special
Publications at Boi Mela still not back to pre-Covid levels
The curtain has fallen on the longest Boi Mela ever, with a total of 6 million patrons having visited the fair,, and a total of 3751 new books being published at the fair. Book sales amounted to an estimated Tk 60 crore.
Data collected from the Bangla Academy about new book publications show that the number of new book publications decreased remarkably after the Covid-19 pandemic, and even though they rose this year from last year, they are still not back to pre-Covid levels.
In 2019, a total of 4834 new books were published from the stage of the book fair. In 2020 the number of new book publications saw an increase to 4919. In 2021’s book fair, the first after the pandemic, the number of new book publications decreased to 2640. However, after 2021, the number of new book publications started seeing gradual but very low increment.
In 2022, the number of new books climbed to 3416 from 2640, and 2023’s book fair book witnessed a total of 3730 new books being unveiled. This year, slightly increasing, the number of new book publication hit the number 3751.
Books worth Tk47 crore sold in Amar Ekushey Book Fair in 27 days
Collected data shows that 144 new books, related to Bangabandhu, were published in 2020’s book fair. In 2021, Bangabandhu related books decreased nearly twice than 2020’s fair hitting the publication number 51 and after the year in 2022, 77 books related to Bangabandhu were unveiled from the book unveiling stage. In 2023 the number again decreased and marked the number 35 and this year only 27 Bangabandhu related books were published from the book unveiling stage of Amar Ekushey Book fair.
For poem category books, in 2020, 1585 new books were unveiled from the book unveiling stage which decreased to 898 in 2021. After 2021, the number of poem related book publication climbed to 1060. Then in 2023 it climbed to 1257 and this year it again went down to 1192.
Aside from this, the number of new research work publications from the book fair also seem to have decreased over the last five years.In 2020, a total of 112 research related books were published from the book fair ground. In 2021, the number fall to 47. However, in 2022 the number of new research publications was 102. But research-based book publication number again fall to 75 and remain the same since 2023.
For liberation war category books, in 2020, a total of 152 new books were published from the book unveiling stage. In 2021 the number of new published book of this category was 84. In 2022, the number of liberation war related books was 102. After that the number of new books of this category remained the same hitting the number 75.
Curtain falls on Amar Ekushey Book Fair 2023
On the same way, the differences of the numbers of new book publication among other categories like story books, Novels, health related books, translated books, drama, science category books were observed from the found data which indicate that covid-19 pandemic effected Amar Ekushey book publication negatively.
No concrete bridge in 52 years for 40,000 villagers in Nilphamari
For over half a century, approximately 40,000 residents of six villages in the Bhograburi union of Domar upazila, Nilphamari district, have faced daily peril crossing the Buri Teesta River due to the absence of a concrete bridge. The local populace relies on a dilapidated bamboo bridge, now on the brink of collapse, exposing them to significant risks.
The urgency of the situation escalates during the monsoon season, exacerbating the plight of students, farmers, the elderly, and women who are compelled to navigate this treacherous crossing. The precarious bamboo structure serves as the only link to education for many students, with several schools situated across the river.
Residents of 20 villages in Sunamganj face commuting woes due to broken road, bridge
Residents recount unfulfilled promises from political leaders, who vow to construct a permanent bridge during election campaigns, only to disregard these commitments post-election. Kajal, a local inhabitant, voiced the community's longstanding plea for a concrete bridge since Bangladesh's independence, lamenting the continuous oversight by authorities.
Manju Islam, a representative from No. 7 Ward of Boroshashi union, echoed the community's frustration over the prolonged wait for a safe crossing solution, highlighting the desperation felt by thousands.
In response to inquiries, Mustak Ahmed, the recently appointed Domar Upazila Engineer, acknowledged the dire situation. He committed to conducting an investigation and assured that measures would be taken to address this critical infrastructure need.
Tk 7 crore bridge in Lalmonirhat left unused due to no approach road
Strategic considerations, geopolitical factors, genuine willingness keys to take Dhaka-Washington ties to next stage
Strategic considerations, geopolitical factors and a genuine willingness to broaden ties in new areas will drive forward the Bangladesh-US relations to the next level leaving behind pre-election political differences between the two countries, experts opine viewing post-polls relations.
“Both countries have long and old ties in every aspect of statecraft and bilateral relations. The new chapter denotes that these two countries would deepen their engagement beyond the much-debated political differences,” Prof Shahab Enam Khan of Jahangirnagar University’s Department of International Relations told UNB this week.
A senior US government delegation visited Bangladesh last week with an agenda that included strengthening diplomatic ties and advancing shared interests in the Indo-Pacific region.
The delegation comprised Eileen Laubacher, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for South Asia, US National Security Council (NSC); Michael Schiffer, USAID Assistant Administrator, Bureau for Asia; and Afreen Akhter, US Department of State Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asia.
