INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(12093, 12093, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi said his country has proven the West doesn’t have a monopoly on technology while inaugurating a hydropower and irrigation project in Sri Lanka on Wednesday.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Raisi is the first Iranian leader to visit Sri Lanka since former President Mahmoud Ahmedinejad visited the country in 2008.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The Western countries tried to convince all others that knowledge and technology is exclusive to those countries,” Raisi said, addressing Sri Lanka\'s President Ranil Wickremesinghe and other top officials. He added that the “idea” was rooted in “colonialism and arrogance” and that Iran was now able to share its knowledge with others, currently having projects in 20 countries.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Uma Oya project, in the central Badulla district, was constructed with Iranian technical assistance. Valued at $514 million, it was started in 2010 by Iran’s FARAB engineering group and Iran initially provided $50 million. But in 2013, funding could not be continued because of international sanctions against Iran. The Sri Lankan government then decided to complete the project with its own funds using the same Iranian contractor.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The project was scheduled for completion in 2015 but was delayed by international sanctions against Iran, technical issues and the COVID-19 pandemic, the government said in a statement ahead of Raisi’s visit.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The project will add 290 GWh of electricity annually to the national grid and irrigate 4,500 hectares (11,100 acres) of new land and 1,500 hectares (3,700 acres) of existing agricultural land.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Our enemies did not want Iran to develop and progress ... so the will and determination of the Iranian people were realized and our enemies were disappointed,” Raisi said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Raisi and Wickremesinghe are to witness the signing of five memoranda of understanding and are scheduled to issue a joint statement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Raisi arrived in Sri Lanka from Pakistan, where the two countries agreed to strengthen economic and security cooperation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Indian Ocean island nation declared bankruptcy in April 2022 with more than $83 billion in debt — more than half of it to foreign creditors. Wickremesinghe\'s government secured an IMF four-year bailout package to rescue the country from its worst economic crisis.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Despite improving economic indicators, Wickremesinghe - who came to power in 2022 - faces public backlash over heavy taxes and the high cost of living. - UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-25 13:46:01', '2024-04-25 13:46:01'),
(12094, 12094, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>TikTok\'s chief executive said on Wednesday the social media company expects to win a legal challenge to block legislation signed into law by President Joe Biden that he said would ban its popular short video app used by 170 million Americans.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Rest assured - we aren\'t going anywhere,\" CEO Shou Zi Chew said in a video posted moments after Biden signed the bill that gives China-based ByteDance 270 days to divest TikTok\'s U.S. assets or face a ban. \"The facts and the Constitution are on our side and we expect to prevail again.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Biden\'s signing sets a Jan. 19 deadline for a sale - one day before his term is set to expire - but he could extend the deadline by three months if he determines ByteDance is making progress. Biden is seeking a second term against former President Donald Trump.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We don\'t want to see a ban,\" White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre said on Tuesday. \"This is about PRC ownership,\" she added, referring to the People\'s Republic of China.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In 2020, Trump was blocked by the courts in his bid to ban TikTok and Chinese-owned WeChat, a unit of Tencent (0700.HK), opens new tab, in the United States. Trump, the Republican presidential candidate, has reversed course and said on Monday that Biden was \"pushing\" for a ban on TikTok and would be the one responsible if a ban were imposed, urging voters to take notice.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Make no mistake - this is a ban on TikTok,\" Chew said, emphasizing that TikTok would continue to operate as the company challenges the restrictions.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Many experts question if any potential buyer has the financial resources to buy TikTok and if China and U.S. government agencies would approve a sale.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Driven by widespread worries among U.S. lawmakers that China could access Americans\' data or surveil them with the app, the bill was overwhelmingly passed late on Tuesday by the U.S. Senate. The U.S. House of Representatives approved it on Saturday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The four-year battle over TikTok is a significant front in a war over the internet and technology between Washington and Beijing. Last week, Apple (AAPL.O), opens new tab said China had ordered it to remove Meta Platforms\' (META.O), opens new tab WhatsApp and Threads from its App Store in China over Chinese national security concerns.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"24\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-25 14:01:14', '2024-04-25 14:01:14'),
(12095, 12095, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>French President Emmanuel Macron called on Thursday for stronger, more integrated European defences as he outlined his vision for a more assertive European Union on the global stage.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">In a speech at the Sorbonne University in Paris, he also said the continent must not become a vassal of the United States.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"There is a risk our Europe could die. We are not equipped to face the risks,\" Macron said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">With just three years left of his second and final term in office, Macron, 46, wants to show his critics he retains the energy and fresh thinking that helped propel him into the presidency in 2017 and that he has not become a lame duck leader.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the speech lasting nearly two hours, he warned that military, economic and other pressures could weaken and fragment the 27-nation EU.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Russia must not be allowed to win in Ukraine, he said, calling for a boost in Europe\'s cybersecurity capacity, closer defence ties with post-Brexit Britain, and the creation of a European academy to train high-ranking military personnel.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Europeans should give preference to buying European military equipment, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We must produce more, we must produce faster, and we must produce as Europeans,\" Macron said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The speech won a positive response from Macron\'s main EU partner, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, with whom he has often clashed on defence and trade issues.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"France and Germany want Europe to be strong,\" Scholz said in a post. \"Your speech contains good ideas on how we can achieve this.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Macron has long called for European \"strategic autonomy\" involving less reliance on the United States, a stance that has gained greater resonance in the face of Donald Trump\'s bid to return to the White House. Trump has often accused Europe of free loading on defence at the United States\' expense.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Europe \"must show that it is never a vassal of the United States and that it also knows how to talk to all the other regions of the world,\" Macron said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Many EU officials believe there is currently no credible alternative to the U.S. military umbrella. Source: Reuters </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-25 15:06:13', '2024-04-25 15:06:29'),
(12096, 12096, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Anger is “an emotional state that varies in intensity from mild irritation to intense fury and rage,” according to Charles Spielberger, PhD, a psychologist who specializes in the study of anger.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">We all know what anger is, and we’ve all felt it, whether as a fleeting annoyance or as full-fledged rage. Anger is a completely normal, usually healthy, human emotion. But when it gets out of control and turns destructive, it can lead to problems problems at work, in your personal relationships, and in the overall quality of your life.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ready to get your anger under control? Start by considering these 7 anger management tips.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><b><i>1. Think before you speak</i></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the heat of the moment, it\'s easy to say something you\'ll later regret. Take a few moments to collect your thoughts before saying anything. Also allow others involved in the situation to do the same.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><b><i>2. Once you\'re calm, express your concerns</i></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As soon as you\'re thinking clearly, express your frustration in an assertive but nonconfrontational way. State your concerns and needs clearly and directly, without hurting others or trying to control them.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><b><i>3. Get some exercise</i></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Physical activity can help reduce stress that can cause you to become angry. If you feel your anger escalating, go for a brisk walk or run. Or spend some time doing other enjoyable physical activities.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><i>4. Take a timeout</i></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Timeouts aren\'t just for kids. Give yourself short breaks during times of the day that tend to be stressful. A few moments of quiet time might help you feel better prepared to handle what\'s ahead without getting irritated or angry.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><i><br></i></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><b><i>5. Identify possible solutions</i></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Instead of focusing on what made you mad, work on resolving the issue at hand. Does your child\'s messy room make you upset? Close the door. Is your partner late for dinner every night? Schedule meals later in the evening. Or agree to eat on your own a few times a week. Also, understand that some things are simply out of your control. Try to be realistic about what you can and cannot change. Remind yourself that anger won\'t fix anything and might only make it worse.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><i>6. Stick with \'I\' statements</i></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Criticizing or placing blame might only increase tension. Instead, use \"I\" statements to describe the problem. Be respectful and specific. For example, say, \"I\'m upset that you left the table without offering to help with the dishes\" instead of \"You never do any housework.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><i>7. Use humor to release tension</i></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Lightening up can help diffuse tension. Use humor to help you face what\'s making you angry and, possibly, any unrealistic expectations you have for how things should go. Avoid sarcasm, though — it can hurt feelings and make things worse.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Remember, you can’t eliminate anger - and it wouldn’t be a good idea if you could. In spite of all your efforts, things will happen that will cause you anger; and sometimes it will be justifiable anger. Life will be filled with frustration, pain, loss, and the unpredictable actions of others.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd/fas</div>', '<p><font color=\"#085294\" style=\"\"><b>&nbsp;control-anger</b></font><br></p>', 'News Desk', '[\"24\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-25 15:25:42', '2024-04-25 15:25:42'),
(12097, 12097, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Hospitals across Khulna are struggling to accommodate an influx of patients as a severe heatwave continues to affect the region. Key healthcare facilities, including Khulna Medical College Hospital, Khulna Sadar Hospital, Khulna Children\'s Hospital, and Khulna Infectious Disease Hospital, have reached full capacity, forcing patients to occupy floors, corridors, and even stairways due to a lack of available beds.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The situation is particularly dire at the government-run Khulna Infectious Disease Hospital located in Mirerdanga, where the number of diarrheal patients has alarmingly increased. With no pediatric specialists or consultants available, children suffering from diarrhea are being deprived of adequate medical care, putting significant strain on their families.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Despite sufficient supplies of medicine and saline, the hospital faces a critical shortage of medical staff, nurses, and ward boys, compounded by its deteriorating infrastructure.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">From the beginning of the month, a sharp rise in cases of vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea has been reported. As of April 24, the hospital has admitted over 350 diarrheal patients, with an additional 10 to 15 patients seeking outpatient care daily. The hospital, designed with only 20 beds, has 10 allocated for diarrheal patients. The number of beds for diarrheal patients has been increased to 14 through the efforts of the acting officer. However, there are no separate wards for males and females, nor any cabins.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At Khulna Children\'s Hospital, the situation has worsened further. Al-Amin Rakib, an administrative officer at the hospital, reported that while the outpatient department previously handled around 400 patients daily, the figure has surged to 700 to 800 children over the last week. Despite having 275 beds, the hospital is currently accommodating twice as many patients suffering from fever, colds, and diarrhea.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A distressed father, Rahim Sheikh, from Botiaghata, shared his ordeal of his three-year-old daughter Anika suffering from diarrhea due to the heat. Having arrived at the hospital at 8 am, he had yet to see a doctor by late morning. The director of Khulna Medical College Hospital, Dr. Husain Shafayat, echoed the severity of the situation, stating the hospital was operating at three times its capacity with no space left to admit new patients.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">As the heatwave shows no signs of relenting, the healthcare crisis in Khulna continues to escalate, with medical facilities urgently requiring additional resources and support to manage the overwhelming patient load. - UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"6\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-25 15:30:11', '2024-04-25 15:30:11'),
(12098, 12098, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>System loss in gas distribution segment has been brought down to 7.5 percent now from a 22 percent two years before.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Nasrul Hamid disclosed this while visiting the headquarters of the Titas Gas Transmission and Distribution Company Limited in the city on Thursday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Now our target is to bring the system loss to a zero level in the next two years, \" he said, giving a description of the recent moves of the Titas Gas Company.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Titas has been the largest entity in the gas distribution segment having about 2.8 million retail consumers, out of a total 4.8 million of the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The state minister said that in the last two years a total of 865,000 illegal gas connections have been snapped. Of this, 336 are industrial connections, 475 commercial connections, 97 captive power plants, 13 CNG stations.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“A total of 989 kilometers of illegal pipelines have been removed and Tk 604 crore has been fined from the illegal consumers”, he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Briefing reporters, Nasrul said the government has been intolerant in taking action against illegal connections, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He, however, admitted that some influential quarters including local lawmakers, public representatives of different levels have been the main impediments.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“But mind it, the minister of the energy and power ministry is the Prime Minister herself and she has strong directives to remain uncompromising in this regard, \" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Petrobangla chairman Zanendra Nath Sarker and Titas managing director Engr. Md. Haronur Rashid Mullah were present on the occasion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Nasrul informed that the Titras Gas Company has initiated a move to implement a Tk 12,000 crore project in the areas under Dhaka and Narayanganj cities to replace the old pipelines to stop gas leakages.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Apart from this, Titas Gas has been negotiating with different donor agencies including Asian Development Bank, World Bank and JBIC of Japan to install pre-paid gas meters to reduce system loss in the gas consumption.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Petrobangla chairman Zanendra Nath also said that all the distribution and transmission companies have installed meters to ensure accountability in gas trading among them.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-25 15:49:34', '2024-04-25 15:49:34'),
(12099, 12099, '<div align=\"left\"><p dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The construction of a new port in Gaza and an accompanying U.S. military-built pier offshore are underway, but the complex plan to bring more desperately needed food to Palestinian civilians is still mired in fears over security and how the humanitarian aid will be delivered.</span><br></p></div><div align=\"left\">\r\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The Israeli-developed port, for example, has already been attacked by mortar fire, sending high-ranking U.N. officials scrambling for shelter this week, and there is still no solid decision on when the aid deliveries will actually begin.</p>\r\n<p dir=\"ltr\">While satellite photos show major port construction along the shore near Gaza City, aid groups are making it clear that they have broad concerns about their safety and reservations about how Israeli forces will handle security.</p>\r\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Sonali Korde, an official with the U.S. Agency for International Development, said key agreements for security and handling the aid deliveries are still being negotiated. Those include how Israeli forces will operate in Gaza to ensure that aid workers are not harmed.</p>\r\n<p dir=\"ltr\">“We need to see steps implemented. And the humanitarian community and IDF (Israeli Defense Forces) continue to talk and engage and iterate and improve the system so that everyone feels safe and secure in this very difficult operating environment,” Korde said.</p>\r\n<p dir=\"ltr\">A senior U.S. military official said Thursday the U.S. is on track to begin delivering aid using the new port and pier by early May. The official, who spoke to reporters on condition of anonymity to discuss details not yet made public, said deliveries through the sea route initially will total about 90 trucks a day and could quickly increase to about 150 trucks daily.</p>\r\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The senior official acknowledged, however, that the final installation of the U.S.-built causeway onto the beach at the port will be governed by the security situation, which is assessed daily. The Israeli Defense Force has a brigade — thousands of soldiers — as well as ships and aircraft dedicated to protecting the deliveries, the official said.</p>\r\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Asked about the recent mortar attack, the miliary official said the U.S. assesses that it had nothing to do with the humanitarian mission, adding that security around the port will be “far more robust” when the deliveries start.</p>\r\n<p dir=\"ltr\">In addition, the U.S. has rehearsed offensive and defensive measures to ensure U.S. troops working at the pier and those on the floating platform several miles off shore are all protected.</p>\r\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Aid groups have been shaken by the deaths of seven World Central Kitchen aid workers in an Israeli airstrike on April 1 as they traveled in clearly marked vehicles on a delivery mission authorized by Israel. The killings have hardened sentiment among some aid groups that the international community should focus instead on pushing Israel to ease obstacles to the delivery of aid on land routes by truck.</p>\r\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The World Central Kitchen staff, who were honored at a memorial service Thursday in Washington, are among more than 200 humanitarian workers killed in Gaza, a toll the U.N. says is three times higher than any previous number for aid workers in a single year of any war.</p>\r\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Development of the port and pier comes as Israel faces widespread international criticism over the slow trickle of aid into the Palestinian territory, where the United Nations says at least a quarter of the population sits on the brink of starvation. - AP</p>\r\n<p dir=\"ltr\">bnbd/fas</p></div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-26 02:58:17', '2024-04-26 02:58:17'),
(12100, 12100, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Friday asked the leaders and activists of Awami League to work for the development of Bangladesh and its people.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>&nbsp;“You should work for the development of the country and its people,” she said when a delegation of Thailand Awami League paid a courtesy call on her at her place of residence.</div><div><br></div><div>PM’s Speechwriter Md. Nazrul Islam briefed the reporters.</div><div><br></div><div>The President of Bangladesh Awami League, Sheikh Hasina, asked them to spread the ideals of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.</div><div><br></div><div>“The Father of the Nation was killed untimely but his ideals remained among us. That is why I’ve been working to implement his ideals,” she said, adding that Bangabandhu had dreamt to bring smiles to the faces of poor and destitute people of the country.</div><div><br></div><div>Referring to the remarkable progress and development Bangladesh witnessed in the last 15 years, the premier said it has been possible to attain the progress as they (her party) are in power uninterruptedly for a long time.</div><div><br></div><div>The leaders and activists told the Prime Minister that many Bangladeshis have accepted the citizenship of Thailand, but they are keen to keep the dual citizenship. They sought the PM’s intervention for maintaining dual citizenship. Source : UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-26 13:03:33', '2024-04-26 13:03:33'),
(12101, 12101, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>As the country grapples with an intense heatwave, the government has announced the reopening of primary school academic activities starting Sunday, April 28.&nbsp;</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The Primary and Mass Education Ministry, through a notification signed by Senior Information Officer Mahbubur Rahman Tuhin, outlined the operational adjustments to accommodate the sweltering conditions.</div><div><br></div><div>School hours will be limited to the cooler morning hours, from 8:00 am to 11:30 am. For schools operating in two shifts, the first shift will run from 8:00 am to 9:30 am and the second from 9:45 am to 11:30 am.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Despite these changes, pre-primary level classes will remain closed until further notice, and daily school assemblies will be suspended to avoid prolonged exposure to the heat.</div><div><br></div><div>The decision follows a similar action taken for secondary level schools and colleges, which are set to reopen on the same day, April 28.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The resumption comes after an extended closure initially planned until April 27 due to the prolonged hot weather following the Eid holidays. Outdoor activities and those requiring sun exposure at these institutions will continue to be limited.</div><div><br></div><div>To make up for educational disruptions caused by the heatwave and other interruptions, classes will also be conducted on Saturdays until further notice, according to the ministry\'s notification.</div><div><br></div><div>The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has forecasted that the current heatwave conditions, which recorded a high of 42.7 degrees Celsius in Chuadanga on Friday, may persist for another 72 hours starting Thursday morning. The government\'s proactive measures aim to balance educational needs with health and safety concerns during this challenging climate period. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-27 08:44:05', '2024-04-27 08:44:05'),
(12102, 12102, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Friday said Bangladesh and Thailand have the opportunity to strengthen cooperation in the fields of trade and investment, food security, tourism, public health, energy and ICT.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">I strongly feel that we have the opportunity to strengthen our cooperation in the fields of trade and investment, food security, tourism, public health, energy, ICT, people-to-people contacts and connectivity, and also under the BIMSTEC, she said, addressing the official luncheon meeting hosted by Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin at his office, the Government House, here.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier, the two leaders had a tete-a-tete (one-to-one meeting) and then they led their respective sides at a bilateral meeting there.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Five bilateral documents - an agreement, three memorandums of understanding MoU) and a letter of intent (LOI) - were signed in presence of the two prime ministers.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the luncheon, Sheikh Hasina said Bangladesh attaches great importance to its relations with Thailand as an immediate neighbour.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Our friendship is deeply rooted in historical, linguistic, and common cultural heritage. The warm and cordial relations between our two friendly countries are ever-growing in multi-faceted areas of cooperation, including trade and investment, sustainable development, people-to-people contacts, and connectivity, she added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Bangladesh premier said that Prime Minister Thavisin and she discussed at length the bilateral and regional issues of mutual interests.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">We agreed to make all efforts to enhance our bilateral trade and encourage more interactions between the public and private entities of the two countries. Likewise, we must make all efforts to promote and facilitate bilateral investments, she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The agreement and MoUs that Dhaka and Bangkok signed today (Friday) would provide a solid framework for enhancing bilateral cooperation, she added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Talking about her visit, Sheikh Hasina said the visit is part of broader focus on the neighbourhood policy, which has provided an excellent opportunity for the two countries to further renew the momentum in the bilateral relations.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">I am confident that this visit will go a long way in deepening the relations between our two countries, she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier said that she firmly believes this visit would provide the much-needed impetus to the bilateral relations to its full potential, reports BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This official visit will remain a milestone in our bilateral relations. It has ushered in a new era of fruitful partnership between our two countries. We need to sustain the renewed momentum in our relationship for the mutual benefit of our people and countries in the days ahead, she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Before joining the luncheon, Sheikh Hasina visited a Thai handicrafts exhibition at the Government House. She was accompanied by her younger sister Sheikh Rehana and Bangabandhu\'s grandson Radwan Mujib Siddiq.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-27 10:08:59', '2024-04-27 10:08:59'),
(12103, 12103, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>A premature Palestinian infant, rescued from her mother\'s womb shortly after the woman was killed in an Israeli airstrike, has died, her uncle said Friday.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sabreen Jouda died in a Gaza hospital on Thursday after her health deteriorated and medical teams were unable to save her, said her uncle, Rami al-Sheikh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sabreen\'s home in the southern Gaza city of Rafah was hit by an Israeli airstrike shortly before midnight Saturday. Her parents and 4-year-old sister were killed.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">First responders took the bodies to a nearby hospital, where medical workers performed an emergency cesarean section on her mother, Sabreen al-Sakani, who was 30 weeks\' pregnant. The infant was kept in an incubator in a neonatal intensive care unit at another hospital until she died five days later.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Al-Sheikh told The Associated Press that Sabreen was buried next to her father on Thursday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We were attached to this baby in a crazy way,\" he said, speaking near Sabreen\'s grave in a cemetery in Rafah.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"God had taken something from us but given us something in return\" with the baby surviving after her family died, he said. \"But (now) he has taken them all. My brother\'s family is completely wiped out. It\'s been deleted from the civil registry. There is no trace of him left behind.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">More than 34,000 Palestinians have been killed during the Israel-Hamas war, according to local health officials, who say about two-thirds of the dead are women and children. The health officials don\'t differentiate among combatants and civilians in their count.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Israel declared war on Hamas and unleashed a pulverizing air and ground offensive in Gaza in response to the militants\' Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel. The militants killed about 1,200 people in Israel and took another 250 hostage.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">More than half of Gaza\'s 2.3 million people have sought refuge in Rafah, where Israel has conducted near-daily raids as it prepares for a possible offensive in the city. - AP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-27 11:33:13', '2024-04-27 11:33:13'),
(12104, 12104, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Columbia University students who inspired pro-Palestinian demonstrations across the country said Friday that they reached an impasse with administrators and intend to continue their encampment until their demands are met.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The announcement after two days of exhaustive negotiations came as Columbia’s president faced harsh criticism from faculty — something that has been seen at several other universities where professors and staff similarly condemned leadership over the use of police against demonstrators, leading to fierce clashes, injuries and hundreds of arrests.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The tensions add pressure on school officials from California to Massachusetts who are scrambling to resolve the protests as May graduation ceremonies near.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As the death toll mounts in the war in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis worsens, protesters at universities all over the U.S. are demanding that schools cut financial ties to Israel and divest from companies they say are enabling the conflict.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Some Jewish students say the protests have veered into antisemitism and made them afraid to set foot on campus, and safety concerns have prompted some of the heavier-handed approaches.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In one crackdown, in Denver, police swept through an encampment Friday at the Auraria Campus, which hosts three universities and colleges. Forty protesters who set up there the day before were arrested on what the campus said were trespassing charges for violating a camping ban.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At Columbia, student negotiators representing the encampment said that after meetings Thursday and Friday, the university had not met their primary demand for divestment, although there was progress on a push for more transparent financial disclosures.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We will not rest until Columbia divests,” said Jonathan Ben-Menachem, a fourth-year doctoral student.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Columbia officials had said earlier that talks were showing progress.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We have our demands; they have theirs,” university spokesperson Ben Chang said, adding that if the talks fail, Columbia will have to consider other options.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Meanwhile, Columbia\'s president, Minouche Shafik, faced a significant — but largely symbolic — rebuke from faculty Friday but retained the support of trustees, who have the power to hire or fire the president.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A report by the university senate’s executive committee, which represents faculty, found Shafik and her administration took “many actions and decisions that have harmed Columbia University.” Those included calling in police and letting students be arrested without consulting faculty, failing to defend the institution in the face of external pressures, misrepresenting and suspending student protest groups and hiring private investigators.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The faculty have completely lost confidence in President Shafik’s ability to lead this organization,” said Ege Yumusak, a philosophy lecturer who is part of a faculty team protecting the encampment.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In response, Chang said in the evening that “we are committed to an ongoing dialogue and appreciate the Senate’s constructive engagement in finding a pathway forward.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Also Friday, student protester Khymani James walked back comments made in an online video in January that recently received new attention. James said in the video that “Zionists don’t deserve to live” and people should be grateful James wasn’t killing them.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“What I said was wrong,” James said in a statement. “Every member of our community deserves to feel safe without qualification.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">James, who served as a spokesperson for the pro-Palestinian encampment as a member of Columbia University Apartheid Divest, was banned from campus Friday, according to a Columbia spokesperson.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Protest organizers said James\' comments didn’t reflect their values. They declined to describe James’ level of involvement with the demonstration.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On the opposite coast, protesters at California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, barricaded themselves inside a building for the fifth day Friday. The administration gave them until 5 p.m. to leave and “not be immediately arrested,” a deadline that came and went.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">University officials did not immediately respond to a request for an update or provide information on what they planned to do, and the campus has been closed for the remainder of the semester.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At Arizona State University, protesters pitched tents, including some that police dismantled, and at least one person was handcuffed and taken away Friday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Police previously clashed with protesters Thursday at Indiana University, Bloomington, where 34 were arrested. There were about 36 arrests at Ohio State, and one at the University of Connecticut.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The president of Portland State University took a different approach Friday, announcing a forum to discuss protesters’ concerns and a pause on further gifts and grants from Boeing, after students asked that the school cut ties with the aerospace company.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The University of Southern California canceled its May 10 graduation ceremony Thursday, a day after more than 90 protesters were arrested on campus. The university said it will still host dozens of commencement events, including all the traditional individual school ceremonies.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Elsewhere in New York, about a dozen protesters spent the night in tents and sleeping bags inside a building at the Fashion Institute of Technology.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Protesters also stayed overnight at the encampment at George Washington University. Officials said in a statement that those who remained were trespassing on private property and disciplinary actions would be pursued against students involved in the unauthorized demonstrations.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At Emory University in Atlanta, video that circulated widely on social media showed two women who identified themselves as professors being detained, with one of them slammed to the ground by an officer as a second one pushed her chest and face onto a concrete sidewalk.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">University President Gregory Fenves said via email that some videos of clashes were “shocking” and he was “horrified that members of our community had to experience and witness such interactions.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Fenves blamed the campus unrest on “highly organized, outside protesters” who he said arrived in vans, put up tents and took over the quad. But in an earlier statement, school officials said that 20 of the 28 people arrested were members of the university community.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Since the Israel-Hamas war began, the U.S. Education Department has launched civil rights investigations into dozens of universities and schools in response to complaints of antisemitism or Islamophobia. Among those under investigation are many colleges facing protests, including Harvard and Columbia. - AP&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-27 12:30:14', '2024-04-27 12:30:14'),
(12105, 12105, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The Ministry of Labour and Employment today announced the recipients of the \'Green Factory Award 2023\', spotlighting 29 factories recognised for their environmentally friendly operations.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During a press conference held at Srom Bhaban in the capital, Md Nazrul Islam Chowdhury, State Minister for Labour and Employment, unveiled the list.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He emphasised the government\'s dedication to promoting green industrial practices and ensuring that all factories adhere to sustainable and environmentally sound operations.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A major initiative has been taken to make all the factories green and environment-friendly, stated Chowdhury. He also expressed a commitment to eradicating irregularities and corruption within the ministry.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Abdur Rahim Khan, Inspector General of the Department of Inspection for Factories and Establishments, noted that approximately 200 factories in the country have achieved global recognition for their eco-friendly practices, with the number continuing to grow.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The \'Green Factory Award-2023\' encompasses a diverse range of industries, with the 29 factories spanning across 12 different sectors. This recognition underscores the significant strides being made in Bangladesh\'s industrial sector towards environmental sustainability and operational excellence. - UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-27 13:01:46', '2024-04-27 13:01:46');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(12107, 12107, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The ongoing heat wave condition and drought have posed a serious threat to the production of litchi, a mouth-watering summer fruit, in Pabna district.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Pabna’s Iswardi upazila is known as one of the leading litchi production zones in the country. But this year, farmers and traders are fearing losses as small litchi pods are falling from the trees due to the prevailing heat wave.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At the beginning of this season, litchi farmers had expected a bumper production of litchi but 50% of buds had fallen due to the heavy rains with hails in the middle of Chaitra (Bangla) month.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On the other hand, due to the extreme heat at the beginning of summer, a large part of the litchi pods are now falling.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">If summer heat continues, the litchi farmers have to count a huge loss this year.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Besides, the wholesale traders who had bought the orchards with the sprouting of trees have become worried over possible losses this season.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to the Department of Agriculture Extension (DAE), this year, a total of 4,721 hectares of land have been brought under litchi cultivation and among these, 3,150 hectares are in Ishwardi upazila of the district.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">They also set a target to produce 48,801 metric tonnes of litchi this year.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During a recent visit to some litchi orchards, the UNB correspondent found that at the beginning of the month of Falgun, there were enough buds coming in each litchi tree. Seeing a lot of buds on trees, the traders bought the orchards at a higher price in advance.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But due to the ongoing drought and untimely rains with hailstorm at the end of Chaitra, most of the buds have been damaged.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mirajul Sheikh, a litchi grower of Ishwardi upazila, said about 40-50 percent litchi buds were destroyed during hailstorm but now a large portion of litchi pods are dropping due to the prevailing heat wave.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Manirul, a trader, said he had bought a litchi orchard at a cost of Tk 25 lakh but he is too frustrated. He is now doubtful whether he will be able to sell litchi worth Tk 10 lakh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Though the DAE officials suggested the farmers to spray water and continue irrigation but farmers said it is not possible to spray water in vast tract of land that was brought under litchi cultivation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">However, the DAE officials are still expecting bumper production this year.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Mehedi, a litchi grower and trader, said the biggest economic activity of the farmers of Ishwardi upazila depends on litchi production. Farmers of the upazila will be severely affected if they don’t get expected output .</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Jamal Uddin, deputy director of Pabna DAE, said this year, litchi trees saw profuse flowering and if litchi comes from half of those it will be huge, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">However, some litchi are being damaged due to drought and the current heat wave.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Farmers are being suggested to spray water on the upper side of the litchi trees and irrigate the lands, he added.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-27 13:06:37', '2024-04-27 13:06:37'),
