United News of Bangladesh

Shopping malls in Faridpur are witnessing a noticeable increase in footfall, with many families out shopping for Eid. Clothing merchants in the city have stocked up on a variety of items for both children and adults, including Punjabis and other traditional wear. Only an elected government can drive real economic growth: Abdul Awal Mintoo Popular shopping areas like New Market, Chawkbazar, and Haji Shariatullah Bazar are bustling with shoppers, including even the youngest family members, looking for their favourite clothes. Traders said that business this year is looking better than in previous years, with more affordable options for consumers. Saddam Hossain Joni, leader of the Chawkbazar Cloth Traders’ Association, said that there is a noticeable increase in customers, particularly from the middle and lower-middle classes. From Saturday onwards, shopping activity in these markets has been in full swing. Women, too, are shopping alongside men, and the demand for new designs is rising daily. Popular items being sold include boys’ Punjabis, lungis, shirts, girls’ sarees, bangles, three-piece suits, and children’s clothes. Shopkeeper Biplob Sarkar said that sales this year are better than in previous years, but many lower-income people rely on footpath markets where prices are lower compared to more expensive shops in the main markets. Sales are also good in the floating shops around Adarsho Market, New Market, Baitul Mokaddem Market in Goalchamot, and temporary shops near Janata Bank intersection. Offseason mango cultivation: A farmer’s journey to an enviable success In addition, sales are also relatively good in the city's mobile phone shops. Taking this opportunity, sellers have offered discounts on several models. Shoe shops are also seeing increased sales, with prices ranging from Tk 350 to 3,000 to cater to all customers. However, a buyer from the Faridpur suburbs said that while the variety of products is good, prices have gone up compared to last year. Some shoppers prefer to finish their Eid shopping early to avoid the expected crowd later in the month. They also expressed concerns about the law and order situation, hoping for a smooth shopping experience. Regarding safety, Faridpur’s Additional Superintendent of Police, Shailen Chakma, said that security measures have been strengthened in all shopping malls. He said that plainclothes officers are present in the markets to maintain peace and prevent any incidents.  

Prominent businessman and BNP leader Abdul Awal Mintoo has said that a legitimately elected government is crucial for fostering real economic growth, as it remains accountable to people and prioritises their welfare. Speaking in an interview with UNB, Mintoo criticised the introduction of a forced electoral system by the Awami League, claiming that it led the party away from its commitment to public welfare. He alleged that the Awami League engaged in bank fraud and illicitly transferred money abroad due to a loss of confidence in people. "Political parties can learn from the downfall of autocratic regimes in Bangladesh. No party should attempt to establish autocratic rule or conduct an election without voters in the future," said Mintoo, who is also the Vice Chairman of BNP. Elected government crucial for economic stability and public trust: Abdul Awal Mintoo He described the widespread discrimination in Bangladesh, citing last year’s student movement against job quota discrimination as an example. "Discrimination exists across various sectors of society, including the education system." In the absence of an elected government, Mintoo said, disparities have emerged in crucial areas such as healthcare, education, resource allocation and citizen opportunities. Bangladesh Bank Governor has assured liquidity crisis resolution for pvt banks: Abdul Awal Mintoo He pointed out that many schools in Bangladesh suffer from a shortage of skilled teachers, which negatively impacts students' ability to acquire essential skills. "In today's competitive job market, skills are crucial, yet the government has shown little concern for this matter," Mintoo said. He stressed that students, regardless of whether they live in rural or urban areas, deserve quality education in government institutions. But the primary and secondary education sectors suffer from mismanagement, with teachers more involved in politics than in their professional duties. "Who will ensure quality education if teachers are preoccupied with political activities?" asked Mintoo, the former president of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI). "Once a nation is well-educated, discrimination can be eradicated, as we have seen in Western countries, where quality education for all has been prioritised," he said. Mintoo asserted that the primary objectives of an elected government should be to eliminate discrimination and ensure equal rights in asset distribution, as well as equitable access to education, healthcare and financial inclusion. In response to a query, Mintoo said that when the BNP and Awami League previously assumed power through neutral elections, they did not cause harm to the country. Regarding Bangladesh’s progress in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), he stated that transparent and accurate data on development is essential. "If development is measured using manipulated data, it will ultimately be detrimental to the country," he warned. Mintoo also criticised the influence of academics and intellectuals in policymaking, arguing that many lack practical knowledge of Bangladesh's socio-economic context. "Their policies have yet to produce the desired results," he said. He also criticised Bangladesh Bank's tight monetary policy, stating that reducing money circulation is ineffective under current conditions, given the fluctuating exchange rate, high energy costs, and wealth disparity. "A balanced policy is required to generate new assets, expand investment, and create employment opportunities," he suggested. According to Mintoo, such measures would enhance people's purchasing power, stabilise inflation and support the manufacturing sector’s growth. He claimed that many business figures and politicians associated with the autocratic government have amassed vast wealth through bank fraud and extortion, making them largely unaffected by inflation and rising commodity prices. "But common people and small traders are severely impacted by soaring inflation and high interest rates on bank loans," he said. "The government must facilitate low-cost investment funds and employment generation while ensuring affordable gas and electricity to sustain economic growth," said Mintoo. He said, “An unelected government lacks the vision and legitimacy to implement such policies effectively. To achieve meaningful reform, a strong government must be established through a participatory election."  

