INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(6482, 6482, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Thousands of residents fled from Sudan\'s capital where witnesses reported bodies in the streets and embassies said more than 270 civilians had been killed in battles between the army and paramilitaries by Thursday, with no end in sight.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>\"Life in Khartoum is impossible if this war does not stop,\" said Alawya al-Tayeb, 33, on her way out of the city.</div><div><br></div><div>\"I tried to make children not see the slain bodies on the streets,\" she said, adding that her youngsters are already suffering from trauma and will need treatment.</div><div><br></div><div>The Rapid Support Forces paramilitaries said they would \"fully commit to a complete ceasefire\" from 1600 GMT for 24 hours, as did the army.</div><div><br></div><div>But gunfire continued in Khartoum from the appointed time and into Wednesday night, according to witnesses.</div><div><br></div><div>It was the second day in a row a proposed humanitarian ceasefire failed to take hold.</div><div><br></div><div>The Sudanese army said that 177 Egyptian soldiers who had been captured by the RSF in the northern city of Merowe were evacuated Wednesday back to Egypt -- a close ally of the military establishment -- on four Egyptian military transport planes.</div><div><br></div><div>Other evacuation plans have been difficult to orchestrate, as foreign diplomats have been attacked and UN received reports of sexual violence against aid workers.</div><div><br></div><div>UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres announced he would meet Thursday with the heads of the African Union, the Arab League and regional bloc the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, his spokesman told reporters.</div><div><br></div><div>The violence erupted on Saturday between forces of the two generals who seized power in a 2021 coup: army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy Mohamed Hamdan Daglo who commands the RSF.</div><div><br></div><div>It followed a bitter dispute between them over the planned integration of the RSF into the regular army -- a key condition for a final deal aimed at restoring Sudan\'s democratic transition.</div><div><br></div><div>Heavy gunfire resounded and deafening explosions rattled buildings in Khartoum -- a city of five million people -- as thick black smoke rose from buildings around the army headquarters.</div><div><br></div><div>RSF fighters atop armoured vehicles and pickup trucks laden with weapons swarmed the streets. Fighter jets roared overhead and fired on RSF targets, the witnesses said.</div><div><br></div><div>Battles have damaged residential and commercial buildings, and civilians sheltering in their homes are becoming increasingly desperate, with dwindling food supplies, power outages, and a lack of running water.</div><div><br></div><div>- \'Even worse\' -</div><div><br></div><div>\"Neither side seems to be winning at the moment, and given the intensity of the violence, things could get even worse before the two generals come to the negotiating table,\" according to Clement Deshayes, a Sudan specialist at Paris\'s Sorbonne University.</div><div><br></div><div>Thousands aren\'t waiting and, according to witnesses, began leaving Khartoum by car or on foot.</div><div><br></div><div>They said the air was filled with the stench of dead bodies littering the streets.</div><div><br></div><div>Mohamed Saleh, 43, a government employee, said he was leaving behind \"the terror of explosions\" to stay with relatives in Madani, southeast of the capital.</div><div><br></div><div>\"We were very worried fighters would start storming homes,\" he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Both forces must \"refrain from unlawfully evicting people from their homes\", during fighting that is \"recklessly endangering the Sudanese people, diplomats and humanitarian aid workers\", the US embassy wrote in a statement signed by 14 other diplomatic missions in Sudan.</div><div><br></div><div>The army said the central bank of the impoverished country had been looted and \"huge sums of money\" stolen by the RSF, which blamed army soldiers for \"attacking homes of families\".</div><div><br></div><div>- Hospitals shelled -</div><div><br></div><div>\"The toll has been high, with initial estimated civilian deaths of more than 270,\" according to the embassies.</div><div><br></div><div>The real figure is thought to be much more, with many wounded unable to reach hospitals which are themselves being shelled, according to the official doctors\' union.</div><div><br></div><div>About two-thirds of Khartoum\'s 59 main hospitals are \"out of service\", said the union which reported \"severe shortages\" in remaining facilities.</div><div><br></div><div>Japan said its defence ministry had begun the \"necessary preparations\" to evacuate around 60 of its nationals, including embassy staff.</div><div><br></div><div>Berlin aborted on Wednesday an evacuation attempt involving three military transport planes, which would have carried 150 citizens, according to German weekly Der Spiegel.</div><div><br></div><div>The US embassy in Khartoum said it started gathering citizens\' personal details but tweeted: \"Due to the uncertain security situation in Khartoum and closure of the airport, there are no plans for (a) US government-coordinated evacuation.\"</div><div><br></div><div>The defence minister in Chad, which borders Sudan\'s Darfur region, said around 320 Sudanese soldiers had fled over the border in fear of the RSF, which was created in 2013 by longtime autocrat Omar al-Bashir.</div><div><br></div><div>- Crackdown –</div><div><br></div><div>Military commanders toppled Bashir together in April 2019 following mass protests against his three decades of iron-fisted rule.</div><div><br></div><div>In October 2021 Burhan and Daglo worked together in the coup against the civilian government installed following Bashir\'s ouster, derailing an internationally backed transition.</div><div><br></div><div>Burhan, whose career advanced under Bashir, has maintained his coup was \"necessary\" to bring more factions into politics.</div><div><br></div><div>But Daglo, who rose to prominence during the Bashir government\'s scorched-earth policy against Darfuri rebels, has since called the coup a \"mistake\" that failed to bring about change and invigorated Bashir\'s remnants. - AFP</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-20 14:40:21', '2023-04-20 14:40:21'),
(6483, 6483, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Bangladesh will welcome observers from the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom (UK) in the upcoming general election.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>\"We will welcome observers from the European Union and the United Kingdom in the next general election,\" Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said on Thursday.</div><div><br></div><div>She said this when the outgoing UK High Commissioner Robert Chatterton Dickson paid a farewell call at her official residence Ganabhaban.</div><div><br></div><div>PM\'s Press Secretary Ihsanul Karim briefed reporters after the meeting.</div><div><br></div><div>Mentioning that some local election observers have a different agenda, the Prime Minister said they have established voting rights of people in Bangladesh.</div><div><br></div><div>She said the extreme poverty rate has declined to 5.6 percent while poverty rate was down to 18.7 percent due to continued democracy in Bangladesh.</div><div><br></div><div>During the meeting, they held talks on the bilateral relations between Bangladesh and the UK.</div><div><br></div><div>The UK envoy said his country wants to strengthen economic partnership and cooperation in the aviation sector with Bangladesh.