Their discussions also focused on climate change, trade, the Rohingya refugee crisis, and labor rights. The delegation met with senior officials, business executives, civil society organisations, and top opposition leaders.
Prof Shahab, who is also executive director and CEO at Bangladesh Center for Indo-Pacific Affairs, assumes the issues of Bangladesh’s national security and the Indo-Pacific agenda coincide with the US ones.
Hence, he thinks, the bilateral relations will get new momentum in defense, security, non-traditional security, and human security issues.
“Myanmar, too, is a wake-up call here. This further gives me a sense that the US would not see Bangladesh through any third-country prism,” said the international affairs expert.
Instead, he thinks, both countries may synchronise their mutual interests in the coming days. “Bangladesh, after all, has been the most dependable country for the superpowers as it comes with no fractured ties with the regional neighbours or any hyped-up political or security narratives.”
Prof Shahab said these two factors make Bangladesh a regional security guarantor needed to keep the Indo-Pacific region stable.
A New Chapter and Priorities
Asked about the priority areas in opening a new chapter in their relations with Bangladesh, US Embassy spokesperson Haynes Mahoney said Bangladesh is an Indo-Pacific partner and the United States is Bangladesh’s largest source of foreign direct investment.
“We are committed to working together to ensure the Indo-Pacific region remains free, open, peaceful, and secure. We also engage with Bangladesh on broader sets of priorities,” he told UNB.
“As President Biden has stated, we will look at ways to build on our long-standing partnership to improve economic growth, mitigate climate change, and to invest in people so they have opportunities to lead healthier and more prosperous lives,” Haynes added.
The US is pleased to see Bangladesh’s Indo-Pacific outlook, which he thinks “really mirrors” what they are trying to do in terms of economic investment, working with Bangladesh on climate change, and building out security and defense cooperation between the two countries.
Bangladesh is, of course, one of the largest UN Peacekeeping contributors, and we are very pleased to support that effort, Haynes said.
Highlighting economic opportunities, he said leveraging their investments in development through the private sector and engaging youth are areas that they are increasingly focused on.
“We are bringing business leaders and youth together to identify ways to equip young people with more marketable job-skills – creating a more talented workforce with the skills needed to drive companies towards greater success and help Bangladesh be more competitive in the global marketplace,” he said.
The US Embassy spokesperson said they continue to identify ways to strengthen the economic and trade ties between the two countries, while building on our work together to accelerate socio-economic development so that people in all corners of the country have equitable opportunities to live healthier and more prosperous lives.
“We are looking for ways in which we can collaborate with Bangladesh to modernize its military and be able to invest in maritime domain awareness to be able to understand what is on your coastal borders, what is coming in by air, land, and sea," he said.
Issues around GSOMIA and ACSA
Asked about the progress regarding the two proposed agreements - General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) and the Acquisition Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA), Haynes said GSOMIA is being considered between the US and Bangladesh armed forces as the two sides continue to explore opportunities for “more substantive and deeper” engagement.
The agreement is effectively a commitment that each side will effectively secure any information or sensitive materials received from the other, he said.
On the other hand, he said, ACSA facilitate the exchange of logistical support between partner militaries and enhance the opportunities for meaningful engagement.
Although there are no discussions at present between the US and Bangladesh about pursuing an ACSA, this could change in the future should the two sides determine it offers sufficient benefit, Haynes said.
As Dhaka embraces Metro Rail efficiency, bus services on Mirpur-Motijheel route suffer a blow
Dhaka’s ambitious Metro Rail service, connecting Uttara to Motijheel, has significantly impacted the traditional public transport ecosystem, especially affecting bus services on the Mirpur-Agargaon-Farmgate-Paltan route. The introduction of this modern transit option has led to a sharp decline in bus ridership, with operators reporting a 30-40% reduction in the number of buses on this route.
Transport proprietors are bracing for a further decline in bus numbers as the warmer months approach, predicting that the allure of the metro’s air-conditioned comfort will draw even more commuters away from buses. The diminished appeal of buses, once a staple for Dhaka’s commuters, is particularly noticeable during peak metro operational hours, despite an observable decrease in traffic congestion.
Read more: Quader provides update on Metro Rail extension till Tongi
The potential extension of metro rail service hours beyond the current 7:10 am to 8:40 pm timeframe threatens to exacerbate the financial strain on bus operations, prompting owners to consider rerouting their fleets or selling them off. “From a daily tally of 500-600 buses, we’ve plummeted to just 300-400 buses on the Mirpur-Agargaon-Farmgate-Paltan route,” stated Md Shahjahan, Managing Director of Shikhor Paribahan, highlighting the scale of the downturn.