As the demand for mangoes surges during Ramadan, an enterprising farmer in Chapainawabganj is capitalising on the opportunity with off-season cultivation. Rubel Hossain, a 34-year-old agricultural entrepreneur, has turned his passion for farming into a lucrative venture by growing Katimon mango, a variety that bears fruit throughout the year. Six years ago, Rubel embarked on this journey after watching videos on YouTube. He planted Katimon mango trees on 20 bighas of land in Elipur, Nachole upazila. Today, his trees are teeming with ripe mangoes and blossoms, inspiring many locals to follow in his footsteps. Rubel, a resident of Gomastapur upazila, described the scarcity of traditional mango varieties during this season. “Since conventional mangoes are hardly available now, my orchard stands out with trees laden with fruit and blossoms, their branches bending under the weight,” he said. The Katimon mango variety is unique in its ability to produce fruit three times a year, and with the right techniques, farmers can control the harvest timing. “I decided to focus on cultivating mangoes for Ramadan when demand peaks. Last year, I received excellent prices, so I pursued the same strategy this year,” Rubel said. With trees in flowering Chapai looks forward to bumper mango harvest At present, his orchard holds some 250 maunds of mangoes, which he has begun selling at Tk 300 per kg. “I expect to earn around Tk 25 lakh this season, with a net profit of Tk 15 lakh after expenses,” he added. Beyond the profitability, the Katimon mango has proven to be highly sought after. “These mangoes are delicious, and demand is always high. I sell directly from the orchard without any hassle,” Rubel shared. His success has encouraged others, including Yasin Ali, who has planted Katimon mangoes on 25 bighas of land near Rubel’s orchard. “This variety bears fruit thrice a year, but I concentrate on the off-season, particularly during Ramadan when mangoes are scarce, ensuring better prices,” Yasin said. Visitors from nearby areas are also taking interest in the opportunity. Badruzzaman, from Nayadiari in Gomastapur, visited Rubel’s orchard with aspirations of starting his own Katimon mango farm. “Hearing about Rubel’s success inspired me. I plan to consult him before beginning my own orchard,” he said. Bangladeshi mangoes approved for export to China: Embassy Nachole Upazila Agriculture officer Saleh Akram appreciated Rubel’s initiative, saying that the local agriculture department is offering support and guidance to farmers. He said that wider adoption of Katimon mango farming could have a substantial economic impact. “During Ramadan, we notice a surge in imported fruits, which results in foreign currency drainage. Expanding domestic year-round fruit production can benefit both consumers and the national economy,” he said. According to the Department of Agricultural Extension, Chapainawabganj now has 1,792 hectares of land dedicated to Katimon mango cultivation, signalling a promising future for off-season mango farming in Bangladesh.