(12108, 12108, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The Awami League and its affiliated organisations have paid homage to&nbsp; Sher-e-Bangla AK Fazlul Huq at his tomb on the occasion of his 62nd death anniversary.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Tributes were paid first on behalf of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, and then by the Bangladesh Awami League.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader and other senior leaders of the party were present at that time.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Speaking on the occasion, Quader said that national leader Sher-e-Bangla was one of those who took politics to the masses.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The AL leader said that farmers in Bengal’s rural areas would never forget Sher-e-Bangla for protecting them from moneylenders through the Tenancy Act and Debt Settlement Board.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Awami League Dhaka South City unit, Jubo League, Swechasebak League, Tanti League, Dhaka University Chhatra League and various affiliated organisations of Awami League paid tribute later. - UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-27 13:09:06', '2024-04-27 13:09:06'),
(12109, 12109, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>As the summer heatwave continues, the risk of heat exhaustion and dehydration becomes a concern. Like adults, children can suffer from severe heat-related illnesses. Therefore, parents and caregivers should be cautious, especially for school-going children who stay outside the home for hours. Here are some essential summer tips to ensure the well-being of school-going children during the hot months.&nbsp;</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">How to Keep School-going Children Healthy During Summer Heat Waves</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Stay Hydrated</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ensuring children stay hydrated is crucial during a heatwave. Parents and caregivers should encourage children to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, focusing on water as the primary source of hydration. It would be wise to avoid serving children sugary or caffeinated beverages that can contribute to dehydration.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">While leaving for school, it is necessary to provide children water bottles and remind them to take regular sips, even if they are not feeling thirsty. Offer water-rich fruits and vegetables like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges as healthy snacks to help keep children hydrated.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dress Appropriately</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing of breathable fabrics like cotton or linen can help children stay cool. It is highly recommended to opt for light-coloured clothes that reflect sunlight rather than dark colours that absorb heat.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Furthermore, while staying outdoors children can wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses to protect their faces and eyes from the sun\'s harmful rays.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Seek Shade&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Children might need to stay outdoors for diverse purposes, like waiting for a school bus. During such situations, children should be encouraged to seek shade or canopies to minimise direct exposure to the sun.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Apply Sunscreen Liberally</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sunscreen application is another crucial aspect of sun protection. Like adults, children can use broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of at least 30. Before going to school or other places, kids need to apply sunscreens generously to their exposed skin, including the face, neck, arms, and legs. Nowadays many reputed brands produce child-friendly sunscreen products.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or more frequently if children are swimming or sweating heavily. Parents and caregivers should teach children how to apply sunscreen properly and encourage them to build their sun protection routine.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Plan Outdoor Activities Wisely</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">While planning schedules for active outdoor games and sports during the warmer months, parents should pay attention to the matter that children stay safe from overheating or sunburn. However, when planning outdoor activities, it\'s essential to schedule them during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon, to avoid the peak heat hours.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Caregivers should guide children to play in shaded areas, such as parks with plenty of trees, or bring portable shade structures like pop-up tents or sun umbrellas to prevent sunburn and heat-related illnesses.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">While playing, sweat should be wiped off immediately. Additionally, encouraging regular play breaks in shaded areas allows children to rest and hydrate. It is essential to prevent heat-related illnesses.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Stay Indoors During Peak Heat</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During extreme heat, it is best to stay indoors in air-conditioned or well-ventilated spaces for children to avoid heat-related illnesses. It would be thoughtful for the parents and caregivers to plan indoor activities like board games, arts and crafts, or movie marathons to keep children entertained and safe from the heat.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Educate About Heat-Related Illnesses</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It is essential to teach children about the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion, heatstroke, dizziness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, etc.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Parents and caregivers should teach children to speak up if they are feeling unwell and remind them of the importance of seeking help from a trusted adult if they experience any symptoms of heat-related illness.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Use Cooling Strategies</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Implementing cooling strategies like taking cool showers or baths, using fans or air conditioning, and applying cold compresses to the skin can help children beat the heat and stay comfortable indoors.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Parents and caregivers can freeze damp washcloths or water bottles and place them on pulse points like the wrists, neck, and temples to help lower the body temperature of the children. It can make their mind and body cool after returning home from school or outdoors during the heat waves.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Regular Baths</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bathing plays a vital role in maintaining cleanliness. It is important to avoid allowing children to drink or bathe in ice-cold water during hot weather. Instead, offer them water at room temperature or slightly cool.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">When bathing, use water at a comfortable temperature, neither too hot nor too cold, to avoid shocking their system.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Stay Connected</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Staying connected with children, caregivers, and school staff during a heatwave is essential for assuring everyone\'s safety. Keep lines of communication open with children, caregivers, and school staff during summer.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sharing information about heat safety tips and encouraging everyone to look out for each other helps create a supportive environment where everyone can stay cool, hydrated, and healthy during hot weather.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Thus, parents and caregivers can minimise the risk of heat-related illnesses in children at home, community space, school, playground, or other places.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bottom Lines</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Implementing summer safety for school-going children during a heatwave is paramount to their well-being and health. Parents, caregivers, and school staff can help mitigate the risks associated with hot weather, by prioritising hydration, sun protection, appropriate clothing, and staying cool indoors during peak heat hours.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Educating children about heat-related illnesses and empowering them to recognise signs of distress is equally important. By working together and staying aware, the wellbeing and health safety of school children can be assured during the summer months. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', '<p><b><font color=\"#085294\">Summer Tips&nbsp;</font></b><br></p>', 'News Desk', '[\"24\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-27 13:29:06', '2024-04-27 13:29:06'),
(12110, 12110, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>A high-level Egyptian delegation was in Israel for talks on Friday amid a new diplomatic push for a truce in the Gaza war and the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The visit followed a trip to Cairo on Thursday by Israeli army chief Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi and Shin Bet domestic intelligence service head Ronen Bar.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Officials in Israel described the latest moves as “an attempt by Egypt to restart the talks” after previous mediation efforts led by Qatar broke down. They told the Egyptian delegation that Israel was ready to give hostage negotiations “one last chance” to reach a deal before moving forward with an invasion of the southern city of Rafah.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Israel told Egypt that it is serious about preparations for the operation in Rafah and that it will not let Hamas drag its feet,” one official said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Egypt is concerned about a potential influx of Palestinian refugees from Gaza if the war continues with the long-threatened Israeli offensive into Rafah, and has taken an increasingly active role in the negotiations.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The Egyptians are really picking up the mantle on this. Egypt wants to see progress, not least because it’s worried about a prospective Rafah operation,” the official said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Israel was increasingly looking past Qatar as a main broker, according to the official, after it failed to respond to Israeli demands to expel Hamas leaders from its territory or curb their finances.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">“Qatar is still involved but in a lesser capacity,” the official said. “It’s clear to everyone they failed to deliver, even when it came to expelling Hamas or even shutting down their bank accounts.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hamas officials said they still considered Qatar a key mediator, alongside Egypt.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said he saw fresh momentum in the talks.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“I believe that there is a renewed effort … to try to find a way forward,” he said “Do I think that there is … new life in these hostage talks? I believe there is.”  - Arab News</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-27 14:18:38', '2024-04-27 14:18:53'),
(12111, 12111, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Yemen’s Houthis have damaged an oil tanker and downed another MQ-9 Reaper drone of the United States as they promise more attacks in opposition to Israel’s war on Gaza.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Iran-aligned group’s military spokesman, Yahya Saree, said in his latest televised video address early on Saturday that “British oil ship Andromeda Star” was targeted in the Red Sea with naval missiles and was directly hit.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The US military confirmed that the group fired three antiship ballistic missiles into the Red Sea at multiple targets and damaged MV Andromeda Star. The vessel was recently sold to a company registered in the Seychelles, Reuters reported.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“MV Andromeda Star reports minor damage, but is continuing its voyage,” the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a post on X, adding there were no injuries or damage reported by the maritime military coalition led by the US that is deployed in the area to counter attacks from Yemen.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Houthi military spokesman also said its air defence forces in Yemen also shot down an MQ-9 Reaper attack drone of the US military with a missile in the airspace of the Saada governorate “while it was carrying out hostile missions”.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The US military did not comment on the drone, but US broadcaster CBS News confirmed that an MQ-9, which costs about $30m, “crashed” inside Yemen early on Friday and said an investigation is under way.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This is the third US attack drone shot down by the Houthis since the start of the war on Gaza, with the first brought down in November, followed by another in February.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Yemeni group made no comments about further attacks on vessels in its nearby waterways, but the US military said the anti-ship missiles fired by the Houthis also targeted MV MAISHA, an Antigua/Barbados-flagged, Liberia-operated vessel. It reported no damage. - Al Jazeera </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-27 15:23:34', '2024-04-27 15:23:46'),
(12112, 12112, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Saturday alleged that Bangladesh has now become a gas chamber as a result of unplanned urbanization.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Bangladesh is now a valley of death due to a hoax development of the current dummy government,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The BNP leader also accused the government of putting lives in jeopardy through deforestation, silting up of rivers and canals and setting up thermal and coal-run power plants by pursuing unplanned urbanisation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Bangladesh has now been turned into a gas chamber,” he observed.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rizvi came up with the remarks while distributing bottled water and saline among pedestrians in the capital\'s Mirpur area.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As part of its 7-day programme, Dhaka North City unit BNP arranged the programme to assuage public suffering amidst the ongoing severe heatwave across the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Rizvi said the government is setting up thermal power plants in different areas by ignoring the opinion of environmental experts, causing a serious threat to the biodiversity of the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Tees are no longer bearing fruit in these&nbsp; areas…People belonging to Awami League are filling the ponds, canals, rivers and water bodies.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also said that the ruling party leaders are creating a second home by siphoning off huge money abroad by indulging in plundering.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">”The government of Sheikh Hasina has turned Bangladesh into a den of looting. As a result, they’re not able to import goods from abroad due to dollar crisis. The country has been ruined by corruption and looting,” BNP leader said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Slamming the Prime Minister, he said Sheikh Hasina has snatched democracy and people\'s all rights. “Because of this, people can now no longer exercise their right to vote. Parliament has now become an entertainment house.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He bemoaned that democracy-loving people have been still sacrificing their lives for establishing the voting rights even after 52 years of independence of the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Later in the day, Rizvi along with BNP leaders and activists distributed bottled water and saline among pedestrians in the city’s Shantinagar area.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-27 17:09:53', '2024-04-27 17:09:53'),
(12113, 12113, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>A 48-hour transport strike initiated by the Brihattor Chattogram Ganaparibahan Malik Sramik Oikkyo Parishad began this morning (April 28, 2024), significantly disrupting daily life in the port city amidst a severe heatwave. The strike, which affects buses, minibuses, human haulers, autorickshaws, and other three-wheelers, has led to considerable difficulties for commuters across the city.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Impact on Commuters</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">From early in the morning, commuters, including office workers, students, and senior citizens, were seen waiting for long periods at several points in the port city due to the scarcity of mass transportation. The streets showed a markedly decreased traffic flow, with most vehicles off the roads in response to the strike call.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Transport workers confirmed that no long-distance buses departed from Chattogram today. Md Musa, the member secretary of the transport body, stated that movement of buses and three-wheeler vehicles has been suspended since 6 am. Buses from other parts of the country are also prohibited from entering Chattogram during the strike period.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Background of the Strike</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The strike was called following an incident where students of the Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology (CUET) reportedly set buses on fire in protest after two of their peers were killed in a road accident. The students, Shanto Saha and Tawfiq Hasan, both from the Civil Engineering department, died when a bus hit their motorbike on the Chattogram-Kaptai road on April 22.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In retaliation, some CUET students vandalized three buses and set another on fire. The protests escalated over the following days, leading to the university\'s closure and the postponement of academic activities.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Demands and Protests</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The transport workers\' strike is a protest against the damage inflicted on their vehicles and calls for compensation for the burnt buses, along with the arrest of the accused students. The strike encompasses Chattogram city, district, Cox’s Bazar, and three hilly districts. It aims to press home a four-point demand, emphasizing the need for justice and reparations from the damages incurred during the student protests.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Emergency Services Exempt</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Despite the widespread disruption, the strike organizers say that emergency vehicles, including ambulances, will not be affected by the strike. The transport strike is scheduled to conclude at 6 am on Tuesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">University Response and Continued Tensions</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The CUET administration attempted to quell the unrest by meeting with the protesting students, who assured they would halt their demonstrations and return to academic activities. However, following an emergency syndicate committee meeting on April 26, CUET authorities decided to keep the campus closed until May 9. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"34\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-28 08:53:32', '2024-04-28 08:53:32'),
(12114, 12114, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is set to return to Bangladesh on Monday (April 29) after a productive six-day visit to Thailand, initiated at the invitation of her Thai counterpart, Srettha Thavisin. This visit, aimed at bolstering bilateral and multilateral ties, marks a significant step in the relationship between the two nations.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>On April 24, Prime Minister Hasina was warmly welcomed at Don Mueang International Airport with a ceremonial 19-gun salute. Her visit included a mix of bilateral discussions and multilateral engagements, emphasising deepening cooperation across several sectors.</div><div><br></div><div>During her stay, the highlight was on April 26 when she met with Thai Prime Minister Thavisin at the Government House in Bangkok. The meeting was fruitful, resulting in the signing of five critical documents that promise enhanced collaboration. These included agreements on visa exemption for official passport holders, energy cooperation, mutual assistance in customs matters, tourism cooperation, and a Letter of Intent to kick-start negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) by 2024.</div><div><br></div><div>Prime Minister Hasina also took the opportunity to address the 80th Session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) on April 25. Her speech, delivered at the United Nations Conference Center in Bangkok, highlighted her vision for regional cooperation and development.</div><div><br></div><div>A personal highlight of the visit was on April 25, when Prime Minister Hasina met with the King and Queen of Thailand, Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua and Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshan, at the Amphorn Satharn Throne Hall in Dusit Palace. This courtesy call underscored the warm relations between the two countries.</div><div><br></div><div>Reflecting on the significance of her visit during an official luncheon hosted by Prime Minister Thavisin, Sheikh Hasina said, “This official visit will remain a milestone in our bilateral relations. It has ushered in a new era of fruitful partnership between our two countries.”</div><div><br></div><div>As Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina prepares to return home, the agreements signed and the discussions held during her visit are set to pave the way for a strengthened partnership between Bangladesh and Thailand, promising mutual benefits and enhanced cooperation in the years to come. - UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-28 08:56:16', '2024-04-28 08:56:16'),
(12115, 12115, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Two operatives of the armed separatist group Kuki-Chin National Front (KNF) were killed in an anti-terror combing operation conducted by Bangladesh Army in Bandarban on Sunday.&nbsp;</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The operation was conducted in the remote Baklai area under Ruma upazila of Bandarban, said a media release issued by Inter Services Public Relation Directorate (ISPR).&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Three firearms, huge amounts of ammunition, walkie-talkie and other materials were recovered during the operation, said the ISPR.</div><div><br></div><div>However, details about the deceased could not be known immediately.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>On April 23, another KNF operative was killed in a clash with law enforcers in Munlai Para area of Ruma upazila.</div><div><br></div><div>On April 2, the separatist group abducted Sonali Bank’s Ruma upazila branch manager, Md Nezam Uddin, and tried to loot Tk 1.5 crore from the vault of the bank.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The following day, they carried out robberies at Sonali Bank and Krishi Bank branches in Thanchi upazila of Bandarban.</div><div><br></div><div>On April 4, the abducted manager was rescued from Bathel Para area of Bandarban through the mediation of Rapid Action Battalion.</div><div><br></div><div>On April 7, in response to a surge of criminal activities, including high-profile bank robbery and abduction, Chief of Army Staff General SM Shafiuddin Ahmed announced a comprehensive joint operation in Bandarban.</div><div><br></div><div>Since the inception of the operation, the joint forces have so far arrested 72 KNF members and their associates. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-28 09:07:12', '2024-04-28 09:07:12'),
(12116, 12116, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has issued a warning that the ongoing heat wave may persist for 72 hours starting Sunday morning.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>\"Due to increasing moisture incursion, the discomfort may increase,\" said the Met office.</div><div><br></div><div>This announcement follows earlier alerts issued on April 19, 22 and 25.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-28 10:03:35', '2024-04-28 10:03:35'),
(12117, 12117, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Since its inauguration, the Padma Bridge has significantly boosted government revenue, collecting a staggering Tk 1500 crore in tolls from the myriad of vehicles that have traversed this architectural marvel.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Amirul Islam Chowdhury, additional director of the Padma Bridge Site office, reported, “As of Saturday at 11:59 pm, a total of Tk 1,502,62,15,900 in tolls has been collected, with 1,12,91,095 vehicles having crossed the bridge since its opening.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The bridge first opened to traffic on June 25, 2023.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Detailed traffic analysis shows that approximately 56,01,232 vehicles used the Mawa entry point, while 56,89,863 vehicles crossed at the Jajira point.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A notable record was set on April 9 of this year when the bridge saw its highest single-day toll collection, amassing Tk 4.90 crore from 45,204 vehicles.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The bridge was formally inaugurated by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on June 25, 2023 and was opened to traffic the following morning, marking a significant milestone in the country’s infrastructure development and economic enhancement. - UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-28 10:07:19', '2024-04-28 10:07:19'),
(12118, 12118, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The Bangladeshi-flagged vessel MV Abdullah, recently liberated from Somali pirates, is scheduled to depart Al-Hamriya Port in the United Arab Emirates for Bangladesh today (April 28, 2024) at noon, officials confirmed.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The vessel, which had been hijacked for 33 days, successfully unloaded 55,000 metric tonnes of coal at Al-Hamriya Port yesterday. The owner, KSRM Group, announced that the vessel and its crew of 23 sailors are expected to arrive at Chattogram Port by mid-May.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mizanul Islam, a spokesperson for the Chattogram-based KSRM Group, reported that the loading operations were completed yesterday, and the vessel is now ready to embark on its journey back to Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">MV Abdullah initially anchored at the UAE port on the evening of April 22, following its release from pirate captivity. Distinguished guests including Mohammad Abu Jafar, the Bangladesh Ambassador, and officials from SR Shipping, the vessel\'s operating company, were present to welcome the crew upon their arrival.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The ship first arrived at the outer anchorage of the port on April 21, following its ordeal which began on March 12 when it was seized by Somali pirates about 600 nautical miles off the Somali coast en route from Mozambique to Dubai.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The pirates took control of the vessel and its crew, holding them until a ransom of Tk 55 crore facilitated their release on the night of April 13.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Following the release, MV Abdullah headed to Al-Hamriya Port under the escort of an EU NAVFOR warship, navigating through approximately 480 nautical miles of high-risk areas along the Somali coast and the Red Sea before reaching the safety of the United Arab Emirates.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This voyage marks a significant step towards recovery after the harrowing pirate attack, with the crew looking forward to a safe return to their homeland. - UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-28 10:27:11', '2024-04-28 10:27:11'),
(12119, 12119, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>BNP on Sunday slammed the government for imposing restrictions on journalists\' access to the Bangladesh Bank offices, saying the move was taken to hide the corruption and plunder perpetrated by Awami League MPs and their close associates.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Speaking at a demonstration, BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi also said a huge amount of money has been looted from different banks, and the perpetrators are none other than MPs and ministers of the Awami League, or their close associates.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Journalists have now been restricted from entering the Bangladesh Bank so that they can’t divulge information about this looting and corruption. Because criminals always want to hide their sins,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rizvi strongly denounced the imposition of the restrictions on journalists’ access to the central bank.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A group of former lenders and workers of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal and Swechchasebak Dal staged the demonstration in front of BNP’s Nayapaltan central office demanding the unconditional release of BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia and party leaders Habib-un-Nabi Sohel and Abdul Qader Bhuiyan Jewel.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Recently, the Bangladesh Bank imposed restrictions on journalists\' access to its offices, sparking protests by media workers and various organisations.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mezbaul Haque, the bank\'s spokesperson, announced on Thursday that journalists will now require a specific permit issued by the bank to visit officials at its building. This move prohibits journalists from freely entering any department of the central bank.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rizvi said BNP leaders and workers, and other truth revealers, are now in jail, while those who engage in bank robbery, looting, repression against women and children, grabbing people’s land and houses, encroaching upon rivers, canals, and water bodies, and perpetrating injustice and vote robbery are on the prowl across the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He claimed that it is now proved that ruling party leaders are indulging in all sorts of misdeeds and bloodletting incidents all over the country by staying in power illegally.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The BNP leader alleged that Awami League leaders and workers have been given an unwritten free license to kill the country’s people, loot money and engage in various misdeeds.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"It’s a regime of plundering and rampant corruption, fostering thieves and looters. If they remain in power any longer, they will sell all the houses, land, and property of the people of the country,\" he observed.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The BNP leader called upon the country’s people to be vocal against the misdeeds and corruption of the government and the ruling party leaders and workers.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said their party will continue its movement until the fall of the current government of Sheikh Hasina, braving all adversities. “No people will have any security and any rights if this regime is not ousted.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-28 12:19:46', '2024-04-28 12:19:46'),
(12120, 12120, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Two teachers died possibly from ‘heat stroke’ in Chattogram and Jashore districts on Sunday (April 28, 2024) morning when sever heat wave is scorching the country.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>In Chattogram, madasha teacher Maulana Md. Mostak Ahmed Kutubi Alkaderi, 55, fell unconscious while going to his workplacefrom his home in the Mohra area of Chandgaon.</div><div><br></div><div>Kutubi Alkaderi, son of late Khalilur Rahman of Kutubdia Lemshikhali in Cox\'s Bazar district and father of&nbsp; two sons and one daughter, used to work at Khitapchar Azizia Mabudia Alim Madrasha in Boalkhali upazila of Chattogram.</div><div><br></div><div>Witnesses said when the madrasha teacher boarded the ferry at Kalurghat around 9am suddenly he collapsed.</div><div><br></div><div>Later, he was taken to Chattogram Medical College Hospital (CMCH) where doctors declared him dead.</div><div><br></div><div>In Jashore, Ahsan Habib, an assistant teacher of Ahmedabad High School, died from apparent heat stroke on Sunday in sadar upazila.</div><div><br></div><div>AZM Parvez Masud, headmaster of the school, said Habib fell sick around 9 am when he went to school after working in a field.</div><div><br></div><div>Later, he was taken to Jashore General Hospital, where a doctor declared him dead, reports UNB</div><div><br></div><div>The body was kept at Jashore General Hospital morgue for autopsy, said Abdur Razzak, officer-in-charge of Jashore Kotwali Police Station.</div><div><br></div><div>The reason behind the death will be known after autopsy, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"34\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-28 12:24:18', '2024-04-28 12:24:18'),
(12121, 12121, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Nepal hosted an investment summit Sunday in hopes of attracting much-needed foreign investment, especially in developing hydropower projects to produce more electricity that it can sell to neighboring countries.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Several foreign investors were attending the two-day meetings in the capital, Kathmandu, where Nepali officials urged investment in developing hydropower projects and in other areas like tourism and industry.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Nepal is home to eight of the tallest mountain peaks in the world and has several rivers flowing down from them, bringing huge hydropower potential. But only a few projects have been built in the poor south Asian nation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Our hydropower potential holds the promise of abundant renewable and clean energy supply,” Nepal’s prime minister, Pushpa Kamal Dahal, told the delegates. However, he said, “only 3,200 megawatts have been harnessed so far and only about 5,568 megawatt large-scale projects are under construction or in the pipeline.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“This explicitly shows the enormous opportunities to invest in the hydropower sector in Nepal,” Dahal said, adding that the existing and planned cross-border transmission line with India and China aids energy exchange within the region.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said Nepal has signed agreements or memoranda of understanding with China, India and Bangladesh for power trade or cooperation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Nepali officials are also hoping to attract more investment in the tourism sector in the Himalayan nation, where the industry is struggling to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“This summit will provide a platform for networking opportunities among the policy makers, investors, experts and stakeholders to share ideas and views as well as encourage joint ventures in areas such as industry and infrastructure development,” said Finance Minister Barsha Man Pun.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Nepal has said the main objective is to project the country as an emerging destination for private sector investment and to highlight recent reforms in enhancing the investment climate and ensuring regulatory frameworks and support for foreign as well as domestic investment. - AP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-28 12:54:37', '2024-04-28 12:54:37');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(12122, 12122, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The UK is building a war memorial to the millions of Muslim soldiers who served alongside British and Commonwealth forces during the two world wars, Sky News reported.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The 13.2-meter-tall monument, which has been several years in the planning, will stand at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire. Built from brick and terracotta it will be inscribed with the personal stories of the soldiers.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">About 2.5 million Muslim soldiers and laborers served in the militaries of the Allied powers during the First World War and about 5.5 million in the Second World War.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Benny O’Looney, the memorial’s architect, said: “The idea is, as you approach the memorial, it draws you in. And you can see there’s more detail, more information, more craftsmanship.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The idea is to show a panorama of the Muslim soldiers’ service in the world war from gritty 1914 — this incredible narrative of plugging the gap and saving the expeditionary forces on the Western Front.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The inspiration for the design, which features Islamic calligraphy, came from journeys to the Indian subcontinent, O’Looney said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The monument will be erected on a site already containing memorials to Sikhs, Gurkhas and others.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Irfan Malik, a doctor from Nottingham whose ancestors served in both world wars, said: “I’m so glad we are near to fruition now, so that we can remember this forgotten history of the Muslim soldiers in both of the great wars and looking at Muslim contributions globally as well.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Both of my great-grandfathers — Capt. Ghulam Mohammad and Subedar (roughly equivalent to warrant officer) Mohammad Khan — were part of the Great War and my two grandfathers were part of the Second World War, serving in Burma, reports Arab News</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“They all descended from Dulmial village, which is based in the salt range in Punjab in present-day Pakistan, a very famous military village.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The memorial would serve as a “symbol of remembrance of those campaigns, the sacrifices made and also an opportunity to educate our younger generation to improve community cohesion in this country,” Malik said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-28 13:13:55', '2024-04-28 13:13:55'),
(12123, 12123, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Russia’s defence ministry on Sunday claimed its forces had taken control of another village in eastern Ukraine, as Moscow’s troops press their advantage in manpower and ammunition on the battlefield.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Russia’s forces have made notable gains in the eastern Donetsk region over the last week, prompting rare criticism by Ukrainian military bloggers of the country’s armed forces.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“As the result of active operations, the ‘Centre’ troop unit liberated the village of Novobakhmutivka in the Donetsk People’s Republic,” Russia’s defence ministry said in its daily battlefield briefing.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The village is around 10km north of Avdiivka, which Russia’s forces captured in February after one of the bloodiest battles of the two-year conflict.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Deep State Telegram channel, close to Ukraine’s armed forces, earlier this week blamed the leaders of Ukrainian units in the area for the “collapse of defences throughout the region, causing considerable losses.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Moscow said on Saturday that its troops around Donetsk had managed to drive “deep” into Ukrainian defensive lines.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ukraine’s army leaders have conceded Russia has had some “tactical successes” in the area and that its own positions had deteriorated.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ukraine’s head of intelligence at the ministry of defence Kyrylo Budanov said this month that the battlefield situation is likely to worsen for Ukraine around mid-May to early June.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Kyiv is awaiting the arrival of billions of dollars in US weapons, which it hopes will stabilise the situation on the sprawling front lines. - AFP&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-28 13:28:17', '2024-04-28 13:28:17'),
