United News of Bangladesh

Bangladesh is poised to become the world's largest cotton importer in the current fiscal year, driven by its strategic geopolitical position and a shifting global trade environment, according to industry insiders and trade experts. They, however,  caution that the ongoing geopolitical challenges may threaten a steady cotton supply, potentially disrupting the country’s vital export sector. Educated but unemployed; joblessness soars among graduates in Bangladesh   In this context, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain said, “We are considering importing cotton from the US, to minimise the trade gap with the country and encourage the US agriculture production.” He noted that increased cotton imports from the US could mutually benefit American suppliers and Bangladeshi businesses, while also safeguarding Bangladesh from potential tariff pressures under a Trump administration. “The US government will hesitate to impose tariffs on goods made in Bangladesh, while Bangladesh imports more cotton from the country,” he said during a recent discussion meeting. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has forecast that Bangladesh will overtake China in cotton imports during FY2024-25.  Cotton is a crucial raw material for Bangladesh’s ready-made garment and textile sector. According to the USDA’s latest report, Bangladesh is expected to import 7.8 million bales of cotton this year, up from over 7.5 million bales in FY2023-24. Globally, cotton imports are projected to reach 42.4 million bales during FY2024-25, with Bangladesh, China, Vietnam, and Pakistan accounting for 65 percent of that total. China is expected to import 8 million bales, Bangladesh 7.8 million, Vietnam 7.1 million, and Pakistan 4.8 million bales. Despite the optimistic import forecast, local textile mill owners report that many factories are operating below capacity due to a persistent gas crisis. Showkat Aziz Russell, President of the Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA), said Bangladesh has reduced incentives for parts of the garment sector and suspended Indian yarn imports through land ports.  He believes this will bolster domestic textile production in the coming months. “Bangladeshi textiles are producing world-class yarn, which is best for good quality fabrics. So stopping low-quality yarn through land ports was a threat to domestic textiles and Bangladesh to compete with global producers,” Russell said. Speaking to UNB, he stressed that a stable cotton supply chain is essential to maintaining Bangladesh’s export flow, and that the US market could serve as a strong option. Russell added that as Bangladesh leads the world in cotton-based manufacturing, it is natural that the country will also be the top global cotton importer. Muhammad Ayub, General Secretary of the Bangladesh Cotton Association, emphasised the need for uninterrupted cotton import sources to ensure timely delivery of export orders. “Our country is importing around 50 percent of cotton from African countries, but war and other crises are increasing in the African countries,” he said. NBR looking for expansion of base of VAT payers “The US will be a good source of importing cotton if the price is competitive to avert the difficulties of tariff war or trade war,” Ayub added. He further stressed the importance of diversifying sources and boosting domestic cotton production through high-yield varieties to cushion against future global supply shocks. Dr Md Fakhre Alam Ibne Tabib, Executive Director of the Cotton Development Board, told UNB that cotton is being cultivated on 46,000 hectares of land this year, with a production target of 228,000 bales (each weighing 182 kg). Last year, 210,000 bales were produced from 45,150 hectares. He noted that Bangladesh’s annual cotton demand stands at around 8.5 million bales, with approximately 8.3 million bales requiring import each year. This import volume costs the country roughly Tk35,000 crore. Highlighting the sector’s scale, Tabib said that primary investment in Bangladesh’s textile and clothing industry exceeds US$22 billion, contributing 13 percent to GDP.  BNP mulls fresh protests as Chief Adviser's speech 'lacks election roadmap' The sector includes 1,849 BTMA-member mills and accounts for over 86 percent of national export earnings. Cotton fibres make up 71 percent of materials used, with non-cotton fibres comprising the remaining 29 percent.