</div><div><br></div><div>He said the UK wants to enhance cooperation with Bangladesh in order to tackle climate change, in line with the accord signed between the countries last March.</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>On the Rohingya issue, Sheikh Hasina sought international cooperation to repatriate Rohingyas in a sustainable way.</div><div><br></div><div>She said the number of Rohingyas has increased largely as 40,000 babies were born in the camps, adding to the huge burden on Bangladesh.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Rohingyas are nationals of Myanmar and they must return to their homeland,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>Robert Chatterton Dickson said his country supports Bangladesh on the Rohingya issue.</div><div><br></div><div>Sheikh Hasina stressed the need for stopping the Russia-Ukraine war immediately as the entire world has been suffering due to the war.</div><div><br></div><div>\"We\'re always against any war,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>The Prime Minister said Russia and Ukraine can solve their problems through bilateral talks, mentioning that Bangladesh has solved all its bilateral issues this way. PMO Secretary Mohammad Salahuddin was present during the meeting. Source: UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div><div><br></div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-20 14:44:18', '2023-04-20 14:44:18'),
(6484, 6484, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">President Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina have greeted the countrymen as well as the Muslims across the world on the occasion of the holy Eid-ul-Fitr, one of the biggest religious festivals of the Muslim Ummah.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>They issued separate messages praying for continued peace, progress and prosperity of the country, the Muslim Ummah, interfaith harmony and global peace.</div><div><br></div><div>In his message, the president said that after the month-long fasting and moderation, the holy Eid-ul-Fitr has come to the people with the message of immense happiness and joy.</div><div><br></div><div>\"On this occasion, I extend my sincere greetings to the countrymen and the entire Muslim Ummah,\" the head of the state added.</div><div><br></div><div>Noting that the Eid-ul-Fitr is one of the most important religious festivals of the Muslims, he said: \"The Eid is our universal festival. The joy of Eid spreads among everyone in villages and all over Bengal as well as all over the world\".</div><div><br></div><div>Forgetting all differences on this day, people of all classes and professions join in one row and share the joy of Eid, he said, adding that Eid builds bonds of amity, harmony and unity among all.</div><div><br></div><div>Hamid hoped that the lesson of Eid-ul-Fitr will spread among all and develop a prosperous Bangladesh in the days to come.</div><div><br></div><div>Islam is a religion of peace and welfare, he said, adding that Islam embraces universal welfare, including human values, mutual coexistence, tolerance and equality.</div><div><br></div><div>\"This noble message and ideology of Islam should be spread among all,\" he added.</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>He called upon the affluent section of the society to stand by the poor people so that everyone can enjoy the joy of Eid equally, irrespective of rich and poor.</div><div>\"May the meaning and underlying significance of Islam spread among all as a guide to the emancipation of humanity and may the world be filled with peace and harmony. This is my hope on the holy Eid-ul-Fitr,\" the president continued.</div><div><br></div><div>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in her message conveyed her sincere greetings and Eid Mubarak to all the Muslims of the country and the world.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Eid teaches a unique lesson of peace, sympathy and brotherhood,\" the premier said.</div><div><br></div><div>Forgetting hatred and violence, people are bound by the bonds of equality, friendship and harmony (on this day), she said, adding that Eid brings a message of joy in the life of everyone irrespective of rich and poor.</div><div><br></div><div>She hoped that the self-purification, moderation, harmony and harmony of the Muslims will pervade in lives of individual, family, society and state.</div><div><br></div><div>\"May the life of every person be filled with happiness and endless joy of the holy Eid,\" she wished.</div><div><br></div><div>The premier urged all to avoid all kinds of injustice, lawlessness, violence and superstition to establish the spirit of Islam at all levels of individual, social and national life in the country. - BSS</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-20 21:31:16', '2023-04-20 21:31:16'),
(6485, 6485, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The Court of Appeals of the Philippines turned down an appeal of former branch manager of Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) Maia Santos Deguito challenging her conviction in a case involving US$ 81 million cyber heist from Bangladesh Bank reserve.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The Appeal court confirmed her sentence of seven years in prison given by the trial court, reports CNN Philippine. The Court of Appeals dismissed Maia Deguito’s appeal seeking cancellation of her sentence in a 58-page verdict published on Wednesday.</div><div><br></div><div>In her appeal, Maia Santos Deguito said the sentence given by the trial court was based on a misunderstanding regarding the allegations of money laundering raised against her. She also termed the conviction against her that she allowed the transaction despite knowing it’s illegal as ‘assumptive’ in the appeal.</div><div><br></div><div>However, the Court of Appeals of the Philippines dismissed Maia Heguito’s plea on the ground that she was not just another employee of the RCBC. The transaction was possible because of the account she opened.</div><div><br></div><div>The trial court verdict said Maia Deguito was involved in smooth implementation and coordination of this illegal bank transaction. Deguito was found guilty of money laundering in all the eight allegations brought against her.</div><div><br></div><div>She was sentenced to four to seven years in prison on each count of violation of the Anti-Money Laundering Act. She was also fined with $ 109 million.</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier, a total of US$ 101 million was stolen from the reserve of Bangladesh Bank on the night of 4 February 2016. The reserve was kept in the Federal Reserve Bank of New York in the US. Of this, some $ 81 million was transferred to the Rizal Bank of Philippine. The money was then promptly transferred to multiple accounts under four fictitious names at the RCBC branch on Jupiter Street in Makati City following the illegal transaction.</div><div><br></div><div>Maia Santos Deguito, as the manager of the Makati branch of RCBC, was directly involved in the money-laundering.</div><div><br></div><div>Although the major portion of the money stolen from BB reserve was transferred to the Philippines, some $20 million was sent to Sri Lanka.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Bangladesh, later, recovered that $20 million from Sri Lanka. However, most of the money that was transferred to the Philippines has not been recovered yet. According to media reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas&nbsp;&nbsp;</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-20 21:33:40', '2023-04-20 21:33:40'),