(12124, 12124, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The extent of loadshedding crossed 1860 MW on Sunday, a new high in power shortage in at least a decade, on the heels of new record in power generation.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The recent highest power generation in the country was recorded at 16,233 MW at 9pm on Monday last (April 22). But despite that loadshedding continued across the country, as the prevailing heatwave increases the demand for electricity.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The amount of loadshedding is the difference between the amount of electricity generated and its demand, when the former is in deficit.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The official data of the National Load Dispatch Centre (NLDC) at the Power Grid Company of Bangladesh (PGCB) shows that the loadshedding reached 1864 MW at 12 noon Sunday, the day’s peak for electricity demand&nbsp; amid the sweltering heat.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">However, rural level officials of different power utilities believe the extent of load shedding is far more than the official figure shown by NLDC as local interruptions in power supply don’t always come to the book.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Power outages at the rural areas are so frequent that if any interruption takes place, consumers have to wait several hours to get electricity at both day and night,” an official of the Bangladesh Rural Electrification Board (BREB), told UNB.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">“The extent of loadshedding might even be more than 2000 MW if local outages are taken into account,” he added, requesting anonymity to speak as the issue is considered sensitive.&nbsp; &nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to official sources, the maximum burden of loadshedding was diverted to rural areas, as part of a policy to avert power outages in capital Dhaka, and other large cities.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Reports from different areas said the extent of load shedding is aggravating the plight of rural people amid the sweltering heat this summer.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The NLDC records also show power supply on Sunday started with 1,789 MW at 1am and then at one stage came down to 13019 MW at 7 am. But again it took a U-turn upwards and the extent of loadshedding was also increasing.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Officials apprehend, the extent of load shedding may go up further in the evening peak hours when normally demand goes up.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Both the data from the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) and PGCB show that the country\'s day’s demand forecast was set at 16,900 MW and evening demand at 15,500 MW.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Meanwhile, state-owned Petrobangla’s official data shows that the country’s gas production was 3,105 million cubic feet per day (MMCFD) against a demand for about 4000 MMCFD.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It shows that a good number of power plants, specifically those using gas as their primary fuel, remained off generation due to gas shortage.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The power plants received a supply of 1423 MMCFD gas against their demand for 2316.9 MMCFD, the data shows. - UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-28 14:02:42', '2024-04-28 14:02:42'),
(12125, 12125, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Amidst the boiling heat gripping the nation, residents of Sylhet breathed a sigh of relief as a bout of rain brings some relief from the relentless heat.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sylhet Meteorological Department recorded 84.4 millimetres of rainfall in the past 24 hours, starting 6pm on Friday to 6pm on Saturday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Shah Md Sajib Hossain, assistant meteorologist of the Meteorological Department, said that this situation of rainfall may continue.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Meanwhile, Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) forecast rain or thundershowers accompanied by temporary gusty or squally wind is likely to occur at one or two places over Chattogram and Sylhet divisions with hails at isolated places in 24 hours commencing 6pm on Saturday, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Besides, a very severe heat wave is sweeping over the district of Chuadanga and a severe heat wave is sweeping over the districts of Rajshahi, Pabna, Sirajganj, Jashore and Kushtia.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A mild to moderate heat wave is sweeping over Dhaka &amp; Barishal divisions and the rest parts of Rajshahi and Khulna divisions and the districts of Dinajpur, Rangamati, Chandpur, Feni &amp; Bandarban and it may continue, it added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"4\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-28 14:11:24', '2024-04-28 14:11:24'),
(12126, 12126, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Pakistan’s foreign minister Ishaq Dar has been appointed deputy prime minister, the ministry of foreign affairs said on Sunday in a post on X.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The Prime Minister has been pleased to designate Mr. Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs, as Deputy Prime Minister with immediate effect,” a Pakistan government gazette posted by the foreign ministry read.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dar will continue in his role as foreign minister, Pakistani media said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The appointment comes a month after Pakistan’s parliament elected Shehbaz Sharif as prime minister after a national election marred by mobile internet shutdown, arrests, and violence.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Pakistan struggled for over four months to lock in a stand-by arrangement with the International Monetary Fund last summer when Dar was finance minister, and it took the intervention of his prime minister, Shehbaz Sharif, to secure a last-ditch deal.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dar has also regularly criticised the IMF on public platforms in the middle of negotiations, and has long favoured market interventions to prop up the Pakistani rupee – something the IMF has warned against. - Reuters</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-28 14:35:47', '2024-04-28 14:35:47'),
(12127, 12127, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The BNP has revoked the expulsion order against Romana Ahmed, the organizing secretary of its Meherpur district unit, as she stayed away from participating in the first phase of the upazila elections, expressing regret for defying the party\'s decision.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The party decided to withdraw the expulsion order since Romana offered an apology during a press conference for participating in the upazila polls as a vice-chairman candidate, said a press release, signed by BNP assistant office secretary Taiful Islam Tipu, on Sunday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier on Friday, the BNP expelled its 73 grassroots leaders, including Romana, for participating in the first phase of upcoming upazila elections violating the party\'s decision.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Later on Saturday, the party expelled its three more grassroots leaders for taking part in the upazila elections.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The party said punitive actions were taken against its grassroots leaders as per the party’s constitution.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to the party press release, the leaders of BNP and its associate bodies who are contesting for the post of chairman, vice chairman and female vice chairman in the first phase of upazila polls in violation of the party\'s decision have been expelled from all party positions, including its primary membership.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A total of 152 upazilas across the country will go to polls in the first phase on May 8 as per the schedule announced by the Election Commission.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The elections to 492 upazilas will take place in four phases. The second phase of upazila polls will be held on May 23 while the third phase on May 29 and the fourth phase on June 5.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The BNP high command earlier decided not to join any elections under the current government and the Election Commission. - UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-28 14:47:26', '2024-04-28 14:47:26'),
(12128, 12128, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>At least 23 members of Nigeria’s civilian joint task force were killed on Saturday in separate attacks by militants and an armed kidnapping gang in the north, two officials from the force said on Sunday.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In northeast Borno state, the heartland of an Islamist insurgency, suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters used an improvised explosive device (IED) to blow up a vehicle carrying the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) team, a local force chairman said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The CJTF was first formed in 2013 to protect communities in the northeast and help the military fight Boko Haram and later its offshoot ISWAP. The force has since been extended to other northern states that are grappling with armed kidnapping gangs.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Tijjanima Umar, CJTF chairman for Gamboru Ngala area near the border with Cameroon, said his team was travelling to Borno state capital Maiduguri when they drove over the IED.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“As the mine blew up, nine of them died instantly…while two other people had severe injuries and were immediately taken to hospital for treatment,” Umar told Reuters by phone.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Nigerian military was not immediately available to comment.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Although severely curtailed by Nigerian security forces, Boko Haram and ISWAP still carry out deadly attacks against civilians and the military.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In northwestern Soko state, 14 CJTF members were killed and several were missing following an ambush by gunmen on Saturday, task force sector commandant Ismail Haruna told Reuters.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Haruna said the CJTF members were killed in Sokoto’s Isa local government area, where they had raided and destroyed a bush camp belonging to a known armed kidnapping gang leader, reports Reuters&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The gang quickly regrouped and ambushed the CJTF as they drove back to Sokoto state capital, he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-28 14:51:21', '2024-04-28 14:51:21'),
(12129, 12129, '<div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">German police on Friday used violence against peaceful pro-Palestine protesters in Berlin, an activist said.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"This is Germany, the heart of Europe,\" Yasemin Acar, who was beaten up by police, told Anadolu.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"They beat us violently in front of parliament, arrested us, and we were hospitalized,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Acar was released after identification and was treated at the hospital due to an injury to her arm.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It is not clear if her arm will be put in a cast, but she said she is trying to get better.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Police in Berlin dismantled the Support for Gaza camp next to the Chancellery and opposite the Bundestag. Many people were detained in the violent confrontation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Talking about the incident, she said she reached the sit-in after someone told her on the phone that the protesters were being asked to leave.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“As soon as I arrived there, the police already saw (me). We started raising slogans. When I said: \'Freedom for Palestine,\' the police pointed their finger at me.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Then 10-15 policemen came, all men by the way. They pulled my head and one of them hit my nose.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I told them I couldn\'t breathe. But they didn\'t listen and told me to \'shut up.\'</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"So human rights, and being a woman has no value anymore.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In detention, she said, they were taken to an office-like area set up nearby.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“They said: \'We will put you in prison.\' I protested because I knew my rights. Because I raised my voice, they tried to silence me after that,\" she said, adding that she was kept there for a few minutes.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Talking about the rise in violence in Germany, she said: “Of course, we took to the streets for Palestine, but we are also taking to the streets against the oppression in Germany right now, because the oppression is so great.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“I wonder if the next time we organize something like a camp again, will they take out their guns and try to shoot us? We live in fear of that,” she said, adding that she will file a criminal complaint against the police. - Anadolu Agency </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-28 14:55:23', '2024-04-28 14:56:12'),
(12130, 12130, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Amid the ongoing heat wave, educational activities of all educational institutions under secondary level and vocational educational institutions in Dhaka, Chuadanga, Jashore, Khulna and Rajshahi districts have been suspended for April 29 (Monday).</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the wake of ongoing sweltering heat, the Education Ministry issued a notice in this regard after consulting with the Health Ministry and Bangladesh Meteorological Department on Sunday, said a handout signed by MA Khayer, public relation officer of the Education Ministry.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But the educational institutions which have air conditioner facilities can keep their institutions open.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Further decision in this regard will be known on Monday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Classes at all primary, secondary schools and colleges resumed on Sunday after Eid-ul-Fitr holidays and its subsequent extension due to the heat wave sweeping the country since the first week of April.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The educational institutions reopened today although there is no remarkable change in the heat wave condition, worrying the guardians, especially those of primary level students.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Meanwhile, Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has issued a warning that the ongoing heat wave may persist for 72 hours starting Sunday morning.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Schools and colleges were scheduled to reopen on April 21 after the end of Eid holidays but the closure was extended till April 27 due to sweltering heat across the country caused by heat waves. - UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"34\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-28 15:05:04', '2024-04-28 15:05:04'),
(12131, 12131, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>India Women opened their Bangladesh tour with a decisive 45-run win in the first T20I at Sylhet on Sunday.&nbsp;</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Electing to bat first, India posted a competitive 145 for 7, anchored by contributions from Shafali Verma (31), Yastika Bhatia (36), and captain Harmanpreet Kaur (30). Bangladesh\'s Rabeya Khan was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 3 conceding 23 runs.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In reply, Bangladesh\'s chase faltered early, losing wickets at regular intervals.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Renuka Singh, who took three for 18 runs and Pooja Vastrakar, who scalped two for 25 runs, were instrumental in dismantling the top order of Bangladesh.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Despite a fifty from captain Nigar Sultana (51), Bangladesh never recovered and ultimately finished on 101 for eight.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">India\'s strong start began to wobble with Smriti Mandhana\'s early dismissal (9). However, Shefali and Yastika forged a solid partnership to revive the innings. Bangladesh struck back through Rabeya Khan, removing both batters in quick succession. Captain Kaur\'s knock then boosted the total before a flurry of late wickets kept India under 150.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh\'s chase got off to a disastrous start, with Renuka Singh striking twice in the first few overs. Skipper Nigar offered a bit of resistance, scoring a gritty half-century. However, consistent wickets and disciplined Indian bowling stifled the run flow, making the required rate climb steadily.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The remaining matches will take place on April 30, May 2, 6 and 9. All the matches will be played in Sylhet. Source: UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'Sports Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-28 15:37:09', '2024-04-28 15:37:09'),
(12132, 12132, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud today urged the expatriate Bangladeshis to take action against anti-Bangladesh propaganda in line with the local laws of their respective host countries.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He made this call while inaugurating Austria Awami League\'s own office in Helbegtus, District No. 20, Vienna, Austria, on Sunday morning, said a foreign ministry\'s press release here.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Today, under the leadership of Bangabandhu\'s daughter Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh is advancing at an unstoppable speed on the road to prosperity. To stop this progress, anti-liberation forces are sitting in Europe and spreading propaganda and hatching conspiracy,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Even when the prime minister of Pakistan is lauding the development of Bangladesh, the leaders of BNP do not see the development, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"They are engaged in anti-nation conspiracies by employing paid agents abroad,\" said Hasan, who is also the joint secretary general of Awami League.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The minister thanked the expatriates for contributing to the development of the country by sending remittances and urged them to send remittances through proper channels.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">President of Austria Awami League Khandkar Hafizur Nasim presided over the ceremony while General Secretary Mizanur Rahman Shyamal moderated the event.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">All European Awami League President M. Nazrul Islam, Austria Awami League Vice President Ruhi Das Saha, Ratan Saha, Billal Hossain, Saiful Islam Jasim, Journalist Nayan Hossain and Austria Bangabandhu Parishad President Robin Mohammad Ali were also present. Source: BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-28 16:13:12', '2024-04-28 16:13:12'),
(12133, 12133, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>A heatwave sweeping through Bangladesh has left importers at Dinajpur\'s Hili land port grappling with significant losses as scorching temperatures are causing imported potatoes from India to rot. This situation highlights a critical lack of infrastructure at the land port.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Harun-ur-Rashid, president of the Hili Land Port Import-Export Group, expressed concerns over the lack of cold storage facilities, which has become a pressing issue with the current climate conditions.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">\"To meet local demand, traders imported potatoes after the government\'s green light. Typically, these potatoes are stored in warehouses for two to three days before distribution nationwide. However, the heat has accelerated spoilage, undermining our operations,\" Rashid explained.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The adverse effects of the heat are not only causing physical damage to the potatoes but also deterring wholesalers from purchasing the stock, further straining the importers. Rashid highlighted the need for governmental intervention. \"If the affected importers are not compensated through incentives, it could deter future imports during crises, which the government needs to address,\" he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At the wholesale market of the Hili land port area, imported Indian potatoes are currently selling for Tk 38-40 per kg, while locally sourced potatoes fetch around Tk 48 per kg. Despite the lower price, consumer preference leans towards local varieties.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Siraj Hossain, a representative for the importers, noted that local potatoes are generally more expensive than those imported from India. However, the intense heat has led to substantial spoilage, with two to three kilograms of potatoes rotting per sack. \"The recent price surge in Indian potatoes further complicates matters. A cold storage facility here could have mitigated these losses significantly,\" Hossain stated.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Asadur Rahman, a local resident, reported that rotten potatoes are being dumped beside the Dangapara-Chhatni road, raising environmental and health concerns.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Echoing Hossain\'s sentiments, Sohrab Hossain Mallik, public relations officer at the privately-owned Panama Hili Port Link Limited, emphasized the urgent need for cold storage facilities to preserve perishable imports like potatoes. This infrastructure would not only prevent spoilage but also ensure the viability of import operations during extreme weather conditions. According to UNB reports</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-29 08:48:09', '2024-04-29 08:48:09'),
(12134, 12134, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>A Dhaka court on Monday framed charges against 33 accused in case over the killing of Awami League leader Zahidul Islam Tipu and a female college student in Shahjahanpur area around two years back.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The trial in the case began formally through framing the charges.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dhaka Special Judge Court-Judge Ali Hossain passed the order after rejecting an appeal for excluding the names of the accused from the charges.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The court also set May 21 to record testimony of the witnesses in the case, public prosecutor Md Rafik Uddin said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On April 25, a hearing on the appeal for exclusion of the accused was held while the court set April 29 for framing the charges against the accused.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dhaka Metropolitan South unit Organizing Secretary of Awami League Golam Ashraf Talukder, Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) ward councillor and Awami League leader Maruf Ahmed Mansur, expelled president of ward No 10 Jubo League Maruf Reza Sagor, Motijheel Thana unit of Jatiya Party leader Juber Alam Khan Robin, former convenor of Habibullah Bahar College unit Chhatra League Sohel Shahriar, former general secretary of Motijheel Thana unit of Chhatra League Khairul Islam Matbor and former president of ward No-11 unit of Jubo League Kamruzzaman Babu, Sumon Shikder Musa, Masum Muhammad Akash were among the accused.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On the night of March 24, Tipu, who was on a microbus, and Samia Afrin Priti, a 22-year-old college student, who was returning home on a cycle rickshaw were killed in firing in front of Islami Bank Hospital at Shahjahanpur in Dhaka.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Tipu was a former general secretary of the AL Motijheel committee and Priti was a student of Begum Badrunnesa Government College. Tipu’s driver was also injured in the firing.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">They were all stuck in a traffic jam in the area when a biker wearing a helmet and a mask appeared from nowhere and fired at them.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The next day, a case was filed against unidentified people over the double murder.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On June 5 last year, the investigation office of the case submitted a charge sheet against 33 people. Source: UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"42\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-29 09:36:49', '2024-04-29 09:36:49'),
(12135, 12135, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The government plans to substantially increase public investments across key sectors such as road, rail, bridge, shipping, civil aviation, and telecommunications. These initiatives are strategically aimed at transforming Bangladesh into an upper middle-income country by 2031 and a smart developed country by 2041.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to the \'Medium Term Macroeconomic Policy Statement (2023-24 to 2025-26)\', the government plans to allocate Tk 963.9 billion in the fiscal year 2024-25, escalating to Tk 1060.3 billion in 2025-26. This increase follows an investment of Tk 876.3 billion for the current fiscal year, emphasising a significant boost in funding for various development programs.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The policy document highlights the critical role of an integrated and cost-effective transport and communication system in fostering economic growth, enhancing trade, and ensuring social integration. It states that an efficient transport and logistics system is essential for smooth supply chain management and to effectively compete on a global scale.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Specifically, the Road Transport and Highways Division is implementing projects to establish an advanced and sustainable road transport system, including the construction of multi-lane highways, elevated expressways, and new bridges.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">These efforts are complemented by plans to widen 1100 km of highways, repair and maintain 1250 km, and rebuild 450 km of highways, along with 7300 meters of bridges and culverts.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In Dhaka city, the government is focusing on reducing traffic congestion by advancing the metro rail lines, a move poised to significantly improve urban mobility.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The railway sector is also undergoing transformation under a 30-year master plan aimed at making it a dependable, affordable, modern, and people-friendly mode of transport. Initiatives include connecting every district with a railway network, upgrading tracks, and modernising the signaling system. By FY 2025-26, the government aims to construct 275 km of new railway track and reconstruct 210 km of existing lines.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The document also outlines ambitious plans for the water transport system, noting its importance in the integrated multi-modal transport framework. The Ministry of Shipping is executing extensive programs for the enhancement of inland waterways, seaports, and land ports, along with significant dredging efforts to maintain river navigability.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Amidst rising demand for air travel, both domestically and internationally, the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism is undertaking projects to expand passenger handling capacities and enhance facilities at airports. These upgrades are part of a broader strategy to position Bangladesh as a regional hub for international passenger transport.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">These comprehensive plans not only aim to modernize Bangladesh\'s infrastructure but also serve as a cornerstone for the country\'s ambitious economic development goals. - UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-29 09:56:45', '2024-04-29 09:56:45'),
(12136, 12136, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">North Korea on Monday condemned the US for shipping longer-range tactical missiles to Ukraine to use against Russia, denouncing Washington as a \"harasser\" of peace that has been \"aggravating\" the war by providing Kyiv with such weapons.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The US confirmed last week that it has sent a \"significant\" number of Army Tactical Missile Systems missiles to Ukraine for use inside the Ukrainian territory following Russia\'s use of North Korean ballistic missiles against Kyiv.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">An unnamed director at the Foreign Military Affairs Department of North Korea\'s Defense Ministry said in a statement that Washington cannot turn the tide of the war with such a \"mean\" policy, according to the official Korean Central News Agency.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Long-range missiles offered by the US will never tip the scale in favor of Ukraine on the battlefield but result in fanning the reckless confrontational hysteria of (Volodymyr) Zelenskyy puppet clique,\" read the English-language statement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The official termed the delivery of missiles to Ukraine a bid \"to tip the scales of the war.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The US can never defeat the heroic Russian army and people with any latest weaponry or military support,\" the statement contended.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">North Korea is among a few countries that have expressed its support for Russia in the war with Ukraine.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\'Landmines installed inter-Korean road\'</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Neighboring South Korea has accused North Korea of installing landmines on an inter-Korean road within the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), which separates the two Koreas.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Citing an unnamed military official, Seoul-based Yonhap News reported that the South Korean military detected North Korea laying mines on the unpaved road inside the DMZ late last year near Arrowhead Hill in Cheorwon, 85 kilometers (53 miles) northeast of Seoul.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The path was created under a 2018 inter-Korean military agreement to connect the South and the North for joint efforts to excavate remains of those killed near the hill during the 1950-53 Korean War. - Anadolu Agency&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-29 10:21:07', '2024-04-29 10:21:07');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(12137, 12137, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The White House on Sunday said U.S. President Joe Biden had again spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as pressure builds on Israel and Hamas to reach a deal that would free some Israeli hostages and bring a cease-fire in the nearly seven-month-long war in Gaza.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The White House said that Biden reiterated his “clear position” as Israel plans to invade Gaza’s southernmost city of Rafah despite global concern for more than 1 million Palestinians sheltering there. The U.S. opposes the invasion on humanitarian grounds, straining relations between the allies. Israel is among the countries U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken will visit as he returns to the Middle East on Monday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Biden also stressed that progress in delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza be “sustained and enhanced,” according to the statement. The call lasted just under an hour, and they agreed the onus remains on Hamas to accept the latest offer in negotiations, according to a U.S. official who spoke on condition of anonymity because the official wasn’t authorized to comment publicly. There was no comment from Netanyahu’s office.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A senior official from key intermediary Qatar, meanwhile, urged Israel and Hamas to show “more commitment and more seriousness” in negotiations. Qatar, which hosts Hamas’ headquarters in Doha, was instrumental along with the U.S. and Egypt in helping negotiate a brief halt to the fighting in November that led to the release of dozens of hostages. But in a sign of frustration, Qatar this month said that it was reassessing its role.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">An Israeli delegation is expected in Egypt in the coming days to discuss the latest proposals in negotiations, and senior Hamas official Basem Naim said in a message to The Associated Press that a delegation from the militant group will also head to Cairo. Egypt’s state-owned Al Qahera News satellite television channel said that the delegation would arrive on Monday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The comments by Qatar’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed al-Ansari in interviews with the liberal daily Haaretz and Israeli public broadcaster Kan were published and aired Saturday evening.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Al-Ansari expressed disappointment with Hamas and Israel, saying each side has made decisions based on political interests and not with civilians’ welfare in mind. He didn’t reveal details on the talks other than to say they have “effectively stopped,” with “both sides entrenched in their positions.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Al-Ansari’s remarks came after an Egyptian delegation discussed with Israeli officials a “new vision” for a prolonged cease-fire in Gaza, according to an Egyptian official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to freely discuss developments.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Egyptian official said that Israeli officials are open to discussing establishing a permanent cease-fire in Gaza as part of the second phase of a deal. Israel has refused to end the war until it defeats Hamas.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The second phase would start after the release of civilian and sick hostages, and would include negotiating the release of soldiers, the official added. Senior Palestinian prisoners would be released and a reconstruction process launched.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Negotiations earlier this month centered on a six-week cease-fire proposal and the release of 40 civilian and sick hostages held by Hamas in exchange for freeing hundreds of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A letter written by Biden and 17 other world leaders urged Hamas to release their citizens immediately. In recent days, Hamas has released new videos of three hostages, an apparent push for Israel to make concessions.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The growing pressure for Hamas and Israel to reach a cease-fire deal is also meant to avert an Israeli attack on Rafah, the city on the border with Egypt where more than half of Gaza’s 2.3 million population is seeking shelter. Israel has massed dozens of tanks and armored vehicles. The planned incursion has raised global alarm.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Only a small strike is all it takes to force everyone to leave Palestine,” Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas asserted to the opening session of the World Economic Forum in Saudi Arabia, adding that he believed an invasion would happen within days.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But White House national security spokesman John Kirby told ABC that Israel “assured us they won’t go into Rafah until we’ve had a chance to really share our perspectives and concerns with them. So, we’ll see where that goes.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Israeli troop buildup may also be a pressure tactic on Hamas in talks. Israel sees Rafah as Hamas’ last major stronghold. It vows to destroy the group’s military and governing capabilities.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Aid groups have warned that an invasion of Rafah would worsen the already desperate humanitarian situation in Gaza, where hunger is widespread. About 400 tons of aid arrived Sunday at the Israeli port of Ashdod — the largest shipment yet by sea via Cyprus — according to the United Arab Emirates. It wasn’t immediately clear how or when it would be delivered into Gaza.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Also on Sunday, World Central Kitchen said that it would resume operations in Gaza on Monday, ending a four-week suspension after Israeli military drones killed seven of its aid workers. The organization has 276 trucks ready to enter through the Rafah crossing and will also send trucks into Gaza from Jordan, a statement said. It’s also examining if the Ashdod port can be used to offload supplies.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The war was sparked by Hamas’ attack on Oct. 7 into southern Israel, which killed 1,200 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli authorities, who say another 250 people were taken hostage. Hamas and other groups are holding about 130 people, including the remains of about 30, Israeli authorities say.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Israel’s retaliatory assault on Hamas has killed more than 34,000 people, most of them women and children, according to health authorities in Gaza, who do not distinguish between civilians and combatants in their tally.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Israeli military blames Hamas for civilian casualties, accusing it of embedding in residential and public areas. It says it has killed at least 12,000 militants, without providing evidence. - AP&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-29 10:44:19', '2024-04-29 10:44:19'),
(12138, 12138, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Amid the intense heat in different parts of the country, Chuadanga experienced 43.0 degrees Celsius temperature on Monday, the highest in 10 years.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Jaminur Rahman, in-charge of Chuadanga Weather Observatory Centre, said they have recorded 43 degrees Celsius temperature at 3 pm in Chuadanga and it may rise after evening.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This is the highest temperature recorded in the past 10 years in the district, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On May 21, 2014, Chuadanga recorded 43.2degrees Celsius temperature.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Chuadanga has been experiencing extreme heat weather since middle of the month of April, hampering the regular activities of people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">However, there is no possibility of rainfall in the next two days in the district and the temperature may rise or remain unchanged, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department, “Very severe heat wave is sweeping in Jashore and Rajshahi districts and severe heat wave is prevailing in parts of Khulna division, Tangail, Faridpur, Gopalganj, Naogaon, Pabna and Nilphamari districts. Mild to moderate heat wave is sweeping in Barishal division, parts of Dhaka, Rajshahi and Rangpur divisions, Mymensingh, Moulvibazar, Rangamati, Chandpur, Noakhali, Feni and Bandarban districts.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Due to the increase of moisture incursion, the discomfort may persist, it said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Country’s highest temperature was recorded at 42.2 degree Celsius in Jashore district on Sunday and 18 mm rains were recorded in Sunamganj till 6 am on Monday. - UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-29 10:48:03', '2024-04-29 10:48:03'),
(12139, 12139, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">On April 24, 2024, the South Korean cinema landscape was rocked by the explosive release of \"The Roundup: Punishment,\" the fourth installment of the highly acclaimed crime-action franchise. This latest chapter has not only captivated a massive audience but also shattered box office records, establishing itself as a monumental success in the history of Korean film.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Inside the Storyline of ‘The Roundup: Punishment’</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Set in the bustling metropolis of Seoul, the narrative of \"The Roundup: Punishment\" unwinds around Lieutenant Ma Seok-do, portrayed by the charismatic Ma Dong-seok, also known as Don Lee internationally. Ma Seok-do is a figure driven by a deep-seated desire for justice, his life entwined with the dark underbelly of the city\'s criminal enterprises.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The film introduces Baek Chang-gi, a menacing antagonist with a complex past. Once a member of the Korean special forces, Baek, played by Kim Mu-yeol, has since become the tyrannical leader of an illicit online gambling ring. His character is intricately crafted, presenting a formidable challenge to Ma\'s quest for justice.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Adding to the complexity of the villainous cadre, Lee Dong-hwi delivers a chilling performance as Jang Dong-cheol, an IT prodigy and the young CEO of a thriving cryptocurrency company. His genius is overshadowed by his malevolent ambitions, making him a pivotal figure in the unfolding drama.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Park Ji-hwan reprises his role as Jang Yi-soo, infusing the film with both heart and humor. As a secondary hero, his character’s evolution brings a deeper, more textured layer to the climax, enhancing the narrative’s richness.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Visionaries Behind the Film</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The genius behind the camera is director Heo Myung-haeng, whose background as a seasoned stunt choreographer, including notable work on \"Train to Busan,\" infuses the film with authenticity and visceral thrill. His direction ensures that each scene is meticulously crafted to maintain tension and drive the story forward.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The dual role of Ma Dong-seok as both lead actor and co-producer allows him to shape the film’s narrative and thematic elements. His deep understanding of the genre and character dynamics enriches the film’s authenticity and appeal.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Screenwriter Oh Sang-ho crafts a tightly woven plot that balances intense action with emotional depth. Cinematographer Lee Sung-je captures the gritty aesthetics of Seoul’s urban landscape, while editor Kim Sun-min ensures the film’s pace maintains its gripping momentum. Complementing these visuals, the soundtrack by Yoon Il-sang not only enhances the scenes but also deepens the viewer\'s immersion into the film\'s dramatic world.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Record-Breaking Box Office Performance</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Upon its release, \"The Roundup: Punishment\" immediately claimed the number one spot at the South Korean box office. It attracted 821,631 viewers on its opening day, generating a revenue of USD 4,911,392. This achievement set a new record for the highest opening of any film in 2024 within South Korea, surpassing the opening numbers of its predecessors and signaling a new era of dominance for the franchise.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The film\'s momentum continued as it quickly amassed a total gross of USD 8,511,327 from 1,335,673 admissions by its second day. By April 27, just three days post-launch, it captured 92.7 percent of all ticket reservations at the local box office, overshadowing other international releases and solidifying its status as a cultural phenomenon.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Critical Review: A Mastery of Crime-Action Dynamics</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The Roundup: Punishment\" excels in its exploration of moral ambiguity, a hallmark of the franchise. Ma Seok-do, the rugged protagonist, operates in a realm where the lines between right and wrong are often blurred. His methods, which include extorting criminals and employing unorthodox interrogation techniques, showcase a complex character who is both feared and revered.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The antagonists of the film, including the flamboyant and cunning tech mogul Jang and his brutal enforcer Baek, are characterized by their ruthlessness and deceptive charms. Their confrontations with Ma are among the film\'s highlights, featuring intense, blood-soaked battles that push the boundaries of the crime-action genre.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This installment dives into darker territories, with a level of violence that is both raw and impactful. The climax, a harrowing confrontation aboard an airplane, is particularly gripping, showcasing Ma’s most brutal and emotionally charged battle yet. The sequence not only leaves audiences on the edge of their seats but also sets the stage for future installments.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Adding a layer of levity to the intense narrative is Jang Yi-soo, whose misadventures and aspirations provide comic relief and a human touch to the storyline. His interactions with Ma, filled with witty banter and unlikely camaraderie, offer a respite from the relentless tension, making the film as heartwarming as it is thrilling.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Verdict: A Cinematic Triumph</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The Roundup: Punishment\" stands as a testament to the skill and dedication of its creators. It offers everything fans of the genre could hope for: high-stakes drama, complex characters, and a masterful blend of action and emotion. The film not only continues the legacy of its predecessors but also raises the bar for future entries in the franchise. With plans already in place for a fifth installment, the saga promises to keep delivering high-quality entertainment to its growing legion of fans.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In essence, \"The Roundup: Punishment\" is not merely a film; it is a milestone in Korean cinema, demonstrating the potential of the crime-action genre to engage and excite audiences worldwide. Its success is a clear indicator of the series’ quality and enduring appeal. - UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'Entertainment', '[\"13\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-29 10:53:20', '2024-04-29 10:53:20'),
