United News of Bangladesh

Biman Bangladesh Airlines’ abrupt suspension of its Dhaka-Narita-Dhaka flights has drawn widespread criticism with aviation experts and expatriates questioning the logic behind shutting down the route despite its long-term potential and existing demand. The decision, effective July 1, has sparked frustration among passengers and members of the Bangladeshi community in Japan and many of whom described it as "illogical" and "short-sighted." Aviation experts said the move undermines Biman’s strategic interests and damages Bangladesh’s aviation image abroad. They believe the national carrier should have worked to turn the route profitable or at least minimise losses instead of halting operations altogether. Speaking to UNB, several Bangladeshi expatriates in Japan expressed disappointment over the decision. “There was strong demand for the Dhaka-Narita flights. Closing the route under the pretext of losses defies logic,” said one frequent passenger. The suspension comes just as Bangladesh is poised to expand its footprint in Japan as Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus recently announced that Japan has pledged to create at least 100,000 jobs for Bangladeshis over the next five years. "How does it make sense to cut this vital air link when such opportunities are emerging?" questioned an expatriate. Biman resumed direct flights to Narita in September 2023 after a 17-year gap, deploying its state-of-the-art Dreamliner 787 aircraft. The route was welcomed by expatriates and travellers for reducing travel time to eight hours and eliminating the need for lengthy transit stops. Passenger numbers reportedly started declining from August last year. Citing mounting financial losses, Biman's board decided in May to suspend the route from July 1. The move leaves Bangladesh without a direct air link to Japan, forcing passengers to rely on third-country transits, significantly increasing both travel time and expenses. Former Biman board member and aviation expert Kazi Wahidul Alam termed the decision "regrettable." “Shutting flights to a major destination like Japan — where we have trade, tourism, and a significant expatriate population — reflects poor planning,” he said. Dhaka-Narita Tokyo direct flights launched  He pointed out that leading global carriers often continue prestigious long-haul routes like New York or Narita despite short-term losses, keeping long-term strategic benefits in mind. “Biman’s approach is like cutting off the head to cure a headache. Once a route is launched, it must be sustained with a proper business plan,” he added. Echoing similar views, aviation expert ATM Nazrul Islam criticised Biman’s reliance on government support. “US-Bangla is expanding its fleet, but Biman is waiting for the government to buy aircraft for them. If Biman only focuses on labour passengers and ignores premium travellers, profitability will remain elusive,” he said. He warned that abruptly starting and stopping international routes tarnishes Bangladesh’s reputation and affects bilateral ties. When contacted, Biman Managing Director and CEO Shafiqur Rahman defended the decision, citing unsustainable financial losses. “Each Narita flight was incurring losses of nearly Tk 95 lakh. The board carefully reviewed all options before suspending operations from July 1,” he told UNB. According to Biman data, between September 2023 and March 2024, the airline operated 225 flights on the Dhaka-Narita route, transporting 84,674 passengers and 2,365 tonnes of cargo. The average cabin occupancy stood at 69 percent, with overall losses amounting to Tk 215.58 crore. The airline also cited aircraft and crew shortages as additional factors behind the suspension. Despite the setback aviation stakeholders and expatriates are urging the government and Biman to explore viable solutions to restore this crucial air link which holds immense economic and strategic value for Bangladesh.