(6486, 6486, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Zafia Rahman and Zahia Rahman, two daughters of late Arafat Rahman Koko, have&nbsp; come to Dhaka from Britain to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr with their grandmother Khaleda Zia.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>They arrived at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport around 1:30 pm and reached Khaleda’s Gulshan residence, Firoza, said BNP media cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan.</div><div><br></div><div>He said Koko’s wife Sharmila Rahman Shinthi, who came home from London in November last year, received her two daughters at the airport.</div><div><br></div><div>On March 25, 2020, the government temporarily freed Khaleda Zia from jail through an executive order suspending her sentence with conditions that she would stay at her Gulshan house and would not leave the country. Since then, she has been staying at her house.</div><div><br></div><div>She also received treatment several times at Evercare Hospital for her various ailments.</div><div><br></div><div>Koko, the younger son of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman and its chairperson Khaleda Zia, died of cardiac arrest in Malaysia on January 24, 2015.</div><div><br></div><div>Following his death, his wife and two daughters went to London and they have been staying there since then. Khaleda’s eldest son Tarique Rahman has also been residing in London with his family since he left Bangladesh in September 2008. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-20 21:38:20', '2023-04-20 21:38:20'),
(6487, 6487, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Huge traffic congestion was created at various important points on Dhaka-Aricha Highway in Savar, Baipail Abdullahpur highway in Ashulia and at Nabinagar and Chandra areas due to increased pressure of Eid holidaymakers.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Massive traffic congestion coupled with the mild heatwave that has been sweeping the country have exacerbated the plight of passengers who were travelling home to celebrate Eid with their families.</div><div><br></div><div>There are more than 1,500 readymade garment factories in Savar and Dhaka\'s Dhamrai. As a result, people from different parts of the country live in these two upazilas.</div><div><br></div><div>All garment factories have been declared closed as of this morning. As a result, workers employed in those factories have been rushing to the village since early in the morning to celebrate Eid with their loved ones.</div><div><br></div><div>Many complained that the bus companies are charging extra fare.</div><div><br></div><div>Mobile court drives were conducted on the highways after receiving information about charging extra fare from the commuters.</div><div><br></div><div>Meanwhile, Traffic police personnel are working to keep the movement of vehicles smooth on the highway.</div><div><br></div><div>Inspector General of Police (IGP) Chowdhury Abdullah Al Mamun, who inspected the overall situation of the highway in Baipail area of Ashulia, said that the situation on the highway is currently in good condition and the police personnel on duty are working on the highways to ease traffic congestion, reports UNB</div><div><br></div><div>He added that strict action will be taken if any bus owner charges extra fare from the passengers.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-20 21:42:01', '2023-04-20 21:42:01'),
(6488, 6488, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The first day of Eid al-Fitr will begin on Friday, April 21, following the sighting of the crescent moon in Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom’s Supreme Court announced on Thursday.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Eid al-Fitr celebrations follow the end of Ramadan which lasts 29 or 30 days based on when the crescent moon is sighted.</div><div><br></div><div>Muslims follow a lunar calendar consisting of 12 months in a year of 354 or 355 days.</div><div><br></div><div>Employees in the Kingdom\'s private and non-profit sector will enjoy a four-day paid holiday that will begin at the end of work on Thursday, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development had announced. - Alarabiya news</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-20 21:52:00', '2023-04-20 21:52:00'),
(6489, 6489, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Residents of 40 villages in Chandpur district will celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr on Friday amid much enthusiasm and religious fervour .</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>The villagers of Hajiganj, Faridganj, Matlab North, Kachua and Sharasti upazilas will celebrate Eid on Friday following Saudi Arabia and its neighbours.</div><div><br></div><div>The main congregation of Eid-ul-Fitr will be held at 9am at Peer Mawlana Isahak Saheber Darbar Sharif Jame Mosque in Shadra village of Hajiganj upazila, said Maulana Zakariya Chowdhury of the darbar sharif.</div><div><br></div><div>The Eid congregation will be led by him, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Late Maulana Ishaque introduced the practice of Eid celebration in Chandpur in line with the celebration in Saudi Arabia in 1931.</div><div><br></div><div>Devotees of these villages began fasting on the same date with the people of Saudi Arabia.</div><div><br></div><div>Saudi Arabia announced that the Kingdom will celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr on Friday as the Shawwal moon was sighted on Thursday, reports the Saudi Gazette newspaper.</div><div><br></div><div>Meanwhile, the National Moon Sighting Committee in Bangladesh is scheduled to meet on Friday evening to decide the date of Eid. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-21 10:52:22', '2023-04-21 10:52:22'),
(6490, 6490, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Micro-blogging site Twitter on Thursday removed the legacy verified blue ticks from all accounts.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>The only individual Twitter users who have verified blue checkmarks are those paying for Twitter Blue, which costs USD 8/month via the web and USD 11/month through in-app payment on iOS and Android.</div><div><br></div><div>Due to the recent development, several B-town celebrities including Shah Rukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Alia Bhatt and politicians like CM Yogi Adityanath, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi and cricketers Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma among others have lost their verified blue ticks from their Twitter accounts.</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier it was announced that the microblogging site will remove the verified check-mark status of accounts that Twitter had been verified as notable before Elon Musk\'s takeover unless they have subscribed to Twitter Blue or the business-focused Twitter Verified Organizations plan, Variety reported.</div><div><br></div><div>Initially, the blue tick served as a way of protecting well-known individuals from impersonation and tackling false information.</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier in March, Twitter posted from their official handle, \"On April 1st, we will begin winding down our legacy verified program and removing legacy verified checkmarks. To keep your blue checkmark on Twitter, individuals can sign up for Twitter Blue.</div><div><br></div><div>Twitter first introduced the blue check mark system in 2009 to help users identify that celebrities, politicians, companies and brands, news organizations and other accounts \"of public interest\" were genuine and not impostors or parody accounts. The company didn\'t previously charge for verification.</div><div><br></div><div>Musk launched Twitter Blue with the check-mark badge as one of the premium perks within two weeks of the company\'s takeover last year. Source: NDTV</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Entertainment Desk', '[\"13\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-21 11:07:22', '2023-04-21 11:07:22'),