(12140, 12140, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>At least four people were killed and dozens more injured after multiple tornadoes wreaked havoc in the central state of Oklahoma in the United States.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The tornadoes caused extensive damage in the town of Sulphur, home to about 5,000 people, flattened buildings, threw vehicles into the air and ripped the roofs from houses.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“You just can’t believe the destruction,” Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt said during a visit to the hard-hit town on Sunday afternoon. “It seems like every business downtown has been destroyed.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A four-month-old baby was among the dead, Hughes County Emergency Management Director Mike Dockrey told Oklahoma television station KOCO.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Stitt said about 30 people were injured, including some who were in a bar when the tornado struck.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hospitals across the state reported about 100 injuries, including people apparently cut or struck by debris, and more than 20,000 residents were still without electricity on Sunday evening.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Stitt issued an executive order declaring a state of emergency in 12 counties due to the severe weather, while in a call with the Oklahoma governor, President Joe Biden offered the federal government’s full support with recovery efforts, the White House said in a statement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The National Weather Service (NWS) reported that 38 possible tornadoes hit the area and that the worst of the storms rolled through Central Oklahoma on Saturday into early Sunday morning, spreading into northwest Texas, western Missouri and Kansas. Source: NEWS AGENCIES</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-29 11:44:13', '2024-04-29 11:44:13'),
(12141, 12141, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The High Court on Monday asked the authorities concerned to keep primary and secondary level educational institutions except those with air conditioner closed until Thursday due to extreme heat.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The HC bench of Justice KM Kamrul Kader and Justice Khizir Hayat passed the suo moto order.</div><div><br></div><div>The educational institutions which have air conditioners, universities, A and O level exams and public examinations will remain out of the purview of the order.</div><div><br></div><div>Md Manir Uddin, a Supreme Court lawyer, drew the attention of the court about the news of death and sickness of people including teachers and students after the reopening of the educational institutions amid the heat alert across the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Classes at all primary, secondary schools and colleges resumed on Sunday after Eid-ul-Fitr holidays and its subsequent extension due to heat wave, reports UNB</div><div><br></div><div>On the other hand, Schools and colleges were scheduled to reopen on April 21 after the end of Eid holidays but the closure was extended till April 27 due to sweltering heat.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd/fas&nbsp;</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-29 12:04:15', '2024-04-29 12:04:15'),
(12142, 12142, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The High Court (HC) on Monday directed the authorities concerned to take effective measures to stop the price hike of medicine by drug companies on their own will.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">HC Justice Md Mustafa Zaman Islam and Justice Md Atabullah passed the order after an initial hearing of a petition submitted by Consumers Association of Bangladesh (CAB) in the public interest.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The court also issued a rule asking why the inaction by the Directorate General of Drug Administration to fix the price of medicine as per section 30 of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act-2023 won’t be declared illegal.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Moreover, the HC sought to know why directives wouldn’t be given to set prices of all medicines through formulating a rule as per section 76 of the act.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The health secretary, director general of Health Services and director general of Drug Administration, director general of Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI),&nbsp; director general of Directorate of National Consumers Right Protection, and chairman of Bangladesh Competition Commission were made respondents to the rule.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Barrister Jyotirmoy Barua stood for the petitioner in the court while Deputy Attorney General Tushar Kanti Roy, Assistant Attorney Generals Selim Azad and Anis Ul Mawa represented the state.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">After the hearing, lawyer Jyotirmoy told the media that the HC directed to stop import of raw materials for drug production from abroad and sale of foreign medicine by the drug companies, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He informed that the CAB submitted the petition after several media outlets reported ”price of medicine shot up by upto 140 percent in two weeks”.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prices of all kinds of medicine including antibiotic tablets, insulin and injections for diabetic patients were hiked by the drug companies.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">However, the drug companies held the devaluation of local currency against dollar and the increase in the price of raw materials in the international market responsible.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Besides, the price hike of gas and electricity was also blamed, they claimed.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Though the government has authority to fix the prices of medicines through a gazette notification it has not issued any such gazette notification since 2000. - UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas&nbsp;</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"6\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-29 13:27:10', '2024-04-29 13:27:10'),
(12143, 12143, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>As temperatures soared to a sweltering 43 degrees Celsius, Bangladesh faced unprecedented power shortages on Monday, with load shedding peaking at around 3200 MW — marking the highest record of power cuts in recent times.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Officials from the power utilities disclosed that at 2 pm on Monday, the National Load Dispatch Centre (NLDC) at the Power Grid Company of Bangladesh (PGCB) reported a record shortfall of 3196 MW.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During the peak hours of the day, the country\'s power generation stood at 12,753 MW against a demand of 16,200 MW, resulting in a deficiency of 3,447 MW. This shortfall was anticipated to worsen during the evening peak hours, with demand expected to exceed 17,200 MW.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The situation on Sunday also saw significant load shedding, with 1864 MW reported at noon. The highest power generation recently was recorded at 16,233 MW at 9 pm last Monday (April 22); however, ongoing load shedding persisted across the country due to the increased electricity demand fueled by the ongoing heatwave.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rural areas, in particular, have been disproportionately affected. Officials from different power utilities at the rural level argue that the extent of load shedding is considerably underreported. Interruptions in the rural power supply often go unrecorded, exacerbating the situation for consumers who may face several hours without electricity during both day and night.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to an official from the Bangladesh Rural Electrification Board (BREB), \"Power outages in rural areas are so frequent that any interruption means consumers have to wait several hours to get electricity back.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Official sources indicate that the majority of the load shedding burden is strategically shifted to rural areas to prevent power outages in the capital Dhaka, and other major cities. This policy decision has significantly aggravated the hardships faced by rural populations amid the intense heat.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Moreover, state-owned Petrobangla’s latest figures reveal that the country’s gas production stands at 3,105 million cubic feet per day (MMCFD), significantly below the demand of about 4000 MMCFD. This gas shortage has led to several power plants, especially those reliant on gas, halting production, further straining the power supply during this critical period. - UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-29 13:30:09', '2024-04-29 13:30:09'),
(12144, 12144, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Bangladesh Meteorological Department has predicted rains or thunder showers in parts of the country including Dhaka and also decline in temperature from May 2.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Rains and thundershowers are expected in Chattogram, Sylhet, Mymensingh divisions and some other parts of the country including Dhaka division from May 2,”Dr Abul Kalam Mollik, a meteorologist of BMD, told UNB on Monday.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Temperature will come down due to rainfall, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Very severe heat wave is sweeping Jashore and Rajshahi districts and severe heat wave is prevailing in&nbsp; parts of Khulna division, Tangail, Faridpur, Gopalgonj, Naogaon, Pabna &amp; Nilphamari districts. Mild to moderate heat wave is sweeping Barishal division, parts of Dhaka, Rajshahi &amp; Rangpur divisions, Mymensingh, Moulvibazar, Rangamati, Chandpur, Noakhali, Feni &amp; Bandarban districts, “said a BMD bulletin on Monday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rain or thunder showers accompanied by temporary gusty/squally wind is likely to occur at one or two places over Chattogram &amp; Sylhet divisions with hails at isolated places, it said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Weather may remain mainly dry with temporary partly cloudy sky elsewhere over the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Day temperature may rise slightly and night temperature may remain nearly unchanged over the country, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Due to increase of moisture incursion, the discomfort may persist, it said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Country’s highest temperature was recorded at 42.2 degree Celsius in Jashore district&nbsp; on Sunday and 18 mm rains were recorded in Sunmaganj till 6 am on Monday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"4\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-29 13:33:13', '2024-04-29 13:33:13'),
(12145, 12145, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud has called upon the international community to get away with any new weapons let alone autonomous weapons for the sake of humanity.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He was speaking at an international conference titled ‘Humanity at the Crossroads: Autonomous Weapons Systems and the Challenge of Regulation’ in Vienna.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Austrian Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs is hosting the international conference “Humanity at the Crossroads: Autonomous Weapons Systems and the Challenge of Regulation” on April 29-30 in the Hofburg Palace in Vienna.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hasan participated in a high-level panel discussion on the challenges of regulating the autonomous weapon systems, where Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg, Costa Rican Foreign Minister Arnoldo André Tinoco, Norwegian State Secretary Eivind Vad Petersson and President of the International Committee of the Red Cross Mirjana Spoljaric Egger also joined as co-panelists.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The foreign minister also underscored the importance of benevolent application of AI in agriculture, medical science, space exploration, climate change, job creation, etc. for the benefit of mankind, and not in weapon systems to wipe out humanity.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He posed a question about what would happen to international peace and security, if the non-state actors and terrorist organisations get access to AI-driven autonomous weapon systems.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He highlighted the importance of preserving human control over the use of force.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He underscored that machines with the power and discretion to take human lives must be prohibited by legally binding international laws both for AI and autonomous weapons.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He suggested setting global norms to effectively regulate the autonomous weapons systems. Highlighting the precarious situation in Gaza, he also cautioned the international community against opening a new front of conflicts and tensions.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Ministry of European and International Affairs of Austria has organised the conference and it is being participated by more than 800 delegates from over 120&nbsp; states, UN bodies, rights groups and INGOs.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The increased autonomy of weapons through the introduction of artificial intelligence will fundamentally transform armed conflicts.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Autonomous weapons systems (AWS) raise profound questions from a legal, ethical, humanitarian and security perspective.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Humanity is at a crossroads and must come together to address the fundamental challenge of regulating these weapons, said the host country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the first-ever UN General Assembly resolution on lethal autonomous weapons systems in 2023, an overwhelming majority of States underlined the urgent need for the international community to address the challenges and concerns raised by autonomous weapons systems.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Austria is hosting the conference in the hope of further advancing the debate on an international regulation of AWS, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">All States, the United Nations, the ICRC, international and regional organisations, representatives of academia, think tanks, industry and civil society are invited to participate and to discuss the fundamental issues and various challenges related to AWS and their international regulation.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-29 14:20:17', '2024-04-29 14:20:17'),
(12146, 12146, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Bangladeshi banks taking the plunge into commencing offshore operations are offering lucrative benefits for non-resident Bangladeshis (NRBs) to deposit their earnings in foreign exchange (mainly dollar) with them.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh Bank (BB) has given verbal directives to the scheduled banks in this regard to enhance the stock of US dollars, a shortage of which is hampering the economy in various ways.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In line with this instruction, banks have started an extra effort to collect foreign currency, especially the US dollar from sophisticated and rich families who may be settled abroad but maintain ties with Bangladesh, through offshore banking.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Full government guarantee is being given on the deposit along with higher interest rate as an incentive,” said Selim RF Hussain, Chairman of the Association of Bankers Bangladesh (ABB).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Again no tax will be charged. If banks give better interest rates, provide better services, we hope a good quantity of dollars would be deposited,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said, \"We want Bangladeshis who are abroad to bring their foreign currency to Bangladesh legally. We will also give them a good interest rate.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">India has become very successful in this sector in the last 5-7 years. Many countries including the Philippines and Thailand have done it well, he pointed out, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We have also launched now if all banks understand it well, we will get good results if we can promote it in various ways including product development and marketing,” said Hussain, also the managing director of BRAC Bank.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said, \"Many banks have started promotion. Dollar Savings Abroad is another client site. They are not the ones from whom we get remittances. These are those who are a little higher level, doctors, engineers, lawyers.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said, “We are trying to bring dollars from those who are professionals.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Many people of Bangladesh are now citizens of other rich countries. We will also bring foreign exchange from them. Because we are giving good interest rates,” he pointed out.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The ABB chairman pointed to the City Bank as the early leader in the entire sector in this regard, having already raked in some $30-40 million. But he insists these are still early days.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"It\'s just getting started. Gradually everyone will start (offshore banking),\" said Hussain.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"33\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-29 14:25:50', '2024-04-29 14:25:50'),
(12147, 12147, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Humza Yousaf has resigned as the Scottish National Party (SNP) leader and Scotland’s first minister.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The move comes soon after Yousaf ended the SNP’s alliance with the Scottish Greens, which triggered two no-confidence votes put forward by opposition parties that Yousaf looked likely to lose.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“I am not willing to trade my values and principles or do deals with whomever simply for retaining power,” Yousaf said during a televised announcement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The pro-independence SNP’s fortunes have faltered amid a funding scandal and the resignation of Nicola Sturgeon as party leader last year. An internal struggle has followed over how progressive the party should pitch its policies as it seeks to woo back voters.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier this month, Yousaf said he was “quite confident” that he could win a no-confidence vote. However, by Monday, his offer of talks with other parties to bolster his minority government was uncertain.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Muslim head of a major political party and Scotland’s youngest elected leader, Yousaf said he had “underestimated” the level of hurt after ending a power-sharing deal with the Scottish Greens last week.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“I have concluded that repairing the relationship across the political divide can only be done with someone else at the helm,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Yousaf’s resignation as SNP leader triggers a search for his successor and consequently new first minister. The Scottish Parliament would need to back any replacement in the post within 28 days. An election would be held if no majority is reached.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During his resignation speech, Yousaf called for the leadership contest to find his replacement to start as soon as possible. He will remain in place as first minister until then. According to Al Jazeera reports&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-29 14:36:16', '2024-04-29 14:36:16'),
(12148, 12148, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Monday alleged the government is working to instill a climate of fear across society, as a means to perpetuate its grip on power, by continuing to arrest opposition leaders and activists and throwing them in jail indefinitely. </b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>In a statement, the most senior BNP leader active in the country also said the Awami League regime has become even more \'reckless, authoritarian and oppressive\' after seizing power through what he termed \'the sham election\' of January 7.</div><div><br></div><div>The BNP leader said the \'usurper\' government has unleashed a wave of repression and persecution against the leaders and activists of BNP and other pro-democratic opposition parties and dissenters to maintain its illegal power.</div><div><br></div><div>Fakhrul issued the statement as some leaders of BNP and its associate bodies, including Jubo Dal president Sultan Salauddin Tuku, were sent to jail in different “false, fabricated and politically motivated” cases.   </div><div><br></div><div>He said the latest instances of jailing of opposition leaders and activists depict a continuous trend of repression by the Awami League-led government, reports UNB</div><div><br></div><div>“The entire country has been turned into a prison by sending the opposition leaders and activists to jail. Those engaged in the democratic struggle are being deprived of justice; the principles of the rule of law and good governance have vanished from the country,” the BNP leader said.</div><div><br></div><div>He also said a totalitarian anarchy has spread in the country. “The illegal regime of the Awami League is spreading panic and intimidation from cities to villages across the nation.”</div><div><br></div><div>Fakhrul voiced deep concern over the jailing of opposition leaders and activists throughout the country, even long prison sentences ensured through dictated verdicts in ‘false’ cases.</div><div><br></div><div>He demanded the unconditional release of Sultan Salauddin Tuku, as well as other jailed BNP leaders and workers, as well as the withdrawal of the false, fabricated and baseless charges brought against them.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-29 14:44:39', '2024-04-29 14:45:06'),
(12149, 12149, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>China expressed its keenness to import mango from Bangladesh this year, said Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Chinese Ambassador came up with the information while talking to the Agriculture Minister Dr Md. Abdus Shahid at the Secretariat on Monday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">An expert delegation from China will likely visit the country, specifically the mango orchards and production facilities, in the first week of June.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh will approve the export of mangoes based on the report of the Chinese delegation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Additional secretary to the Agriculture Ministry Moloy Chowdhury, joint secretary Md Mahmudur Rahman were present there.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Expecting Chinese investment in the agriculture sector, the minister said Bangladesh needs the modern and technical assistance to modernise and mechanise agriculture sector, especially, the country\'s farmers need China\'s cooperation so that the farmers can get modern agricultural machinery at low price as we can purchase machines from China at a relatively low price.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier, the Agriculture Minister met Ambassador of the Netherlands in Bangladesh Irma van Dueren.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The meeting stressed the need for strengthening mutual cooperation in the agriculture sector and working together on strengthening agricultural research and technology exchange.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The meeting also discussed the construction and launch of onion storage in Mymensingh’s Bhaluka at the initiative of the Netherlands government.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Onions can be stored throughout the year in this storage, which will be inaugurated officially on May 2, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Noting that onion is an important crop of Bangladesh, the minister said “To become self-sufficient in onion, we are emphasizing on increasing onion production and preservation.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The initiative of the Netherlands government will play a very helpful role in this regard.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-29 14:57:07', '2024-04-29 14:57:07');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(12150, 12150, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Students at one of India’s most prominent universities gathered in protest over an event involving the US ambassador to New Delhi on Monday, as they stood up against American support for Israel’s war on Gaza.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti was invited for a talk on US-India ties at the Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi on Monday afternoon, which would take place amid protests on American campuses demanding their universities cut financial ties with Israel over its military offensive in Gaza, which has killed more than 34,000 Palestinians.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At the university’s convention center, over 100 students organized by the Jawaharlal Nehru University Student Union protested the invitation of Garcetti, calling out his complicity “in the genocide Israel is currently doing in Palestine.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">JNUSU President Dhananjay told Arab News: “By calling such a person in the university … who is supporting the genocide, we want to tell them that JNU is not silent on this issue and we want to speak up.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We are protesting against the US support for the genocide in Gaza committed by Israel.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hundreds of US college students have been arrested and suspended as peaceful demonstrations calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and divestment from companies linked to Israel spread across American campuses.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The student-led movement comes after nearly six months since Israel began its onslaught on the Gaza Strip, which Tel Aviv said was launched to stamp out the militant group Hamas.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hundreds of thousands of housing units in the besieged territory have either been completely or partially destroyed, while the majority of public facilities, schools and hundreds of cultural landmarks have been demolished and continue to be targeted in intense bombing operations.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">JNU student leaders said they stood in solidarity with the protesting students in the US.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We are students, and we need to ask questions. If some atrocities are taking place and there are mindless killings going on, speaking out against this should be the responsibility of all sections of society,” Dhananjay said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The visuals that we see make us shiver and shake our conscience. If we don’t speak up, then I don’t think we have a right to be a social being.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At the JNU campus on Monday, the student protest led to a cancellation of the event involving the US envoy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We feel happy that we forced the administration to cancel the talks by the ambassador,” JNUSU Vice President Avijit Ghosh told Arab News.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Despite India’s historic support for Palestine, the government has been mostly quiet in the wake of Israel’s deadly siege of Gaza.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">When Indians went to the streets in the past months to protest and raise awareness on the atrocities unfolding in Gaza, their demonstrations were dispersed by police and campaigns stifled.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Members of Indian civil society have since come together to challenge their government’s links with Tel Aviv and break Delhi’s silence on Israel’s war crimes against Palestinians, reflecting similar concerns that some university students also felt, reports Arab News&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The US is supporting Israel in the killing of Palestinian people in Gaza. It’s also suppressing students in its country who are raising voice against the genocide in Gaza,” Ghosh said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We are agitated that India is being a mute spectator and not taking a clear stand against the ongoing genocide in Gaza.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"34\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-29 15:21:50', '2024-04-29 15:21:50'),
(12151, 12151, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Given the urgency of the current economic situation, focusing on trade policy issues and improving export competitiveness should be a central part of Bangladesh’s reform agenda, said the Asian Development Bank in its latest policy brief.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>In the context of Bangladesh’s upcoming LDC graduation in 2026 and the current economic challenges, there is a growing realisation that policy reforms to enhance export competitiveness might receive stronger domestic support than in the past, it said.</div><div><br></div><div>While national planning documents like the 6th, 7th, and 8th Five-Year Plans have recommended relevant reforms, these have not been adequately prioritised for implementation, according to the document.</div><div><br></div><div>This policy brief suggests several recommendations for promoting export diversification.</div><div><br></div><div>The policy brief, \"Expanding and Diversifying Exports in Bangladesh: Challenges and the Way Forward\", is authored by Mohammad Abdur Razzaque, an economist (Consultant), South Asia Department (SARD), ADB; Rabiul Islam Rabi, Research Analyst (Consultant) SARD, ADB; and Barun Kumar Dey, Senior Economics Officer, SARD, ADB.</div><div><br></div><div>Despite the success in garments exports, Bangladesh’s overall export volume remains modest and suffers from a staggering concentration.</div><div><br></div><div>Recent unfavourable macroeconomic developments and the impending graduation from least developed country (LDC) status, underscore the importance of expanding and diversifying exports.</div><div><br></div><div>High tariff protection favouring import-competing sectors, coupled with weak domestic product standards and compliance, have created policy-induced disincentives for non-readymade garments exports.</div><div><br></div><div>With over 70% of Bangladesh’s exports benefiting from LDC-specific trade preferences, graduation could impact export competitiveness.</div><div><br></div><div>Improving export competitiveness and achieving diversification will necessitate various actions, including tackling policy induced anti-export bias, enhancing product quality and standards, attracting</div><div><br></div><div>foreign direct investment to connect with global supply chains, conducting prudent&nbsp; exchange rate management to promote external competitiveness, dealing with sector-specific supply-side constraints, and addressing the high business costs.</div><div><br></div><div>Proactively seeking trade preferences post-LDC graduation is also crucial for sustaining export competitiveness.</div><div><br></div><div>POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS</div><div><br></div><div>·&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Tackling policy-induced export disincentives is crucial for export diversification. Bangladesh’s protective measures, through high tariffs and para-tariffs, encourage a focus on the domestic market over exports, creating an anti-export bias.</div><div><br></div><div>·&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Tariff rationalisation is thus critical in dealing with this policy-induced bias. Lowering tariffs can stimulate domestic manufacturing, potentially balancing any revenue loss&nbsp; from reduced import tariffs.</div><div><br></div><div>·&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Enhancing the export performance of non-RMG sectors requires eliminating discriminatory access to policy incentives. The bonded warehouse facilities, in particular, should be granted to all export sectors and units irrespective of whether they are 100% export-oriented or not. Many firms can serve both domestic and international markets, and requiring separate production facilities for exports to access bonded warehouses is impractical. Instead, all exporting firms should have access to bonded warehouses, with import duties adjusted later based on the proportion of goods for domestic and export use. In getting finance, subsidised loans, and other policy support measures, non-RMG sectors should be given equal access.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>·&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;For non-RMG export items, enhancing product quality and meeting international standards are key for market expansion, as higher standards often yield higher prices. Investing in capacity building to meet international quality and safety standards is essential for potential exporters. Acquiring relevant certifications is critical for building credibility and trust in global markets.</div><div><br></div><div>·&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The government can further aid businesses by establishing or supporting accessible testing and certification facilities. Strengthening institutions responsible for quality control and compliance is also crucial, which involves investing in laboratories, equipment, and skilled personnel for efficient testing and certification.</div><div><br></div><div>·&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Attracting foreign direct investment can be a driver of export growth and diversification. It can facilitate knowledge and technology transfers and better management practices.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>·&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;FDI firms are well-integrated into global value chains and can command higher export prices. Bangladesh needs to improve its investment climate, streamline investment procedures, and promote sustainable investment practices to attract&nbsp; foreign investors.</div><div><br></div><div>·&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Tackling the high cost of doing business is critical for boosting investment and trade competitiveness. Bangladesh faces a significant disadvantage due to the high cost of doing business.</div><div><br></div><div>·&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Weak infrastructure, inefficient inland road transport, complex customs procedures, inadequate port facilities, and inefficient trade logistics contribute to longer lead times and higher costs, which undermine competitiveness.</div><div><br></div><div>·&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The two-way shipping costs for exporters importing raw materials and exporting final products exacerbate the problem. Addressing these infrastructural and logistical inefficiencies presents an opportunity to offset some of the losses from the withdrawal of LDC trade preferences and to improve Bangladesh’s standing in international markets.</div><div><br></div><div>·&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;A prudent exchange rate management strategy could significantly enhance export competitiveness, benefiting sectors beyond the RMG industry. Maintaining a competitive and stable exchange rate ensures that exports remain attractively priced in international markets.</div><div><br></div><div>·&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;This is particularly beneficial for non-RMG exporters who may be trying to&nbsp; establish a foothold in global markets and are more sensitive to price competitiveness. An effectively managed exchange rate can offset some of the cost disadvantages faced by&nbsp; these sectors, making their products more appealing to&nbsp; international buyers.</div><div><br></div><div>·&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Addressing the sector-specific supply-side constraints can help with export response from non-RMG sectors. To enhance the supply response of potential export sectors in Bangladesh, it is recommended to address sector-specific supply-side issues through a time-bound action plan.</div><div><br></div><div>·&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;This plan should be based on the constraints identified in studies like the Diagnostic Trade Integration Study and its 2023 update. The action plan should include specific measures tailored to the unique challenges of each sector, setting clear timelines and responsibilities for implementation.</div><div><br></div><div>·&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;This targeted approach will ensure that interventions are focused and effective, directly addressing the issues that hinder the productivity and competitiveness of these sectors on&nbsp; the global stage. By systematically tackling these identified constraints, Bangladesh can significantly improve its export&nbsp; performance in these key sectors.</div><div><br></div><div>·&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Devising WTO-consistent export-incentive mechanisms is crucial for Bangladesh, given its impending LDC graduation. As export subsidies may not be possible after LDC graduation,&nbsp; learning from non-LDC countries can guide in formulating&nbsp; effective support measures. For example, how the PRC and Vietnam support their export industries can provide important lessons for Bangladesh. Complying with WTO guidelines, especially regarding subsidies and sector-specific support should be important.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>·&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Seeking trade preferences beyond LDC graduation comprises an important strategy for export competitiveness. Graduating from the LDC group does not imply the cessation of preferential treatment altogether.</div><div><br></div><div>The UK’s Developing Countries Trading&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Scheme, for instance, will continue to provide improved market access even after LDC graduation. Proactive engagements with the EU may be critical to secure similar preferences. Seeking unilateral trade preferences in the post-graduation period will be essential for Bangladesh, as many competitor countries have taken advantage of free trade agreements (FTAs) to obtain preferential market access.</div><div><br></div><div>For instance, Vietnam has secured FTA arrangements with Canada, the EU, and the UK; Cambodia, Myanmar, and Vietnam benefit from duty-free access in India due to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) free trade agreement; and in Japan and the PRC under the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, among others.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>For Bangladesh, striking FTAs within a short period of time will not be feasible. Thus, a renewed focus on retaining trade preferences will be an utmost policy priority.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>In preparation for Bangladesh’s upcoming LDC graduation, strengthening trade policy and negotiation capabilities to support the export sector is important.</div><div><br></div><div>This involves developing a comprehensive capacity-building strategy that focuses on enhancing the skills and knowledge of trade officials, negotiators, and policymakers. It is also important to enhance the capacity of the private sector so it can comprehend the changes in trade preferences and policy space following LDC graduation and thus can take other measures for improving firm-level competitiveness. Souce: UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-30 08:15:48', '2024-04-30 08:15:48'),
(12152, 12152, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has signed a $121.55 million financing package with Dynamic Sun Energy Private Limited to build and operate a 100-megawatt (MW) grid-connected solar photovoltaic power plant in Pabna, Bangladesh.&nbsp;</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The plant is the country’s first private sector utility-scale solar facility to secure support from global financiers, said the Manilla-based lending agency on Monday (April 29, 2024).&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">ADB arranged, structured, and syndicated the debt package as the sole mandated lead arranger and bookrunner.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The financing package comprises a $46.75 million loan from ADB, a syndicated B-loan of $28.05 million from ILX Fund I, an Amsterdam-based emerging market private credit fund focused on supporting the Sustainable Development Goals with ADB as lender of record, and a syndicated parallel loan of $46.75 million from the Japan International Cooperation Agency.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“As Asia’s climate bank, ADB welcomes the opportunity to support renewable energy in Bangladesh, where obtaining long-term financing for such projects is a challenge,” said ADB Private Sector Operations Department Director General Suzanne Gaboury.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“This partnership exemplifies our lead role in mobilising financing for clean energy facilities and stimulating further investment in sectors where it’s needed the most.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The solar power plant will generate 193.5 gigawatt-hours of electricity annually and avoid 93,654 tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We are delighted to secure financing for one of the largest private sector solar projects in Bangladesh to date, with the support of international lenders led by ADB,” said PT Managing Director Shakhawat Hossain.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Partnering with an internationally reputable financial institution such as ADB affirms PT’s dedication to sustainability and marks a significant stride in our journey towards sustainable growth.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">DSE is owned by Paramount Textile PLC (PT), one of the largest woven textile manufacturers in Bangladesh, which also operates several power plants.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">PT manufactures high-quality yarn-dyed and printed woven fabrics using a wide range of yarns, modern weaving technologies, and print types.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">PT was publicly listed on the Dhaka and Chittagong stock exchanges in 2013. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-30 08:35:57', '2024-04-30 08:35:57'),