Once known as the golden hub of jute cultivation, Khulna is now witnessing a steady decline in jute farming as farmers lose interest due to persistent losses and the closure of local jute mills. According to officials, last year the district met its jute cultivation target but this year production has fallen short, mainly due to the absence of government incentives to the jute growers. Sources said while farmers were provided with seeds by the agriculture office last year, this year no such support was given. However, the Jute Department has offered incentives to farmers in two key jute-producing upazilas of the district. According to the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), in the 2023-24 fiscal year, jute was cultivated on 1,447 hectares of land across nine upazilas of Khulna—1,442 hectares for Tosha jute and 5 hectares for Deshi jute. For the current 2024-25 fiscal year, the target was set at 1,457 hectares but only 1,257 hectares have been cultivated so far, with 1,221 hectares for Tosha jute and 36 hectares for Deshi jute, achieving only 87% of the target. Upazila-wise, this year jute was cultivated on 21 hectares in Rupsha, five hectares in Batiaghata, 46 hectares in Dighalia, nine hectares in Phultala, 796 hectares in Dumuria, 125 hectares in Terokhada, 252 hectares in Paikgacha, and three hectares in Koyra. Mentionable, no jute has been cultivated in Dakop or metropolitan Daulatpur this year, whereas last year Dakop saw three hectares and Daulatpur one hectare under cultivation. In contrast, in 2023-24, Rupsha recorded 36 hectares of jute cultivation, Batiaghata 15 hectares, Dighalia 30 hectares, Phultala one hectare, Dumuria 866 hectares, Terokhada 120 hectares, Paikgacha 372 hectares, and Koyra three hectares. From paradise to pollution: Cox’s Bazar tourists shocked by sewage in sea The average production target this year is set at 11.99 bales per hectare, totaling 2,743 metric tonnes. Last season, around 1,000 farmers received one kg of jute seeds each as part of government incentives, but no such assistance was provided this year. However, the Jute Department reported that in Paikgacha, 1,900 farmers received one kg of jute seeds and five kg of fertilizer each, along with training for 75 farmers. Dumuria farmers also received similar support under the same project. Enamul Kabir, a Dumuria farmer, cultivated jute on five bighas of land this season but said he initially planned for 10 bighas, which was not possible due to excessive heat. Paikgacha Upazila Agriculture Officer Enamul Hossain attributed the low cultivation to heatwaves during the planting season, while rain arrived too late to sow crops at the ideal time. Dumuria’s Assistant Jute Development Officer said farmers were provided with seeds, fertilizers, and modern cultivation training under the advanced technology-based jute project. District DAE Deputy Director Md Nazrul Islam blamed the lack of incentives and unfavorable environmental conditions as key reasons for missing the target. He added that farmers are regularly advised on seed preservation, production, and modern cultivation techniques, with over 100 farmers trained in formal trading of jute.

Bangladesh Railway, a popular mode of transport known for its low fares and comfort over long distances, remains mired in heavy financial losses, prompting questions about its operational efficiency. Railway sources said around 350 trains, including intercity, local and freight services, operate every day across the country, carrying an average of 80 to 90 million passengers annually. In the 2023–24 fiscal year, Bangladesh Railway recorded losses of over Tk 1,400 crore. Weak management, poor revenue collection, outdated freight operations, and slow modernisation efforts have been identified as the key reasons behind the losses. Passenger transport remains the main focus of the railway’s operations, with most revenue generated from ticket sales. Experts believe that limited investment in freight transport, which is considered commercially more profitable, has held back the organisation’s earnings. At Kamalapur Railway Station in Dhaka, Masud, a businessman from Brahmanbaria, shared his experience. He finds train travel more comfortable than buses for long distances but noted difficulties in getting tickets and frequent delays in service. Railway officials, requesting anonymity, said each ticket sold includes a subsidy of around 40 to 50 percent. Staff shortages, outdated engines and coaches and weak signaling systems also limit operational capacity. Dhaka eyes $500m budgetary support, $250m for railways from Tokyo: Shafiqul Alam Train fares have remained unchanged since 2016, although fuel prices have increased multiple times. Operational costs have grown significantly, driven by higher fuel expenses and increased administrative costs following the 2015 pay scale revision. The number of trains between major routes such as Dhaka–Chattogram and Dhaka–Khulna via the Padma Bridge could be increased in response to passenger demand. Expanding services on these routes would lead to higher maintenance costs. Countries like India, China, and those in Europe have boosted railway revenues through expanded freight services. Analysts say similar steps in Bangladesh could reduce operational losses and improve overall financial health. Stakeholders are calling for long-term planning and efficient management to transform the railway into a sustainable and financially sound organisation while continuing to serve the public. Mohammed Shahid Miah, president of the National Committee to Protect Shipping, Roads and Railways, said poor planning is a major reason the railway has yet to turn a profit. He pointed out that popular routes such as Dhaka–Mymensingh and Dhaka–Jamalpur do not have enough trains, while some less-used routes are overserved. This imbalance leads to higher costs without corresponding revenue. Ashis Kumar Dey, president of the Shipping and