, and recommendations from the Senior Selection Board (SSB) were allegedly overlooked. Similarly, appointments of officers with limited field experience but strong ties to Awami League have raised fears over election management and increased discontent among qualified and senior bureaucrats who were bypassed. Govt appoints new DCs in 14 more districts Several controversial appointments including those in Gazipur, Noakhali and Madaripur were later canceled amid criticism over political affiliations and past irregularities. Former secretary and public-administration expert Abdul Awal Majumder said prioritising political loyalty in DC appointments threatens the neutrality of the administration. “This poses the most serious risk. DCs serve as the chief executives of field administration during elections and the transparency and peaceful conduct of the polls depend heavily on their impartial behaviour,” he said. Dhaka, Khulna among 15 districts that get new DCs  “The Public Administration Ministry must reassess this appointment process immediately. If experienced and neutral officers are not prioritised, divisions within the administration will deepen further, ultimately harming the quality of state service,” he added.          

The government has planned to enforce major changes to Dhaka's urban governance framework, introducing strict penalties and a long-awaited legal overhaul as the Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (Rajuk) has begun the process of legitimising hundreds of thousands of unauthorised buildings across Dhaka. Breaking a decades-long stalemate, Rajuk has drafted its first-ever policy to assess and regularise structures built without approved designs. The government is also set to replace the 38-year-old Rajuk Act with a new legal instrument, the Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (Rajuk) Ordinance–2025, featuring tough enforcement provisions. Urban planners say the new law and draft regularisation policy mark a significant step towards tackling Dhaka’s illegal construction, unplanned urbanisation and recurring building safety risks. But they emphasise that effective implementation, not new legislation, will prove the real challenge. Legitimising Buildings Rajuk acknowledges that a vast number of buildings within its jurisdiction have been constructed without official design approval. The new draft policy proposes bringing such buildings under regulation if they do not violate the National Building Code or Rajuk’s master plan. Read more: Rajuk to demolish 3,382 buildings in Dhaka for design violations, says chairman Owners seeking legal status will be required to pay penalties equivalent to three to five times the design approval fee. According to Rajuk sources, the draft policy has already been presented to the Urban Development Committee, which has made several recommendations. Major Reform With the long-outdated Town Improvement Act of 1953 deemed irrelevant in today’s context, the government is moving to replace it with the ordinance 2025. The new ordinance introduces provisions on Rajuk’s accountability, urban redevelopment, land readjustment and government appropriation of land value gains, among other reforms. Harsh Penalties The draft ordinance includes stringent penalties for a wide range of offences: Violating the master plan will carry up to two years’ imprisonment or a Tk 10 crore fine, or both; continued offences will incur Tk 10,000 per day. Building structures exceeding 10 feet in an open space will draw a Tk 50 lakh fine. Read more: Rajuk's law, board structure need to change to make it people-centric: Environment Adviser Filling low-lying land or obstructing natural water flow without approval will attract two years’ jail or a Tk 10 crore fine. Encroaching on roads for construction will lead to a Tk 75 lakh fine or six months’ imprisonment. Obstructing Rajuk’s work will result in four months’ jail or a Tk 10 lakh fine. Constructing a makeshift hut (kacha or kutcha structure) without permission may bring a Tk 5 lakh fine or three months’ imprisonment; continued offences will incur Tk 2,000 per day. Expert Opinions Under the new ordinance, Rajuk’s board will be expanded from five to ten members. Rajuk Chairman Riazul Islam told UNB that the final decision on the board’s composition and qualifications will be taken after consultations with professional bodies. “This will be done very soon,” he said. Professor Dr Adil Muhammad Khan, President of the Bangladesh Institute of Planners, said Rajuk has become overly focused on development projects instead of its core regulatory responsibilities. “Unless the bureaucratic structure is reformed, these changes will not deliver results,” he told UNB. While acknowledging the new law and policy as a ‘major step’ towards resolving Dhaka’s illegal construction and safety crisis, he reiterated that enforcement would be the real test. DAP Revision The government has also approved, in principle, the revision of the 2022 Detailed Area Plan (DAP). The updated plan reduces Dhaka’s administrative blocks from 275 to 68 and limits the city’s area to 1,094 square kilometres. Key Changes: · Increased building height and density limits (from 250 to 300). · Doubling of Floor Area Ratio (FAR) in many zones, enabling 10–11-storey construction where five storeys were previously allowed. · Lifetime validity for occupancy certificates. · Mandatory sewage treatment plants for buildings on five kathas or more. · Extension of application processing time from 45 days to 180 days. Read more: Landowners besiege Rajuk demanding cancellation of DAP

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."