(12153, 12153, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Mohammad A. Arafat has voiced concerns over the actions of police during peaceful demonstrations at various US universities, describing the use of force as “disproportionate” and “inappropriate.” These protests, primarily led by students and faculty members, were organised to support Palestinian rights.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The rallies are mostly being conducted peacefully; there hasn\'t been any violence, arson, or killing of cops, children, or women, unlike what the BNP-Jamaat arsonists did in Bangladesh,” Arafat stated in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The protests have taken place across numerous prestigious US college campuses, with participants advocating for the freedom of the Palestinian people. Arafat emphasised the peaceful nature of these demonstrations, highlighting the absence of violence and arson, which are often associated with protests elsewhere.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“It’s only some students and professors who are protesting against what they believe is wrong. There was no sign of violence or arson,” Arafat reiterated.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Despite the peaceful conduct of the protesters, the response by law enforcement has been notably aggressive, according to Arafat. The number of police forces seen to contain the people shows no respect for protests by civilians, he observed.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Reflecting on how such situations are handled in Bangladesh, Arafat speculated on the reaction of the US administration to similar circumstances. “I wonder what the US administration would do in the face of BNP-Jamaat violence and arson in the name of the so-called protest that they displayed a few months ago to impede the election and obstruct the democratic process in Bangladesh,” the state minister said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Arafat condemned violence, stating, “I strongly believe that there is no place for violence in democracy.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also shared a distressing account of a university professor who, despite her academic credentials from the University of California, Berkeley, was mistreated by police. “Unlike the BNP-Jamaat terrorists in Bangladesh, she did not seem like an extremist, getting herself indulging in violence or arson,” he explained. The professor was reportedly verbally abused and violently arrested, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Arafat concluded by affirming the fundamental democratic rights to assembly and protest, which he argued should be respected universally: “The right to assembly and the right to protest need to be respected in all democracies.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-30 09:29:13', '2024-04-30 09:29:13'),
(12154, 12154, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The National Committee to Protect Shipping, Roads, and Railways (NCPSRR), a prominent civil society group, has vehemently opposed Bangladesh Railway\'s decision to eliminate fare discounts starting May 4, which will lead to a significant increase in train fares by 20 to 30 percent for journeys exceeding 100 km.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Md Shahid Mia, the convener of NCPSRR, and Ashish Kumar Dey, the general secretary, expressed their concerns through a public statement on Tuesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">They highlighted the current economic hardships, including the steep rise in the cost of living, exacerbated by an ongoing heatwave and reduced incomes among laborers and the lower-middle class. The fare increase, under these circumstances, is completely illogical and against public interest, the NCPSRR leaders stated.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The statement also referenced the challenges posed by crop failures and anticipated hikes in agricultural product prices, stressing that such an environment makes the fare increase particularly burdensome for ordinary citizens.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Governments worldwide often subsidise state-run transport to ease public burdens, a practice that includes Bangladesh. The government is no exception in providing subsidies, and it could increase these subsidies instead of letting the public suffer through fare hikes, said the statement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The leaders of NCPSRR called on all relevant authorities to reconsider the planned fare adjustments, advocating for the continuation of subsidies to prevent additional financial strain on the populace during these trying times. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-30 10:01:46', '2024-04-30 10:01:46'),
(12155, 12155, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Five people died and 10 others sustained injuries when an ambulance collided head-on with a Shyamoli Paribahan bus on the Cox\'s Bazar-Chattogram highway near Eidgaon in Khodaibari around noon on Monday.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The victims were returning home from treatment at Baytush Sharf Eye Hospital in Cox\'s Bazar.</div><div><br></div><div>Malumghat Highway Police Sub-Inspector Md Mozammel Haque confirmed the matter.</div><div><br></div><div>The deceased were identified as Abu Ahmed from Ilsha Puratana Bari, Baharchhara, Mahmuda Begum from Paschim Ilsha, Baharchhara; Sayra Khatun from Dongra, Khanakhanabad; and Dula Mia from Kufiya Dongra, Khanakhanabad. One person\'s identity remains undisclosed. The victims hailed from Banshkhali upazila of Chattogram and had been receiving eye treatment at the hospital for eight days.</div><div><br></div><div>Two passengers died on the spot, while three succumbed to injuries during hospital treatment. Several others are still receiving medical care, with the conditions of two individuals reported as critical.</div><div><br></div><div>The accident involved a microbus carrying 14 passengers from Banshkhali, which collided with the Shyamoli Paribahan bus. The police have seized the vehicles involved, and the driver of the bus is currently at large.</div><div><br></div><div>Dr Ashikur Rahman, Medical Assistant Officer at Cox\'s Bazar Sadar Hospital, said one woman and one man passed away during treatment, while another person died before reaching the hospital, reports UNB</div><div><br></div><div>Shahid Ali, General Secretary of Banshkhali Samiti Cox\'s Bazar, mentioned that arrangements have been made to transport the deceased to their village homes in Banshkhali.</div><div><br></div><div>This devastating collision highlights the ongoing road safety challenges faced on highways and underscores the need for enhanced measures to prevent such accidents in the future.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"39\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-30 10:09:21', '2024-04-30 10:09:21'),
(12156, 12156, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud has reiterated Bangladesh’s commitment to non-proliferation and peaceful use of nuclear science, particularly in energy, food safety and medicine, and health sectors.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He shared this commitment during his meeting with Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), in Vienna on Monday evening (Vienna time).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Foreign Minister Hasan also reiterated Bangladesh’s commitment to nuclear disarmament and to the safety and security of nuclear materials.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He recalled that Bangladesh became a member of the IAEA in 1972 which was one of the earliest memberships of Bangladesh in any international organisation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Foreign Minister thanked IAEA for providing necessary support and cooperation for the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant Project.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He assured the Director General that Bangladesh will maintain the highest level of transparency, safety, and security of its nuclear power plants. Referring to the national energy vision, he mentioned that Bangladesh has contemplated a fair share of nuclear energy in her future energy mix since it is a green and clean source of energy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mentioning the unmatched success of Bangladesh in becoming self-sufficient in staple food production as well as successes in pharmaceuticals and health services sectors, Hasan thanked IAEA for its technical support to Bangladesh in nuclear agriculture, nuclear medicine and radiotherapy fields.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Foreign Minister appreciated the Director General’s initiatives like Atoms4Food and Atoms4NetZero, and assured him continued support from Bangladesh for these noble initiatives.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Director General reaffirmed the agency’s sustained support to Bangladesh on human-centric development issues leveraging nuclear science and applications.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He expressed particular interest in working together with Bangladesh under the ‘Atom for Food’ initiative, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Director General of IAEA congratulated Bangladesh for setting up nuclear power plants, which has added an altogether different dimension to Bangladesh’s engagement with IAEA.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He assured of IAEA’s continued support for training and capacity building on nuclear safety and safeguard issues.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Foreign Minister invited the Director General to visit Bangladesh during the commissioning of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant Project.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-30 10:11:31', '2024-04-30 10:11:31'),
(12158, 12158, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>At least seven Maoist insurgents were shot dead by Indian security forces today, police told AFP, the latest clash in a decades-long conflict waged in the country’s wild central forests.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The guerrillas were killed in a remote part of the central state of Chhattisgarh, which has been the site of a number of deadly assaults on rebel encampments this year.</div><div><br></div><div>Security deployments in the state have been bolstered in the past month with India currently in the middle of a six-week general election.</div><div><br></div><div>“Bodies of seven Maoists have been recovered,” Bastar district police inspector-general Sundarraj Pattilingam told AFP.</div><div><br></div><div>Two of the cadres killed were women, he said, adding that a large quantity of weapons including automatic firearms had been recovered.</div><div><br></div><div>Today’s clash was the third of its kind this month in the state, after the killing of 29 Maoist guerrillas on April 16 and another 13 on April 2.</div><div><br></div><div>Around 90 Maoists have been killed in India this year, according to police figures, the vast majority in Chhattisgarh.</div><div><br></div><div>The insurgents, who are known as Naxalites and say they are fighting for the rural poor, have carried out guerrilla attacks since 1967.</div><div><br></div><div>India has deployed tens of thousands of security personnel to battle Maoist rebels across the insurgent-dominated “Red Corridor”, which stretches across central, southern and eastern states but has shrunk considerably in size over the past decade.</div><div><br></div><div>India has pumped millions of dollars into infrastructure development in remote areas and claimed to have confined the insurgency to 45 districts in 2023, down from 96 in 2010.</div><div><br></div><div>The conflict has seen a number of deadly attacks on government forces over the years.</div><div><br></div><div>Twenty-two police and paramilitaries were killed in a gun battle with the far-left guerrillas in 2021.</div><div><br></div><div>In March 2020, 17 police from a commando patrol were killed in an attack by more than 300 armed rebels in Chhattisgarh.</div><div><br></div><div>Sixteen commandos were also killed in the western state of Maharashtra in a bomb attack that was blamed on the Maoists in the lead-up to India’s election in 2019. - AFP&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd/fas</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><span style=\"white-space: pre; white-space: normal;\">			</span></div><div><span style=\"white-space: pre; white-space: normal;\">					</span></div><div><span style=\"white-space: pre; white-space: normal;\">						</span></div><div><span style=\"white-space: pre; white-space: normal;\">		</span></div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-30 10:53:47', '2024-04-30 10:53:47'),
(12159, 12159, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Four people died from possible heat stroke in different parts of Nilphamari district amid the sweltering heat across the country.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The deceased were identified as Lal Babu, 52 of Sadar upazila, Manir Hossain, 52 of Bimla upazila, Mansur, 55 and Khodeza, 65 of Jaldhaka upazila of the district.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">All of them suddenly fell sick and died while working under the open sky amid the intense hot weather, said officer-in-charge of Jaldhaka police station Ashraful Haque.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Local Met office recorded 42 degrees Celsius temperature in the district on Tuesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Meanwhile, a very severe heat wave is sweeping Jashore, Chuadanga, Pabna and Rajshahi districts and a severe heat wave is sweeping Dhaka division and parts of Khulna and Rajshahi divisions, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On the other hand, a mild to moderate heat wave is lashing Barishal, Rangpur and Chattogram divisions and Mymensingh district and it may continue, said a bulletin of Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Day and night temperatures may remain nearly unchanged over the country. Due to increase of moisture incursion, the discomfort may persist.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-30 11:05:01', '2024-04-30 11:05:01'),
(12160, 12160, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">China said today that rival Palestinian groups Hamas and Fatah met in Beijing recently for “in-depth and candid talks on promoting intra-Palestinian reconciliation”.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">“Representatives of the Palestine National Liberation Movement and the Islamic Resistance Movement recently came to Beijing,” foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said, referring to the groups by their formal names.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The two sides fully expressed their political will to achieve reconciliation through dialogue and consultation, discussed many specific issues and made positive progress,” he added, without specifying when the sides had met.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Islamist movement Hamas seized control of the Gaza Strip in 2007 after ferocious fighting with its rivals in Fatah, which maintains partial administrative control in the Israeli-occupied West Bank through the Palestinian Authority.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">China has historically been sympathetic to the Palestinian cause and supportive of a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Beijing has been calling for an immediate ceasefire since the start of the current Israel-Hamas war in October last year, when attacks by the group resulted in the deaths of about 1,170 people in Israel, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Israel’s retaliatory offensive has killed at least 34,488 people in the Gaza Strip, mostly women and children, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">That tally includes at least 34 deaths in a 24-hour window, the ministry said yesterday, down from a peak this month of at least 153 deaths on April 9, reports AFP&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Chinese president Xi Jinping has called for an “international peace conference” to resolve the fighting.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-30 11:49:00', '2024-04-30 11:49:00'),
(12161, 12161, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged Tuesday to launch an incursion into the southern Gaza city of Rafah, where hundreds of thousands of Palestinians are sheltering from the 7-month-long war.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Netanyahu said Israel would enter Rafah to destroy Hamas’ battalions there “with or without a deal.\" Israel and Hamas are negotiating a cease-fire agreement meant to free hostages and bring some relief to the Palestinians in the besieged enclave.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The idea that we will stop the war before achieving all of its goals is out of the questions. We will enter Rafah and we will eliminate Hamas\' battalions there — with a deal or without a deal, to achieve the total victory,” Netanyahu said in a meeting with families of hostages held by militants in Gaza, according to a statement from his office.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Netanyahu has vowed to achieve “total victory” in the war and has faced pressure from his nationalist governing partners to launch an offensive in Rafah, which Israel says is Hamas’ last major stronghold.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hopes have risen in recent days that the sides could move toward a deal that would avert an Israeli incursion into Rafah, where more than half of Gaza’s 2.3 million population are sheltering.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The international community, including Israel’s top ally, the U.S., have raised an alarm over the the fate of civilians in Rafah if Israel invades.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Netanyahu has repeatedly rejected stopping the war in return for hostage releases, and says an offensive on Rafah is crucial to destroying the militants after their Oct. 7 attacks on Israel triggered the conflict. His government could be threatened if he agrees to a deal because hard-line Cabinet members have demanded an attack on Rafah. - AP </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-30 11:55:35', '2024-04-30 11:56:05'),
(12162, 12162, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday called upon all political parties of the country to give priority to public interest in adopting and implementing political programmes.&nbsp;</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He was addressing the function at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium on Community Clinic\'s 24th founding anniversary in Dhaka.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Stating that the main aim and objective of politics is public welfare, he said public interest should be given priority in all decisions taken by governments and politicians.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Who or what government took the decision is not important - what matters is whether the decision is taken in public interest or whether public interest is being protected,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also said subverting public interest for political expediency exposes the vindictive nature of politics.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"After the change of power in the 2001 election, this popular initiative to get health care for marginalised people was stopped. It was a vindictive anti-public interest decision of the then government,\" he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina started the community clinic on April 26, 2000 in Gimadanga of Gopalganj district to ensure health care for the marginalised people of the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also requested to avoid such programmes as the development and progress of the country is hindered and the suffering of the people increases.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Work together irrespective of party affiliations and opinions to make all the public interest-related initiatives of the government successful,\" he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">President Shahabuddin put emphasis on extending all-out cooperation to ensure a sustainable progress of the community clinic, a public welfare institution of the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Noting that public interest should be given priority in every aspect of the government\'s activities, the president said, \"In addition to food, clothing, shelter and education, multifaceted programs are adopted and implemented to reach medical services at people’s doorsteps to improve public health.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mentioning that community clinics have become the place of people’s trust in terms of medical care for marginalized people, especially women and children, the president said the utility and reputation of the community clinic has spread beyond the village-town to the national level and even around the world as well.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said a total of the ‘Ten Special Initiatives’, including community clinic activities, shelter house, electricity for all, my home my farm, social security programme were taken by the government to materialize the dream of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to build a ‘Sonar Bangla’ and to fulfil the basic needs of the people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said this historic proposal by the United Nations under the title of \'Community Clinic\', ‘The Sheikh Hasina Initiative’ is an important international recognition of Bangladesh government\'s innovative leadership in primary health care in public-private partnership.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also sought united work in implementing all the steps taken to ensure the economic and social security of the people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At present, 14,173 community clinics are working as a model of public-private partnership and providing health education at the grassroots level along with creating public awareness, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The president also highly appreciated the contribution of community clinics in implementing mass vaccination programme during the Covid-19 pandemic.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh has won many prestigious international awards like the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) Award, South-South Award, Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI) Award and Vaccine Hero Award in recognition of the achievements in the health sector, he said, adding that this achievement of the prime minister has brightened the image of Bangladesh in the world and made the nation proud, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Professor Dr. Syed Modasser Ali presided over the function while health and family welfare minister Samanto Lal Sen, health services division secretary of the Health and Family Affairs Ministry Md Jahangir Alam, additional secretary AKM Nurunnabi Kabir and line director of Community Based Health Care (CBHC) Dr. Md Qaiyum Talukder also spoke there.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina\'s personal physician Emeritus Professor Dr. ABM Abdullah, the guest lecturer of John Hopkins University, freedom fighter Dr. Ahmad Al Kabir, and Director of Gopalganj Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Mujib Eye Hospital and Training Center Professor Dr. Nahid Ferdous were awarded \'The Sheikh Hasina Initiative\' gold medal for their outstanding contribution towards the establishment and further development of community clinics in Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Meanwhile, a documentary titled “Smart Community Clinic - Globalization of Community Clinic” was screened on the occasion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas&nbsp;</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-30 13:19:27', '2024-04-30 13:19:27');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(12163, 12163, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Although the extent of loadshedding was lower compared with the previous day on Monday, the country was reeling from over 2000 MW of shortage in electricity generation on Tuesday.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The data of the National Load Dispatch Centre (NLDC) at the Power Grid Company of Bangladesh (PGCB) shows that the country experienced loadshedding in excess of 2100 MW at 3pm in the day peak hours, when the generation was 14,273 MW against a demand for 16,400 MW.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At any given time, the amount of loadshedding is the difference between the amount of electricity generated and its demand, when the former is in deficit.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">There is a forecast that the demand will go up to 17,300 MW in the evening peak hours and the extent of load shedding may exceed 2,200 MW amid what is already the hottest as well as longest heatwave on record in the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The NLDC data also shows that the country’s on-grid installed generation capacity is 27,057 MW, but almost 7000 MW of that is currently out of the equation due to fuel shortage and plant maintenance programme.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Some 4,761 MW of power remains out of generation only because of gas shortage,” a top official of the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) told UNB, referring to the NLDC data.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Another 2196 MW remains out of commission due to scheduled maintenance work.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The BPDB official, who was granted anonymity to speak on matters considered sensitive, said they have been receiving 1,293 million cubic feet per day (MMCFD) of gas against a demand for more than 2,317 MMCFD.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Officials also noted that consumers at the rural areas are the principal victims of the power outages this time as many areas have to experience several hours of loadshedding at different times, reports unb</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to an official from the Bangladesh Rural Electrification Board (BREB), \"Power outages in rural areas are so frequent that any interruption means consumers have to wait several hours to get electricity back.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The data shows on Monday the areas under Dhaka region experienced 360 MW of load shedding while Chattagram 165 MW, Khulna 132 MW, Rajshahi 182 MW, Comilla 245 MW, Mymensingh 275 MW, Sylhet 44 MW and Rangpur 130 MW while there was no load shedding in Barisal on the day.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-30 14:10:51', '2024-04-30 14:10:51'),
(12164, 12164, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The Editors\' Council and Newspaper Owners\' Association of Bangladesh (Noab) on Tuesday demanded resumption of unhindered entry for journalists to Bangladesh Bank at the earliest.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The demand was placed in a joint statement as the central bank has recently slapped unwritten restrictions on journalists\' entry into its headquarters.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The statement says journalists from different media outlets have not been able to enter Bangladesh Bank for more than a month to perform their professional duties.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Noab and the Editors’ Council think that this unwritten ban on journalists\' access to the central bank goes against free press, democracy and fundamental and constitutional rights, it reads.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In this regard, the statement given by BB spokesperson Mezbaul Haque to the media has come to the notice of Noab and Editors’ Council as he said, “From now on, journalists can only go to the spokesperson of Bangladesh Bank with specific permission (entry pass). If an official gives a pass to journalists, then only that official can be met. But journalists will not be able to freely enter any department of the central bank as they did in the past.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Noting that his statement is the manifestation of an undeclared ban on the entry of journalists, the Noab and Editors’ Council said this decision is tantamount to snatching the freedom of media.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As a result of this ban, the people will be deprived of the right to know the actual condition of the bank and financial sector as well as the country\'s economy. On the other hand, it will increase public mistrust regarding the sector, said the statement made by Noab and Editors’ Council, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At the same time, it will further encourage irregularities and corruption in the banking and financial sector, it said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In this situation, the Noab and Editors’ Council are demanding to ensure the unhindered entry of journalists immediately.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"33\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-30 14:12:50', '2024-04-30 14:12:50'),
(12165, 12165, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The year’s highest temperature was recorded at 43.8 degrees Celsius in Jashore on Tuesday as mild to very sever heat wave is sweeping the country.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Dr Md Abul Kalam Mallik, a meteorologist of Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) said the country’s highest temperature was recorded at 43.8 degrees Celsius in Jashore today.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Capital Dhaka experienced 40.5 degrees Celsius temperature on Monday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">UNB Chuadanga correspondent reports: Chuadanga recorded Tuesday’s temperature at 43.7 degrees Celsius, the highest in 36 years in the district.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Jaminur Rahman, in-charge of Chuadanga weather observatory, said it is the highest temperature recorded in Chuadanga since the official opening of the weather observatory in the district on December 12, 1988.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“There is no possibility of rainfall activities in the next two days and the temperature may rise or remain unchanged further in Chuadanga, \" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In 2005, Chuadanga experienced 43 degrees Celsius temperature while in 2014, it saw 43.2 degrees Celsius temperature.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On Monday, Chuandanga experienced the hottest day in the country with a record of 43 degrees Celsius temperature.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In 1972, Bangladesh recorded its highest temperature at 45.1 degrees Celsius in Rajshahi.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Meanwhile, at least 10 people died from heatstroke amid the countrywide heat wave situation in eight days till Monday that has been prevailing for over 15 days.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Health Emergency Operation Center and Control Room (HEOC &amp; CR) of Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) confirmed the deaths.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Besides, five people died from heat strokes in Nilphamari and Natore districts on Tuesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) on Tuesday said Jashore, Chuadanga, Pabna and Rajshahi have been experiencing extreme hot weather with a ‘very severe’ heat wave sweeping the districts, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to the regular bulletin of the Met office, “Very severe heat waves are sweeping Jashore, Chuadanga, Pabna and Rajshahi and severe heat waves are scorching Dhaka division and parts of Khulna and Rajshahi divisions.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On the other hand, a mild to moderate heat wave is lashing Barishal, Rangpur and Chattogram divisions and Mymensingh district and it may continue.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-30 14:16:23', '2024-04-30 14:16:23'),
(12166, 12166, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The BNP has expelled its four more grassroots leaders for participating in the first phase of upcoming upazila elections violating the party\'s decision.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The punitive action was taken against the party leaders as per its constitution, said a press release on Tuesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It said Dhaka’s Keraniganj Model Thana unit BNP vice president Sabira Begum, Sunamganj\'s Shalla upazila unit BNP joint secretary Haziurul Islam Azhar, Swechchasebak Dal convener Abdul Majid and Jubo Dal member Saifur Rahman have been expelled from all levels of party positions, including the primary membership, for taking part in the first phase of upazila polls ignoring the party\'s decision.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;Earlier the party expelled 76 grassroots leaders on the same ground on April 26 and 27.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Later on April 28, the expulsion order against Romana Ahmed, organising secretary of the Meherpur district unit BNP, was revoked as she refrained from participating in the first phase of upazila elections and apologized for defying the party\'s decision.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A total of 152 upazilas across the country will go to polls in the first phase on May 8 as per the schedule announced by the Election Commission.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The elections to 492 upazilas will take place in four phases. The second phase of upazila polls will be held on May 23, the third phase on May 29 and the fourth phase on June 5, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The BNP high command earlier decided not to join any elections under the current government and the Election Commission.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-30 15:33:25', '2024-04-30 15:33:25'),
(12167, 12167, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Twenty Bangladeshis returned home from India through the Benapole check post on Tuesday evening, handed over after serving sentences in the Indian prison system.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Among the returnees, there are six women and fourteen children. Indian Immigration Police handed them over to the Benapole Immigration Police.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At the time of their return, representatives of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and Border Security Force (BSF) were present at the No Man\'s Land.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">These returning women and children hail from various districts including Khulna, Bagerhat, Satkhira, Dhaka, Keraniganj, Pirojpur, Comilla, Gazipur, Chandpur, and Gopalganj.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">They were repatriated as part of joint efforts by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the task force formed in West Bengal to prevent trafficking of women and children.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A delegation from the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission in Kolkata, including a representative from the women and child affairs department, handed over the returning women and children .</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Officer-in-Charge (OC) of the Immigration Police at the Benapole check post, Kamruzzaman, said that lured by the promise of good work, they fell into the trap of brokers and were sent to Kolkata.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">While working there, Kolkata Police arrested them and sent them to court. After serving their sentences, they were kept in safe homes in various districts of West Bengal.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">After discussions between high-level officials of both countries, they were sent back through travel permits. After the formalities of immigration were completed, they were handed over to the Benapole Port Police Station. - UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-04-30 15:37:24', '2024-04-30 15:37:24'),
(12168, 12168, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday said the government will not spare anyone&nbsp; who would deprive workers of their fair wages and dues in spite of that person\'s international recognition.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“If anyone deprives our workers of their fair wages, we shall not spare them no matter how big they are and internationally recognised ,” she warned.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister was addressing a programme marking the Great May Day on Wednesday at Bangabandhu International Conference Center in Dhaka.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She categorically said that dues of the workers must be paid properly and their welfare has to be looked after.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She, however, did not mention anyone’s name when she spoke of&nbsp; powerful individuals or internationally recognised person.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Nobel Laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus has recently been facing several charges of violating labour laws.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On September 9, 2021, a case was filed by the Department of Inspection for Factories and Establishment against&nbsp; Yunus and three others for violating labour laws.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to case files, the department noticed several labour law violations during an inspection at Grameen Telecom.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The violations include failure to make the jobs of 101 workers and employees permanent,&nbsp; not forming a workers\' participation fund and welfare fund, and failing to provide 5 percent of the company\'s dividend to workers.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dr Yunus was facing more than 100 other charges over labour law violations and alleged graft.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On January 1 this year, a Dhaka court sentenced him, and three others to six months in jail over labour law violations.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dhaka Labour Court 3 judge Sheikh Marina Sultana announced the verdict and later granted them bail after they filed separate petitions.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The court also fined them Tk5,000 under one section and Tk25,000 under another, in default of which they would have to spend an additional 10 and 15 days in prison.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">State Minister for the Labour and Employment Ministry Md Nazrul Islam Chowdhury, Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Labour and Employment Ministry HM Ibrahim, Country Director of International Labour Organisation (ILO) in Bangladesh Tuomo Poutiainen, President of Bangladesh Employers\' Federation Ardashir Kabir, Jatiya Sramik League president Noor Qutub Alam Mannan and Labour and Employment secretary M Mahbub Hossain also spoke at the event.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A video documentary on the May Day was screened at the function.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Cheques were distributed among the destitute workers from the Bangladesh Workers Welfare Foundation at the programme, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A colourful cultural function performed by the workers was also held.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-01 08:41:32', '2024-05-01 08:41:32'),
(12169, 12169, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud will attend the 15th session of the OIC Islamic Summit in Banjul, The Gambia.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The preparatory meeting of the foreign ministers will start from May 2, which will be led by the Bangladesh foreign minister.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hasan will be travelling to Gambia today by wrapping up his Europe visit, said an official.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) will hold the 15th annual Islamic Summit Conference on May 4-5 in the Gambian capital, Banjul.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A variety of issues will be addressed, including the Palestinian question, youth, women, family, Islamophobia, climate change, and Muslim minorities in non-member states, among others.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The leaders of OIC member states will discuss the political issues of the Islamic world, most notably the Palestinian cause, and economic, humanitarian, social and cultural issues, youth, women, family, science and technology, information, Muslim communities and minorities in non- OIC member states, Islamophobia, hate speech, climate change, food security, and legal matters.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The OIC secretary-general will present a report at the summit reviewing the most prominent activities, programmes, and projects undertaken by the organisation since the previous session of the Islamic Summit Conference.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The 15th conference will issue a final communique that includes the organisation\'s positions on the issues submitted to the summit, a resolution on Palestine and Al-Quds Al-Sharif, and the Banjul Declaration.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The preparatory meetings of the 15th session of the OIC Islamic Summit started in Banjul, The Gambia, on Tuesday, under the theme “Enhancing Unity and Solidarity through dialogue for sustainable development”.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The two-day-long senior officials meeting is being led by Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Ambassador of Bangladesh to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia & Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to the OIC, Javed Patwary, High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Nigeria and Non-Resident High Commissioner of Bangladesh to The Gambia, Masudur Rahman, Director General (International Organizations), Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Wahida Ahmed, are participating at the senior officials meeting.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The senior officials meeting is finalizing the “Draft Resolution on the issue of Palestine and Al-Quds Ash-Sharif”, “Draft Final Communique”, and “Banjul Draft Declaration” to be adopted by the preparatory meeting of the Foreign Ministers.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The discussions are dominated by issues related to Palestine in view of the recent atrocities in Gaza, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The senior officials meeting will also discuss economic, humanitarian, social, cultural, and issues concerning women and youth that have an impact on the Muslim Ummah. - UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-01 09:57:16', '2024-05-01 09:57:39'),
(12170, 12170, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) on Wednesday said&nbsp; Jashore, Kushtia, Chuadanga, Pabna, Rajshahi, Bagerghat and Satkhira have been experiencing extreme hot weather&nbsp; as ‘very severe’ heatwave sweeping over the districts.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to the regular bulletin of the Met office, “very severe heat wave is sweeping Jashore, Kushtia, Chuadanga, Pabna, Rajshahi, Bagerghat and Satkhira and severe heatwave is sweeping over the districts of Tangail, Faridpur, Gopalgonj, Narayangonj, Noagaon, Sirajgonj, Dinajpur and rest part of Khulna division.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Besides, a mild to moderate heatwave is sweeping elsewhere over the country and it may continue.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Meanwhile, rain or thunder showers accompanied by temporary gusty or squally wind is likely to occur at one or two places over Chattogram and Sylhet divisions with hails at isolated places, it said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Weather may remain mainly dry with temporary partly cloudy sky elsewhere over the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Day and night temperatures may remain nearly unchanged over the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Country\'s maximum temperature on Tuesday was recorded at 43.8 degree Celsius at Jashore and minimum temperature today was recorded at 22.7 degree Celsius at Dinajpur.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Country\'s maximum rainfall for the past 24 hours till 6 am today was recorded at 53 millimeters in Sylhet.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Trough of low lies from West Bengal to the North-west Bay across southwestern part of Bangladesh, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Due to the increase of moisture incursion, the discomfort may persist.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-01 10:00:53', '2024-05-01 10:00:53'),