Tanvir Rahman holds a business degree and big dreams, but after two years of job hunting, he is still waiting for his first real opportunity. Tanvir’s story is far from unique. Across Bangladesh, thousands of graduates like him are facing rejection, disillusionment, and a shrinking pool of job opportunities, as the promise of higher education continues to fall short of delivering a meaningful career. “I graduated two years ago, but I have yet to find a stable job,” said Tanvir Rahman, a 26-year-old business graduate. “Many companies ask for years of experience, which fresh graduates like me simply don’t have.” Despite holding university degrees, a growing number of young graduates in Bangladesh are struggling to secure employment, underlining a critical issue within the country’s labour market. According to the latest report from the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS), the unemployment rate among educated youth—graduates and postgraduates—has reached around 11%, markedly higher than the overall national unemployment rate of approximately 4.2%. The situation has been further aggravated by broader economic challenges, the rise of automation and the lack of adequate skill-based training. The latter half of 2024 and the beginning of 2025 have been especially bleak for job seekers, as job advertisements in both the public and private sectors have slowed dramatically. Even private sector investment remains sluggish. Data from the Bangladesh Bank revealed that private sector credit grew 9.86% year-on-year in August, only to dip to 7.66% in November. The decline continued with a drop of 9.20% in September and 8.30% in October. This comes despite the central bank’s monetary policy target of 9.8% growth by December. Bangladesh’s total labour force is 7.34 crore, 26.3 lakh are jobless: BBS Moreover, during the July-November period of the current fiscal year, the settlement of letters of credit (LCs) for capital machinery import dropped by 21.90% compared to the same period in the previous fiscal year, reflecting reduced industrial expansion. While public sector jobs account for only around 6% of total employment, the private sector is expected to accommodate the rest of the country’s workforce. Experts attribute the worsening crisis to a persistent mismatch between academic education and industry needs, limited job opportunities, and a fiercely competitive market. “Universities in Bangladesh produce thousands of graduates each year, but many of them lack the practical skills employers are looking for,” said Mahmudul Hasan, an HR executive at a multinational company in Dhaka. “There is a significant gap between academic learning and market demands. Employers are looking for candidates with technical and digital skills, problem-solving abilities, and real-world experience,” he said. Government initiatives such as internship programmes, vocational training, and digital skill development courses have been introduced in an attempt to address the problem. Yet, experts argue that these efforts remain insufficient without stronger collaboration between academic institutions and industries. Economists warn that continued youth unemployment could lead to long-term consequences, including social unrest, brain drain, and economic stagnation. Many disheartened young people are seeking employment abroad, contributing to a growing outflow of skilled talent from the country. A recent BBS report revealed that the unemployment rate among university graduates has now risen to 12.3%, significantly above the national average. “I completed my degree in Business Administration two years ago, but I have yet to find a stable job,” said Fahim Rahman, a graduate from a reputed university in Dhaka. “Most employers ask for experience, but how can fresh graduates gain experience if no one is willing to hire us?” Employers continue to express concern that the country’s education system does not adequately prepare students for the demands of the job market. Many companies now prefer candidates with hands-on experience or vocational training over those with only theoretical knowledge. Mushroom farming: The story of a jobless youth becoming an entrepreneur in Jashore Additionally, the advent of automation and artificial intelligence is reducing the need for traditional white-collar jobs, placing further strain on employment prospects for graduates. While the government has rolled out programmes aimed at enhancing employability—such as those spearheaded by the National Skills Development Authority (NSDA)—many graduates still struggle to find jobs that align with their qualifications. In December 2023, Bangladesh reported a total of 70,983,000 employed persons, while the labour force participation rate stood at 61.7%. Experts stress that without meaningful reforms in both education and employment policies, the dream of becoming a middle-income country could remain elusive. The growing number of unemployed graduates is fast becoming a new dimension of the country’s economic and social challenges. As universities continue to produce an increasing number of degree holders each year, the job market is struggling to absorb the influx, leaving many without viable employment. “This crisis in graduate employment is not just a youth problem—it’s a national one,” said a Dhaka-based economist. “If we don’t act now, we risk long-term economic stagnation.” The government has acknowledged the crisis and introduced initiatives promoting entrepreneurship, vocational training, and digital skills development. Meanwhile, private companies are also offering internship programmes and skill-building workshops to help bridge the gap between education and employment. However, concerns are mounting over the rising trend of 'overqualification', where graduates are forced to take on jobs that require significantly lower skills than their academic qualifications. “I have a master’s degree in Business Administration, but I am currently working as a customer service representative,” shared Rabbi Dewan, a recent graduate. “I had no choice but to take this job because finding a role that matches my qualifications has been incredibly difficult.” Experts underline that addressing the graduate employment crisis requires a multifaceted approach, including reforming the education system, improving career counselling services, and boosting investment in job creation. No easy bank loans, say jobless expatriates, but bank refutes allegations As graduates continue to flood the job market, pressure is mounting on policymakers, businesses, and academic institutions to find sustainable solutions. While the challenges are serious, the solutions are within reach. With stronger collaboration and strategic planning, Bangladesh has the potential to transform its young, educated population into a powerful engine of growth and innovation.