As Ramadan unfolds, the spirit of Eid shopping in Dhaka is met with a financial hurdle—rising prices. Consumers, already burdened by inflation, are adjusting their spending habits, prioritising essentials over luxury purchases as costs surge across markets. From shopping malls to footpath vendors, the sentiment among buyers is unanimous—prices are higher than last year. Essential goods like clothing, food and electronics have all seen notable price hikes, compelling shoppers to rethink their budgets. “I had a fixed budget for Ramadan shopping, but everything seems to be costlier than expected. I had to cut down on unnecessary items and focus only on the essentials,” said Rifat Ahmed, a shopper at New Market. Sellers acknowledge the price surge, attributing it to increased production and transportation costs. Jafar, a salesperson at Dhaka’s New Market, observed a growing trend where customers compare prices across different retailers and online platforms, delaying purchases in hopes of discounts or promotions. “Many customers are either hesitating or completely withdrawing from buying non-essential items. Some are waiting for last-minute sales, but those discounts may not be enough to fit their budget,” he said. Changing Consumer Behaviour The high prices have led to a significant shift in shopping behaviour. Many consumers have opted for footpath shopping over mall visits, and some have entirely skipped luxury purchases, instead focusing on basic needs. Traders report a decline in overall revenue, reflecting this shift in priorities. Dhaka’s shopping malls dazzle well ahead of Eid shopping frenzy During Ramadan and Eid-ul-Fitr, consumer spending in Dhaka typically surges, fueling various sectors, including clothing, daily commodities, and transportation. Nationally, the festive season injects approximately Tk 1.5 trillion (Tk 150,000 crore) into the market, with Dhaka’s local clothing industry alone valued at Tk 70,000 crore—70% of which is generated during Eid. Markets such as Keraniganj, Kaliganj and Sadarghat serve as crucial hubs, catering to the demand for Eid clothing. But this year’s economic challenges have led to a more cautious approach to spending, particularly among lower- and middle-income groups. E-Commerce Boom Amid Inflation While traditional markets struggle with cautious consumer spending, the e-commerce sector has seen an upswing. Online platforms have reported a 40% to 50% increase in sales, with daily orders jumping from 250,000 at the beginning of Ramadan to 350,000. “The average order value has also risen from Tk 2,200 to Tk 2,500, indicating that while consumers are more price-sensitive, they are still making purchases in the digital space,” said an industry analyst. This growing reliance on e-commerce highlights an evolving retail landscape where online and offline markets complement each other. Inflation’s Impact on Small Businesses For small shop owners, however, the rising inflation has been particularly challenging. Many businesses in Dhaka have reported a decline in sales, with some experiencing a drop of up to 50% compared to previous years. Akhin Khan, a businessman from Chadni Chawk Market in Nilkhet, shared his concerns. “People are prioritizing food and essentials over fashion and accessories. Unlike previous years, when Eid meant a surge in luxury shopping, this year, spending is much more restrained.” Experts Call for Strategic Pricing and Promotions Market analysts suggest businesses should introduce competitive pricing strategies to attract price-sensitive consumers. “Retailers should offer better discounts, bundle deals, and flexible payment options, including installment plans and special Ramadan credit offers, to encourage spending,” said a business consultant. Eid shopping dampened: Rising costs hit Keraniganj's wholesale clothes market The introduction of targeted Ramadan promotions, flash sales, and enhanced marketing campaigns could also help businesses retain customers amidst rising inflation. A Dynamic Retail Landscape Despite economic challenges, Dhaka’s shopping streets remain vibrant. The festive atmosphere persists as consumers balance celebratory purchases with financial caution. As both traditional and digital markets adapt to shifting trends, the city’s retail landscape continues to evolve, blending tradition with modern consumer habits. As Ramadan progresses, Dhaka’s shoppers and traders navigate a season of both economic strain and festivity, where careful spending and smart retail strategies will shape the future of Eid shopping.  DMP Commissioner asks city police to step up vigilance during Eid shopping