Communication Reporters Forum, said that insufficient cargo transport is another major factor contributing to financial losses. He identified operational weaknesses as a barrier to achieving revenue targets. Ashis Kumar recommended adding more coaches to intercity trains departing from Dhaka on Thursdays and Fridays, and returning on Saturdays and Sundays, to increase passenger volume and income. A senior railway official said retirement benefits are a major financial burden. These costs are paid directly from the operational budget, unlike other government departments where pensions are covered by a separate welfare fund. Japan to provide $1.063 billion for budget support, railways In the 2023–24 fiscal year, the railway spent about Tk 946 crore on retirement benefits, which increased to nearly Tk 1,000 crore in the 2024–25 fiscal year. According to the same official, the railway earned Tk 1,925 crore in revenue during FY 2023–24. This figure dropped to around Tk 1,800 crore in FY 2024–25, mainly due to disruptions during the anti-discrimination movement in July and August last year, when train operations were limited for around six weeks. Manpower shortage also affects the railway's performance. Of the approved 47,000 posts, only about 23,000 are currently filled. Increasing manpower would improve service quality and allow expansion to more destinations, potentially attracting more passengers and increasing revenue. Bangladesh Railway Director General Afzal Hossain said rising operational and maintenance costs, along with unchanged fares, make subsidies necessary. Freight transport remains a profitable area, though its volume has declined, he said. British era-Railways Act to be updated He added that as a service-oriented institution, the railway prioritises the public interest, ensuring convenient and comfortable journeys rather than focusing solely on profit.

Despite longstanding complaints about the poor quality of food in various residential halls of Dhaka University, students see no improvement. Complaints about nutritional deficiencies in the daily menu, poor food quality, unhygienic environment, and occasional discovery of insects in the food are common. Students in almost every residential hall of the university complain that the quality of rice, lentils, oil, or meat used in cooking is often below standard. Often, the fish is stale or foul-smelling, and the presence of insects can be observed in vegetables or curries. Even the colour, smell, and taste of the food – everything indicates that quality food is not being supplied. Abdul Halim, a student of Surja Sen Hall, said, "We often get disappointed with the quality of the food we get in Dhaka University halls. Sometimes, insects are found in the food. It falls within the responsibility of the administration to ensure safe, nutritious, and tasty food for students at a renowned university. The administration should regularly monitor and supervise the quality of food." Who manages the hall food affairs? The hall authorities issue tenders for operating the canteen food service. External contractors apply there. The hall authorities select the contractor. The contractor has to pay the hall authorities Tk 3,500 to Tk. 4000 per month for all ancillary matters, including electricity, water, and gas. The responsibility for supervising all matters of the canteen is given to a specific House Tutor. He supervises all matters. Niaz Ahmed Khan to serve as 30th Vice Chancellor of Dhaka University In reality, there is no institutional process for regular monitoring or quality checking. Although a specific House Tutor is assigned responsibility in many halls, students say it is not done regularly. A student of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Hall said, "When we complain about the food quality, good food is served for a few days afterwards. Then it returns to the same state again. Regular supervision isn't done either. Often, the responsible cannot be reached by phone." Dhaka University unveils budget for FY 2025-26 Why is the food quality bad? There are multiple reasons behind the low quality of food. Provost of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Hall, Professor Dr. Md. Akhteruzzaman, said, "You said BUET's food quality is good. If you notice, you will see that no outsiders eat at BUET hall canteens, no outsiders hang out there. But if you notice at Dhaka University – starting from rickshaw pullers, many people come here to eat. This should not have been the case." "Moreover, the price at which food is served is very low. Students come here from marginalised areas who have financial constraints. However, we try to provide the best possible." Students claim, "The quality of food is not improving due to the indifference of the university administration. Even when complaints are made on behalf of students, they are not properly considered. It's as if we are hostages to the contractors. Besides, there is a tendency among the responsible contractors to cut costs for profit that cause the bad quality of food." Meanwhile, the canteen owners have said that it is not possible to serve better food than this at this price. Mohammad Tuhin, the owner of the canteen at Mukti Juddha Ziaur Rahman Hall, said, "We are serving good food. However, it is not possible to do better than this at this price. If the price is increased further, better food can be supplied." Excitement brews at Dhaka University as Ducsu elections loom Regarding these issues, the president of the Provost Standing Committee, Dr. Abdullah-Al-Mamun, said, "We have been working from the beginning to improve the food quality in every hall. We have formed teams in each hall, comprising teachers and students, to supervise." It is noteworthy that in the canteens, eggs and rice are sold for Tk 40, fish and rice for Tk 45,  chicken and rice for Tk 50,  duck meat and rice for Tk 70, beef and rice for Tk 70 , and rooster meat and Pulao for Tk 60 taka each.