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has taken a move to expand its Value Added Tax (VAT) base, with a view to increase revenue collection for the national exchequer. In a meeting chaired by NBR chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan on Thursday, the field level officials of Dhaka have been asked to be more active and sincere for improving VAT collection keeping aside the stories of growth. An official who was present in the meeting told UNB that the NBR chairman has instructed them to expand the base of VAT. Govt exempts VAT from several products until June 30 “I do not want to hear the word growth anymore, I want to see the expansion of VAT net,” the NBR official quoted the NBR chairman as saying. The NBR boss also asked the officials to change their mind set regarding revenue collection. “You have to change your attitude, otherwise there is no need to be here anymore,” he warned the officials who were present in the meeting, according to the official who spoke to UNB on condition of anonymity. Coffee, cashew cultivation helping Bandarban farmers to line their pockets The NBR chairman also assured that the good performers will be awarded, although he expressed his depression regarding the poor performance of the VAT wing. “We are unable to show any good performance till now in VAT collection, you have to conduct combing drives to find new VAT payers, you have to work as the whole nation is depending on the NBR,” he told the meeting. Abdur Rahman Khan, giving example of people’s eagerness to pay taxes during the 1/11 period, said that at that time people were very much enthusiastic to pay taxes. “We have to handle the situation like that,” he said. He also asked the officials not to harass the compliant VAT payers. Earlier on Monday, while holding a pre-budget meeting with the Economic Reporters’ Forum (ERF), the NBR chairman had said that he had already instructed his VAT officials to conduct combing drives in a small area first to make all business people pay their VAT. “No one will be left out from this drive, each and every shop owners will pay their applicable VAT, there will be no discrimination in this regard,” he said. He said that the NBR is moving towards that direction. The government on January 9 had issued the "Value Added Tax and Supplementary Duty (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025" and "The Excises and Salt Act (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025" imposing increased VAT rate on more than hundreds of different kinds of items aiming to strengthen the country's economic base. But later, facing strong protest and criticism the NBR has issued several notifications by re-fixing the rates of VAT, Supplementary Duty and Excise Duty on a number goods and services, which were increased on January 9. Now the NBR wants to impose a single, flat rate of VAT for all goods and services in the country, if the business people agree to that. The NBR chairman has already said that the VAT is currently mired in total indiscipline. He said that if input VAT credit and standard VAT rate can be imposed properly, then for many business entities the rate would be less than one percent. He mentioned that for a long time the VAT Law has been distorted. In this connection he said that the new VAT Law was introduced in 2012 which was amended in 2019 after some major distortion. He said that the power of VAT was accounting based and invoice based, it has been destroyed. As a result it is not growing right now, the main strength of VAT has been uprooted. “We want to bring discipline in VAT,” he said in the pre-budget meeting with the ERF on Monday.  

As the Chief Adviser’s recent address to the nation lacked a clear election roadmap, the BNP is considering renewed street protests along with its allies to press for a national election by December next. Speaking to UNB, several BNP policymakers said the party's leaders and activists are preparing to organise nationwide rallies and public gatherings from mid-April to May, demanding the restoration of democracy and the people's voting rights by holding elections as soon as possible. They also revealed plans to hold a large-scale public rally in Dhaka, where they intend to set a deadline for the government to announce the election date. BNP forms legal, health support cells for oppressed women, children If the government disregards their deadline, BNP leaders said they, along with their like-minded parties, will resort to tougher measures, such as laying siege to important government offices. Some BNP leaders said that BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia is also likely to return to the country in the middle of this month and may address some party programmes virtually, advocating for a quick national election. They believe that if the BNP chief raises her voice in favour of a quick election, it will strengthen their demand and galvanise public support. In a televised address to the nation on the eve of Independence Day and Eid-ul-Fitr on March 25, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus said, “As I have said before, and I say again, elections will be held between December this year and June next year.” He also noted that the Consensus Commission is actively gathering opinions on reforms from all political parties. Dr Yunus’ speech disappointed the BNP as he did not present a "clear roadmap" for the national election, despite the party’s repeated calls for a specific deadline and prompt polls. BNP leader accuses Hasina's regime of exploiting