As Ramadan progresses, markets are witnessing a surge in counterfeit and adulterated food products, particularly fruit juices and glucose drinks manufactured in Jinjira – a Dhaka suburb infamous for producing fake goods. From machinery and automobile parts to cosmetics and food items, Jinjira has long been associated with counterfeit production, earning the dubious reputation of being the country’s hub for imitation products. With demand soaring during the holy month, unscrupulous traders are flooding markets with these adulterated items, posing severe health risks, especially for consumers in rural areas. Despite repeated warnings from health experts about the dangers of consuming such products, enforcement efforts have remained inadequate, allowing this illicit trade to persist. Health Hazards of Adulterated Drinks Medical professionals have raised alarms over the serious health implications of consuming counterfeit drinks. Dr Rozina Amin, Associate Professor at Sir Salimullah Medical College (Mitford Hospital), said, “Adulterated drinks containing artificial colours are extremely harmful. They primarily damage the liver and kidneys while also reducing insulin levels in the body.” She warned that such drinks are particularly dangerous for children due to their excessive sugar content. Dhaka emerges as a hub for counterfeit products Advising consumers to be cautious, Dr Amin suggested, “Homemade juices prepared with fresh local fruits are a far safer alternative during Ramadan.” Illegal Factories Operating Without Oversight A visit to areas such as Gadabag, Muktir Bag, Amirbagh, and Shubhda in Keraniganj reveals that illegal factories are operating in cramped, unhygienic conditions. Workers, often without gloves or hairnets, are seen bottling counterfeit juices. With fans switched off to prevent powdered drink mix from scattering, the suffocating environment leaves workers drenched in sweat. Shakil Ahmed, a manager at one such factory, insisted they had clearances from the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI) and environmental authorities. However, when asked to provide documentation, he failed to do so. He admitted that the factory lacked a laboratory but dismissed health concerns, saying, “The weather in Bangladesh is very good. Everything gets digested here. We have been selling these products for years without complaints.” Awareness needed above all to avoid adulterated food Lack of Stringent Action Although previous raids by the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and mobile courts had temporarily disrupted operations, these factories have swiftly resumed production, exploiting the absence of sustained enforcement. Local sanitary inspector Shahinur Rahman acknowledged receiving reports about these illegal factories, often set up in rented flats, but stressed that raids require the presence of executive magistrates. Mobile Court shuts down counterfeit saline factory in Faridpur “The Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) has been informed and necessary actions will be taken soon,” he added. UNO Rinat Fauzia reaffirmed the gravity of the issue, stating, “Producing adulterated food is a serious crime. We will conduct raids promptly to shut down these illegal operations.” A Call for Immediate Action Jinjira’s unchecked counterfeit industry highlights the persistent challenges in tackling food adulteration. With public health at stake, experts stress the urgent need for coordinated action between regulatory bodies, law enforcement agencies, and the community to ensure food safety and protect consumers from harmful products.

The past week has seen persistent declines in the stock market index, reduced trading volume, and internal conflicts within the regulatory body, all contributing to the ongoing instability. Over the last five trading days, despite a slight recovery in the final two sessions, the overall market trend remained negative. The Dhaka Stock Exchange’s (DSE) benchmark index, DSEX, fell by 43 points. Starting at 5,247 points on 2 March, the index dropped to 5,203 points by the closing session on March 6. Meanwhile, the blue-chip DS30 index shed 15 points, while the Shariah-based DSES index declined by 6 points over the week. The SME index experienced a severe downturn, falling below 1,000 points after a continuous decline. The DMMA index dropped from 1,017 points to 970 points, marking a 4.65% decrease from the previous week. Among the traded companies, most saw a decline in their share prices. Out of 289 companies that experienced a drop, only 86 recorded a price increase, while 20 remained unchanged. Trading volume in Dhaka's stock market fell by 28.79% in one week. Bangladesh’s stock market sees slight recovery after consecutive declines The daily average turnover, which had previously exceeded Tk 500 crore, plummeted to Tk 300 crore. Simultaneously, market capitalisation declined by 1.90%. Only three sectors—energy, paper, and leather—saw price increases throughout the week. In contrast, major sectors witnessed a significant downturn. The banking sector suffered a 27.61% decline in share prices, with trading volume decreasing by 31.91%. Out of 36 listed banks, 23 recorded a price drop, while only 4 banks witnessed an increase. The financial institutions sector faced an even worse situation, with a 29.49% drop in share prices and a 40.95% decline in trading volume. Among 23 listed financial institutions, 19 experienced a decline, 3 saw an increase, and 1 remained unchanged. The general and life insurance sectors witnessed massive sell-offs. Over five trading days, the general insurance sector saw a 43.23% decrease in share prices, while the life insurance sector faced a 59.16% drop. Top Performers and Market Trends Orion Infusion Limited recorded the highest turnover in Dhaka’s stock market, averaging Tk 21.46 crore in daily transactions. Prime Bank secured the second position, while Beach Hatchery Limited ranked third. In the block market, transactions worth Tk 114.70 crore took