Despite a recent marginal dip in the national inflation rate, persistently high prices continue to inflict significant hardship on lower and middle-income households across Bangladesh, severely eroding their purchasing power and forcing many to seek alternative income sources. The prolonged period of soaring costs has made every essential purchase a test of resilience for families whose incomes often struggle to keep pace with the rising cost of living. Kawser Mia, a private sector employee in Tejgaon, exemplifies the escalating financial strain. In 2016, he borrowed Tk10 lakh from a bank at an 8 percent interest rate to repair his village home in Mirzapur, Tangail. Today, his loan installment has surged to a daunting 15 percent interest, nearly double the original rate. "The loan installment has increased severely, now consuming around 65 percent of my salary," Kawser lamented. "It was flexible when I first borrowed, but now it has become very burdensome." To cope with the drastically increased payment and other family expenditures, Kawser has been forced to work as a street vendor after his regular job. Govt identifies persistent inflation as top challenge in medium-term outlook He, like many others, finds himself in distress due to the impact of inflation adjustments in the banking system, which have led to higher interest rates for consumers. This situation has driven many middle and low-income individuals to seek additional employment, with some turning to street vending in Dhaka and other cities. Inflation's Broad Impact SM Nazer Hossain, vice president of the Consumers Association of Bangladesh (CAB), told UNB that inflation has adversely affected the living standards of both service holders and farmers in urban and rural areas. Despite CAB's efforts to advocate for lower consumer goods prices, food costs remain elevated, often attributed to hefty production expenses. Hossain highlighted the unexpected rise in rice prices immediately after the Boro season, noting that many large companies are now engaged in rice trading, selling packaged rice for over Tk100 per kg. "This profit encourages big companies to buy paddy from farmers at lucrative offers at the village level," Nazer Hossain explained. "Once they complete paddy collection, the rice price jumps to Tk80-90 per kg. Fine quality rice is not less than Tk88 per kg in Dhaka, severely impacting consumers' purchasing power." Data Reflects Sustained Pressure The Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) reported a national point-to-point inflation rate of 9.05 percent for May, with food inflation at 8.59 percent and non-food inflation at 9.42 percent. While these figures indicate a marginal improvement from previous months, the 12-month moving average inflation rate, which stood at a high 10.13 percent from June 2024 to May 2025, paints a clearer picture of the sustained pressure on household budgets over the past year. For millions of Bangladeshis, this persistently high inflation means a drastic erosion of their purchasing power. Daily wage earners, small business owners, and fixed-income employees are finding it increasingly difficult to afford basic necessities. Food, a significant portion of their expenditure, remains a major concern even with the slight dip in food inflation, compelling families to compromise on the quantity and nutritional quality of their meals, impacting their health and well-being. All instruments positive, inflation likely to fall ahead of schedule: Governor "Every trip to the market feels like a heavier burden," shared Rahela Banu, a garment factory worker from Mirpur, echoing a widely felt sentiment. "Prices for rice, oil, vegetables – everything keeps going up, but our salaries don't increase at the same rate. We have to cut back on so many things just to put food on the table." Experts Point to Delayed Measures and Poverty Increase Professor Mustafizur Rahman, a distinguished fellow at the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), told UNB that the purchasing power of fixed-income groups has been severely affected by the long-prevailing high inflation. "The government took measures to reduce inflation, but the inflation is reducing at a very slow pace, as the measures were taken late," he added. As a direct consequence, the rate of poverty has reportedly increased in both urban and rural areas, and protein consumption has remarkably decreased among lower and fixed-income groups, affecting their overall health and nutrition. The financial distress is further compounded by the fact that wage growth, while showing some increases (the national point-to-point wage rate increased to 8.21 percent in May 2025), is often outstripped by the rate of price increases. This widening gap between earnings and expenses puts immense pressure on household budgets. Middle-income families, often burdened by housing rent, children's education, and healthcare costs, are also feeling the pinch. Many are resorting to dipping into savings, taking on debt, or delaying significant life purchases. The burden extends beyond food, as soaring costs for transportation, utilities, and healthcare add additional strain, making even a simple illness a potential financial crisis.