Rohingya crisis “I am very disappointed that the Chief Adviser did not mention a clear election roadmap in his speech on March 25),” said BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir. He described the announcement of the election between December and June as a vague statement. “What I believe is that the lack of a specific election roadmap reflects the government’s political inexperience.” Fakhrul alleged that a certain quarter is consciously trying to delay the election to create difficulties for the BNP, as they believe the party will come to power if the election is held. “I don’t find any logical reason for delaying the election due to reforms. Reforms will continue, as will the election. The election can be arranged promptly by carrying out the minimum necessary reforms,” the BNP leader viewed. When asked about the party’s response if a potential crisis regarding the elections arises, he categorically replied that they will once again take to the streets in the interests of the people to restore their right to vote. A senior BNP leader, speaking on condition of anonymity, their party now believes there is a deliberate effort to extend the tenure of the interim government and delay the elections, with the need for reforms being used as a pretext. Amid these concerns, he mentioned that senior BNP leaders, including potential candidates for the next election, visited their constituencies during Eid-ul-Fitr and conducted mass campaigns to garner public support in favour of holding the election as soon as possible. They also instructed the party's grassroots leaders and activists to prepare for another movement to ramp up pressure on the current government to leave power with dignity by holding the election within this year. Another BNP standing committee member their policymakers are initially planning to hold rallies in all divisional cities, including Dhaka, from mid-April. “A strong push must be made to mount pressure on the interim government to hold the election. We’ve recently held rallies in various districts to make our stance on the election clear. This trend will continue. We’ll gradually intensify the movement with tougher action programmes, including marches toward the Chief Adviser’s office and the Election Commission,” he said. Contacted, BNP Standing Committee member Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku said their senior leaders and promising candidates visited their constituencies during the Eid occasion and exchanged views with the public. “Since people are eager to vote, the issue of elections naturally came up during greetings and mass communication with voters,” he explained. Another BNP Standing Committee member, Gayeshwar Chandra Roy, said the interim government should not buy more time for the election in the name of reforms. “Reform is an ongoing process. We want reforms, but elections cannot be delayed for them. Elections must be held as soon as possible. Necessary reforms should be done to organise a free, fair, and acceptable election, and the remaining reforms can be carried out by the elected government.” He also said they have been supporting the interim government and cooperating with it for holding a credible national election. “But if it resorts to ploys to prolong its power unnecessarily, we will not sit idle. We have been on the streets for 17 years to restore democracy and voting rights. We will again take to the streets in the interests of the people.”    

Tourists have flocked to Sylhet’s popular destinations during the Eid holidays, proving a boon for those involved in the tourism industry. Hundreds of visitors from across the country have been making their way to various tourist spots in Sylhet, including Sada Pathor in Companyganj, Jaflong in Gowainghat and Lalakhal in Jaintiapur. Many tourists were seen travelling in groups, while others were accompanied by family members. After spending the day enjoying the scenic beauty, visitors return to their destinations by evening. Jaflong, known as the "Daughter of Nature," has witnessed a surge in visitors eager to experience its breathtaking landscape. As in previous years, Sylhet's tourist spots have become a major attraction for travel enthusiasts during the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays, drawing people from different regions. Hundreds of visitors have been thronging Jaflong daily, bringing the area to life with their presence. The influx of tourists has revitalised the tourism sector in Gowainghat upazila, with all major attractions bustling with activity. Eid Tourism: 'Monotony' outside Dhaka, 'confinement' within Even on the third day of Eid, large crowds were observed at various sites, where visitors from across the country enjoyed the beauty of the mountains and rivers. Apart from Jaflong, other tourist spots such as Bichanakandi, Swamp Forest Ratargul, Pantumai Waterfall, Jaflong Tea Garden, and Mayabi Waterfall have also drawn significant numbers of tourists. Md Ahad, a tourist from Dhaka, shared his excitement about Jaflong’s picturesque landscape, stating that the combination of hills, rocks, and crystal-clear water left him mesmerised. Like him, many others have come with family and friends to immerse themselves in nature’s beauty. Tourism boom expected in Khagrachhari during Eid holidays