place. Prime Bank led with Tk 40 crore in transactions, followed by Beach Hatchery with Tk 18.80 crore. Progressive Life Insurance topped the gainers' list, with its share price increasing by 17.74%. On the other hand, S Alam Cold Rolled Steels Limited suffered the most, with a 14.83% decline. Chittagong Stock Market Also Struggles Similar to Dhaka, Chittagong’s stock market witnessed a declining trend. The overall index started at 14,633 points and fell to 14,502 points by the end of the trading week. Among 329 traded companies, 215 saw price declines, while 29 remained unchanged. Only 85 companies recorded price gains. Dhaka, Chattogram stock markets slump as indices, turnover decline Tasrifa Industries Limited topped the decliners’ list, losing 17.5% in share value over the week. After performing well in February, S Alam Cold Rolled Steels Limited saw a price drop of nearly 17%. Indo-Bangla Pharmaceuticals Limited led the gainers, with its share price rising by 16.98%. National Tea Company Limited, a Z-category firm, saw a 16.58% increase. The most traded stock in Chittagong was Robi, a leading telecom company. Regulatory Turmoil in BSEC In addition to the stock market downturn, the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) faced unprecedented internal unrest. Since joining in August 2024, current Chairman Rashed Maksud has been under fire due to continuous market declines, drawing criticism from general investors. Investors and brokerage officials have frequently voiced concerns in the media, stating that the commission’s reform measures, which ignore market sentiment, could further worsen conditions. During the market downturn, general investors demanded Maksud’s resignation, staging protests in Motijheel and even locking the commission’s main gate. Electronic VAT machines made mandatory at highway restaurants to halt cheating: NBR The crisis deepened as BSEC employees turned against Maksud, demanding his resignation. On 5 March, officials and employees of the commission confined the chairman and other commissioners in protest. Security forces later intervened to release them. However, Maksud made it clear that he would not step down. Protesters have warned of an indefinite strike if Maksud does not resign. If the situation remains unresolved, operational paralysis at BSEC is expected from 9 March. A director of DSE, speaking anonymously, stated, “For the past 15 years, BSEC has been operating arbitrarily. These unilateral actions have frustrated stakeholders. Now, internal discontent within the commission itself is sending a negative signal to the market.” Market analysts warn that unless the regulatory crisis is swiftly addressed and the stock market reform task force’s recommendations are gradually implemented, Bangladesh’s stock market may face prolonged instability.

Amid the rhythmic clatter of train wheels on steel tracks, Farida Akter confidently takes the helm, steering the locomotive with firm determination. Farida, the lone female locomotive master (LM) in Lalmonirhat Railway zone, has defied societal norms to carve out a career in a field traditionally dominated by men. A mother of four, she seamlessly balances the demands of her profession with her responsibilities at home, proving that determination knows no gender boundaries. Even with a 10-month-old daughter at home, she remains dedicated to her duty, earning the admiration of railway authorities and colleagues alike. Farida resides in a government quarter at Lalmonirhat Railway Station with her husband, Tutul, and their two daughters and two sons. Originally from Dinajpur, she has built a career in the railway sector while her husband works in a private job in Lalmonirhat. Sri Lanka’s first women-run resort aims to break gender barriers in tourism “I took up this profession as a challenge,” Farida told UNB. “Since childhood, I wanted to pursue a challenging career. In 2014, I joined the railway as a locomotive master, and I have never looked back.”   Farida firmly believes that family support is crucial for women in demanding careers. “Without my family’s encouragement, I wouldn’t have come this far. The same applies to male train drivers—they, too, need support. As a woman in this field, I refuse to let societal opinions affect me,” she said. “I have four children, and my youngest one is just 10 months old. Yet, my family never complains when I leave for work,” she said. Over the past decade, Farida has not only mastered her role but also become an inspiration to many. Initially apprehensive, she soon fell in love with the thrill of guiding a train from station to station. "Being a woman in a male-dominated society I had to face challenges and obstacles, but I never let them deter me," she said. She has even developed the confidence to address mechanical issues herself when needed, a trait that has earned her respect from railway officials. “My Ekushey Padak salutes the strength of Bangladeshi women:” Rokeya Sultana Kazi Sumon, the divisional loco in-charge of Lalmonirhat Railway, praised her dedication. “Women are no longer confined within household walls. They play a vital role in economic and social development. Female train drivers, including Farida, perform their duties with utmost dedication. Her journey proves that no profession is beyond a woman’s reach,” he said.