Construction of Dhaka Airport’s Third Terminal set to be fully complete by April 5
In a significant development for Bangladesh’s aviation sector, the construction of the third terminal at Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) is slated to be fully completed by April 5, 2024, with the terminal expected to be fully operational by October. This marks a pivotal moment in the expansion and modernization of the country’s aviation infrastructure.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) will take over the terminal’s responsibilities from the contractor once the construction is completed. This transition will initiate the process of moving operations from the old terminals to the new one, focusing on Operational Readiness and Airport Transfer (ORAT) project.
AKM Maksudul Islam, the project director, told UNB that nearly all construction work, including civil engineering tasks, is nearing completion. Any remaining work is expected to be finalized in the first week of April, ensuring a smooth handover to CAAB by April 6. Preparations are underway to fully launch the terminal’s operations in October, including the completion of system integration and calibration tasks, which have successfully passed multiple evaluations.
Read more: Terminal 3 will transform Bangladesh's passenger and cargo handling capabilities: EU Ambassador
Air Vice Marshal M Mafidur Rahman, Chairman of CAAB, informed UNB that the third terminal is almost ready for flight operations and is expected to be fully functional by October. The completion of this terminal will significantly increase Dhaka airport’s capacity, facilitating the growth of domestic and international airlines’ operations. This expansion is anticipated to improve passenger amenities, increase revenue, and enhance the airport’s overall efficiency.
‘The links between Singapore and Bangladesh go back a long time‘ - George Yeo
Ex-foreign minister of Singapore and leading thinker on contemporary strategic affairs George Yeo made waves recently when he said Bangladesh should focus less on the Rohingya issue in order to get closer to ASEAN, the Association of South East Asian Nations, of which Myanmar is a member.
Speaking as part of the Cosmos Foundation’s Distinguished Speaker Series, Yeo had said: "You need to incorporate the view of ASEAN, while not dismissing the importance of the Rohingya issue but also not allowing it to become such a dominating issue.”
When I met him for a one-on-one interview a few days later, I started with this issue, in case there was anything he would like to clarify.
“My point is it is good for ASEAN and Bangladesh to come closer together. It will open up more options and opportunities for Bangladesh. And it is not good if everytime Bangladesh meets ASEAN, the sole dominating issue is the Rohingya problem,” he said, before adding: “I’m not saying that it is not important. I understand that it is important, and deeply distressing for Bangladesh, but everytime Bangladesh meets ASEAN, the meeting should not become confined to that.”
Apart from that, he doesn’t believe there are too many obstacles standing in the way of Bangladesh and ASEAN getting closer.
“I understand there is a free trade agreement being negotiated between Bangladesh and Singapore. I hope that can be concluded quickly, it’ll be good for both sides. And I think Bangladesh should try to have a free trade agreement with all of ASEAN, because it will be mutually beneficial,” he said.
On ASEAN’s own plans of expansion, Yeo said: “ASEAN doesn’t want to draw lines that are permanent. We do not want to get embroiled in the politics of East Asia, neither do we want to get embroiled in the politics of South Asia, where you have all kinds of problems that have no easy solutions. We want to concentrate on the things we share in common, like economic development. More economics than politics.”
But is there a move towards a more political orientation in recent times?
Yeo said ASEAN has always had a political objective.
“It was established during the Cold War, in order to keep what was South East Asia at the time neutral and peaceful. It means we don’t interfere in each other’s politics. When Thailand has a coup, we take an understanding approach. When Indonesia went through a very tumultuous transition in 1998, ASEAN again took a very understanding attitude. Vietnam and Laos are Marxist-Communists. Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei are majority Muslim, Philippines is Catholic, some are democracies, Brunei is an absolute monarchy - so we learned to accept diversity. We try not to interfere. But if someone pushes us, we will say, don’t do that.”
The conversation then moved to cover more personal aspects of his career. Yeo’s career in service of Singapore had spanned the army, the air force, and then politics. How would he sum up his experience?
“I went to the army because I took an army scholarship, Singapore has national service. I was in Army Signals. I became a Signals officer after attending three months of military training with the US Army. It was fun. Then after Staff College, I was asked to go to the Airforce. Which was very difficult. I like to laugh and say it traumatised me, and it traumatised the airforce.
“Politics was very different. You sit there with people, of different shapes and sizes. You can’t force people, you’ve got to persuade people, in order to manage conflicts and tensions. So I had 23 years in different ministries, which looking back, was interesting, often enjoyable, always stressful. But it was a different phase of my life, and I’m glad to have done it.”
Yeo headed at least 5 different ministries during his time in politics, and even though he became most well-known for his stint as the foreign minister from 2004-11, he regards his time as minister of information and the arts as the most challenging.