The state of healthcare in Bangladesh’s public hospitals continues to be a matter of concern, with Bangladesh Medical University (BMU) and Dhaka Medical College Hospital often at the centre of discussions. Thousands of patients visit BMU’s outpatient department daily, yet many leave feeling neglected due to what they perceive as a lack of commitment from doctors. On a recent visit, a patient named Arman (not his real name) from Rupganj, Narayanganj, shared his ordeal with the UNB correspondent. “I have to stand in a queue  for hours just to get a ticket. Even after receiving treatment, standing for such a long time makes me feel worse,” he said. 33 brokers, fraudsters detained at DMCH Several patients in the cabin block expressed frustrations over the irregularity of doctors’ visits. One patient said, “My doctor hasn’t come in nearly a month.” While some patients acknowledged receiving satisfactory treatment, the complaints outweighed the praise. A System Under Pressure BMU Director Brigadier General Mosleh Uddin Noman admitted to UNB that the hospital struggles to meet patients’ expectations.  “It is very difficult to satisfy patients. We cannot claim that we are providing services perfectly, as there are many areas where we have shortcomings,” he said. When asked about the most pressing concerns, he identified cleanliness as a key issue. Besides, he highlighted the severe shortage of ICU beds. “We have only 30-32 ICU beds, but there is a long waiting list with about 1,100 patients waiting for a bed,” he explained. Magura rape survivor now in critical condition: DMCH director The director also stressed the need for better utilisation of the hospital’s advanced medical equipment and the expansion of outpatient services to reduce waiting times. Doctors Not Reaching Full Potential While talking to this correspondent, Brigadier General Noman said that doctors at BMU are not delivering even 50% of their potential service. “I don’t need more staff, but if the current staff provided proper care, the pressure on the system would decrease significantly. However, they are not offering full service to the patients, which is why the difficulties persist,” he remarked. When asked why doctors fail to perform to their full capacity, he pointed to dissatisfaction over salaries. “They claim that the salary they receive is insufficient to support their families, which is why they are not providing the full service. But if they gave 100% of their effort, the number of complaints from patients would be much lower,” he said. Hospital Resources & Staffing BMU is a vast institution with 1,165 doctors, 1,304 nurses, 484 officers, 775 Grade 3 staff, and 1,143 Grade 4 staff. Besides, there are 226 temporary Grade 3 and Grade 4 staff members. The hospital has 1,859 beds and approximately 200 cabins, serving an average of 5,500 patients in the outpatient department daily. Despite its scale, BMU faces funding constraints, including for patient meals. “The budget for three meals a day for each admitted patient is only Tk 175. It is not possible to provide three quality meals with that budget, but we are providing what we can,” the director said. Delayed Treatment for July Movement Victims Patients injured in the July movement remain on the 4th and 5th floors of BMU’s cabin block, with around 50 of them awaiting referral for treatment abroad due to severe injuries. However, delays in the referral process have left them frustrated, alongside complaints of inconsistent medical attention. Mohammad Shakil (19), one of the injured, described his suffering: “The bullet entered my abdomen and exited through my rectum, and the nerves in my left leg were severed. As a result, my bowel movements are often blocked, and I have to use a colostomy bag. If the blockages persist, I may face lifelong complications.” Mohammad Shuvo (21), who suffered shrapnel injuries to his eye, head, and body, fears permanent blindness. “One of my eyes is permanently damaged, and I was referred abroad for treatment. There is still a plate inside my eye, and if I don’t undergo surgery soon, I will lose my sight permanently,” he said. Isme Azam (20), whose injuries left him nearly blind and with mobility issues, recounted a harrowing experience. “The police and the Awami League threw me in front of Ashulia police station. My right eye is completely destroyed, and my left eye is blurry. I also have problems walking due to injuries in my legs and lower back. I have been waiting for a month to be referred for advanced treatment abroad, but I was told that my papers haven’t been sent to the ministry yet.” Another injured patient, Selim (17), alleged negligence from his assigned doctor. “Our doctors don’t visit us properly. My doctor, Ibrahim Siddique, has not visited me for 28 days.” When contacted, Dr Ibrahim Siddique refuted the allegations, stating, “We conduct visits in the morning, but the patients are not available. I will not discuss this over the phone.” Director’s Assurance Addressing the concerns of the injured July movement patients, Brigadier General Noman assured that they were being attended to by duty doctors. “All the patients, including those injured in the July movement, are being visited by duty doctors. If they have any concerns, they can speak to the nurses, who are always available,” he said. Regarding the delays in sending patients abroad, he clarified that the matter was in the hands of the ministry. “Once their work is completed, they will be sent,” he added. The director  acknowledged  the limitations of BMU’s system. “I am working on every sector. I feel that I am unable to do more because solving issues that have been ongoing for years cannot be fixed in two months. I am trying my best, and since this is an autonomous institution, we must work according to our own plans.”      