(6491, 6491, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>President Joe Biden could announce his long-expected bid for a second term as early as next week, US media reports said Thursday.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>According to reports in outlets including The Washington Post and CNN, citing unnamed sources, Biden is set to launch his re-election campaign with a video release.</div><div><br></div><div>The Post reported that this could be on Tuesday, the anniversary of the day in 2019 when Biden joined the race to take on then incumbent Donald Trump in 2020. However, the report underlined that the plans were not finalized and could be postponed.</div><div><br></div><div>Already the oldest US president in history at 80, Biden would be 86 by the time he completed a second term. The current frontrunner for the Republicans is Trump, raising the growing possibility of a rematch of one of the most divisive elections in US history.</div><div><br></div><div>In 2019, Biden opened his bid with a video address. Although many initially saw him as a has-been, out of politics since finishing his term as vice president under Barack Obama, he went on to win the Democratic nomination, then defeat Trump in a tempestuous contest that the Republican attempted to overturn.</div><div><br></div><div>Biden has dropped repeated hints that he will run, including last week during a trip to Ireland when he said: \"I told you my plan is to run again.\"</div><div><br></div><div>However, Biden backers have pointed out that he is not necessarily in a hurry. Republicans are lurching toward a likely ugly nomination battle, while Biden has the advantages of having no serious challenger in his party.</div><div><br></div><div>Washington is also entering a prolonged and high-stakes political struggle over extending the US borrowing limit, a dispute that risks ending in a US debt default and serious economic upheaval some time over the coming weeks. - AFP</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-21 11:15:45', '2023-04-21 11:15:45'),
(6492, 6492, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg defiantly declared Thursday that Ukraine’s “rightful place” is in the military alliance and pledged more support for the country on his first visit to Kyiv since Russia’s invasion just over a year ago.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged Stoltenberg, who has been instrumental in marshaling support from NATO members, to push for even more from them, including warplanes, artillery and armored equipment.</div><div><br></div><div>The Kremlin has given various justifications for going to war, but repeated Thursday that preventing Ukraine from joining NATO is still a key goal of its invasion, arguing that Kyiv’s membership in the alliance would pose an existential threat to Russia.</div><div><br></div><div>NATO leaders said in 2008 that Ukraine would join the alliance one day, and Stoltenberg has repeated that promise throughout the war, though the organization has established no pathway or timetable for membership.</div><div><br></div><div>“Let me be clear, Ukraine’s rightful place is in the Euro-Atlantic family,” Stoltenberg told a news conference. “Ukraine’s rightful place is in NATO.”</div><div><br></div><div>Zelensky said he was grateful for an invitation to a NATO summit in July in Vilnius, Lithuania, but said his country needs a roadmap for becoming a member.</div><div><br></div><div>“The time has come for the (alliance’s) leaders to define the prospects of Ukraine’s acquisition of NATO membership, to define the algorithm of Ukraine’s movement toward this goal, and to define security guarantees for our state for the period of such movement — that is, for the period before NATO membership,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Stoltenberg said he and Zelensky discussed a NATO support program for Ukraine.</div><div><br></div><div>“This will help you transition from Soviet-era equipment and doctrines to NATO standards and ensure full interoperability with the alliance,” Stoltenberg said. “NATO stands with you today, tomorrow and for as long as it takes.”</div><div><br></div><div>He noted an announcement Thursday by Denmark and the Netherlands that they plan to provide Ukraine with at least another 14 refurbished Leopard 2 battle tanks by early 2024.</div><div><br></div><div>He added that he expected countries to “make new announcements of concrete military support to Ukraine” at a meeting Friday in Germany.</div><div><br></div><div>In other developments, a large explosion hit the Russian city of Belgorod late Thursday, and the Defense Ministry said one of its Su-34 warplanes accidentally discharged ammunition over the city about 25 kilometers (15 miles) from the Ukrainian border. The government gave no further details.</div><div><br></div><div>Belgorod regional Gov. Vyacheslav Gladkov said the blast injured at least two people, damaged homes and left a crater about 20 meters (65 feet) across.</div><div><br></div><div>The fighting in recent months has become a war of attrition, with neither side able to gain momentum. But Ukraine has recently received sophisticated weapons from its Western allies and is expected to launch a counteroffensive in coming weeks.</div><div><br></div><div>Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that Moscow could use “all means available” — a phrase some see as a threat to use nuclear weapons — in response to an attack on its territory if Ukraine attempts to recapture Moscow-occupied areas.</div><div><br></div><div>NATO has no official presence in Ukraine and provides only nonlethal support to Kyiv, but Stoltenberg has been the strong voice of the alliance throughout the war.</div><div><br></div><div>A procession of international leaders has made the journey to Kyiv over the last year, and the former Norwegian prime minister is one of the last major Western figures to do so.</div><div><br></div><div>NATO, formed to counter the Soviet Union, has long feared being dragged into a wide war with nuclear-armed Russia. But as the West has moved from hesitantly providing helmets and uniforms to tanks, warplanes and advanced missile systems, high-level visits have become routine.</div><div><br></div><div>Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Thursday that preventing Ukraine from joining NATO remains one of the goals of what Moscow calls its “special military operation.” Speaking in a conference call with reporters, Peskov said that Ukraine’s accession would pose a “serious, significant threat to our country, to our country’s security.”</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier this month, Finland joined the alliance, setting aside decades of neutrality in a historic realignment of Europe’s post-Cold War security landscape. While NATO says it poses no threat to Russia, the Nordic country’s accession dealt a major political blow to Putin.</div><div><br></div><div>Finland’s membership doubles Russia’s border with the world’s biggest security alliance. Neighboring Sweden is expected to join too, possibly by the time US President Joe Biden and his NATO counterparts meet in Vilnius in July.</div><div><br></div><div>The alliance has focused on bolstering defenses on its own territory to dissuade Putin from attacking any member country. Under NATO’s collective security guarantee, an attack on one member country is considered an attack on all of them.</div><div><br></div><div>On Friday, Stoltenberg will attend a meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group at Ramstein Air Base in Germany with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. The group is the main international forum for drumming up military support for Ukraine.</div><div><br></div><div>Meanwhile, the Ukraine Space Agency said Thursday that a bright flash of light in the night sky over the country the previous day was probably a meteor entering the atmosphere. Residents of the capital and several cities in Belarus saw the flash of light, which lingered for a couple of seconds, and an explosion was heard in the Kyiv region. It triggered an air raid alarm in Kyiv. - AP</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div><div>&nbsp;</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-21 11:27:39', '2023-04-21 11:27:39'),