After leaving government service, Yeo was well known to have succeeded Amartya Sen as the second chancellor of Nalanda University, the project to revive the ancient seat of Buddhist learning that was once reputedly the largest university in the world. It was a project he was involved in since 2007, but was forced to quit in December 2016, as it got embroiled in the complexities of Indian politics.
In a statement at the time, he said that when he joined the institute, he was “repeatedly assured that the University would have autonomy. This appears not to be the case now”. He was appointed to the post in July 2015.
He talks about the project with fondness, clearly taken in by its historic dimensions.
“Nalanda goes back to when I was trade minister, because one day there was a visit by Lal Advani, deputy prime minister of India. And he wanted to know how India could grow quickly. So I suggested promoting Buddhist tourism, and later he got their minister of tourism to visit me in Singapore, and I got to learn about the different sites - I was invited to the ceremony when The Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
“I thought Nalanda was such a powerful symbol, because it was once the biggest university in the world. It attracted monks from China, from Japan, Korea, south-east Asia, and wouldn’t it be wonderful to revive it as a secular university? So I suggested this to Montek Singh Ahluwalia, the deputy chairman of the Planning Commission, he asked me to write a paper, and he showed it to Manmohan Singh (India’s government had changed from BJP back to Congress), the Indian cabinet felt it was a good idea and asked Amartya Sen to chair a mentors group.
“Through the experience I got to learn about the history of Atisa (Atish Dipankar), whose birthplace in Bikrampur I visited four days ago. For me, my years in Nalanda were an education. Enriched me, I learned so many things, made so many friends. Amartya Sen is such a brilliant man. So I succeeded him as the second chancellor. By that time the BJP had taken over, and he had opposed Modi, so it was thought he should not stand for a second term. So I became the chancellor.
“Then I saw the university become embroiled in matters of Indian politics. And I’m not Indian, so I thought it was best for me to resign. I have friends in both the Congress and the BJP. Even when I negotiated CECA with the BJP, I kept Sonia Gandhi briefed through Montek Singh. So I’ve always been close to both sides, and didn’t want to be involved in that, so I resigned.”
Is there a sense of disappointment in him, at how the project has turned out?
“Of course. Otherwise I wouldn’t have resigned,” he says resolutely.
We then moved on to the defining conflict of the 21st century: the US-China rivalry, and how it was forcing nations to take sides on so many issues. How is Singapore resisting that?
“Singapore is three-quarters Chinese, ethnically. But it has very close links to the US. FOr example when I was in the Air Force, most of the equipment we bought was from the US. And militarily, economically, we have very close ties. We have very deep links to the US. And among the ministers, many will have been educated in the US. I spent two years at Harvard Business School. And three months with the US Army, as a signals officer. But with the Chinese we have these ethnic links.
“So Singapore doesn’t want to choose. So we tell them, we can’t choose. It has to be case by case. And related to Singapore’s interests. We cannot affect how they relate to one another. Maybe we have a few drops of influence - but only a few drops.”
But isn’t Singapore known to punch above its weight?
“I don’t like that phrase - because it’s a bit unwise to punch above your weight. You should punch below your weight. Then you have a better chance of succeeding. So Singapore tries to punch below its weight I’d say. What does this mean? For example, the mainland Chinese and Taiwanese want to meet at a high level, they meet in Singapore. Why? Because they know Singapore is friendly. Singapore does not take sides. Singapore does not tell them what to do. We just let them meet, ove tea, or coffee, and we say good luck!
“So you’ll notice President Trump and Kim Jong Il, when they met, they met in Singapore. And they almost didn’t inform Singapore! They just assumed Singapore would agree. And of course it was an honour for Singapore. So this is Singapore’s role - to be a friend. To be helpful. Of course we work in our self-interest. But long term, we are not trying to just make money overnight. We want to cultivate long term relationships.”
We then moved on to the relationship between Bangladesh and Singapore.
“With Bangladesh it’s a very deep relationship. The links between Singapore and Bangladesh go back a long time. The British East India Company established Singapore from Kolkata. Then when you had the Bengal Presidency, Singapore was part of that. So in very interesting ways, Bengal was always connected to SIngapore. We view Bangladesh in terms of these profound links of history and we hope Bangladesh sees it in those same terms.”
As mentioned earlier, he had managed to visit Atish Dipankar’s birthplace in Bikrampur, present day Munshiganj. But he feels Bangladesh has a long way to go in promoting the Buddhist Tourism Trail in the country, even though it has a lot of potential.
“You know, I knew nothing about these other sites (Mahasthangarh, Paharpur). I found out about Bikrampur, and said I want to go. And when I was there, I was told there are these even bigger sites nearby. I did not know about them. They are not promoted. In Bikrampur the facilities are poor. It’s also difficult to get to. So how can you have a tourism site?