In the heart of Bangladesh’s agricultural landscape, a silent crisis unfolds as tomato farmers in Chandpur face an unprecedented price collapse. Once brimming with hope for a profitable season, these farmers now find their hard-earned produce nearly worthless, with prices so low that a kilogram of tomatoes cannot even buy a cup of tea. In several villages, ripe, red tomatoes are left to rot in the fields, abandoned by cultivators who see no economic sense in transporting them to market. Tomato cultivation transforms lives of Bagerhat farmers The cost of getting their produce to buyers now exceeds the revenue they can generate, leaving farmers in a state of despair. “Transport costs exceed the selling price, so what’s the point?” lamented Gias Uddin Sarkar, a farmer from Nij Chengarchar in Matlab Uttar. Hoping to replicate last year’s success, he planted tomatoes on 40 decimals of land, but now even covering transportation expenses seems impossible. Currently, tomatoes are selling at a paltry Tk 3-5 per kilogram, forcing many farmers to give up entirely. “I don’t even go to the field anymore. Instead, I’m giving some away to relatives,” Gias said. Fields that once promised prosperity now lie abandoned, with neighbouring farmers taking the discarded tomatoes for cattle feed. Veteran farmer Shah Alam Miji of Raldia village, who has dedicated five decades to farming, shares the same frustration. Cultivating 20 decimals of land, he harvested around 50 maunds of tomatoes, but with local prices as low as Tk 3-4 per kilogram, he is now forced to transport his produce to Chandpur city markets such as Biponibagh, selling deep into the night in a bid to make ends meet. Similar experiences were shared by Dulal Hossain of Mokimabad, Hajiganj, who now sells tomatoes near Chandpur Railway Station, escaping the even lower prices in rural markets. Bumper tomato yields bring no joy to Sunamganj farmers A survey of various local markets, including Baburhat, Mohamaya, Moishadi, Sahatoli, Bakila (Hajiganj), Choto Sundar, Wireless Bazar, Pal Bazar, Biponibagh, Puran Bazar, and Bou Bazar, paints a dismal picture. In Chandpur city, rickshaw-van vendors struggle to sell tomatoes at Tk 8-10 per kilogram, while quality produce in kitchen markets fetches a mere Tk 15-20 per kilogram. Even in Faridganj’s bustling markets, such as Chandrabazar, Baludhuba, and Rampur, the trend remains the same. Tomato cultivation flourished this year in regions like Gharihana, Baludhuba (East and West), and Subidpur. Yet, farmers such as Biswajit Sutradhar, Sohel, Monir, Shafiqul Rahman, and Mostafa Patwari find themselves in despair. “We cultivated tomatoes hoping for high profits, but now everything is in vain. People are feeding rotten tomatoes to cattle,” Sohel lamented. According to Faridganj Agriculture Officer Kishore Kallol, tomato cultivation expanded significantly this year, covering 160 hectares compared to 67 hectares last year. The District Agriculture Extension Department reported that across Chandpur, 657 hectares were dedicated to tomato farming, with a target yield of 14,454 metric tonnes. However, an astonishing 15,768 metric tonnes have already been harvested, with 80-90% of the total crop collected. Agriculturist Mohammad Mobarak Hossain attributes this surplus to improved soil fertility following last year’s floods, favourable weather conditions, the absence of pests, and continuous guidance from field officers. “There is no shortage of tomatoes or any other vegetables in the district, which is why prices are so low,” he explained. Bagerhat farmers find new hope as tomatoes make their way to Malaysia He, however, emphasised that the Agriculture Department has no control over market prices. With tomatoes being highly perishable and long-term storage solutions still lacking, Mobarak urged government experts to explore preservation methods to safeguard farmers from devastating losses. As Chandpur’s tomato farmers grapple with this crisis, the urgent need for market stabilisation and storage solutions becomes ever more apparent. Without intervention, the heartbreak of this season may deter farmers from cultivating tomatoes in the future, altering the region’s agricultural landscape for years to come, locals said.