(12171, 12171, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>At least twelve shops were gutted in a major fire that broke out at a market in Chandpur\'s Sadar upazila in the small hours of Wednesday.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At least 10 people suffered minor injuries while trying to tame the blaze.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The identities of the injured could not be known immediately.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Locals said the fire broke out at a shop in Baghra Bazar of Bagadi Union of the Upazila around 2:45am and it soon engulfed the adjoining shops.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On information, four fire tenders were pressed into service and it took them nearly two hours to bring the flames under control,  Chandpur Fire Service and Civil Defense Office Deputy Director Syed Morshed Hossain said, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Fire officials suspect an electrical short-circuit at a shop has triggered the fire.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">However, the exact cause of the fire and amount of loss could not be ascertained immediately, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-01 10:24:06', '2024-05-01 10:54:32'),
(12172, 12172, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday said River Teesta\'s flow has doubled this year compared to past&nbsp; seasons due to the excessive heat that led to ice melting in the Himalayas.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Himalayan ice is melting due to this scorching heat. As a result Teesta River has double water flow this year comparing to the past times,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She made the remarks while delivering introductory speech in the AL Central Working Committee (ALCWC) meeting at her official residence Ganabhaban.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;Hasina said that all the rivers that originate from the Himalaya are having comparatively more water this year.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Because of ice melting rivers are having higher water level. That is a bit of silver line for us. This will ensure better irrigation for us,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said that the paddy harvesting is going on in Haor areas, it is about to finish and the country is going to have a bumper production from there.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">“But drought hit in some areas as there is scarcity of water there. We are arranging irrigation for those areas,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In this connection she mentioned that the government provides subsidy to&nbsp; electricity used for irrigation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She also mentioned that heatwaves not only swept over Bangladesh, rather it has hit&nbsp; whole of South Asia and South East Asia, reports unb</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said that in her just concluded Thailand tour she also experienced excessive heat there.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She urged all to go for plantation in the coming rainy season. She mentioned that through Krishak League, Awami League each year plants huge number of saplings across the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister also urged all to remain safe, stay under shadow and drink huge water.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-01 10:42:10', '2024-05-01 10:42:10'),
(12173, 12173, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia will visit Evercare Hospital in the capital this (Wednesday) evening for health check-up.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Madam [Khaleda] will be taken  to Evercare Hospital in the evening for health check-ups as per the advice of her medical board,” Shamsuddin Didar, the BNP chief’s media wing member, told UNB.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said Khaleda will undergo some necessary medical tests at the hospital. </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The 78-year-old former prime minister has long been suffering from various ailments, including liver cirrhosis, arthritis, diabetes, and issues related to kidney, lung, heart, and eye.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier on March 31, the BNP chairpersons was admitted to the hospital and stayed there for two days for some pathological tests and regular examinations. </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Since her conditional release from jail in 2020, the BNP chief has been receiving treatment at the hospital under a medical board headed by cardiologist Prof Shahabuddin Talukder.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Khaleda was sent to the Old Dhaka Jail after a lower court sentenced her to five years\' imprisonment in the Zia Orphanage Trust corruption case on February 8, 2018. Later, she was found guilty in another corruption case the same year, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Amid the coronavirus outbreak, the government temporarily freed Khaleda Zia from jail through an executive order suspending her sentence on March 25, 2020, with the condition that she stay in her Gulshan house and not leave the country. That has since been extended multiple times to keep her out of jail.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Khaleda’s doctors have been recommending sending her abroad since she was diagnosed with liver cirrhosis in November 2021.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On October 26 last year, three US specialist doctors completed the hepatic procedure known as transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS procedure) to stop water accretion in Khaleda Zia’s stomach and chest, and bleeding in her liver.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd/fas</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-01 10:53:54', '2024-05-01 11:15:47'),
(12174, 12174, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The Philippines on Wednesday accused China’s coast guard of elevating tensions in the South China Sea after two vessels suffered damage from water cannon use by Beijing, an official said.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Philippine officials have said a coast guard ship and a fisheries vessel were damaged when Chinese coast guard vessels fired water cannons at them while on their way to the disputed Scarborough shoal on Tuesday to help Filipino fishermen at sea.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Commodore Jay Tarriela, Philippine coast guard spokesperson on South China Sea matters, said their Chinese counterparts have elevated tensions after it directly used water cannon against one of its vessels for the first time.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“It just goes to show that Goliath is becoming more Goliath. They don’t hesitate to use brute force to violate international law,” Tarriela told a briefing.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">China has previously used water cannons against Philippine navy-crewed civilian supply vessels in the region.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">No country has sovereignty over Scarborough Shoal, a prime fishing patch close to major shipping lanes that is used by several countries. The shoal falls inside the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and has been a constant source of flashpoint between it and China.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Tarriela added China’s actions do not count as an armed attack against a Philippine vessel, but he said China has been raising the pressure of its water cannons which have damaged their ships.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Philippines has a longstanding mutual defense treaty with the United States and Washington has pledged its “ironclad commitment” to defending its ally against an armed attack on Filipino military and public vessels, including coast guard ships, anywhere in the South China Sea.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A spokesperson at China’s embassy in Manila said Scarborough shoal, which it calls Huangyan Dao, “has always been China’s territory” and urged the Philippines to “stop making infringement and provocations at once and not to challenge China’s resolve to defend our sovereignty.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">China claims sovereignty over much of the South China Sea, a conduit for more than $3 trillion of annual ship-borne commerce, including parts claimed by the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">An international tribunal in 2016 said China’s expansive claim had no legal basis, a decision Beijing has rejected. - Reuters </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-01 11:51:04', '2024-05-01 11:58:20'),
(12175, 12175, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>A group of newspapers, including the New York Daily News and Chicago Tribune, sued Microsoft and OpenAI in New York federal court on Tuesday, accusing them of misusing reporters\' work to train their generative artificial-intelligence systems.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The eight newspapers, owned by hedge fund Alden Global Capital\'s MediaNews Group, said in the lawsuit that the companies unlawfully copied millions of their articles to train AI products, including </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Microsoft\'s Copilot and OpenAI\'s ChatGPT.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The complaint follows similar ongoing lawsuits against Microsoft and OpenAI, which has received billions in financial backing from Microsoft, brought by the New York Times and news outlets The Intercept, Raw Story and AlterNet.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">An OpenAI spokesperson said on Tuesday that the company takes \"great care in our products and design process to support news organizations.\" A spokesperson for Microsoft declined to comment on the complaint.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The newspaper cases are among several potential landmark lawsuits brought by copyright owners against tech companies over the data used to train their generative AI systems.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A lawyer for the MediaNews publications, Steven Lieberman, told Reuters that OpenAI owed its runaway success to the works of others. </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The defendants know they have to pay for computers, chips, and employee salaries, but \"think somehow they can get away with taking content\" without permission or payment, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The lawsuit said Microsoft and OpenAI\'s systems reproduce the newspapers\' copyrighted content \"verbatim\" when prompted. It said ChatGPT also \"hallucinates\" articles attributed to the newspapers that harm their reputations, including a fake Denver Post article touting smoking as an asthma cure and a bogus Chicago Tribune recommendation for an infant lounger that was recalled after being linked to child deaths.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The plaintiffs also include the Orlando Sentinel, South Florida Sun-Sentinel, San Jose Mercury News, Orange County Register and Twin Cities Pioneer Press. They asked the court for unspecified monetary damages and an order blocking any further infringement. - Reuters </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"18\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-01 12:04:11', '2024-05-01 12:32:00'),
(12176, 12176, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>India Women clinched a 19-run victory over Bangladesh Women in the second T20I at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, taking a 2-0 lead in the five-match series.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The match was interrupted by rain, with the DLS method ultimately deciding the outcome.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Batting first, Bangladesh Women struggled to build momentum and were restricted to a total of 119 runs in their 20 overs. Murshida Khatun top-scored with 46, while Sobhana Mostary contributed 19. India\'s bowlers were disciplined, with Deepti Sharma and Shreyanka Patil taking two wickets each, while Radha Yadav chipped in with three.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In reply, India Women started aggressively, with Dayalan Hemalatha smashing a quickfire 41 off just 24 balls.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">However, rain intervened with India at 47/1 after 5.2 overs. With the DLS par score at 28, India were declared winners by 19 runs.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">India lost only one wicket when Marfua Akter scalped Shefali Verma.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hemalatha\'s explosive innings earned her the Player of the Match award. The Indian bowlers\' disciplined performance and Hemalatha\'s aggressive batting proved to be the decisive factors in securing the series victory for India Women, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The remaining matches of the series will be played on May 2, 6 and 9 in Sylhet. </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-01 12:06:57', '2024-05-01 12:53:12'),
(12177, 12177, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">In response to the imminent threat of flash floods in the north and northeastern regions of Bangladesh, the Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre (FFWC) has issued alerts and recommendations for local communities.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The FFWC, managed by the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) and the Department of Disaster Management, is closely monitoring the situation and advising on precautionary measures.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to recent reports, water levels in rivers in the northeastern districts are rapidly rising, posing a risk of flash floods in several areas. Vulnerable districts including Netrakona, Sunamganj, Kishoreganj, and Moulvibazar are expected to experience swift inundation as rivers overflow their banks.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Over the next 48 hours, districts along the northeastern border, including Sylhet, Moulvibazar, Sunamganj, and Habiganj, are likely to face significant water inflows, breaching pre-monsoon levels. Residents are advised to take immediate precautions and be prepared for potential evacuations.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">To stay informed, residents can access real-time updates and flood forecasts through the BWDB Flood App and the FFWC website at www.fwc.gov.bd and www.ffwc.gov.bd/flashflood. Additionally, emergency hotlines are available at 1090 (toll-free) and 01841-002299 for rapid response coordination.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The BWDB and relevant authorities have urged residents in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and follow official guidelines to ensure their safety and the safety of their communities. According to UNB reports </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-01 12:25:37', '2024-05-01 12:33:20'),
(12178, 12178, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Clashes broke out today at pro-Palestinian demonstrations on the campus of the University of California, Los Angeles, as dozens of universities around the US struggle to contain similar protests.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">CNN reported that the clashes erupted between rival pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli groups.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“At the request of UCLA, due to multiple acts of violence within the large encampment on their campus, the LAPD is responding to assist UCLA PD, and other law enforcement agencies, to restore order and maintain public safety,” LA police said in a post on social platform X.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Protesters and counter-protesters were seen clashing with sticks and tearing down metal barricades, TV images showed.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Others were seen launching fireworks or hurling objects at each other in the dark – lit up with laser pointers and bright flashlights.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">TV footage showed one group trying to pull down barriers while another brandished sticks as unidentified projectiles flew overhead.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">UCLA chancellor Gene D Block warned ahead of clashes that protesters including “both members of the UCLA community and others unaffiliated with our campus” had set up a camp last week.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Many of the demonstrators, as well as counter-demonstrators who have come to the area, have been peaceful in their activism,” Block wrote in a letter posted on the university website yesterday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“But the tactics of others have frankly been shocking and shameful. We have seen instances of violence,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“These incidents have put many on our campus, especially our Jewish students, in a state of anxiety and fear.” - AFP </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-01 12:40:45', '2024-05-01 14:30:07');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(12179, 12179, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"\"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Saudi Arabian authorities shuttered schools in several regions today as flash floods inundated roads, the latest instance of heavy rains disrupting life in the desert Gulf.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">AFPTV footage showed partially submerged cars struggling to drive through standing water in the central region of Qassim, one of the areas hit hardest overnight.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The rain continued for seven hours from the afternoon until near midnight in very large quantities,” said Mohammed, an Egyptian resident of Buraidah, capital of Qassim, who spoke on condition that only his first name be used.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Water accumulated to a height of more than 10cm in front of the residence and prevented us from going out to the street. The sound of thunder was loud and lightning was illuminating the city.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The national meteorological centre issued red alerts for Qassim and other areas, including eastern province on the Gulf, the capital here and Medina province bordering the Red Sea.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It warned of “heavy rain with strong wind, lack of horizontal visibility, hail, torrential rains, and thunderbolts”.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Schools in Eastern Province and Riyadh also cancelled in-person instruction and moved classes online.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Medina education department posted on X pictures of maintenance workers repairing electricity and air-conditioning units and removing standing water from schools.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">There was some standing water on Riyadh’s roads today, but traffic was not significantly disrupted.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rainstorms and flooding are not unheard of in Saudi Arabia, especially in winter, and larger, more densely populated cities can struggle with drainage.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Such problems are an annual occurrence in Jeddah, the port city on the Red Sea coast, where residents have long decried poor infrastructure.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Floods killed 123 people in the city in 2009 and 10 more two years later.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This week’s heavy rainfall in Saudi Arabia follows the intense rains that lashed the region in mid-April, killing 21 people in Oman and four in the UAE, which received the heaviest rainfall since records began 75 years ago.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Global warming caused by fossil fuel emissions “most likely” exacerbated those rains, an expert group of scientists said in a study published last week. - AFP </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-01 12:43:44', '2024-05-01 14:28:38'),
(12180, 12180, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has called on governments, the private sector and civil society to join them in reaffirming their commitment to safeguarding press freedom and the rights of journalists and media professionals around the world.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"A free press is not a choice, but a necessity. Our World Press Freedom Day is very important,\" he said in a message marking World Press Freedom Day that falls on May 3.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Without facts, the UN chief said, they cannot fight mis- and disinformation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Without accountability, we will not have strong policies in place. Without press freedom, we won\'t have any freedom,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The world is going through an unprecedented environmental emergency which poses an existential threat to this and future generations, Guterres observed.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">People need to know about this â€“ and journalists and media workers have a key role in informing and educating them.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Local, national and global media outlets can highlight stories about the climate crisis, biodiversity loss, and environmental injustice.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Through their work, people come to understand the plight of our planet, and are mobilized and empowered to take action for change,\" said the UN chief.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said media workers also document environmental degradation and they provide evidence of environmental vandalism that helps to hold those responsible to account.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"It is no surprise that some powerful people, companies and institutions will stop at nothing to prevent environmental journalists from doing their jobs.Media freedom is under siege,\" Guterres said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">And environmental journalism is an increasingly dangerous profession, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dozens of journalists covering illegal mining, logging, poaching and otherenvironmental issues have been killed in recent decades.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the vast majority of cases, no one has been held to account. UNESCO reports that in the past fifteen years, there have been some 750 attacks on journalists and news outlets reporting on environmental issues. And the frequency of such attacks is rising.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Legal processes are also misused to censor, silence, detain and harassenvironmental reporters, while a new era of climate disinformation focuses on undermining proven solutions, including renewable energy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"But environmental journalists are not the only ones at risk. Around the world, media workers are risking their lives trying to bring us news on everything from war to democracy,\" said the UN Secretary General.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said he is shocked and appalled by the high number of journalists killed in Israeli military operations in Gaza.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The United Nations recognizes the invaluable work of journalists and media professionals to ensure that the public is informed and engaged. - UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-01 12:49:40', '2024-05-01 12:49:40'),
(12181, 12181, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The number of unemployed people in Bangladesh is only three percent of the total population, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said on Wednesday.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She provided the figure matter  while speaking at a programme in observance of the Great May Day at Bangabandhu International Conference Center.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said that the unemployment rate has decreased due to the government\'s various initiatives for the expansion of education and jobs.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We are giving free books and we are also providing technical education and vocational training to enabling youth of the country competent  for employment,” she said. </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hasina said that the government has opened up the private sector on a large scale to increase employment, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Today our unemployment rate is down to 3 percent Which was about 2/3 times more,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She also said the government has established Karmasangsthan Bank.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"> “Any youth can take loan there without collateral. They can do their own business with that and We have created that opportunity,” she said. </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Briefly describing the government measures for expansion of education and employment opportunities , she said that her government is giving text books free of cost alongside arranging vocational and technical training to build skilled manpower.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">State Minister for the Labour and Employment Ministry Md Nazrul Islam Chowdhury, Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Labour and Employment Ministry HM Ibrahim, Country Director of International Labour Organisation (ILO) in Bangladesh Tuomo Poutiainen, President of Bangladesh Employers\' Federation Ardashir Kabir, Jatiya Sramik League president Noor Qutub Alam Mannan and Labour and Employment secretary M Mahbub Hossain also spoke.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-01 12:52:24', '2024-05-01 13:10:12'),
(12182, 12182, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Russia’s Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu has ordered an increase in weapons production for the war in Ukraine, his ministry said, days after the United States approved a delayed multibillion-dollar military aid package for the Ukrainian government.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">At a meeting on Wednesday with Russia’s top military brass, Shoigu said the volume, quality and speed of arms production needed boosting, and also ordered the repair of units on the front lines in Ukraine’s east and south to improve their efficiency, the Ministry of Defence said on the Telegram messaging app.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“To maintain the required pace of the offensive … it is necessary to increase the volume and quality of weapons and military equipment supplied to the troops, primarily weapons,” Shoigu said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">While Russian troops are advancing at key points along the 1,000km (620-mile) front line, some Russian officials have expressed concerns that the US support will escalate the conflict.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ukraine’s troops are running out of ammunition. Outnumbered, they have been forced to make tactical retreats from at least three villages in the country’s east.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskii, the commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, warned on Sunday that the country is at risk of losing more ground if its Western allies do not deliver weapons quickly.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Russia has taken about half a dozen villages in the Donetsk region while firming up battlefield positions in the Kharkiv region.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said that the military alliance’s members failed to deliver what they promised to Ukraine in time.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Serious delays in support have meant serious consequences on the battlefield,” Stoltenberg told a news conference in Kyiv on Monday with Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On April 24, US President Joe Biden signed off on more than $61bn in military aid for Ukraine, including an array of artillery, rocket systems, antitank munitions and ammunition.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Zelenskyy said that vital US weapons were starting to arrive in Ukraine in small amounts, but that deliveries needed to be faster in the face of advancing Russian forces.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Russian military attacked the command headquarters of the Ukrainian army’s southern grouping, which is based in the port of Odesa, the defence ministry said on Wednesday, but did not provide details.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">While Ukrainian prosecutors said residential buildings and civilian infrastructure were damaged in Odesa in an overnight strike, the southern military command said administrative and residential buildings, and medical and educational institutions were hit. - Al Jazeera </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-01 13:09:21', '2024-05-01 13:13:03'),
(12183, 12183, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The number of people aged 60 and above in developing Asia and the Pacific is set to nearly double by 2050 to 1.2 billion—or about a quarter of the total population—significantly increasing the need for pension and welfare programs as well as healthcare services, said a new report on Thursday.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At the same time, economies have an opportunity to reap a “silver dividend” in the form of additional productivity from older people, which could boost gross domestic product in the region by 0.9% on average, said the Asian Development Bank (ADB).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Asia and the Pacific’s rapid development is a success story, but it’s also fueling a huge demographic shift, and the pressure is rising,” said ADB Chief Economist Albert Park.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Governments need to prepare now if they’re going to be able to help hundreds of millions of people in the region age well. Policies should support lifetime investment in health, education, skills, and financial preparedness for retirement. Family and social ties are also important to foster healthy and productive populations of older people and maximize their contribution to society.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Developing Asia and the Pacific is unprepared to secure the well-being of its rapidly aging population as the growing share of older people in the region face challenges from low pension coverage to health problems, social isolation, and limited access to essential services, according to the multilateral development bank.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">While longer lifespans reflect the region’s development success, comprehensive policy reforms are urgently needed to support the welfare of older people, according to “Aging Well in Asia: Asian Development Policy Report,” released on Thursday by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) at its 57th Annual Meeting.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to the report, 40% of people over age 60 in Asia and the Pacific lack access to any form of pension—with women disproportionately affected, as they are more likely to do unpaid domestic work.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As a result, many older people in the region have no choice but to work well beyond retirement age to survive.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Among those still working at age 65 or older, 94% work in the informal sector, which typically doesn’t provide basic labor protections or pension benefits.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Physical and mental health challenges also increase with age.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Around 60% of older people in Asia and the Pacific do not attend or receive regular health checks, while 31% report depressive symptoms owing to illness, social isolation, and economic insecurity.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Older women in the region are also more likely than older men to suffer from ill health, from depression to diabetes and hypertension.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The report recommended a wide range of policy measures to support healthy and economically secure aging.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Among these are government-assisted health insurance and pension plans, improved health infrastructure, and free annual check-ups and lifestyle evaluations.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Policy makers should aim for universal healthcare coverage, while basic labor protections should be extended to older informal workers, according to the report, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">By making mandatory retirement ages more flexible, helping older people stay healthy, and providing them with suitable work opportunities as well as lifelong learning and skills development, economies in the region can help older people stay productive longer.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas&nbsp;</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-02 07:05:28', '2024-05-02 07:05:28'),
(12184, 12184, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Four members of a family were among five killed in a head-on collision between a microbus and truck on Dhaka-Sylhet highway in Madhabpur upazila of Habiganj district early Thursday.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>The deceased were identified as Md Jamal, 40; his wife Kamrunnahar, 35; their son Ananta,11; Jamal’s younger brother Enamul Islam, 35, of Galachipa under Patuakhali district and driver Harun Bepari, 35, a resident of Bakerganj in Barishal district.</div><div><br></div><div>According to locals, the Dhaka-bound microbus from Sylhet collided with a truck coming from the opposite direction at 1:45 am on Thursday. Five people, including the microbus driver, died on the spot.</div><div><br></div><div>On information, locals, Madhabpur Fire Service, Shayestaganj Highway and Madhabpur Police rushed to the spot and conducted rescue operations, reports UNB</div><div><br></div><div>Rakibul Islam Khan, officer-in-charge of Madhabpur Police Station, confirmed the matter.</div><div><br></div><div>The bodies are in the custody of Shayestaganj Highway Police Station, he added.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"39\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-02 07:09:06', '2024-05-02 07:09:06'),
(12185, 12185, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina declared her recent six-day trip to Thailand as a landmark success, aimed at safeguarding Bangladesh\'s economic interests and elevating its regional presence. The visit, which took place from April 24 to April 29, was prompted by an invitation from Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During a press briefing at her official residence, Ganabhaban, today, Prime Minister Hasina said, \"Overall, this visit was a significant step forward in our efforts to protect our economic interests and enhance our regional involvement.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The trip included a series of bilateral and multilateral meetings, underscoring a commitment to strengthening ties between Bangladesh and Thailand.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"This official visit will serve as a milestone in our bilateral relationship and ushers in a new era of fruitful partnerships,\" stated Prime Minister Hasina.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She also highlighted the importance of her visit to Thailand, an influential ASEAN member, as being crucial for advancing economic and diplomatic ties. \"The visit will play an important role in enhancing our bilateral economic relations, including advancing talks on a free trade agreement, boosting communication, and more,\" she elaborated.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Furthermore, Prime Minister Hasina expressed optimism regarding the impact of her discussions with Prime Minister Thavisin on the issue of Rohingya repatriation, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She was also hopeful that her discussions with the Thai Prime Minister will encourage Thailand to adopt a stronger stance on the speedy repatriation of Rohingyas, both bilaterally and within the ASEAN framework.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister Hasina also pointed out that the visit is expected to significantly support Bangladesh\'s bid to become an ASEAN Sectoral Dialogue Partner by 2024, marking a significant step in its diplomatic endeavors in the region.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-02 07:24:44', '2024-05-02 07:24:44'),
(12186, 12186, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>With temperatures reaching unbearable levels, there is a call from public health experts and meteorologists to officially declare the heatwave a disaster and to establish a comprehensive action plan to address its impacts. Against this backdrop, the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief says it is considering the ongoing heatwave in Bangladesh as a “disaster”.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During the current summer season, the country has been experiencing a prolonged period of heat, causing widespread disruption to daily life. Instances of heatstroke have led to fatalities, numerous hospital admissions, and significant damage to crops and fruit trees.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In response to inquiries about whether heatwaves should be declared disaster like droughts, State Minister for Disaster Management and Relief Md. Mohibbur Rahman emphasized, “I certainly would call this extreme heatwave a disaster.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The ministry is actively gathering data on the severity of the heat, which has caused various forms of damage, including deaths from heatstroke, illness, and agricultural losses. This information will guide their decision on whether to extend financial and other forms of assistance to those affected, the state minister said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Secretary Md. Kamrul Hasan of the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief stated that while the government last declared lightning a disaster in 2016, the suggestion to categorize heatwaves similarly is under consideration. The ministry is collecting data on the highest temperatures and their impacts to determine the next steps.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Public health expert and former director of Disease Control at Directorate General of Health Services, Professor Dr. Be-Nazir Ahmed, warned that the current extreme temperatures pose a serious health risk, potentially leading to outbreaks of diseases like cholera.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dr. Ahmed advocated for strategic planning to prevent heatwave-related deaths and suggested that such a strategy should aim to make the heat more tolerable, including increasing vegetation and maintaining water bodies as cooling measures.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dr. Md. Zillur Rahman, Dean of the Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences at Dhaka University, stressed that preparation is crucial as average temperatures have risen by one degree Celsius from 2011 to 2020. He noted that the country is experiencing hotter summers and emphasized the need for strategies to adapt to these increasing temperatures.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to the Meteorological Department, a heatwave is categorized based on temperature ranges, with the highest category being \"severe\" when temperatures exceed 42 degrees Celsius.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On April 20, 2024, the country recorded its highest temperature of the season at 42.6 degrees Celsius in Jashore, indicating the severity of the current heatwave. Schools remained closed due to the extreme heat following the Eid holiday break.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The ministry and experts are considering implementing national strategies to mitigate the effects of heatwaves, emphasizing the need for a proactive approach to protect public health and ensure economic stability in the face of increasing temperatures. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-02 08:46:31', '2024-05-02 08:46:31'),
(12187, 12187, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Microsoft is investing $2.2 billion over the next four years in Malaysia\'s new cloud and artificial intelligence infrastructure as well as partnering with the government to establish a national AI center, its CEO Satya Nadella said Thursday.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It marks Microsoft\'s single largest investment in Malaysia, as the tech giant seeks to bolster support for AI development in the region and worldwide.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We are committed to supporting Malaysia\'s AI transformation and ensure it benefits all Malaysians,\" he said. \"Our investments in digital infrastructure and skilling will help Malaysian businesses, communities and developers apply the latest technology to drive inclusive economic growth and innovation across the country.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Nadella on Tuesday also announced a $1.7 billion investment in cloud and AI services in Indonesia during his visit there as part of his Southeast Asia tour. On Wednesday, he said Microsoft will build its first regional data center in Thailand.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In April, the tech giant similarly unveiled a $2.9 billion investment in Japan and $1.5 billion in G42, an AI firm in Abu Dhabi.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Microsoft also pledged to provide AI training for 2.5 million people in Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam by 2025.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Nadella earlier met Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who said the investment will be the key support pillar for the government\'s goal to enhance AI capacity in Malaysia.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The new investment will include AI training for another 300,000 people, the establishment of a national AI center of excellence, enhancing the nation\'s cybersecurity capabilities and supporting the growth of Malaysia\'s developer community, Anwar said on Facebook.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Microsoft runs one of the world\'s largest cloud computing operations and has taken a leap into artificial intelligence through its partnership with OpenAI, developers of ChatGPT.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Since then, Microsoft has integrated an AI assistant into its Microsoft Edge browser, named Copilot, helping lift its profits by 20% in the first quarter.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Microsoft sees Southeast Asia, with its population of over 600 million people, as a growing market and potential location for more AI product development. A study held by global consulting firm Kearney said AI could contribute nearly $1 trillion to Southeast Asia\'s GDP by 2030. Indonesia is expected to capture $366 billion of the total and Malaysia $115 billion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Microsoft said in a statement that the investment in Malaysia will build on its 2021 program to support inclusive economic growth. It said the proposed national AI center will drive AI adoption across key industries and public sector, while ensuring AI governance and regulatory compliance, reports AP&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Together with Microsoft, we look forward to creating more opportunities for our (small and medium-sized enterprises) and better paying jobs for our people as we ride the AI revolution to fast-track Malaysia\'s digitally empowered growth journey,\" Trade Minister Zafrul Aziz said in the statement.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"18\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-02 09:06:08', '2024-05-02 09:06:08'),