“It would also be important to promote Bangladesh as not simply an Islamic country. Of course it is a Muslim country, and the majority is Muslim. But there are also Hindus, and Buddhists, and Christians. And your national anthem was written by Tagore. All these things have to be part of the presentation of Bangladesh.”
Commodity prices continue to rise before Ramadan compounding consumer woes
The prices of several essential commodities whose consumption goes up during the Ramadan – the fasting month for Muslims – have continued to rise ins spite of government’s rein-in measures, according to a market survey.
During visits to a number of kitchen markets in the capital city this correspondent found that the even commodities where the government recently decreased VAT and tax rates are selling at higher prices.
Interviews of traders at kitchen markets such as Karwan Bazar, Mohakhali, Fakirapool, Shanti Nagar, Malibagh, Rampura, and Banasree, the correspondent found a pattern of steady price hike of different consumer items the last few months.
No scarcity of any commodity during Ramadan: PM Hasina
On Tuesday, local garlic was selling at Tk 250 per kg, up from Tk 150 during the same time last year in these markets.
Local turmeric was selling sold at Tk 300 per kg, which was Tk 240 two months ago. Imported turmeric was selling at Tk 290 per kg, a rise by TK 80 from last year’s price. The local ginger was available at TK 280 per kg, which was Tk200 per kg last year.
A review of the commodity prices in the retail market showed that sugar was available at Tk 135 per kg in November, but it was being sold at Tk 140-150 a kg in February this year. Good quality lentils were selling at Tk 130 per kg in November and Tk 140 in February. Chickpeas were selling at Tk 85 per kg in November and Tk 110 in February.
In case of edible oils, open (loose) soybean oil was available at Tk 150 per litre in November. This increased to Tk 160 in February. Bottled soybean oil sold at Tk 168 per litre in November, and Tk 172 in February. Tunisian dates sold at Tk 300 per kg in November but now it is being sold at Tk 600 per kg in February.
In November, onion sold at Tk 130 per kg. At the beginning of February, it was selling at Tk90-100, but now it was being sold at a maximum of Tk120 per kg.
Besides, broiler chickens were selling at Tk 200 per kg, while the price was Tk185 in November. The price of beef has been decreasing since November. At that time, per kg beef was sold at Tk700.
AL business syndicates out to make money hiking commodity prices: BNP
Towfiqul Islam Khan, senior research fellow of the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) told UNB that in Bangladesh once the price is up it never goes down.
As an example, he said that in 2013, rice was selling at Tk 36 per kg. It increased to Tk 70 in 2022. In the fiscal year 2023-24, it jumped to Tk80-85 per kg. Similarly, the prices of meat, poultry chicken, soybean oil, eggs, and almost all daily commodities have increased.
Besides, ‘’The rate of inflation has increased over time. The average inflation rate from 2012 to 2022 was 6.05 percent per year. The inflation rate in 2023 was calculated at 9.02 percent, while the second-highest rate of the decade was 9.93 percent in last October. In this case, the rate of food inflation is higher,’’ he pointed out.
According to a 2023 report from the World Bank 71 percent of Bangladeshi families are currently worried about the increase in food prices. In addition, rising commodity prices are limiting or reducing the purchasing power of people.
PM instructs maintaining law and order, control of commodity prices: Cabinet Secy
The rising cost of living has pushed a section of the population below the poverty line. Abnormal rise in prices of daily commodities is affecting everyone from the middle class to the upper class.
Economist Dr Ahsan H. Mansur told UNB that the market remains unregulated despite the government's various measures to stabilise commodity prices such as market monitoring, OMS, issuance of TCB cards, and operation of mobile courts.
The market regulation will be fruitful while importers would get US dollars at a fixed rate from banks and printing of currencies curbed to a minimum level, he said.
The executive director of the Policy Research Institute (PRI) said that the central bank is taking initiatives late and implementation of those measures is also getting delayed. As a result the policy on the economy is not working.
Cabinet Committee ‘concerned’ over commodity prices
Golam Rahman, president of the Consumers Association of Bangladesh (CAB) said that the prices of all types of products have increased in the market. Prices of daily necessities including have also increased.
As a result, even if the income does not increase, the expenses of all classes of people are increasing, he said.
‘’The concerned should see whether the price of the product has increased logically or not. If any irregularities are found, the dishonest should be brought under the law and the consumer should be relieved,’’ said the CAB President.
Commodity prices to decline in coming year: Agriculture Minister
Robi’s call drop rate lowest in the country, CEO says
Rajeev Sethi assumed the role of Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Robi Axiata in October 2022. Prior to this, he was associated with the mobile operator Ooredoo in Myanmar. He also served as the Chief Commercial Officer of Airtel Africa. His professional journey includes leadership roles in renowned companies like Vodafone, HP, Hutchison Telecom, and Asian Paints. An MBA specializing in marketing, finance, and operations, Sethi’s familiarity with Bangladesh is not recent. He has previously held the position of CEO at GrameenPhone. In an exclusive interview with UNB, Sethi talked about Robi’s growth, his experience in the telecom sector in Bangladesh and more.