Acclaimed Bangladeshi artist and art educator Professor Rokeya Sultana has recently been honored with the Ekushey Padak 2025 in painting, recognising her lifelong contribution to the country’s artistic landscape. On this International Women’s Day, her achievement stands as a testament to the power of creativity and resilience in shaping Bangladesh’s cultural heritage. The nation's first female artist to win major awards at the National Art Exhibition, the prestigious Asian Art Biennale, and numerous other prestigious art competitions; the first female student at the Dhaka University Faculty of Fine Art to enroll in and finish her Master's programme at Vishwa Bharati University in Shantiniketan, India - Professor Rokeya Sultana is highly regarded as a pioneering artist and art educator. In addition to bringing fame and respect to the country, her artistic endeavours have encouraged future generations of artists to seek careers in the field. Receiving the Ekushey Padak, the nation’s second-highest civilian award, Rokeya Sultana recently spoke to UNB and expressed deep gratitude, dedicating the award to the women of Bangladesh. "Our women have been working tirelessly at various levels of society, but many are unable to cope with various setbacks. If my art and overall creative endeavors can add even a small step to this journey, I will feel blessed; and thus, I dedicated my Ekushey Padak to the women in various roles at home and abroad who are presenting Bangladesh to the world," she told UNB. During her felicitation speech on February 20 at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium after receiving the Ekushey Padak from Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, the artist said: "I am deeply grateful to the Government of Bangladesh for honoring me with the Ekushey Padak, and also to those who nominated me. At this moment of achievement, I deeply remember my mother, Mohsena Khatun, and father, Chowdhury Abdul Ghaffar, a heroic freedom fighter - they sowed the seeds of my intense love for art. Despite all odds, they gave me the opportunity to walk this path." She credits much of her success to her mentors at Dhaka Fine Arts Institute and Santiniketan, particularly Mohammad Kibria, a direct student of Shilpacharya Zainul Abedin. "A special place in my heart belongs to Kibria Sir, who was not only a teacher but also a father figure, and it is such an honor that he was once awarded this same title (the Ekushey Padak). These are the people who gave me strength, and I also tried to give that strength to my art and my daughter," she stated while receiving the award. For Rokeya Sultana, art is a lifelong journey - one that embodies both victory and struggle. Her Ekushey Padak 2025 stands as a recognition of this journey, as well as a tribute to the resilience of women across Bangladesh and beyond. Her artistic journey has been one of passion, perseverance, and dedication to portraying the essence of life through colors and forms. Rokeya Sultana’s work, inspired by the rhythms of nature and human emotions, reflects the struggles and triumphs of ordinary people - especially women. A pioneering artist in the country, Rokeya Sultana has long been an advocate for women’s empowerment through art. Her celebrated series, "Earth, Water & Air" and "Fata Morgana," showcase innovative techniques she mastered during her Fulbright scholarship at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Using Monotype Pressure Prints, she layers colors to symbolize the passage of generations and the timeless rhythm of life. As the proud daughter of a freedom fighter, Rokeya was deeply influenced in her early years by the brutal war that resulted in the establishment of the nation-state of Bangladesh in 1971. Her painting was influenced by a strong sense of cultural identification. She talks about the power of intuition and creativity, which can be feminine qualities that lead to universal truths, as well as difficulties related to women. Revered as a Professor at the Dhaka University Faculty of Fine Art’s Department of Printmaking, she was previously the department chair and an active artist at home and beyond, winning many National and International awards and artistic accolades. Born in Chittagong in 1958, Rokeya received her MFA in printmaking from Visva Bharati, Santiniketan, in 1983, after graduating from the Bangladesh College of Arts and Crafts in 1980. An internationally renowned printmaking artist and painter, Rokeya Sultana has won numerous awards both domestically and internationally. She has been recognised and awarded for her work at the Asian Biennale, the National Art Exhibition, and the Bharat Bhaban Biennale in India, a residence fellowship at L'Atelier Lacouriere et Frelaut, Paris and a prestigious Fullbright grant from the United States, which supported her nine-month artist's residency at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Her works have been showcased in a number of nations, including Poland, Germany, Morocco, Oman (Bait Al Zubair Museum), France, Iran, Egypt, Turkey, Taiwan, Nepal, Korea, Denmark, Pakistan, India, USA’s Denver & New York (Art Student League), and Japan. Besides her latest honor, her other notable awards are the Purchase Award, Somerstown Gallery, 4th