(6493, 6493, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Europe sweltered under its hottest summer on record in 2022, said a yearly report by the EU\'s Copernicus Climate Change Service on Thursday.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>\"Globally, the last eight years have been the warmest on record, while in recent decades Europe has warmed faster overall than any other continent,\" the bloc\'s Earth observation program pointed out in a report.</div><div><br></div><div>The average temperature on the continent was around 2.2C above pre-industrial levels over the last five years, with 2022 being the second-warmest year on record, at 0.9C above the 1991-2020 average.</div><div><br></div><div>Apart from the high temperatures, Europe also experienced several extreme weather events last summer, including intense heatwaves, drought, and wildfires, it added.</div><div><br></div><div>\"The report highlights alarming changes to our climate, including the hottest summer ever recorded in Europe, marked by unprecedented marine heatwaves in the Mediterranean Sea and record-breaking temperatures in Greenland.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Understanding the climate dynamics in Europe is crucial for our efforts to adapt and mitigate the negative impacts climate change has on the continent,\" the service\'s director Carlo Buontempo said on the findings.</div><div><br></div><div>The report also stressed that the below-average precipitation and exceptional heatwaves caused widespread and protracted drought that affected several sectors, including agriculture, river transport, and energy generation.</div><div><br></div><div>It added that the hot and dry conditions fed wildfires across Europe. - Anadolu Agency&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-21 11:41:46', '2023-04-21 11:41:46'),
(6494, 6494, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The United States has said as Bangladesh moves to graduate from a least developed country to a middle-income country in 2026, more will be expected of it on labour rights, as well human rights, and good governance.&nbsp;</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>\"Strong labour laws and their implementation are needed to provide U.S. companies and investors with assurances that Bangladesh is a stable and predictable environment and can create greater economic opportunities for both of our countries,\" US Department of Labor’s Deputy Undersecretary for International Affairs Thea Lee told UNB in an exclusive interview done remotely.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Asked whether US sees other countries the same way like Bangladesh when it checks labour standards and workers’ rights, Lee said the U.S. Department of Labor and the U.S. government seek and support respect for fundamental workers’ rights in all countries with which they have trade and diplomatic relations, and for all countries that are part of the global economy.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Lee, who was named Deputy Undersecretary for International Affairs on May 10, 2021,&nbsp; said their government has consistently supported the people and workers of Myanmar in their efforts to advance democracy and protect human and workers’ rights in their country.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>\"We continue to work with likeminded nations and the international institutions in supporting these desires of the people of Myanmar, calling for the restoration of the democratically-elected government,\" Lee said, adding that they have strongly condemned – and supported international efforts to counter – the denial of democratic and human rights by the military regime.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>She said the U.S. Department of Labor and the U.S. government recognize the important progress that the Bangladesh garment industry has made related to building safety and remediating safety hazards identified through engineers’ inspections of export garment factories over the 10 years since the Rana Plaza collapse.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>April 24th marks the ten-year anniversary of the Rana Plaza collapse in which 1,134 workers were killed.</div><div><br></div><div>There has also been \"significant progress\" in establishing and training worker-management safety committees at many of the garment factories, said the deputy undersecretary who has been advocating for workers’ rights, both domestically and internationally, for over thirty years.</div><div><br></div><div>The US welcomed the establishment of the Accord on Fire and Building Safety In Bangladesh at the time of its establishment, and recognizes today the important contributions it has made to the progress realized in the RMG sector since the collapse.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>\"There is also significant work that remains to be done. This includes completing all remediation of safety hazards at all inspected factories,\" Lee said, adding that many factories lack functioning fire detection systems and fire suppression systems.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Many have yet to complete critical building structural strengthening. Building safety compliance must be continuously monitored and maintained. This requires dedicated attention in an ongoing manner, she mentioned.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>\"To “reach the top” in terms of labor standards takes commitment, resources, and will. Bangladesh has long been the 2nd largest exporter of garments in the world. The industry is known for its world-class products. However, such a designation in the global garment industry comes with expectations and obligations,\" Lee said.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>These include not just producing good quality products but also good jobs, with safe working conditions where workers’ rights and dignity are respected, Lee thinks.</div><div><br></div><div>She said they have been a longstanding and reliable partner of Bangladesh and have consistently supported programmes to advance internationally recognized worker rights in Bangladesh’s desire to “reach the top”.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>\"We have been a leading member of the Sustainability Compact and associated “3+5+1” group. We continue to engage regularly on labor with the government of Bangladesh, including through the Trade and Investment Cooperation Framework Agreement (“TICFA”) and the High-Level Economic Consultation.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Lee mentioned that they also have the newly launched Labor Working Group led by their labor attaché at the US Embassy in Dhaka.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>\"The labor attaché is working closely and regularly with your government, industry, unions and with likeminded partners to advance high labor standards and their enforcement in practice,\" she said.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>\"Her presence in Bangladesh is a direct reflection of the importance our government places on our ongoing partnership, and our investment in seeing Bangladesh make real progress in the labor space,\" Lee said.</div><div><br></div><div>Rewards for Progress&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Asked what are the rewards that the US government is considering for the progress made so far, Lee said the U.S. Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) comes with clear statutory requirements and eligibility criteria which apply to all beneficiary countries.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>With respect to worker rights, the Trade Act of 1974 requires that GSP beneficiary countries must be taking steps to afford internationally recognized worker rights.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>These include: freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining; the elimination of forced or compulsory labour; the establishment of a minimum age for the employment of children; implementing commitments to eliminate the worst forms of child labour; and ensuring acceptable conditions of work with respect to minimum wages, hours of work, and occupational safety and health.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Following the Rana Plaza building collapse in 2013, the U.S. suspended GSP benefits due to labour rights violations concerning unsafe working conditions and lack of inspections in the RMG sector, restrictions to labour organizing, and violence against workers and trade unionists.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>For more than a decade, the U.S. has regularly engaged with Bangladesh on these concerns through the GSP Action Plan, Sustainability Compact, TICFA and other dialogues.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>\"Following the withdrawal of GSP benefits, the United States recognizes Bangladesh has made progress to improve fire and building safety in the exporting RMG sector through the legally binding Accord,\" Lee said.</div><div><br></div><div>Despite measurable progress over the past decade on building safety, she said, Bangladesh still falls short on fundamental rights of freedom of association and enforcing labour laws through inspections.</div><div><br></div><div>As a key bilateral trading partner with Bangladesh, Lee said, the United States wants to see Bangladesh succeed in realizing concrete, measurable progress on worker rights, not only in the garment sector, but throughout the economy.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>This means ensuring workers have the right to organize and collectively bargain for better wages and safer working conditions, including in the export processing zones and special economic zones, she said.</div><div><br></div><div>\"It is worth noting that, while our government is invested in seeing Bangladesh make progress on these important labor rights, we are not alone. The international community is also watching closely, including through the monitoring and reporting on the timebound Bangladesh road map at the International Labor Organization,\" Lee said.</div><div><br></div><div>The U.S. government \"continues to support\" the government of Bangladesh and the social partners - independent trade unions and private sector representatives in Bangladesh - to achieve the progress necessary to consider removing the suspension of GSP benefits.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>\"Our commitment to continue such support and honest cooperation with the government of Bangladesh and the social partners remains firm,\" Lee said.</div><div><br></div><div>Is there any scope to bring Bangladesh under GSP facility anew?&nbsp; &nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Lee said the GSP programme expired on December 31, 2020 and is subject to Congressional re-authorization.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Both the House and Senate have introduced different bills that include provisions to reauthorize GSP and add new criteria on human rights, environment, rule of law, anti-corruption, and economic measures to alleviate poverty.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Both bills also propose expanding the labour criteria to include employment non-discrimination.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>\"Bangladesh’s access to GSP is led by a robust interagency process. Bangladesh will first have to reapply for GSP benefits following the program’s reauthorization,\" Lee said.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The GSP subcommittee will then evaluate whether Bangladesh is meeting all the GSP statutory criteria set by Congress, including any new criteria on labor.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Based upon an interagency recommendation, the President would make a determination about whether Bangladesh is meeting the requisite standard on worker rights, as well as on market access, intellectual property and other criteria established by Congress.</div><div><br></div><div>\"The United States supports and is working closely with Bangladesh in its efforts to make progress on internationally recognized worker rights, specifically its commitments under the timebound ILO road map,\" Lee said.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The US particularly wants to see progress on amending the Bangladesh Labour Act to bring it in line with international labour standards.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>\"We also hope to see progress on simplifying the registration process and seeing the successful registration of applications pending beyond the 55-day legal limit. We must also see progress on increasing the number and capacity of labor inspectors and ensuring penalties are sufficiently dissuasive,\" Lee said.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>\"And we need to see progress on unfair labor practices and acts of anti-union discrimination by holding perpetrators accountable. These are some of the steps that would help Bangladesh get back on track,\" she added.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Bangladesh in the post-LDC era</div><div><br></div><div>The U.S. government will remain \"engaged\" through their work described above as it relates to support for the ILO Road map, the Sustainability Compact and “3+5+1” group, and the efforts to meet GSP requirements.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>\"Our labor attaché at the US Embassy in Dhaka is a source of daily support and a resource to the government of Bangladesh and social partners in meeting labor standards thresholds,\" Lee said.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The labor attaché led the first technical, working-level Labor Working Group on March 9 to identify barriers to union registrations, and importantly, has helped to identify clear solutions.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The labor attaché continues to engage with the Ministry of Labour to follow up on areas where further progress is needed.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>\"The deployment of a labor attaché is a clear indication that the United States government is committed to seeing progress on labor, and relatedly, on trade,\" Lee said.</div><div><br></div><div>The U.S. Department of Labor has had long history of providing technical assistance to Bangladesh, including projects to combat child labour and forced labour and to improve working conditions in the RMG sector.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>\"Our current technical assistance to Bangladesh includes funding to improve working conditions in the RMG, tea, shrimp and construction sectors and to the ILO Better Work Bangladesh to support women’s empowerment projects,\" Lee said. adding that ILAB is actively exploring other technical assistance opportunities to strengthen worker rights.</div><div><br></div><div>Better Price&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The U.S. Department of Labor understands and agrees that achieving compliant industries and workplaces requires that buyers and brands pay a price to Bangladesh supplier factories that allows owners to meet associated costs with providing safe workplaces, maintaining decent work, and abiding by applicable laws and regulations, Lee said.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>\"We regularly raise this point in our communications and our engagement with business, including U.S. garment and apparel companies,\" she said. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas&nbsp;</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-21 11:55:03', '2023-04-21 11:55:03'),