UNB: Robi recorded a 16 percent leap in its revenue in FY 2023. Profits also went up by 74 percent. Can you elaborate on that?
Rajeev Sethi: Setting records isn’t necessarily crucial. It’s common for expanding businesses to break their own revenue records annually. However, what stands out is Robi’s impressive rate of business expansion in 2023. The company saw its highest revenue and profit growth in its 27-year history that year. Furthermore, Robi’s 2023 growth outpaced all other telecom companies in Bangladesh. Based on the data available for mobile operators in the Asia and Pacific region, Robi’s growth was unmatched.
UNB: What do you believe contributed to this success?
Rajeev Sethi: It’s the outcome of persistent endeavours. We’ve significantly enhanced our network. I can confidently state that Robi currently has the superior network for both voice calls and internet usage. This is a key factor in our success.
We’ve simplified our internet and minute packages to be user-friendly. We’ve strived to provide packages that cater to our subscribers’ preferences. Our branding efforts have also been successful. We’ve launched a new branding campaign called “Parbe tumio”.
The positive business results are the culmination of all these efforts.
UNB: Why hasn’t Robi, despite being operational since 1997, been able to generate profits at the same level as its competitors?
Rajeev Sethi: There are multiple factors at play. The game is all about numbers and reach. The higher the subscriber count, the greater the revenue and profit. More subscribers translate to reduced operational costs per subscriber. Given the current state of the telecom sector, it’s challenging for smaller operators to boost their profits.
Globally, various steps are taken to safeguard these smaller entities. This issue was also brought up in Bangladesh a few years back, but no effective measures were implemented. It’s not just about the profit or loss of any single operator. If a monopoly exists in the market, the subscribers are the ones who stand to lose.
UNB: Having had experience in the telecom sector of Bangladesh, what is your evaluation of the sector’s regulations, policies, and other rules?
Rajeev Sethi: This question can be approached in several ways. One perspective is that the telecom sector in this country is an attractive investment opportunity due to the high population density, which is beneficial for establishing telecom infrastructure. A significant part of the population is young and eager for new experiences. Many homes without broadband connections present further opportunities for the telecom sector. However, the sector is burdened with extremely high taxes. For every 100 taka earned, 56 goes to the government – a rate that is double compared to neighbouring countries. The absence of a unified license to offer telecom services at various levels means that a company cannot independently provide all services and must rely on the tower company. This dependency not only increases costs but also impacts the quality of service.
UNB: As an Indian living in Bangladesh, how would you compare the network quality of the two countries?
Rajeev Sethi: It really hinges on the standard of comparison. However, I can affirm that the network quality I experience in Dhaka surpasses that in Delhi.
UNB: There are complaints from consumers in Bangladesh about the service quality. Specific issues include lack of network coverage at home and call drops. What’s your perspective on this?
Rajeev Sethi: It’s common for people to voice their complaints on social media when they’re dissatisfied with a service, rather than when they’re content. Given the millions of calls made daily, a few call drops are inevitable due to the imperfect nature of radio waves. It’s important to assess whether the call drop rates exceed both local and international standards. For instance, Robi’s call drop rate is 0.3, the lowest in the country. However, we continuously strive to enhance our service. We’re attempting to establish towers in certain challenging locations like Ukhia in Cox’s Bazar, but acquiring the necessary land for tower setup presents its own set of difficulties.
UNB: Isn’t there also a need to augment the number of towers in Dhaka?
Rajeev Sethi: Definitely. We have the equipment to establish approximately 600 towers, but they’re currently unused in our warehouse due to space constraints. We’re in talks with regulatory bodies and tower companies. The idea of sharing towers seems promising, and we’re exploring that possibility.
UNB: What strategies can be employed to boost internet usage in Bangladesh?
Rajeev Sethi: The majority of individuals in Bangladesh access the internet via their smartphones. To boost internet usage, it’s crucial to make smartphones more affordable; they are currently quite expensive in this country. Local firms have begun producing smartphones, and it’s worth exploring how to reduce their prices.
UNB: The government is discussing the implementation of high-speed 5G internet service. Are the service providers prepared, and is there a market demand for 5G?
Rajeev Sethi: In terms of service providers, we are indeed prepared for 5G. However, the market readiness is a separate issue. For the average user, 5G won’t significantly alter their experience, as it will be similar to their current internet movie-watching experience. The real need for 5G lies in the industrial and service sectors. The extent of automation in these sectors needs to be evaluated.