Biennial, NY, USA (1992), Grand Prize in the 3rd Bharat Bhavan Print Biennale (1995), Bengal Foundation Award in the 14th National Art Exhibition (1999), Honourable Mention in the 9th Asian Art Biennale (1999), Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Award in the National Art Exhibition (2002). In 2003, Sultana availed of a French government scholarship at L'Atelier Le Couriere et Frelaut in Paris, and she became an Artist in Residence at Open Print Studio, Toronto, Canada, in 2017. Currently dividing her time between Dhaka and Sydney, Sultana continues to promote Bangladeshi art on the global stage, bridging modern and traditional styles. Her contributions have not only enriched the country’s artistic heritage but also paved the way for future generations of female artists.  

Gaibandha's potato farmers are facing significant losses due to a severe shortage of space in cold storage facilities, despite a bumper harvest this season.Even after storing a large quantity of potatoes in local markets and at home, farmers are struggling to find space for their remaining produce. Many are waiting day and night on the roads in the hopes of securing storage slips. As a result of this crisis, those unable to store their potatoes are being forced to sell them at low prices, incurring heavy losses.According to the Gaibandha Agricultural Extension Department, potato cultivation this season has covered 14,497 hectares of land across the district. The breakdown of cultivation by upazila is as follows: 48 hectares in Fulchhari, 327 hectares in Saghata, 1,079 hectares in Sundarganj, 9,318 hectares in Gobindaganj, 1,220 hectares in Palashbari, 2,250 hectares in Sadullapur, and 255 hectares in Gaibandha Sadar. The total production target has been set at over 200,000 metric tonnes. Even after meeting local demand, farmers are left with a massive surplus of potatoes, which they are unable to store.In an effort to secure better prices, many farmers are attempting to store their produce in the five cold storage facilities in the district: RV Cold Storage in Sadullapur, Himadri Cold Storage in Gobindaganj, Gobindaganj Cold Storage-1, Gobindaganj Cold Storage-2, and Ashraf Ali Cold Storage in Sundarganj. However, only a fortunate few have managed to obtain space. Despite high rates, most farmers are unable to secure slots for their potatoes. Potato farmers in Thakurgaon protest against increased rent for cold storageThe five cold storage facilities in Gaibandha have a combined storage capacity of 46,760 metric tonnes—divided as 7,000, 8,000, 10,000, 10,000, and 11,760 metric tonnes, respectively. This means only about a quarter of the total potato production can be stored, leaving approximately 150,000 metric tonnes without storage. Taking advantage of the situation, cold storage owners have reportedly increased the price of storage slips, yet farmers are still struggling to obtain them.The crisis has led to chaotic scenes on the Dhaka-Rangpur highway, where hundreds of trucks, vans, and tractors loaded with potato sacks are waiting in front of cold storage facilities.Farmer Hamidul Rahman expressed his frustration, saying, "We are in trouble after harvesting potatoes. Market prices are low. If we sell in the market now, we will lose our capital and suffer huge losses. That’s why we are waiting day and night in front of cold storages for slips." Cold storage owners urge govt support to keep potato prices affordableDue to the bumper potato harvest in Gobindaganj, farmers are particularly anxious about the storage crisis. Many had planted potatoes on record amounts of land, expecting high prices. However, they are now struggling as they fail to obtain storage cards from the four available storages in the upazila. Farmers have alleged that storage space is only granted to those with the right connections or to those willing to bribe managers and staff. They claim that due to a lack of proper supervision, such unfair practices are taking place.Denying these allegations, Himadri Limited’s manager Mozammel Haque said, "Booking slips have run out. Like previous years, we have provided slips to traders, but in much lower numbers this year. There has been no black market sale of booking slips."Meanwhile, Gobindaganj Cold Storage manager Sajib said, "This year, we are prioritising local farmers. We have not given any cards to hoarders. If farmers bring 5 to 10 sacks of potatoes, they will face no issues storing them. Our two storages have a total capacity of about 350,000 sacks. So far, 120,000 sacks have been booked."Addressing the issue, Khorshed Alam, deputy director of the Agricultural Extension Department, acknowledged that some potatoes may have to remain outside storage due to bumper production. However, he assured that authorities would assist farmers in storing seed potatoes if necessary. "Additionally, we are advising farmers on natural preservation methods, which can allow them to store potatoes for up to three months," he added.As the crisis persists, farmers continue to suffer losses, desperately seeking storage solutions while waiting on the roads in front of cold storage facilities. Without immediate intervention, the situation may further worsen, affecting both farmers and the potato supply chain in the region.