What was meant to be a rejuvenating seaside escape has turned into a nightmare for many tourists in Cox’s Bazar, as visitors discover that the crystal waters of the world’s longest natural sea beach are being fouled by untreated sewage. Every day, thousands flock to the iconic shoreline in search of sun, sand and serenity. But this season, instead of wading into refreshing waves, visitors are being greeted by the stench of waste and sights of pollution. And they’re not staying silent. A number of tourists have expressed shock and disgust after finding human waste mixing into the sea, especially near the popular Sugandha, Laboni and Kolatoli points. Outraged and disappointed, many are now cutting their trips short. Local residents allege that several hotels and motels are discharging raw sewage directly into the sea. Makeshift drainage systems have reportedly been dug behind these establishments — most notably between the Sugandha and Kolatoli areas, including near the Divine Hotel, connecting straight to residential sewage lines. These unauthorised channels are allowing human waste to flow freely into the Bay of Bengal, without any form of treatment or environmental consideration. The result? Polluted seawater, unbearable odours and a growing backlash. Turtles keep washing up on Cox's Bazar beach “I came here with my wife and children to enjoy the beach,” said Mohammad Abdu Samad, a tourist from Narayanganj. “But once I saw sewage mixing with the water, we didn’t dare go in.” Haidar Ali, who travelled from Savar, echoed the frustration. “The stench is horrible. Forget bathing, even walking along the beach has become difficult!” he said. Environmentalists Raise Alarm Environmentalists have strongly condemned the unchecked sewage dumping, calling it a crisis for both public health and the country’s tourism image. “This is extremely unfortunate,” said Dipak Sharma Dipu, President of the Cox’s Bazar Forest and Environment Conservation Council. “Dumping untreated sewage into the sea through artificially created drains cannot be accepted. It’s not just polluting the water but also spreading foul odours and damaging the beach’s ecosystem.” 250 untreated sewage connections polluting Buriganga! Moazzem Hossain, Chairman of Save the Nature, was equally scathing. “This has been going on for far too long. Those responsible for dumping sewage into the ocean and putting tourists and the environment at risk must be held accountable.”  

Environmental experts have lauded the Election Commission’s recent decision to prohibit the use of posters in election campaigns, calling it a timely move that could curb environmental pollution and minimise visual and social disturbances across the country. They said the paper or posters contribute to deforestation, while the plastic coated posters culture —commonly seen during the rainy season— is an environmental disaster as it clogs drains and waterways, and pollutes the environment. The Election Commission on June 19 approved in principle the draft of the Parliamentary Election Code of Conduct for Political Parties and Candidates 2025, incorporating a provision that bans the use of posters in the electoral campaigns in line with a recommendation made by the Electoral System Reform Commission. But the provision for the use of billboards during the campaign has been included for the first time in the code of conduct. Dr Abdul Alim, a member of the electoral reform commission, said the recommendation to prohibit posters was based on four key concerns: environmental degradation, indecent campaigning practices, unregulated expenses and violence triggered by disputes centering posters. “The use of posters is an indecent practice which is not seen in most of the countries across the world, even a small country like Bhutan,” he told UNB, adding that there are enough alternatives like social media and billboards now. He said the traditional posters contribute to deforestation and laminated and polythene-coated posters pollute the environment.  “The posters can’t be brought under count or monitoring of the Election Commission. And many incidents of violence were triggered from disputes related to the posters during the election campaign,” Dr Alim said. According to the Environment and Social Development Organisation (ESDO), around 27,000 tons of plastic-coated posters and cards were used across the country in the 12th parliamentary election held on January 7, 2024.  The estimation was made following a survey over printing presses in Dhaka, Chattogram, Sylhet, Rangpur, Khulna, Barishal, and Rajshahi cities. EC speeds up election preparations after Prof Yunus-Tarique talks in London ESDO Secretary General Dr Shahriar Hossain told UNB that the use of posters during the election campaign is not seen in any civilised country in the world. “The use of so many posters creates a nuisance.  It is just a waste of money and damage to the environment.” Environmental activist Prof Ahmad Kamruzzaman Majumder said the past bans on laminated posters were not enforced, leading to massive plastic waste during both national and local elections. He welcomed the EC’s recent move that banned the use of posters in the election campaign saying that it would prevent social nuisance caused by indiscriminate display of posters.  “Plastic-coated posters worsen waterlogging in urban areas by blocking drainage systems, while burning them adds to air pollution,” said Dr Majumder, the Chairman of the Department of Environmental Science at Stamford University Bangladesh. Besides, thousands of tons of papers are needed during the election campaign, which means it contributes to deforestation, he added. Dr Majumder said if this ban is effectively enforced it may lead to a cleaner campaign culture in Bangladesh. Bangladesh Poribesh Andolon (BAPA) General Secretary Alamgir Kabir also praised the EC’s step, saying it would save trees and reduce chemical pollution linked to paper production. Bangladesh Poribesh Andolon (BAPA) General Secretary Alamgir Kabir said it is a good step that would ultimately save trees and reduce the discharge of untreated chemicals used in paper production and thus lessen the damage to the environment. However, Kabir raised concern over the newly introduced allowance for billboards—particularly those made of panaflex—warning that they too could harm the environment if not regulated.

An illegal road project cutting through fertile farmland in Kaliganj upazila of Lalmonirhat district is drawing sharp criticism, as sand dredged unlawfully from the Teesta River is being used for its construction. The construction, carried out with high-powered dredgers locally known as ‘bomb machines’, has triggered concerns over environmental degradation, infrastructure damage and the threat of large-scale erosion. Despite repeated complaints from local residents, the activity continues unabated, allegedly backed by a politically connected syndicate. The project not only violates environmental regulations but is also viewed as a direct threat to public resources and livelihoods. A road built on sand literally The road, currently under construction through cropland in the Munshir Bazar area of Tushbhandar Union, is being built entirely with sand illegally extracted from the Teesta River. Locals report that the builders are presenting the project as a "voluntary community initiative" to avoid legal scrutiny. But, many believe the primary motive is to ease sand transportation for commercial purposes. Witnesses confirm that several dredging machines operate around the clock, disrupting the river’s natural flow. Locals warn that the river is already shifting course, putting hundreds of acres of farmland at immediate risk. “Sand traders are building this road by destroying our farmland and threatening our future,” said Saiful Islam, a 70-year-old resident. “They’re using muscle power while the administration looks the other way.” Bamboo breathes new life into Madaripur’s barren lands, rural livelihoods Legacy infrastructure at risk The illegal road runs parallel to a government-built road and bridge constructed over a decade ago as part of a Tk 30 lakh project by the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief. Originally intended to serve a cluster village (Guchhogram) for landless families, the road and bridge have remained crucial transport links between Kaliganj upazila and neighbouring Gangachara upazila in Rangpur district, even after the original settlement was swallowed by the river. Over the years, the government has invested millions of taka in repairs to support local transport and agriculture. That legacy is now under threat. Heavy sand trucks have already caused severe damage to the government road, leaving it riddled with potholes and virtually unusable during the monsoon. In protest, locals recently imposed a ban on truck movement. In retaliation, the syndicate reportedly began building the new road across cultivable land. “If this continues, the government-built bridge will become useless, and our fields will flood due to blocked drainage,” warned a local resident. Syndicate operating with impunity Locals allege that the sand extraction and illegal construction are being carried out by a syndicate previously backed by former Social Welfare Minister Nuruzzaman Ahmed during the Awami League tenure. Though he no longer holds office, his former associates are reportedly continuing operations without consequence. “The government road has been destroyed for their benefit, and now they’re taking our farmland too,” said KM Ar Shahin, a local community leader. Frustrated by the lack of action, residents have organised several human chains and submitted written complaints to the local administration. Authorities acknowledge the issue Kaliganj Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Zakia Sultana told UNB that the administration is aware of the situation and maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards illegal sand extraction. “Whenever we receive reports, we conduct mobile court drives. But the sand traders often flee before we arrive. There is absolutely no permission for building a new road over arable land,” she said. The UNO confirmed the receipt of a written complaint and assured that there will be a formal investigation into the matter.