(12188, 12188, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">At least five people were killed by lightning strikes in Rangamati and Cox’s Bazar districts on Thursday.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In Rangamati, three people were killed and seven others injured when thunderbolts struck them in separate places in the morning.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The deceased were identified as Najir Ahmed, 50, a resident of Sylheti Para in Rangamati district town, Baharjan Begum, 55, wife of Lal Mia of Baghaichari upazila and Tripura Grihini, 37 of Sajek.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dr Shawkat Akbar Khan, resident medical officer of Rangamati General Hospital, said Najir Ahmed died on the spot when a thunder bolt struck him while he was catching fish at Kaptai Lake in the morning.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Meanwhile, Baharjan was killed by the lightning strike while bringing cattle from the field amid rain, said Jasmin Chakma, chairman of Rupkari union.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A goat also died during lightning.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On the other hand, Tripura Grihini was killed when a streak of thunderbolt hit him while she working at her yard in Sajek’s Longthianpara.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Shirin Akter, Baghaichhari Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO), said two people—Baharjan and Tripura died in the upazila and Tk 10,000 each was provided to the family members of the deceased.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Seven people were also injured during lightning strikes in different parts of the district.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In Cox’s Bazar, two workers were killed as a thunderbolt struck them in separate places at Chhari Para in Pekua upazila of Cox’s Bazar district early Thursday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The deceased were identified as Didarul Islam, 35, son of Jamir and Md Arman, 25, son of Jamal of the upazila.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Yunus Chowdhury, chairman of Magnama union, said Didar died on the spot when a streak of thunderbolt struck him while he was working at the salt field at Kodailladiya early in this morning.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Meanwhile, Arman was hit by lightning strike and died on the spot when he was working in the early morning, said Rajakhali Union chairman Nazrul Islam Shikdar.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Lightning strikes kill 250 people on an average every year in the country, according to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department. Thunderbolts also kill or injure a large number of livestocks.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Lightning strikes mostly occur in from April to May till June and most of the deaths occur in flat lands and haor areas, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief, 2,164 people died in lightning strikes in the country from 2011 to 2020. Considering the upward trend, the government in 2016 declared it as a national disaster.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-02 09:27:28', '2024-05-02 09:27:28'),
(12189, 12189, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The death toll climbed to 48 on Thursday as search efforts continued in southeastern China after a highway section collapsed in a mountainous area, sending more than 20 cars down a steep slope.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Officials in the city of Meizhou said three other people were unidentified, pending DNA testing. It wasn’t immediately clear if they had died, which would bring the death toll to 51. Another 30 people had non-life-threatening injuries.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The collapse happened about 2 a.m. on Wednesday after a month of heavy rains in a mountainous part of Guangdong province. Vehicles fell down the slope and sent up flames as they caught fire.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The search was still ongoing, Meizhou city Mayor Wang Hui said at a late-afternoon news conference. No foreigners have been found among the victims, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Search work has been hampered by rain and land and gravel sliding down the slope. The disaster left a curving earth-colored gash in the otherwise verdant forest landscape.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Because some of the vehicles involved caught fire, the difficulty of the rescue operation has increased,\" said Wen Yongdeng, the Communist Party secretary for the Meizhou emergency management bureau, reports AP&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Most of the vehicles were buried in soil during the collapse process, with a large volume of soil covering them,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He added that the prolonged heavy rainfall has saturated soil in the area, \"making it prone to secondary disasters during the rescue process.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-02 09:34:42', '2024-05-02 09:34:42'),
(12190, 12190, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Israel has threatened in discussions with US counterparts that it will retaliate against the Palestinian Authority (PA) if the International Criminal Court (ICC) issues arrests warrants for senior Israeli officials, according to a report published Wednesday.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Israel has been increasingly fretting over the possibility of arrest warrants being handed down by the ICC against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and the Israel Defense Forces, the Axios news website reported, citing two anonymous Israeli and US officials.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Israel has told the US it has information that PA officials are pressuring the ICC prosecutor to hand down the warrants.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Israel could choose to withhold the PA\'s tax revenue, which it collects and then distributes to the government. The economic retaliation could lead to the collapse of the PA, which administers some areas of the occupied West Bank under the landmark 1993 Oslo Accords.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The ICC has been leading an investigation since 2021 into potential war crimes committed by Israel and Palestinian groups dating back to 2014. The probe has grown to include ongoing attacks in the war in Gaza.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A US official told Axios that Washington believes that arrest warrants for senior Israeli officials would be a mistake, saying, \"We are quietly encouraging the ICC not to do it. It will blow up everything. Israel will retaliate against the Palestinian Authority.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On Tuesday, US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby reiterated the US position that it does not support the ICC\'s ongoing investigation but said that the Biden administration \"would certainly not support judges at the ICC or anywhere else for that matter to be intimidated or threatened.\" - Anadolu Agency </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-02 10:01:34', '2024-05-02 10:02:02'),
(12191, 12191, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday asked the country’s leftist parties who they want to bring to power by ousting her.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">“The leftists have turned by 90 degrees. Well, they want to oust me. But could they determine who would come next? It is my question. Who would come to power and who would work for the country? But it is not clear who they want to bring,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier said this while addressing a press conference arranged at her official residence Ganabhaban on the outcome of her recent six-day visit to Thailand.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Replying to a question, she said since it is not clear whom the leftists want to bring in power next, none of them don’t get response from the people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said yes, movement is being carried out. Staying in a foreign land as a fugitive, someone is doing movement as well as giving orders online everyday thanks to Digital Bangladesh made by her government, she added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Let those who are waging a movement do it. We at least are not hindering it,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Criticizing the US style to curb ongoing demonstrations carried out against Israeli aggression on Palestine, the PM said there is a possibility now for Bangladesh to stop the movement here following the American style.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“I think our police now can follow the American police. We asked them (Bangladesh Police) to show patience,” she said, adding that their member was beaten to death in October 2023.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“So, our police can take measures to curb movement in American style,” she went on.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Replying to another question, the prime minister said her government’s goal is to make the ongoing upazila election a meaningful one.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In this context, she said a good number of political parties boycott elections as they have no capacity to run in the polls, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Why do they boycott elections? The reason is that they actually don’t have capacity to compete in the elections,” said Sheikh Hasina, also the President of ruling Bangladesh Awami League.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister returned to Bangladesh on April 29 after concluding her visit, which began on April 24 at the invitation of her Thai counterpart Srettha Thavisin.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-02 10:18:48', '2024-05-02 10:20:51'),
(12192, 12192, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) forecast rain or thundershowers in parts of the country inclduing Dhaka in 24 hours commencing 9 am on Thursday.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Rain or thunder showers accompanied by temporary gusty or squally wind is likely at a few places over Chattogram and Sylhet divisions and at one or two places over Dhaka, Mymensingh and Barishal divisions with hails at isolated places,” said a Met office bulletin.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Weather may remain mainly dry with temporary partly cloudy sky elsewhere over the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Meanwhile, a very severe heat wave is sweeping Jashore, Khulna, Chuadanga, Pabna and Rajshahi districts and severe heat wave is scorching&nbsp; Tangail, Faridpur, Gopalgonj and parts of Khulna division, it said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The heat wave may abate from some places over the eastern part of the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Day temperature may fall slightly over western part and it may fall by 1-2 °C elsewhere over the country, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Night temperature may remain nearly unchanged over the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"4\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-02 11:00:23', '2024-05-02 11:00:23');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(12193, 12193, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Dozens of Iraqi university students and professors rallied Thursday at a Baghdad campus in solidarity with Gaza and pro-Palestinian protests at US universities, AFP correspondents said.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Iraqi Education Minister Naeem Al-Aboudi earlier this week expressed his support for the “free voices in universities” around the world, and called for protests in solidarity with the embattled Gaza Strip.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Students at Al-Nahrain University waved the Palestinian and Iraqi flags.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“With all that is happening to our people in Gaza... of course I must be among the first to come to raise our voice,” student Aya Kader, 20, said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“It is very positive to see the Palestinian flag being waved at American universities,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Weeks-long pro-Palestinian protests that have swept campuses across the United States have “encouraged us,” she added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Students and professors also carried banners calling for a “free Palestine,” with some wearing the keffiyeh scarf that has long been a symbol of the Palestinian cause.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We are here to tell them to stop the killing and to thank the free voices around the world,” said Professor Jomaa Salman, head of the engineering faculty.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“If the storming of Columbia University had happened in another country, especially in a third world country, they would have moved heaven on earth.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Iraqi embassy in Washington called Wednesday for “restraint, calm, respect for human rights and peaceful expression” as unrest over Israel’s war in Gaza simmered on US campuses.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Iraq does not recognize Israel while all Iraqi political factions support the Palestinian people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In 2019, popular protests broke out in Iraq against the ruling establishment, and a security crackdown left more than 600 people killed.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The United States is Israel’s largest military supplier.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Student protesters on American campuses say they are expressing solidarity with Palestinians in the war-devastated Gaza Strip, prompting large-scale police arrests.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Gaza war broke out after the unprecedented October 7 Hamas attack on southern Israel which resulted in the death of 1,170 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Vowing to destroy Hamas, Israel retaliated with a massive offensive that has killed at least 34,596 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Militants also seized hostages during the attack, estimating that 129 of them remain in Gaza, including 34 the military says are dead. - AFP&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-02 11:38:56', '2024-05-02 11:38:56'),
(12194, 12194, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The “Islamophobia and anti-Muslim hatred” of Reform UK MP Lee Anderson is “fuelling hate crime and violent threats,” London Mayor Sadiq Khan has said in a statement.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">His comments come after ITV News released a secret recording of Anderson talking to party members at an event in which he claimed Khan “hates this country ... our heritage, our culture.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The news also follows revelations ahead of the London mayoral elections on Thursday that Conservative candidate Susan Hall has followed social media pages and groups in which other people allegedly posted racist content and abuse aimed at the Muslim mayor.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Anderson was previously deputy chair of the Conservatives, but switched parties after he was suspended by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for claiming that Khan was under the control of “Islamists” and had “given our capital city away to his mates.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the ITV recording, Anderson is heard saying former Conservative colleagues had offered him support and sympathy for his words, saying senior party officials had told him “you’re saying what millions of people are thinking up and down the country.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">While not naming anyone specifically, Anderson said: “At least two Cabinet ministers contacted me to say I’d been treated poorly.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He added: “I would never betray the confidence of my colleagues, regardless of what political party they’re in, that was sent in confidence. A lot of those people who I sit opposite are still my friends.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Khan said: “In the past 24 hours we have seen my Tory (Conservative) mayoral opponent endorsing Facebook groups rife with antisemitism, Islamophobia and death threats against me. And now we have a former Tory party deputy chair caught on camera being racist, reports Arab News&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“It is deeply depressing that he confirms his Islamophobia and anti-Muslim hatred was cheered on by current Tory party staff, MPs and Cabinet ministers.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Khan added: “It’s unpatriotic to talk down modern, diverse, brilliant Britain in this way. And it has real-world consequences, fuelling hate crime and violent threats.”&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-02 11:44:22', '2024-05-02 11:44:22'),
(12195, 12195, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir left the country for Saudi Arabia on Thursday afternoon to perform Umrah.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Fakhrul along with his wife Rahat Ara Begum left Dhaka\'s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport by a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight around 3:15pm, his personal assistant M Yunus Ali told UNB.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said the BNP leader and his wife will first go to Medina to offer fateha at the grave of Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (Pbuh) and offer prayers in the Prophet\'s Mosque.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Later, they will go to Makkah to perform the holy Umrah and offer prayers in Masjid al-Haram.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The BNP leader is scheduled to return home on May 8 .</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mirza Fakhrul was arrested on October 29, the day after the BNP\'s grand rally in Dhaka\'s Naya Paltan was foiled by the police. He was released on bail on February 15 after almost three and a half months of imprisonment, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The BNP secretary general has been suffering from various physical complications since going to jail. His wife Rahat Ara Begum is also sick.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">After his release from jail, the couple went to Singapore for treatment on March 4.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-02 12:35:09', '2024-05-02 12:35:09'),
(12196, 12196, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) on Thursday lowered the price of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) by Tk 4.1 per kg, setting the new rate at Tk 116.08 per kg, down from previous Tk 120.18.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This new price will be effective from 6 pm today.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">BERC at a press briefing said that the price for a standard 12kg LPG cylinder will now be Tk 1,393 down by Tk 49 from the previous price of Tk 1442.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This adjustment follows a rational scale across various LPG cylinder sizes, ranging from 5.5kg to 45kg, addressing the need for a proportional price revision across different consumer segments.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Furthermore, the price for \"auto gas\", the LPG variant used in motor vehicles, has also seen a lower rate at Tk 63.92 instead of the previous price of Tk 66.21 per litre.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">LPG prices marketed by the state-owned LP Gas Company will remain unchanged. This exception is attributed to its local production and the company\'s minimal market share, which is less than five percent, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On the other hand, The decision to adjust LPG prices comes in the wake of declining costs in the international market, specifically tied to the increase in the Saudi CP (contract price), which serves as a benchmark for local operators importing LPG primarily from the Middle East.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-02 12:38:54', '2024-05-02 12:38:54'),
(12197, 12197, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud has said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina remains dedicated to strengthening their robust trade, investment, aviation, climate, defence, security, and migration cooperation with the UK and taking it to the next level in her current term.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hasan thanked UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for emphasizing his commitment to enhancing the economic and security partnership between Bangladesh and the UK in his congratulatory letter to Prime Minister Hasina after the national election on January 7 this year.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The foreign minister also called upon the UK government to collaborate with Bangladesh to establish a \"peaceful and conflict-free\" world and to put an end to the ongoing wars in Gaza and Ukraine, according to a message received from London.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During his speech as the guest of honour at a high-profile diplomatic reception hosted by Bangladesh High Commission, London to celebrate the 54th Independence and National Day of Bangladesh, the foreign minister emphasised the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire in conflict zones worldwide, including Gaza and Ukraine.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He stressed that stopping the killing of innocent people is crucial to restoring normalcy and establishing peace.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Speaker of the UK’s Parliament Sir Lindsay Hoyle MP was the chief guest at the event where Leader of the House of Commons Rt Hon Penny Mordaunt MP, UK FCDO Minister for Middle East, North Africa, South Asia and United Nations Lord Tariq Ahmad, Shadow Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Steve Reed MP, and Chairman of All-party Parliamentary Group on Bangladesh Rushanara Ali MP spoke as special guests. ‍Source: UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-02 13:01:49', '2024-05-02 13:01:49'),
(12198, 12198, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>A Dhaka court on Thursday placed Milton Samaddar, chairman of Child &amp; Old Age Care, on a three-day remand in a case over alleged death certificate forgery.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dhaka Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Tofazzal Hossain passed the order when sub-inspector of Mirpur zonal team Mirpur and also investigating officer of the case and&nbsp; Mohammad Kamal Hossain produced him before the court with a seven-day remand prayer.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Md Wahiduzzaman Biplab, a counsel of Milton, filed a bail petition and sought cancellation of remand.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to the remand prayer, Milton provided 50 fake death certificates through fraudulence. Milton, who used to identify himself as a physician, gave shelter to elderly persons, children and people with disability in his health care center named Child &amp; Old Age Care.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The remand was sought to investigate whether he had any certificate of physician he was involved in killing people or torturing them physically and mentally in the name of providing treatment and whether he was involved in organ smuggling, it said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Detectives on Wednesday arrested Milton from the city’s Mirpur area.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The report claimed that Samaddar, who had been recognised for his public service through various awards, was allegedly involved in significant wrongdoing. While his social media profile publicized his work in building an old age home for the helpless and providing shelter to the homeless, more sinister allegations have surfaced.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Allegations include the illegal trade of human organs, specifically pointing to the cutting and selling of kidneys.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The revelations led to individuals speaking out and a flurry of discussions on social media, culminating in Samaddar\'s detainment.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mohammad Kamal Pasha, sub-inspector of DB of Mirpur division, filed the case with Mirpur Police Station on Thursday morning. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd/fas</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"42\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-02 14:04:59', '2024-05-02 14:04:59'),
(12199, 12199, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Speakers at a panel discussion in Dhaka on Thursday said there is no alternative to freedom of the press and freedom of expression to ensure democracy.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">It is also imperative that the safety and freedom of the press be prioritised to tackle the ongoing environmental crisis and natural disasters, they said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Marking World Press Freedom Day (WPFD) 2024, speakers made these remarks at panel discussions organised jointly by UNESCO, Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB), and Article 19 at MIDAS Centre in Dhaka’s Dhanmondi on Thursday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The discussions centred on the WPFD theme of this year, “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis.” There were two separate panel discussions where the panellists talked about issues like the ongoing oppression against journalists and their safety concerns in the context of climate-related issues, freedom of expression and the press, tackling misinformation, and access to information.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dr Iftekharuzzaman, TIB executive director,, said, “In the period from 2022 to 2023, while covering environmental issues, there were 23 attacks on the media, resulting in the torture of 43 journalists.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Between 2016 to 2021 alone, 12 individuals, including environmental rights activists, were killed for protesting against coal-based plants.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He further stated that those who are legally responsible for protecting the environment are the ones leading the destruction of the environment. Therefore, it is imperative to create an environment where journalists and civil society organisations can play their active roles. But in reality, such space is being shrunk by the use of repressive acts like the Digital Security Act, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Taking part in the “zero-sum political game,” journalists and rights activists are harassed by misusing laws, which ultimately benefits a certain faction. The harassment of media workers and civil society actors has been normalised through this process, he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">There are additional risks while reporting on land grabbing, water bodies\' destruction, or the construction of training centres by taking over protected land. To tackle such challenges, those who are responsible in the government have to respect the commitment to freedom of press and speech enshrined in the constitution, so journalists and activists working on environmental issues do not become the victims of \"shoot the messenger\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Speaking at the opening session, Susan Vize, Head of Office and UNESCO Representative to Bangladesh, said, “Raising public awareness about climate change and other environmental issues in Bangladesh is critical to achieving behavioural change. The media remains the single most influential source of credible public information. WPFD 2024 aims to build the capacity of Bangladesh’s media to ensure accurate and impactful coverage of the current environmental crises.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Alexandra Berg von Linde, Ambassador to Bangladesh, Sweden Embassy, said, “Public interest is inextricably linked to climate change and environmental degradation. The negative effects of climate change are becoming more visible, affecting people\'s daily lives. People want to know about the results and effects of negative climate change. Freedom of the media and the ability to report independently on all such matters of public interest are important elements of democracy.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Responding to a question about the misuse of repressive acts (ICT, DSA and CSA) and the safety concerns of journalists, State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Mohammad A Arafat said, “We always talk about ensuring freedom of the press. However, in some cases, vested interests exploit this freedom to publish agenda-driven news and disseminate misinformation. Instances of such misinformation regarding Rampal or Adani power plants have been observed. Therefore, alongside ensuring media freedom, accountability must also be ensured.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"If media freedom is misused to spread false information or disinformation, appropriate legal action should be taken. However, I will take necessary steps to ensure the protection of journalists in the country who report on environmental crises or climate issues based on truth and scientific evidence.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The first panel discussion titled “A Press for the Planet: Free Press and Freedom of Expression in the Context of the Current Global Environmental Crisis” kicked off with the presentations of Shamsuddin Illius, bureau chief of Chattogram, The Business Standard, and Usraat Fahmidah, freelance journalist, regarding the challenges of journalism in environmental issues and training young journalists.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The second panel discussion focused on the safety issues of journalists under the theme of “Media Defence for Crisis Reporting,” where journalists and experts from Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, India, the Maldives, and Sri Lanka participated.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-02 14:25:22', '2024-05-02 14:25:22'),
(12200, 12200, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The authorities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) have published a list of 80 Saudi companies that are keen to invest in various sectors of Bangladesh, said Salman F Rahman, Private Industry and Investment Adviser to the Prime Minister.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Salman, who is currently visiting Saudi Arabia, attended meetings with the Saudi Ministers and various important persons in the country and discussed potential investment opportunities in Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">After attending the special meeting of the World Economic Forum in Riyadh, Salman held these meetings with Saudi officials, according to a press release on Thursday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also met with the Chief of Staff and Secretary General of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), Saad Alkroud, reports unb</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“PIF Secretary General praised the economic development of Bangladesh and gave this information in a meeting: 80 Saudi companies have expressed interest in investing in Bangladesh,” Salman said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also said Saudi Arabia is interested in energy cooperation with Bangladesh. Saudi Arabia\'s Assistant Minister of Energy, Mohammed Al Ibrahim, said that the Saudi government is actively considering the proposal to buy crude oil on a deferred payment basis from Bangladesh. At this time, they discussed various issues of partnership between the two countries.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-02 14:50:29', '2024-05-02 14:50:29'),
(12201, 12201, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Asian Development Bank (ADB) President Masatsugu Asakawa on Saturday highlighted harnessing AI for inclusive growth and the need to adopt digital technology and ensure its careful and equitable use.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Artificial Intelligence offers tremendous potential to drive growth and help address development challenges in areas like healthcare, agriculture, and climate change,\" he said, shedding light on priority for the future.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The ADB President added that developing countries will miss out if they are not able to adopt this technology.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">There are also risks from AI, such as bias and lack of transparency, he said while speaking at the formal opening session of the 57th Annual Meeting at Concert Hall here.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Georgia\'s Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, among others, was present. A colorful event showcasing the rich Georgian culture followed.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The ADB President said the organization is working hard to strengthen the capacity of the developing member countries to deploy responsible AI solutions that follow an ethical framework and drive inclusive growth.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We believe that bridging the digital divide, and opening opportunities from AI, are key to a more prosperous future,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The ADB President said they have come together at a time when people of the region face challenges that demand close attention and coordination.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The impacts of climate change are unrelenting, and the risks from conflict and crisis can quickly undermine their livelihoods, and even their survival,\" Asakawa said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Let us move forward together, as we build the bridge to a more prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Beginning with the threat of climate change, he said this threat cannot be ignored, and their response cannot be delayed.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"2023 was the hottest year on record. We see its effects on people and risks to future development. Crops and food systems are increasingly vulnerable,\" Asakawa said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said the bridge to the future must be one that is inclusive. \"No one should be denied the benefits of development because of barriers to obtaining financing.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Driving green globalization</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Our presence in this room demonstrates how deeply our world is connected. We should celebrate this. We should also develop these connections to build greener and more open economies,\" said the ADB President.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It might be easy to look back at the pandemic, or at current geopolitical tensions and conflicts, and conclude that globalization is dead. \"I do not believe it.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"It is true that global trade and supply chains are vulnerable to shocks. But the answer cannot be protectionism and segmentation,\" Asakawa said, adding that free trade and free movement of capital have benefited the Asia-Pacific region for decades, and this must be the way forward.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">He laid emphasis on exploring how to deepen regional cooperation, in order to build resilience in supply chains, promote cross-border trade, bolster private sector investment, and strengthen financial and tax cooperation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Trade-related activities account for up to 30% of global carbon emissions</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The uncomfortable truth is that with Asia’s strong growth, our contribution to greenhouse gas emissions is rising,\" Asakawa said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said now is the time to act to reduce global value chain-related emissions for a more sustainable future.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Supporting members with the greatest need</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The ADB President stressed that their bridge to the future cannot leave behind those with the greatest need, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The poorest and most vulnerable populations, including those in small island developing states, face the heaviest burdens from climate change, economic shocks, and conflict,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The ADB chief said their financing must continue to include resources on concessional terms, including grants.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The Asian Development Fund has been a crucial vehicle for this. And with a replenishment completed on Thursday, we will be able to deliver up to $5 billion to meet these needs,\" the ADB President said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"33\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-04 10:39:57', '2024-05-04 10:39:57'),
(12202, 12202, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>A national guideline on heat-related illnesses will be launched on Sunday (May 5, 2024) to protect children and vulnerable populations including pregnant women from heat-related health risks.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) in Bangladesh, with UNICEF\'s support, will launch the national guideline.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This national guideline, developed in collaboration with experts from health and other sectors, provides a comprehensive framework for responding effectively to heat-related health risks.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">UNICEF has been a proud supporter of this initiative, working closely with DGHS to ensure the development of the guideline and the training of healthcare professionals across hospitals and health centers.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The event marks a significant milestone towards achieving Universal Health Coverage and ensuring the well-being of citizens, particularly vulnerable children, pregnant women and their unborn children, said UNICEF on Saturday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Samanta Lal Sen will join the launching ceremony as the chief guest while Sate Minister for Health and Family Welfare Dr Rokeya Sultana will attend as special guest.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Md Jahangir Alam, Secretary, Health Services Division, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare; Emma Brigham, Representative, UNICEF Bangladesh; and Professor Dr Abul Bashar Mohammad Khurshid Alam will also join the launch of the national guideline on heat-related illnesses. - UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-04 10:48:04', '2024-05-04 10:48:04'),
(12203, 12203, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Renowned economist and Professor Emeritus of Dhaka University, Dr. Atiur Rahman, will be awarded an honorary doctorate from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">This prestigious accolade, confirmed through a formal letter by Vice-Chancellor Professor Adam Habib on April 30, 2024, recognizes Dr. Rahman\'s extensive contributions to economics and poverty alleviation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Scheduled for early September 2024, during the annual graduation ceremony, Dr. Rahman will receive the Doctor of Science (Economics) degree. His recognition stems not only from his academic contributions but also from his practical applications in economic development.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dr. Rahman is celebrated for his role as the former Governor of Bangladesh Bank where he was instrumental in initiatives aimed at pro-poor public expenditure, environmental and climate policies, sustainable development, financial inclusion, and social innovation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dr. Rahman also founded Unnayan Shamannay, a globally recognized research and advocacy organization committed to socio-economic development. His work with the organization has been pivotal in advancing discussions and actions around poverty alleviation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">SOAS University of London has a history of honoring distinguished individuals who have made significant global impacts. In 2023, the university awarded honorary degrees to several international figures including eminent Indian screenwriter Javed Akhtar (Doctor of Literature), London-based culinary artist Asma Khan (Doctor of Science in Social Science), UK-based public health expert Professor Kevin Fenton (Doctor of Literature), and renowned Buddhist scholar Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse Rinpoche (Fellow).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The university anticipates that Dr. Rahman’s illustrious career and achievements will inspire both its students and the wider community during the graduation ceremonies, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As an alumnus of SOAS, Dr. Rahman\'s accolades extend beyond this honorary degree, including multiple national and international awards that underscore his influence and legacy in the field of economics and beyond.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-04 11:21:55', '2024-05-04 11:21:55'),
(12204, 12204, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Chief Heat Officer for Dhaka North City Bushra Afreen has said they are working to make life bearable for women in the communities with some solutions amid heatwaves.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">\"We are prioritizing solutions like providing drinking water at bus tops and coupling this with accessible women-friendly washrooms to ensure that women can easily find relief and safety during their daily commutes,\" she said in a video message.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Afreen, who attended a session as a panelist at the 57th Annual Meeting of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), said this is only the beginning of their journey to counteract the threat of heat and create a sustainable and cooler future for Dhaka.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said 2023 was the hottest year on record and last month’s heatwaves in Dhaka were longer and more intense than ever before.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Afreen said the heat felt suffocating making it literally too hot to breathe.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"As the Chief Heat Officer, I have observed the impact of these temperatures on women living in informal settlements,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Chief Heat Officer said the recent closure of schools due to the heat have left them juggling childcare alongside their works, which further marginalized them in a city which was never built for them.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Our efforts are centered on closing the gap that makes our heated city so unlivable for women,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Leading up to their heat awareness campaign, she said, they are identifying their daily greatest challenges and the risks they face during heatwaves.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Country\'s maximum temperature was recently recorded at 43.8 degree Celsius in Jashore.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Arsht-Rock, a Washington-based non-profit organisation, appointed social entrepreneur Bushra Afreen as its chief heat officer who is working in Dhaka North City Corporation area.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Adrienne Arsht-Rockefeller Foundation Resilience Center (Arsht-Rock) set out to reach one billion people worldwide with resilience solutions by 2030. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"39\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-04 12:00:50', '2024-05-04 12:00:50'),