UNB: Why did Robi recently establish two subsidiary firms, Axentec and r-ventures?
Rajeev Sethi: The primary purpose of these subsidiaries is to cater to business entities. Currently, the revenue from this sector is minimal, but it’s expected to grow as services expand in the future. With a forward-looking approach, a new company has been established and a new CEO has been appointed. It’s noteworthy that similar businesses have seen a significant increase in revenue in neighbouring countries.
UNB: Is Robi considering issuing additional shares in the capital market?
Rajeev Sethi: This falls under the purview of the board of directors. However, to the best of my knowledge, it’s not currently being considered.
UNB: What would you highlight as the challenges and opportunities of investing in Bangladesh?
Rajeev Sethi: Investors prefer a stable policy environment as it facilitates strategic planning. Abrupt alterations in government policies related to investment can cause concern among investors. The presence of a third-party dispute resolution mechanism is crucial in business, a role typically fulfilled by the court. An unbiased judicial system is a fundamental requirement for investment. If one were to select a country for investment in the telecom sector, Bangladesh would be a prime choice. The country offers numerous advantages for investment.
UNB: What is your perception of Bangladeshis after working here for an extended period of time?
Rajeev Sethi: I have a deep affection for Bangladesh. People here are incredibly amicable and possess a keen interest in gaining knowledge and learning. Their passion for cricket is evident. This country is brimming with untapped talent that the world is yet to discover. We conducted a talent hunt in the digital sector and were astounded by the exceptional young talents we found. Unlike me, who is in the 40 to 50 age bracket, these are young individuals aged around 25 to 30. They require an appropriate platform to showcase their abilities.
Robi’s Financial Facts for 2023
Robi reported a revenue of approximately Tk 99.42 billion and a post-tax profit of Tk 3.21 billion. The total investment since the company’s inception is Tk 380 billion. The company boasts a subscriber base of 55.7 million. It was listed on the stock market on December 24, 2020, with a share market value of Tk 31.20 and offers a cash dividend of 10%.
Brief overview of Robi
The Axiata Group Berhad, based in Malaysia, holds a 61.82% stake in Robi. Bharti Airtel from India owns 28.18% of the shares, while the remaining 10% is held by general shareholders in Bangladesh. The company was jointly launched in 1997 by Telecom Malaysia and AK Khan and Company of Bangladesh under the brand name Aktel. In 2008, AK Khan and Company sold their shares. The company underwent a rebranding in 2010, changing its name from Aktel to Robi.
Energy experts, economists oppose govt plan to raise electricity tariff
Energy experts and economists are voicing strong opposition against the government’s proposal to further increase electricity tariffs in Bangladesh. They are urging a re-evaluation of the power sector’s financial management, specifically pointing out excessive and questionable spending as a more viable solution to the sector’s financial woes.
They observed that currently there is 42 percent surplus electricity that can be attributed to government’s deals to set up costly power plants.
“Rampant, unjust expenses – from state-owned company board remunerations to large-scale power purchase deals – underscore the need for financial rectification over tariff hikes,” eminent energy expert Prof SM Shamsul Alam said.
Bangladesh to welcome Indonesian investment in power and energy sector: Nasrul Hamid
In a recent statement, State Minister for Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources, Nasrul Hamid, hinted at an increase in electricity tariffs, starting from March, to counter the widening gap between production costs and sales revenues.
The move aims to alleviate financial pressures on the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) and the national economy.
“We have to adjust power tariff at both the retail and bulk level to cover the production cost. However, gas prices may be adjusted only for the power plants,” Hamid declared, assuring that the impact on retail consumers would be kept to a minimum.
Sources within the government revealed plans to implement a 5 percent hike in bulk electricity prices and a 3 percent increase at the retail level through an administrative order, bypassing traditional regulatory hearings.
Bangladesh, Sweden discuss cooperation in green energy, ICT with more investment
According to Annual Report 2022-23 of the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB), per unit production cost was Tk 11.33, while electricity was sold at Tk 6.7 per unit — incurring a loss of about Tk 4.63 per unit.
This imbalance has led to a staggering loss of Tk 47,788 crore for the fiscal year, as the government grapples with purchasing electricity from private and international sources at significantly higher rates.
The government has been facing great trouble as it has to purchase electricity worth Tk 82,778 crore from private sector power producers, while it generates electricity worth Tk 13,307 crore from its own plants.
The annual report also shows that BPDB’s average per unit production cost from its own plants is Tk 7.63, while it is Tk 14.62 at the independent power producers or IPPs (private sector). At rental plants, the cost is Tk 12.53, at public plants Tk 6.85, and power imported from India cost Tk 8.77 per unit.