Highlighting the importance of sports as a ‘cornerstone of wellbeing’ today, Malian-French Olympian Kady Kanouté Tounkara has encouraged Bangladeshi young athletes -- both boys and girls -- to maintain a balance between sports and studies. She emphasised the importance of navigating challenges effectively and staying relevant after their sports careers by making meaningful contributions to society. “It's really crucial. You cannot only depend on medication, because in the world today, you need to be physically and mentally fit to be able to really survive. You need to know what you're doing, what you're talking about. So it's very important to do both and make a balance between sports and studies,” Kady, who participated in the Olympic Games Beijing 2008 as co-captain of the Mali women's basketball team, told UNB in an interview. “Who are doing sports; I would say that it's critical that they study at the same. Sport is only one part of your life. It's one chapter, and sometimes it's a short chapter. So for women, especially whenever we start getting married, having children, it's already finished. So you need to have a double – both sports and study. It's very important as it even makes you a better athlete,” she added. Break the gloom, build a better world: Prof Yunus' call for action Talking to this correspondent on the sidelines of the 15th Social Business Day-2025, Kady, now a leading voice in global sports administration, shared her experiences overcoming cultural and societal challenges as a female athlete.

The government has reaffirmed its commitment to gender equality through sustained investment in gender-responsive budgeting, with a total gender-relevant allocation of Tk 260,766.6 crore in national budget for FY26 —amounting to 33 percent of the total outlay.  While this year’s gender allocation represents 4.2 percent of the GDP—slightly lower than the revised 4.4 percent in FY25, it continues a strong trajectory of integrating gender parity across public expenditure, according to the Finance Ministry’s Gender Budget Report 2025-26, titled “Fostering Gender Parity in Bangladesh.” The gender finance tracking system in Bangladesh includes both operating and development budgets, reflecting a holistic approach to embedding gender equity within public finance mechanisms. Over the years, Bangladesh has seen not just a consistent rise in the proportion of the budget tagged as gender-relevant, but also a substantial increase in the size of these allocations. This year’s operating budget alone allocates Tk 170,985.9 crore for gender-responsive purposes—31.4 percent of the total operating budget of Tk 544,390.1 crore. Proposed budget 'traditional', lacking major reform approaches: Seminar This remains consistent with the previous fiscal year’s 31.4 percent and reflects ministries’ increasing focus on integrating gender considerations into core services and administration. Notably, this allocation has grown from Tk 165,094 crore in FY25, Tk 157,516.3 crore (32.5 percent) in FY 24, and Tk 131,344.5 crore (31.4 percent) in FY23. The development budget, while seeing a modest decrease in proportional allocation, continues to uphold gender priorities. The proposed allocation for FY26 is Tk 89,780.7 crore, or 36.6 percent of the Tk 245,608.6 crore development budget. This follows a trend from previous years: 37.9 percent in FY25, 36.8 percent in FY24, and 37.5 percent in FY23. The report acknowledges that while the development budget’s gender-relevant share has slightly moderated, the allocation still demonstrates a sustained emphasis on gender-sensitive initiatives, particularly in critical sectors like infrastructure, education, and health. Council of Advisers says ‘yes’ to budget, ‘no’ to black money Importantly, the overall share of gender-responsive spending in the national budget has remained steady—34.1 percent in both FY25 and FY24, and 33.7 percent in FY23—underscoring consistent government efforts toward gender mainstreaming. The Gender Budget Report noted that the integration of gender perspectives into public finance planning is no longer limited to select programs, but is now a structural feature across ministries and agencies. While the report highlights the slight decline in GDP share and development allocations, it also emphasises that these figures still reflect a robust commitment to gender equity. The continuation of strong allocations even amidst economic and administrative transitions signals that gender-sensitive budgeting is well-entrenched within the national planning framework. Proposed budget fails to holistically address economic challenges: CPD The government’s approach, the report said, is aimed not only at achieving gender parity in numbers but also in outcomes—empowering women and marginalised groups through greater access to resources, services, and opportunities.