(12205, 12205, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The Center for Policy Dialogue (CPD) has suggested setting the minimum wage for tannery industry workers at Tk 22,776, a figure calculated based on the current food prices and inflation rates.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This recommendation was part of a media briefing titled \"Challenges of Determining and Implementing Minimum Wages in the Tannery Industry,\" held at CPD’s office in Dhanmondi, Dhaka on Saturday, May 4.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During the briefing, the think tank also advocated for a revision of the wage grading system to ensure fair compensation across the sector.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The research leading to these recommendations was spearheaded by Dr. Khondaker Golam Moazzem, Research Director at CPD, with Senior Researcher Tamim Ahmed presenting the keynote paper.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Key industry stakeholders, including Liaquat Ali Mollah, chairman of the Minimum Wages Board, and Md Shaheen Ahmed, President of the Tanners\' Association, were present and contributed to the discussions.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">CPD\'s proposed wage structure takes into account a total monthly expenditure of Tk 33,445, which includes Tk 20,564 for food and Tk 12,881 for non-food expenses. The proposed wage calculation also considers the income of other family members, reflecting a comprehensive approach to wage determination in the current economic context.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Furthermore, Dr. Moazzem highlighted the need for a simplified and unified grading system within the tannery industry, noting the limited opportunities for advancement due to the sector’s diverse job roles.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As there is no scope for promotion within the current system, it is proposed to introduce subgrades within some grades (A, B, and C within Grade 5), which would create opportunities for promotion and enhance worker motivation, stated CPD.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The CPD emphasized the significance of the tannery industry as a key economic sector in Bangladesh, following the garment industry in importance.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to the Tanners\' Association, the industry comprises approximately 200 active tanneries spread across 127 plots in the Savar area, contributing a substantial US $1.2 billion in leather product exports in 2023. According to UNB reports</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd/fsa</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"33\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-04 12:56:50', '2024-05-04 12:56:50'),
(12206, 12206, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The United Nations humanitarian aid agency says hundreds of thousands of people would be “at imminent risk of death” if Israel carries out a military assault in the southern Gaza city of Rafah.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The city has become critical for humanitarian aid and is highly concentrated with displaced Palestinians.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Leaders internationally have urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to be cautious about any incursion into Rafah, where seven people — mostly children — were killed overnight in an Israeli airstrike.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On Thursday, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said any US response to such an incursion would be up to President Joe Biden, but that currently, “conditions are not favorable to any kind of operation.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Turkiye’s trade minister said Friday that its new trade ban on Israel was in response to “the deterioration and aggravation of the situation in Rafah.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Israel-Hamas war has driven around 80 percent of Gaza’s population of 2.3 million from their homes, caused vast destruction in several towns and cities, and pushed northern Gaza to the brink of famine.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The death toll in Gaza has soared to more than 34,500 people, according to local health officials, and the territory’s entire population has been driven into a humanitarian catastrophe.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The war began Oct. 7 when Hamas attacked southern Israel, abducting about 250 people and killing around 1,200, mostly civilians. Israel says militants still hold around 100 hostages and the remains of more than 30 others.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dozens of people demonstrated Thursday night outside Israel’s military headquarters in Tel Aviv, demanding a deal to release the hostages. Meanwhile, Hamas said it would send a delegation to Cairo as soon as possible to keep working on ceasefire talks. A leaked truce proposal hints at compromises by both sides after months of talks languishing in a stalemate.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Across the US, tent encampments and demonstrations against the Israel-Hamas war have spread across university campuses.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">More than 2,000 protesters have been arrested over the past two weeks as students rally against the war’s death toll and call for universities to separate themselves from any companies that are advancing Israel’s military efforts in Gaza. According to Reuters reports</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-04 13:27:11', '2024-05-04 13:27:11');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(12207, 12207, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The global allure of Korean dramas continues to grow, capturing the hearts of viewers worldwide with their intricate plots, imaginative storylines, and a blend of traditional and modern themes. Known for their vivid cinematography and emotive performances, K-dramas resonate with a global audience, breaking cultural and linguistic barriers. This May 2024, Netflix is set to enrich its catalog with a fresh batch of Korean dramas, each promising to bring its unique charm and excitement. Here’s what subscribers can look forward to.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Upcoming Korean Dramas on Netflix This May</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Frankly Speaking | Premiering May 1, 2024</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Directed by Jang Ji-Yeon and penned by Choi Kyung-Sun, this comedy melodrama features Go Kyung-Pyo, Joo Jong-Hyuk, and Kang Han-Na. It revolves around Song Ki-Baek, a 33-year-old radio announcer who suddenly can\'t filter his words due to a unique disorder. This leads him to a partnership with variety show writer On Woo-Ju, crafting a live show that capitalizes on his unfiltered candor.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Atypical Family | Premiering May 4, 2024</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This series is a romantic drama helmed by Jo Hyun-Taek and scripted by Joo Hwa-Mi. It stars Jang Ki-Yong, Chun Woo-Hee, and a supporting cast that includes Go Doo-Shim and Oh Man-Seok. The plot follows Bok Gwi-joo and his family, who lose their superpowers to a chronic illness, dramatically altering their lives as they cross paths with a mysterious character, Do Da-Hae.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Super Rich in Korea | Premiering May 7, 2024</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This reality TV show, led by Cho Saeho, BamBam, and Mimi and directed by Yuh Woon-Hyuk, explores the opulent lifestyles of the wealthy who are united by their love for Korean culture. From Singapore\'s elite to Arab socialites and Italian fashion icons, the show promises a glimpse into the lives of these affluent figures as they converge in Korea.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dare to Love Me | Premiering May 13, 2024</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This romantic comedy is directed by Jang Yang-Ho and stars Kim Myung-Soo and Lee Yoo-Young. The series portrays the budding romance between Shin Yoon-Bok, a respected MZ scholar known for his empathy, and Kim Hong-Do, a woman tired of superficial relationships.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The 8 Show | Premiering May 17, 2024</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A blend of thriller and dark comedy, this series is directed and written by Han Jae-Rim. It draws from the Naver Webtoons Money Game and Pie Game and features an ensemble cast including Ryu Jun-Yeol and Chun Woo-Hee. The plot centers around eight individuals who find themselves in a secretive, multi-layered venue where they participate in a dangerous game to earn money over time.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Summary of May 2024’s Korean Drama Offerings on Netflix</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The selection for May 2024 is a testament to the diversity and richness of Korean dramas. From the solitary romantic drama \"The Atypical Family\" to the lavish \"Super Rich in Korea,\" the range spans various genres and themes. The comedy is ever-present, with \"Frankly Speaking\" infusing it into a melodrama, \"Dare to Love Me\" weaving it through romance, and \"The 8 Show\" incorporating it into a thrilling dark narrative.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Netflix’s May 2024 Korean drama lineup promises to sustain the momentum of the Korean Wave with stories that appeal to a broad spectrum of emotions and interests. Whether you’re in for a laugh, a dose of romance, or a touch of suspense, this collection is poised to deliver memorable moments and gripping storytelling, maintaining the K-drama craze that viewers globally have come to cherish and anticipate each month. - UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'Entertainment', '[\"13\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-04 13:30:54', '2024-05-04 13:30:54'),
(12208, 12208, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Hamas was the only holdup to a Gaza ceasefire as the militants prepared to send a delegation back to Cairo on Saturday for talks.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">“We wait to see whether, in effect, they can take yes for an answer on the ceasefire and release of hostages,” Blinken said late Friday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The reality in this moment is the only thing standing between the people of Gaza and a ceasefire is Hamas.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Blinken pointed to difficulties in negotiating with Hamas, which the United States considers a terrorist group and does not engage with directly and which Israel has vowed to eliminate.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The leaders of Hamas that we’re indirectly engaged with — through the Qataris, through the Egyptians — are, of course, living outside of Gaza,” Blinken said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The ultimate decision-makers are the folks who are actually in Gaza itself with whom none of us have direct contact.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Blinken was addressing a dinner at the McCain Institute’s Sedona Forum in Arizona two days after meeting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other top leaders on his latest visit to the Middle East.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ahead of his talks with Blinken, Netanyahu vowed to push ahead with an assault on the southern Gaza city of Rafah to root out Hamas regardless of the outcome of negotiations for a temporary ceasefire that would involve the release of hostages.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">President Joe Biden’s administration has repeatedly warned Netanyahu’s government against moving on Rafah, where some 1.4 million Palestinians have taken shelter after fleeing the Israeli assault in response to the October 7 attack by Hamas, reports AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Blinken said that Israel, which counts on the United States for military and diplomatic support, has yet to present “a credible plan to genuinely protect the civilians who are in harm’s way” in Rafah.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">“Absent such a plan, we can’t support a major military operation going into Rafah because the damage it would do is beyond what’s acceptable,” Blinken said.&nbsp;</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-04 13:42:55', '2024-05-04 13:42:55'),
(12209, 12209, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>A fire broke out in the Amurbunia area at Chandpai range of the Sundarbans East Zone on Saturday.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The fire originated this afternoon, said Kazi Muhammad Nurul Karim, divisional forest officer (DFO) of Sundarbans East Zone.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On information, the staff of the forest department, Community Patrol Groups, Morelganj fire brigade and local villagers are trying to douse the fire.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Fire is being extinguished by bringing water from Bhola River about two kilometres away.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Fire lanes have been cut to prevent the fire from spreading into the forest, said the officer, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">DFO Nurul Karim also said that the fire might have originated from a cigarette. An investigation committee will be formed to find out the exact cause of the fire.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The forest officer could not confirm the overall damage of forest plants in the area where the fire originated.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-04 13:48:05', '2024-05-04 13:48:05'),
(12210, 12210, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The BNP has expelled 61 more of its grassroots leaders for participating in the second phase of upcoming upazila elections by violating the party\'s decision.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">With this latest action, the party has so far expelled 140 leaders for contesting the upazila polls in violation of its directives.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Previously, BNP had ousted 79 grassroots leaders who had filed nominations for chairman, vice-chairman, and female vice-chairman positions in the first phase of upazila polls scheduled for May 8.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to a press release issued on Saturday, these punitive measures were taken in line with the party\'s constitution.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It said the 61 leaders of BNP and its associate bodies contesting for the post of chairman, vice chairman and female vice chairman in the second phase of upazila polls in violation of the party\'s decision have been expelled from all party positions, including its primary membership.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;Of the expelled leaders, 26 were contesting for the post of upazila chairman, 19 for vice-chairman, and 16 for female vice-chairman.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;A total of 152 upazilas across the country are set to go to polls in the first phase on May 8 as per the schedule announced by the Election Commission. The elections for 492 upazilas will be held in four phases, with the second phase scheduled for May 23, the third on May 29, and the fourth on June 5.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">BNP remains steadfast in its decision not to participate in the upazila elections, mirroring its stance on the last national election, asserting that fair elections are impossible under the Awami League government.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier on Friday, BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi criticised their party leaders for participating in the upcoming Upazila Parishad (UP) polls against the party\'s decisions, describing them as misguided.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Speaking at a press conference at BNP\'s Nayapaltan central office, Rizvi also warned that the opposition leaders seeking to participate in the election race under the Awami League are living in fools\' paradise, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On behalf of BNP, Rizvi urged opposition leaders and workers to boycott the \"so-called\" upazila elections and said people will not accept the local body polls like the January 7 national election even if some misguided BNP leaders remain in the race.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-04 14:00:13', '2024-05-04 14:00:13'),
(12211, 12211, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Russia has opened a criminal case against Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and put him on a wanted list, the state news agency TASS reported on Saturday, citing the Interior Ministry\'s database.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The entry it cited gave no further details.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Russia has issued arrest warrants for a number of Ukrainian and other European politicians since the start of the conflict with Ukraine in February 2022.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Russian police in February put Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, Lithuania\'s culture minister and members of the previous Latvian parliament on a wanted list for destroying Soviet-era monuments.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Russia also issued an arrest warrant for the International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor who last year prepared a warrant for President Vladimir Putin on war crimes charges. - Reuters&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-04 14:14:47', '2024-05-04 14:14:47'),
(12212, 12212, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has suggested Bangladesh to think of ways for accelerating adoption of renewable energy across the country as intensive heat in the country will further increase the demand.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">\"One of the challenges that Bangladesh will face is the increase of demand for energy,\" ADB\'s climate envoy Warren Evans told UNB, noting that Bangladesh is already taking really good steps for awareness building on the risks of intensive heat for people, specially the women.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said investment is required in the coming years to be able to survive and grow economically in the face of climate impact. \"It is going to require a substantial investment.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Warren provides broad oversight and guidance for ADB’s climate operations, including optimizing climate finance scale and impact, mobilizing new and additional technical and financial resources, strengthening ADB’s external climate partnerships and engagement with international climate agreements and initiatives, and reinforcing capacity development for climate change operations.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Responding to a question, he said it will require a lot of policy and regulatory reforms.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The envoy referred to a policy based loan (PBL) with Bangladesh that looks at those policy and regulatory reforms.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said that was set in place, giving a new direction for ADB\"s system in Bangladesh, which is largely focused on climate action.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"So, there are a lot of challenges, but we see great real progress,\" said the climate envoy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He mentioned the \"Gender and Heat Initiative\" launched recently to better understand and invest in adaptation to the impacts of heat stress on women and girls across Asia and the Pacific.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Under the new technical assistance program, ADB sees how the growing threat of heat stress affects women and identify specific policies, actions, and investments that can help governments reduce the impacts of heat on women and girls.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The initiative marks ADB’s commitment to integrating heat action-planning into all new operations in vulnerable regions, focusing on enhancing women’s climate resilience and advocating for gender-responsive measures.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The programme covered Bangladesh, Cambodia, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Tajikistan.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Extreme heat has been linked to more than 650 billion hours of annual labour losses worldwide, equivalent to about 148 million full-time jobs—a scale of disruption comparable to the COVID-19 pandemic.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Women are disproportionately affected by these rising temperatures, facing life-threatening conditions and substantial socioeconomic losses.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The programme aligns with the bank’s ambition to provide $100 billion in climate financing from its own resources from 2019 to 2030, including $34 billion for adaptation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In 2022, ADB committed $7.1 billion of climate finance, including $4.3 billion for mitigation and $2.8 billion for adaptation. The bank mobilized an additional $548 million in climate finance from the private sector last year.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Warren said Bangladesh is highly vulnerable to every climate impact - storms, floods, and droughts. \"Bangladesh is highly exposed to all these.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He, however, said Bangladesh has taken very serious actions already in terms of disaster management, ensuring less impact when any disaster comes.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The climate exert, a special senior advisor (Climate Change) at the office of the President at the Asian Development Bank, said Bangladesh and India are well advanced in terms managing disasters and rest of the world will learn from these two South Asian countries, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">To mitigate intensive heat-related problems, he said some fairly simple measures can be taken.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It will require more sheds and early morning system so that employers can make their workers aware of the heat.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On the other hand, he said, it is all about water and making it available to everyone. \"There are many things that can be done.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-04 14:24:08', '2024-05-04 14:24:08'),
(12213, 12213, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">UNRWA has accused Israel of persisting in targeting women in its attacks on the Gaza Strip.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The war in Gaza continues to be a war on women,” UNRWA said in a statement posted on its social media platform X, adding that more than 10,000 women have been killed and 19,000 others injured in the ongoing Israeli attacks on Gaza.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“37 children lose their mother every single day,” UNRWA added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Living conditions are particularly “appalling” for more than 155,000 pregnant or breastfeeding women in Gaza, who are facing extreme difficulty in accessing water and sanitary items, the agency said. Source: The Palestinian Information Center </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-04 14:29:22', '2024-05-04 14:49:02'),
(12214, 12214, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Summer is a time of heat and outdoor activities, but for pregnant women, it also brings the challenge of coping with intense heat waves that can pose serious health risks. From dehydration to heatstroke, the heightened vulnerability of expectant mothers requires careful strategies to ensure their health and that of their developing babies. This comprehensive guide explores practical and effective measures to safeguard pregnant women during these critical months.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Understanding the Risks for Pregnant Women in Summer</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Pregnancy demands a lot from the body, which is already managing increased blood volume and the energy requirements of carrying a baby. In the summer, these challenges are compounded by higher temperatures and humidity, which can lead to faster dehydration and overheating. This increased susceptibility makes it essential to adopt preventive measures against heat-related health issues.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hydration: The First Line of Defense Against Heat</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Water is a vital ally for pregnant women during hot weather. Staying well-hydrated is crucial, as dehydration can trigger complications such as overheating, urinary tract infections, and even preterm labor. At least 8-10 glasses of water daily are recommended. Using a reusable water bottle makes it easier to stay hydrated on the go.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Electrolyte Management</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Alongside hydration, maintaining electrolyte balance is critical. Loss of electrolytes through sweating can be significant in summer. Electrolyte-rich drinks or adding a pinch of salt to water can help restore balance.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Natural sources such as coconut water are also beneficial. It is important to check with a healthcare provider before incorporating new items into the diet, particularly if there are underlying health conditions.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Choosing the Right Clothing</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Appropriate attire can significantly influence body temperature. Pregnant women should opt for loose, lightweight, and breathable clothing. Fabrics like cotton and linen are ideal as they allow air circulation and help prevent overheating.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Light colors are preferable because they reflect sunlight, whereas dark colors absorb it, increasing heat retention. Comfortable, well-fitting shoes are also essential to accommodate swelling in the feet, a common issue during pregnancy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sun Protection Strategies</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sun protection is vital for preventing skin damage and managing body temperature. A wide-brimmed hat, UV-protective sunglasses, and sunscreen with at least SPF 30 are key to guarding against the harmful effects of UV radiation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Limiting Exposure to Extreme Heat</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It is advisable for pregnant women to minimize their time spent outdoors during peak heat hours—typically between 10 am and 4 pm. Planning activities during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening, can reduce the risk of overheating. When outside, staying in shaded areas or using an umbrella can provide immediate relief from direct sunlight.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Indoor Cooling Measures</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Keeping cool indoors is just as important as managing outdoor heat exposure. During the hottest times of the day, it\'s beneficial to stay in air-conditioned environments. If air conditioning isn\'t available, spending time in public buildings that are air-conditioned can offer respite. Fans can also improve air circulation at home, making indoor environments more bearable.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Cooling and Comfort Measures</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Taking cool showers or baths can help lower body temperature effectively. Pregnant women may find frequent, brief cooling showers refreshing and helpful in maintaining comfort. Additionally, a portable spray bottle filled with cool water can be used for quick cooling on the go, especially when outdoor activities are unavoidable.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Managing Swelling and Discomfort</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Swelling in the legs and feet can worsen in hot weather due to increased blood flow and body fluid. Elevating the legs when sitting and avoiding crossing them for long periods can help reduce swelling. Regular movement, such as walking or gentle stretching, is also beneficial in promoting blood circulation and reducing discomfort.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Nutritional Considerations for Heat Management</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Nutrition plays a pivotal role in managing health during pregnancy. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help maintain energy levels without overloading the digestive system. Foods high in water content, such as fruits and vegetables like watermelon, cucumbers, and leafy greens, contribute to hydration while providing essential nutrients.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Light, easily digestible foods are preferable to heavy meals, which can exacerbate feelings of heat and discomfort.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Exercise and Activity Recommendations</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Maintaining an active lifestyle is important during pregnancy, but activities should be adapted to the weather conditions. Light exercises, such as walking or swimming, are ideal for keeping fit while managing body temperature. Indoor exercise options, like prenatal yoga in air-conditioned spaces, can also be a good alternative to outdoor activities.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Monitoring for Heat-Related Illness</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Awareness of the signs of heat-related illness is crucial. Symptoms like dizziness, excessive sweating, nausea, and headache should be taken seriously, and medical advice should be sought if they occur. Pregnant women should also take frequent breaks and listen to their bodies to prevent overexertion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Emphasizing Rest and Emergency Preparedness</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Adequate rest is essential, and pregnant women should ensure they do not overextend themselves, especially in high temperatures. Preparing for emergencies, including having a list of essential contacts and understanding the signs of heat-related illnesses, can ensure prompt access to medical care if needed.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Conclusion</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">While summer can be a challenging time for pregnant women, with the right precautions and awareness, it is possible to manage the heat effectively and maintain both comfort and health. By prioritizing hydration, proper nutrition, and cooling strategies, expectant mothers can navigate the summer months safely and enjoyably.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Remember, consulting with healthcare providers before making significant changes to your routine or diet is always recommended to ensure the best outcomes for both mother and child. Source: UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', '<p><b><font color=\"#3984c6\">Health Tips </font></b><br></p>', 'Life Style Desk', '[\"24\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-04 14:34:06', '2024-05-04 14:48:29'),
(12215, 12215, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud today underlined the need for a united and tougher stance by the OIC member states to permanently end Israeli aggression against the Palestinian population. </span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>He made the remark while holding a meeting with the Permanent Observer of the State of Palestine to the United Nations, Riyad Mansour on the sidelines of the preparatory meeting of the 15th OIC Summit in the Gambia on Friday, said a press release received here today. </div><div><br></div><div>During the meeting, Mansour briefed on the current situation in Palestine and requested Bangladesh\'s unwavering support for Palestine in international forums. </div><div><br></div><div>Hasan also informed about the deep support of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the people of Bangladesh for the Palestinian people.</div><div><br></div><div>The foreign minister is leading the Bangladesh delegation at the preparatory meeting of foreign ministers. - BSS</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-04 14:47:00', '2024-05-04 14:47:25'),
(12216, 12216, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Students at Trinity College Dublin protesting Israel’s war in Gaza have built an encampment that forced the university to restrict campus access on Saturday and close the Book of Kells exhibition, one of Ireland’s top tourist attractions.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The camp was set up late on Friday after Trinity College’s students’ union said it had been fined €214,000 by the university for financial losses incurred due to protests in recent months not exclusively regarding the war in Gaza.</div><div><br></div><div>Students’ union president Laszlo Molnarfia posted a photograph of benches piled up in front of the entrance to the building where the Book of Kells is housed on the X social media platform on Friday. The illuminated manuscript book was created by Celtic monks in about 800 AD.</div><div><br></div><div>“The Book of Kells is now closed indefinitely,” he said in the post.</div><div><br></div><div>Trinity College said it had restricted access to the campus to students, staff, and residents to ensure safety and that the Book of Kells exhibition would be closed on Saturday.</div><div><br></div><div>Similar to the student occupations sweeping US campuses, protesters at Trinity College are demanding that Ireland’s oldest university cut ties with Israeli universities and divest from companies with ties to Israel.</div><div><br></div><div>Protests at universities elsewhere have included Australia and Canada.</div><div><br></div><div>In a statement last week, the head of the university, Linda Doyle, said Trinity College’s was reviewing its investments in a portfolio of companies and that decisions on whether to work with Israeli institutions rested with individual academics.</div><div><br></div><div>More than 34,600 Palestinians have been killed in Israel’s seven-month-old assault on the Gaza Strip, say health officials in the Hamas-ruled enclave. The war began when Hamas fighters attacked Israel on Oct 7, killing 1,200 people and abducting 253 others, of whom 133 are believed to remain in captivity in Gaza, according to Israeli tallies.</div><div><br></div><div>Ireland has long been a champion of Palestinian rights, and the government has pledged to formally recognise Palestine as a state soon. - Reuters&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"34\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-04 14:53:09', '2024-05-04 14:53:09'),
(12217, 12217, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Firefighting efforts resumed this morning in the Sundarbans East Zone’s Amurbunia area, following a fire that erupted on Saturday.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The operation, which began at 9 am on Sunday, saw the coordinated efforts of the Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Forest Guard, and Fire Service.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The initial response was led by a ten-member team from the Mongla naval base. Following this, members of the Fire Service attempted to set up water extraction from the nearby Bhola River. However, the operation faced a setback due to low tide conditions, delaying the water supply.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Kazi Muhammad Nurul Karim, the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Sundarbans East Zone, stated that logistical challenges prevented the operation from starting sooner. \"The Navy, Coast Guard, and Air Force joined the Fire Service this morning to accelerate efforts. Local volunteers are also lending significant support,\" he reported.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mamun Ahmed, Deputy Director of Bagerhat Fire Service and Civil Defense, detailed the deployment of additional firefighting units. \"Five units from various locations were dispatched to the site this morning, with three from Mongla, Morrelganj, and Shoronkhola actively engaging in the firefighting efforts. The remaining two units are on standby,\" he said, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also noted the challenges posed by the tidal conditions, which have hindered the transportation of necessary equipment such as additional pipes. \"The fire is spreading slowly through dry leaves and poses no significant risk at this time,\" Ahmed added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Concerning the origin of the fire, DFO Karim acknowledged that the exact cause is still unknown. \"We are considering various reports from locals and have formed a three-member investigation committee led by Assistant Conservator of Forests Rana Dev to determine the cause,\" he concluded.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-05 08:19:59', '2024-05-05 08:19:59'),
(12218, 12218, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Sunday opened the newly constructed Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP) Bhaban and Sena Prangan (Army Central Auditorium) Bhaban in Dhaka Cantonment.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She unveiled the name plaques of the multi-storey AFIP Bhaban and Sena Prangan Bhaban in Dhaka Cantonment.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier entered AFIP Bhaban by cutting ribbon and visited different facilities installed in the new Bhaban. AFIP Commandant Major General Dr Nishat Jubaida highlighted the main features and facilities of the new Bhaban to the PM.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In 2019, the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (Ecnec) approved the project titled ‘Extension and Modernization of the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP)’ in order to fulfill the growing demand of pathology services. The project is being implemented before the stipulated time of December 2024.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The 14-storey AFIP Bhaban is equipped with the modern laboratory where the latest technology like next generation sequencing, automated microbial identification system, transmission electron microscope and multi-headed microscope were installed to ensure international standard services.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Health and Family Welfare Minister Prof Dr Samanta Lal Sen, Chief of Army Staff General SM Shafiuddin Ahmed and Chief of Naval Staff Admiral M Nazmul Hassan, among others, were present.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Then the prime minister went to inaugurate Sena Prangan and entered the new Bhaban by cutting a ribbon.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The army central auditorium, Sena Prangan, has been constructed for organieing various national and international-level events like important meetings, seminars and social events, reports UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Chief of Army Staff General SM Shafiuddin Ahmed and high army officers were present.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-05 08:49:53', '2024-05-05 08:49:53'),
(12219, 12219, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The Board of Governors of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Sunday approved the bank’s 2023 financial statements and a $1.42 billion net income allocation from its ordinary capital resources, the highest in ADB’s history.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The 2023 net income will be allocated as follows:</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">$1.005 billion to ADB’s ordinary reserve to support the bank’s capital growth and provide an earnings base to generate income;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">$292.5 million to the Asian Development Fund, which provides grants to ADB’s poorest and most vulnerable developing member countries.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">$110 million to the Technical Assistance Special Fund, which provides technical assistance grants to borrowing members to help prepare projects and undertake technical or policy studies;&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">$15 million to the Asian Pacific Disaster Response Fund, which provides immediate post-disaster grants to developing member countries for restoring lifesaving services.&nbsp; &nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Allocable net income is defined as net income after appropriation of guarantee fees to the special reserve and certain adjustments reported in the cumulative revaluation adjustments account.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On May 3, donors and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) agreed to a replenishment of $5 billion for ADB’s Asian Development Fund (ADF) 14 and Technical Assistance Special Fund (TASF) 8.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The commitment was made during ADB’s 57th Annual Meeting.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The ADF is ADB’s largest source of grants for operations in its poorest and most vulnerable developing member countries and is replenished every 4 years.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">ADF 14, marking the 13th replenishment since the fund’s establishment, will support grant operations during 2025Â­Â­Â­-2028.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The ADF 14 replenishment is about 22% higher than the $4.1 billion available in ADF 13, and will provide eligible ADB members with the largest-ever volume of ADF grants.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">TASF 8 will provide grants that help prepare projects, build capacity, and provide technical or policy advice.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members-49 from the region. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"33\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-05 09:06:09', '2024-05-05 09:06:09'),
(12220, 12220, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Rain or thunder showers are likely in some places of Dhaka and six other divisions in 24 hours commencing 9am on Sunday, said Bangladesh Metrological Department.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Rains or thunder showers accompanied by gusty or squally wind is likely at a few places over Mymensingh &amp; Sylhet divisions and at one or two places over Rangpur, Rajshahi, Dhaka, Barishal &amp; Chattogram divisions with hails at isolated places,” said a Met office bulletin.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Weather may remain mainly dry with temporary partly cloudy sky elsewhere over the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mild to moderate heat wave is sweeping Dhaka, Rajshahi, Khulna &amp; Barishal divisions and it may abate from some places, it added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Day and night temperature may fall slightly over Rangpur, Dhaka, Mymensingh, Barishal, Chattogram &amp; Sylhet divisions and remain nearly unchanged elsewhere over the country. - UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-05-05 09:23:44', '2024-05-05 09:23:44');