Eid is no longer just about returning to one’s ancestral home over time, Eid holidays have evolved into a significant period for domestic tourism.  But, both the general public and industry experts argue that Eid tourism in Bangladesh has become constrained and monotonous. Nazrul Islam, a 55-year-old senior executive at a corporate firm, had initially planned to travel abroad during the Eid break.  He, however, ultimately decided to stay in Bangladesh.  Despite this, he has no intention of travelling within the country or even stepping out in Dhaka on Eid day.  Instead, he plans to spend the entire time with his family. When asked why, he explained, “If you observe carefully, you will see that almost every festival in our country follows the same pattern. On Eid day, after the morning prayers and a family meal, where does one go? Either to a relative’s house, a park, or a restaurant. “This pre-scripted Eid experience, repeating year after year, does not happen in major cities abroad. Even leaving Dhaka is futile—after half a day, you are exhausted from seeing the same monotonous sights.” Mossabber Hossain, 72, reminisces about Eid celebrations in Dhaka, saying, “There used to be fairs in every neighbourhood, boat races in Old Dhaka, and horse races in open fields. But now, Eid has been reduced to strolling in parks and dining in restaurants.” Tourism boom expected in Khagrachhari during Eid holidays A City of Commercialism, Not Festivity Discussing the limitations of Dhaka’s Eid festivities, Adil Muhammad Khan, President of the Bangladesh Institute of Planners (BIP), commented, “Dhaka has become so commercialised that there is no room for non-commercial recreation.  Many fields that once hosted fairs no longer exist. The canals that allowed for boat rides have been encroached upon. Water bodies have been filled in to construct towering commercial buildings, and now restaurants within these buildings have become the centre of Eid entertainment.” “Even parks have been taken over. Visit Dhanmondi Lake today, and you’ll feel that the lake is secondary to the numerous restaurants that have sprung up along its banks. No one is planning for a vibrant Dhaka. Those who remain in the city for Eid are forced into a dull, repetitive celebration.” A Lacklustre Experience Beyond Dhaka Humayun Rashid, 32, visited Cox’s Bazar last Eid with his family.  He found the experience underwhelming. “You don’t need more than two days to explore Cox’s Bazar. Beyond the sea, the so-called entertainment options—boat rides, parasailing, horse riding—are overpriced and feel like a scam.” He added, “When tourists realise they are being exploited at every turn, they lose trust in these destinations. Last Eid, around 800,000 tourists flocked to Cox’s Bazar. The beach was so crowded that it felt like a bustling fish market in Dhaka. Hotel room prices had skyrocketed, with simple meals costing several times their usual price. Why would people want to return to such a place?” Tetulia’s Tulip: Boosting tourism, regional economy Despite these grievances, hotels in Cox’s Bazar are already over 80% booked for this Eid, with remaining rooms expected to be reserved in the coming days. However, many travellers are once again complaining about inflated prices. Faisal, a tourist looking for a hotel room, found that a standard air-conditioned couple’s room facing the sea cost Tk 8,000-9,000—almost double the usual rate. Murshid Hossain, a former manager of a Cox’s Bazar hotel and currently a general manager at a three-star hotel in Dhaka, explained, “During the off-season, hotels struggle to fill rooms even after offering discounts of over 50%. To sustain operations and pay staff salaries, they must charge higher rates during peak tourist seasons.” An Unprepared Tourism Industry Professor Muhammad Shoaib-Ur-Rahman from Dhaka University’s Tourism and Hospitality Management Department believes Bangladesh’s tourism industry is woefully unprepared. “Every year, we hear that 1.5 million tourists travelled to different destinations during Eid, but there is no official data to back this claim. Unless we start planning tourism spots based on visitor numbers and redefine what constitutes entertainment, no real improvement will happen,” he said. Tourism restrictions lifted in 4 Bandarban upazilas He went on to say, “People visit Cox’s Bazar and Bandarban once or twice but do not return. Meanwhile, places like Bali or Bangkok attract repeat visitors. The primary reason is that Bangladesh’s tourist destinations offer a one-dimensional experience. Abroad, tourism integrates nature and human creativity to create diverse attractions. While one cannot fully explore Bangkok in two days, one can finish touring Cox’s Bazar within a few hours.” He also warned that unchecked price hikes and syndicates are harming both tourists and locals. “As tourism causes the cost of goods to rise, locals develop a negative perception of visitors. This tension can eventually lead to security concerns.”    

While millions in Bangladesh celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr with feasts, new clothes, and family gatherings the slum dwellers of Dhaka face a different reality. In the charred remnants of the Mahakhali 'Saat Tola' slum, where a devastating fire recently razed homes and belongings, residents struggle to find even a semblance of festivity. Many, like Sumi,36, a mother of two, are trapped in a cycle of poverty and Eid isjust another day of struggle for survival. A Life of Unending Struggle Sumi, who has spent her entire life in the slum, said, “My husband works hard, but his earnings barely cover our rent of Tk 5,000. I want to educate my daughters, but how? If I go to work, there’s no one to protect them from the dangers here." What happens to patients during long Eid holiday! Her story echoes across the slum, where men work as rickshaw pullers, CNG drivers, or garment labourers, while women take up domestic work—all for wages that barely sustain them. “Many days, we can’t even afford two meals," Sumi adds.