(6495, 6495, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">A hailstorm shower ended the fourth Twenty20 international in Rawalpindi after New Zealand\'s Mark Chapman and Chad Bowes hit aggressive half centuries against Pakistan on Thursday.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>Chapman was 71 not out off 42 balls as New Zealand -- sent in to bat by Pakistan -- were 164-5 in 18.5 overs when rain stopped play at Rawalpindi stadium.</div><div><br></div><div>It turned into a hailstorm as match officials assessed the conditions before calling off the match as abandoned.</div><div><br></div><div>Pakistan leads the five-match series 2-1 after winning the first two matches by 88 and 38 runs while New Zealand took the third by four runs -- all in Lahore.</div><div><br></div><div>The final match is in Rawalpindi on April 24 after Eid holidays.</div><div><br></div><div>Left-hander Chapman held the innings with stands of 54 for the fourth wicket with Bowes who made 38-ball 54, lifting New Zealand from a precarious 3-54.</div><div><br></div><div>Pakistan\'s left-arm spinner Imad Wasim had derailed New Zealand by dismissing Tom Latham (13), Will Young (six) and Daryl Mitchell (three) to finish with figures of 3-19 in his four overs.</div><div><br></div><div>Chapman, who hit ten boundaries and a six, completed his 1,000 Twenty20 international runs on 49 and also added 56 for the fifth wicket with Rachin Ravindra who scored eight.</div><div><br></div><div>Bowes hit seven boundaries and a six before falling to Shaheen Shah Afridi. - AFP</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Sports Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-21 12:06:15', '2023-04-21 12:06:15'),
(6496, 6496, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader on Friday claimed that this year\'s Eid journey has been free of traffic jams and public sufferings.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>He said this to reporters while visiting the overpass constructed at the capital\'s airport this morning.</div><div><br></div><div>Quader said that instructions have been given to the officials concerned to make the return Eid trip smooth and comfortable.</div><div><br></div><div>Roads and Highways Department Secretary ABM Amin Ullah Noori, Bridges Department Secretary Manjur Hossain and senior officers were present at the time.</div><div><br></div><div>Quader said that this year there is no suffering of travellors on bus, train, launch during the Eid journey.</div><div><br></div><div>The government has opened the Padma Bridge to notor bikes for the benefit of young people. source: UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-21 15:50:51', '2023-04-21 15:50:51');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(6497, 6497, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has greeted&nbsp; Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the people of Bangladesh on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>“On behalf of the people of India, I convey my Eid greetings to you and the people of Bangladesh,” he wrote in a letter sent to Hasina, said Prime Minister\'s Office on Friday.</div><div><br></div><div>Modi mentioned that during the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims from all over the world including India performed fasting and prayers.</div><div><br></div><div>On this auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, he said, the people of the world along with the Muslim Ummah have realised the values ​​of unity and brotherhood.</div><div><br></div><div>Modi said that as a result of Hasina’s personal initiative, the multilateral partnership between the two countries has become a role model for neighbourly relations in the world.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The Indian PM said he wants to take the relationship of the two countries to a new height through working with Sheikh Hasina continuously.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Modi wished peace, harmony, good health and happiness for the people of the two countries along with the people of the world. - UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-21 15:58:37', '2023-04-21 15:58:37'),
(6498, 6498, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina On Friday called upon all to share the joy of the Eid-ul-Fitr to be observed on Saturday with their loved ones and the poor and distressed people of the society.</span><br></div><div><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\"><br></span></div><div><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">\"Eid means joy. Let us stand by families, relatives, neighbours and all the poor, distressed and helpless people of the society and share the joy of EId with all,\" she said.</span></div><div><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\"><br></span></div><div><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">In a video message on the eve of the Eid-ul-Fitr, the largest festival of the Muslims, the Prime Minister greeted the nation, saying, \"Wish you all, be well and safe, Eid Mubarak,\" report UNB.</span></div><div><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\"><br></span></div><div><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">\"May Eid-ul-Fitr bring unending joy, happiness and peace,\" she added.</span></div><div><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\"><br></span></div><div><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">bnbd24/fas</span></div><div><br></div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-22 08:15:10', '2023-04-22 08:15:10'),
(6499, 6499, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Friday called upon all to share the joy of Eid-ul-Fitr to be observed with near and dear ones and the poor and distressed people of the society.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>\"Eid means joy. Let\'s stand by family, relatives, neighbours and all the poor, distressed and helpless people of the society and share the joy of Eid with all,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>In a video message, on the eve of the Eid-ul-Fitr, the largest festival of the Muslims, the prime minister greeted the nation, saying:\"Wish all you be well and safe, Eid Mubarak,\" reports BSS</div><div><br></div><div>She said that the Eid-ul-Fitr has returned after practicing one month fasting, she said.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Eid-ul-Fitr may bring among us unending joy, happiness and peace,\" she added.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-22 09:19:19', '2023-04-22 09:19:19'),