Consumers are increasingly opting for domestic fruits due to their affordability and fresh quality. Shoppers at various kitchen markets in the capital told UNB that they are purchasing more local fruits this year, drawn by their freshness and reasonable prices. A visit to different markets revealed an abundant supply of seasonal fruits such as watermelon, pineapple, plum, wood apple, sweet sop, strawberry, custard apple, muskmelon, gooseberry and sapodilla. Faridpur farmers hope for bumper onion harvest this season Razzak Mia, a fruit vendor at Karwan Bazar, said that the demand for local fruits has surged during Ramadan, as customers find them both fresh and budget-friendly. "The prices of domestic fruits are lower compared to previous years, leading to higher sales during Ramadan," said Razzak, who has been selling fruits at Karwan Bazar for the past 12 years. Fresh fruit traders noted that they are maintaining marginal profits this Ramadan to ensure affordability for all consumers. Meanwhile, dates were selling at Tk400 to Tk1,600 per kg, depending on quality and brand. But their prices dropped by Tk60 to Tk200 per kg ahead of Ramadan. Nuruddin Ahmed, Secretary of the Bangladesh Fresh Fruits Importer Association (BFFIA), told UNB that the prices of imported fruits have remained stable at both wholesale and retail levels due to increased supply. Mohammadpur's mugging menace: How crime red zones shaking Dhaka "Despite tax complications, traders have imported a large volume of fruits as Ramadan marks the peak season for fruit sales. This has ensured that imported fruits are available at reasonable prices," he said. On Thursday, fruit prices in the market were as follows: Watermelon: Tk40–50 per kg (based on quality and size) Pineapple: Tk40–70 per piece Plum: Tk80–140 per kg Wood Apple: Tk60–100 per piece Sweet Sop: Tk250–350 per kg Strawberry: Tk400–500 per kg Gooseberry (Amloki): Tk240 per kg Muskmelon: Tk80–100 per piece While imported fruit prices have generally remained stable, apple and date prices have slightly increased based on quality. Among imported fruits, the following prices were recorded: Orange: Tk320–360 per kg Malta: Tk280 per kg Green Apple: Tk420 per kg China Fuji Apple: Tk320–340 per kg Pomegranate (Dalim): Tk350–400 per kg White Pear (Naspati): Tk330–360 per kg Green Pear: Tk400–450 per kg Red and Black Grapes: Tk450–500 per kg Among other kitchen essentials, the prices of lemons, cucumbers, chicken, meat and fish remained high but stable in the capital on Thursday. But the prices of chickpeas, lentils, dates, puffed rice (muri), onions, garlic and various vegetables showed a declining trend. Consumers noted that while the prices of some Ramadan-specific items have remained stable, the cost of daily essentials continues to rise, despite government efforts to reduce tax and VAT. Prices also vary depending on the market location. Market crowds have increased significantly, with many consumers expressing frustration over the higher prices of essentials, fish, and meat. Meanwhile, the price of loose edible oil rose slightly. Traders attributed this to a short supply of bottled soybean oil. Bagerhat’s watermelon harvest brings a sweet summer promise On Thursday: Loose palm oil was selling at Tk150 per kg Bottled soybean oil was priced at Tk175 per liter