While educational institutions, offices and banks remain closed for nine days during Eid, hospitals cannot afford such a luxury. The question of whether patients receive the expected level of care during the holiday period and how hospitals operate under such circumstances remains a point of curiosity and concern. Dhaka sees BIMSTEC Summit an opportunity to present "just, inclusive" Bangladesh in South, Southeast Asia A visit to several public and private hospitals in the capital reveals that almost all of them continue to accommodate a significant number of patients. Although the presence of senior consultants is relatively low, medical officers and junior doctors are attending to patients. Nurses and ward boys are also available to ensure continuous care. At Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital, around 500 patients remain admitted during Eid. Many of them have not been discharged due to their health conditions. The absence of senior doctors and the uncertainty of their visits during Eid have left patients worried. Ahad Mia (60), a day labourer from Habiganj, has been admitted for over a week due to kidney stones. “The doctors have performed kidney washing, but some stones remain. The doctor advised me to stay here for Eid. So far, there has been no lack of treatment. Doctors have been visiting regularly, but I am unsure how things will go in the coming days,” he shared. Similarly, Safed Howlader (72) from Barguna has been hospitalised for 20 days with a tumour in his bladder. His daughter, Parveen Akter (40), said, “We are receiving good service even during the holidays. However, as senior doctors are not available, the surgery may be postponed until after Eid. His condition has improved significantly.” Regarding the reduced presence of doctors and nurses, senior staff nurse Sadhana Halder explained, “Naturally, the number of doctors and nurses is slightly lower during the Eid holidays. However, it is incorrect to assume that the hospital will be left without medical staff. An on-call doctor is always available to handle any emergency. Non-Muslim doctors and nurses usually cover duties during Eid prayers and the afternoon hours, ensuring no major crisis occurs.” Another senior staff nurse, Beauty Gomez, said, “Many patients voluntarily request discharge before Eid.But, serious patients cannot be released. Tasks such as administering medication, dressing wounds, and pushing injections do not always require senior doctors. Nurses and medical officers can manage these aspects efficiently.” The scenario at Dhaka Medical College Hospital is quite similar. While the emergency department remains active with doctors on standby, the presence of senior consultants in patient wards is noticeably lower. Shilpi Khatun (45), the wife of an admitted patient, said, “Doctors are attending to patients well, but I have heard that senior doctors will not be around. Seeing them reassures us, so their absence is a bit unsettling.” Mishkat (28), a relative of another patient from Gopalganj, shared, “We are receiving services, but they are not up to expectations. However, I have heard that the service quality at public hospitals during Eid is still better than that of private hospitals.” To ensure the availability of essential medical care, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has issued a 16-point directive. This includes ensuring the presence of adequate medical staff in emergency departments, labour rooms, operating theatres, and laboratories. According to the DGHS, staff leave is scheduled in coordination with Eid holidays to maintain hospital functionality. Public hospitals will suspend outpatient services for three days—on the eve of Eid, the day of Eid, and the day after. Millions leave Dhaka city for Eid, City roads nearly empty However, Professor Dr Md Mahbubul Haque, Director of Bangladesh Shishu Hospital and Institute, said, “This does not mean that patients will be turned away. If a patient arrives at the outpatient department, they will be redirected to the emergency department for necessary care. The emergency department operates on a roster system, with non-Muslim doctors covering shifts on Eid day. Regardless of the holiday, every effort is made to prevent mismanagement in patient care.” Despite claims that private hospitals offer better services, complaints often arise about their functioning during Eid. Patients have reported that private hospitals frequently halt laboratory services, release patients forcibly before the holiday, and suffer from a lack of available nurses. Sabbir Hossain (37) recounted his experience from a previous Eid saying, “I fell ill on Eid day last year. On my doctor’s advice, I required emergency tests, but I had to run between at least five or six hospitals and diagnostic centres before finally securing the tests through a personal connection.” Private hospital physician Dr Khan Rawat responded to such complaints, stating, “Patients are often eager to return home before Eid, sometimes against medical advice. We understand their sentiment, as everyone wishes to celebrate Eid with their family. Therefore, unless it is a critical case, we try to accommodate discharge requests before the holiday.” He added, “Many people assume that hospitals become deserted on Eid. That is simply not true. After prayers and in the afternoon, senior doctors visit patients. If an emergency arises, medical officers can contact them at any time. There is no reason to believe that medical care is compromised due to the holiday.” To mark Eid, hospitals arrange special meals for patients. According to hospital authorities, breakfast includes semai, bread, bananas, milk, eggs, and biscuits. Lunch consists of pilaf, chicken roast, rezala, egg korma, and soft drinks, while some hospitals also provide apples or oranges afterward. Dinner typically consists of rice, lentils, and vegetables. Millions leave Dhaka for Eid, while some stay behind to fulfil responsibilities Despite these arrangements, no patient wishes to spend Eid in a hospital. For those compelled to do so, complete medical attention remains their primary expectation.