Sources in the BPDB said that in the last decade and a half, electricity prices have been increased on 11 occasions at the wholesale level and on 13 occasions at the consumer level.
In the current fiscal 2023-24, the gap between production cost and selling rate has further widened, and now average production cost of each unit is about Tk 12 while it’s selling at Tk 6.7 per unit.
Prof Shamsul Alam, also senior vice president of the Consumers Association of Bangladesh (CAB), said the unjust expenses in the state-owned power and energy entities have been established in the hearings of the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC).
“But no steps were taken by the Power and Energy Ministry to address those issues. Rather, the regulatory body’s authority was taken away and it was turned non-functional by amending the relevant law,” the energy expert told UNB.
He said that in every case the government was found reluctant to take action to reduce the unjust expenses in the power and energy sector.
He also observed that the Rapid Increase of Power and Energy Supply (Special) Act has been key in creating the unbearable situation for which the government has to provide a huge capacity charge to the private power plant operators and subsidy to state entities.
“Now, the reality is that despite having 42 percent surplus electricity, the country has to endure significant load shedding, even during winter,” he said.
He said that it’s “ridiculous” that despite such surplus electricity and an obligation of capacity charge putting pressure on the economy, the government has announced a plan to import 9,000 MW of electricity from abroad.
Economist and Research Director at Centre for Policy Dialogue, Khondaker Golam Moazzem, in a recent seminar showed through a study report that all political parties in Bangladesh, except the ruling Awami League, want to get rid of capacity payments in the power sector.
He said that the reduction of over-generated power capacity was missing in the Awami League’s election manifesto announced before the January 7 national election.
He also recommended shutting down the costly rental power plants immediately to reduce the overall cost.
M. Tamim, special assistant to the chief advisor of the former caretaker government, said that without reducing the cost, the onus of the increased production cost is being imposed on the consumer.
“This way, the government subsidies can be reduced by increasing the electricity tariff. But it will neither address the dollar crisis, nor resolve the fuel import problem. So, load shedding cannot be prevented by increasing the power tariff,” he said.
Bappa Mazumder enthrals music lovers with majestic ‘Odyssey’
Bappa Mazumder, one of the most popular and respected superstars in the country’s music industry for his melodious numbers, once again enamoured fans at just the second solo concert of his iconic career.
The concert, titled “Bappa Mazumder’s Odyssey,” was held at the KIB auditorium in the capital on Friday night, where the National Award-Winning singer, music composer and the frontman of Dalchhut showcased a majestic three-hour-long performance delivering 27 songs.
Opened by Masha Islam, one of the most promising and popular singers in recent times, the concert was joyfully joined by a thousand listeners who accompanied Bappa Mazumder on his magical voyage of melodious Bangla songs in the glorious month of February.
The concept inspiration of the musical event was taken from the style of classical Greek art, based on the literary theme of a hero's journey. The name ‘Odyssey’ was taken from Homer's epic Odyssey, where Odysseus goes on his hero's journey.
The event began with Masha Islam performing a selection of contemporary Bangla hits, including "Harano Diner Moto," "Tomake Chhuye Dilam," and "Jao Pakhi Bolo," before Bappa's melodic journey on this historic night of his legendary career. She also performed a lovely duet rendition of Bappa's "Chokheri Jole Vashabo Bole" later on the night, with the night's star.
Taking over the stage with his gentlemen’s attire, his classy gestures, and a band of brothers, Bappa Mazumdar started his history-making ‘Odyssey’ with the song “Shopnopure” and continued performing 13 of his superhit tracks including ”Din Bari Jay,” “Mon Chhuyechho,” “Brishti Pore,” Surjo Snane Chol” and more.
During this set of performances, he remembered his long-lost musical companion, the late Bangladeshi singer-songwriter and writer Sanjeeb Chowdhury while performing Dalchhut’s popular track “Ami Firey Pete Chai” - and also introduced the lyricist of his popular track “Kokhono Ichchhe Hoy” to the crowd, Mass Masum from the audience while performing the track.
The singer concluded the first set of performances after 13 tracks with “Chaichho Jokhon,” and the concertgoers roamed around outside the auditorium during the break as the premise was decorated with stalls of the sponsors of the event with their refreshment offerings and merchandise. There was an installation at the venue featuring one line from all the songs Bappa performed at the concert.
After the short break, Bappa returned and resumed the voyage to perform the rest of the tracks, starting with “Dhulo Pora Chithi.” He then goes on performing his superhits one after another, including “Raater Train,” a beautiful rendition of the legendary Lucky Akhand’s iconic track “Agey Jodi Janitam,” “Jochhonabihar,” “Kipte Bariwala,” Sanjeeb Chowdhury’s another blissfully majestic track “Ami Tomakei Bole Debo,” Bappa’s own smashing hit song “Pori,” and more.