(6500, 6500, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">President M Abdul Hamid offered the prayers of Eid-ul-Fitr, one of the greatest religious festivals of the Muslims, along with hundreds of people from all walks of life at the National Eidgah Maidan in the capital this morning.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>Country\'s noted personalities, including chief justice, cabinet members, Supreme Court judges, lawmakers, senior political leaders and high civil and military officials also offered prayers at the main Eid jamaat (congregation) held on the premises of the High Court at 8.30 am.</div><div><br></div><div>&nbsp;After the prayers, President Hamid exchanged Eid greetings with the Musullies (devotees) at the Eidgah.</div><div><br></div><div>&nbsp;The President usually attends the traditional Eid prayers in capital\'s National Eidgah Maidan but in the last three years, the programme was scrapped due to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic.</div><div><br></div><div>&nbsp;Khatib of the Baitul Mukarram National Mosque Mufti Ruhul Amin Faridpuri conducted the Eid prayers.</div><div><br></div><div>&nbsp;A special munajat was offered seeking divine blessings for peace and progress of Bangladesh and welfare of the people as well as the Muslim Ummah.</div><div><br></div><div>&nbsp;In the munajat, a sound and long life of the President and Prime Minister Sheikh Haisna was also sought.</div><div><br></div><div>Special doa was also offered seeking eternal peace of the martyrs, who sacrificed their lives for the sake of the county and its people in different democratic movements, particularly during the Liberation War in 1971.</div><div><br></div><div>Doa was too offered seeking eternal peace of the departed souls of Father of Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and other members, faced martyrdom on the fateful night of August 15 in 1975.</div><div><br></div><div>The Eid jamaat was held under the auspices of Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC). Special arrangement has been made for women to offer Eid prayers at the national Eidgah.</div><div><br></div><div>An intensified security measures were taken in and around the prayers ground.</div><div><br></div><div>It is the last Eid of M Abdul Hamid as the President of Bangladesh to offer his prayers at National Eidgah as he is scheduled to handover the charge of his office to President-elect Md Sahabuddin at 11 am tomorrow, according to Bangabhaban.</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier, on his arrival at the Eidgah Maidan, the Head of the State was received by Chief Justice Hasan Foez Siddique, Agriculture Minister Dr Abdur Razzaque, DSCC Mayor Barrister Fazle Noor Taposh, State Minister for Religious Affairs Md Faridul Haque Khan, MP, and other concerned. - BSS</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-22 10:00:55', '2023-04-22 10:00:55'),
(6501, 6501, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The US Supreme Court on Friday temporarily preserved access to a widely used abortion pill, freezing rulings by lower courts that would have banned or severely restricted availability of the drug.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Two conservative justices disagreed with the decision in the most significant abortion case to reach the nine-member court since it overturned the constitutional right to the procedure 10 months ago.</div><div><br></div><div>In delivering a one-paragraph decision, the court did not comment on the merits of the case brought by anti-abortion groups seeking a ban on the abortion drug, mifepristone.</div><div><br></div><div>But their order means that mifepristone, which accounts for more than half of the abortions in the United States, will remain available while the case plays out in an appeals court.</div><div><br></div><div>The Justice Department of President Joe Biden had filed an emergency appeal asking the Supreme Court to block the lower court rulings that would have banned or restricted access to mifepristone.</div><div><br></div><div>The case stems from a ruling by a US District Court judge in Texas, in a lawsuit brought by a coalition of anti-abortion groups, that would have banned mifepristone, which was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2000.</div><div><br></div><div>An appeals court blocked a ban on the abortion pill, but imposed tough restrictions on access, after which the baton was handed to the Supreme Court, where conservatives wield a 6-3 majority.</div><div><br></div><div>The Supreme Court decision effectively freezes the lower court rulings pending an appellate court hearing of an appeal from the Justice Department and mifepristone manufacturer Danco Laboratories.</div><div><br></div><div>Arguments in the Louisiana-based US Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals have been scheduled for May 17 and any ruling by the appellate court is likely to eventually reach the Supreme Court.</div><div>Reacting to the Supreme Court move, Biden said the lower court decisions \"would have undermined FDA\'s medical judgment and put women\'s health at risk.\"</div><div><br></div><div>\"Mifepristone remains available and approved for safe and effective use while we continue this fight in the courts,\" Biden said in a statement. \"I will continue to fight politically-driven attacks on women\'s health.\" - AFP</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-22 10:06:27', '2023-04-22 10:06:27'),
(6502, 6502, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Inflation in the United States has become \"broad-based,\" a top Federal Reserve official said Friday, suggesting the US central bank\'s fight against price rises through interest rate hikes has some road left to run.</b></span><br></div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>The Fed has raised its benchmark lending rate nine times in a row since March last year to tackle inflation, which remains well above its long-term target of two percent.</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>Several senior Fed officials have suggested in recent weeks that interest rates may need to increase further, and remain high, to control inflation.</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>Overall inflation, and other underlying measures of consumer price increases, remained high, Fed governor Lisa Cook said in prepared remarks in Washington on Friday.</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>\"All of these measures have come off their peaks but remain elevated, suggesting that inflation has become broad-based in the economy,\" said Cook, who is a member of the Fed\'s 12-person rate-setting committee.</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>&nbsp;Cook said the path back to stable inflation \"could be long and is likely to be uneven and bumpy.\"</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>The \"appropriate path\" of interest rate hikes would be determined by the impact of the recent financial sector turmoil on bank lending, she added.</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>\"But if data show continued strength in the economy and slower disinflation, we may have more work to do,\" she said.</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>&nbsp;The Fed will announce its next interest rate decision on May 3.</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>Most futures traders now expect the US central bank will raise its benchmark lending rate by 25 basis points, according to data from CME Group. - AFP</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-22 10:49:35', '2023-04-22 10:49:35'),
(6503, 6503, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The death toll from an explosion in a coal mine in Colombia rose to seven Friday with the discovery of four more bodies, official said.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The new toll was given by Alvaro Farfan, the head of the firefighting department in the central Cundinamarca region.</div><div><br></div><div>The blast ripped through the mine overnight Wednesday into Thursday in Cucunuba municipality around 90 kilometers (55 miles) north of the capital Bogota.</div><div><br></div><div>Authorities said they suspect pockets of gas trapped in the mine detonated.</div><div><br></div><div>Rescue teams initially found three bodies and four workers were missing. These bodies were finally spotted on Friday.</div><div><br></div><div>Videos shared on social media showed smoke billowing from a sinkhole in the dead of night while people dressed in civilian clothes carrying torches approached carefully.</div><div><br></div><div>Colombia is Latin America\'s largest coal producer.</div><div><br></div><div>Mining accidents are frequent in Colombia, particularly in illegal mines in Cundinamarca and other parts of the country\'s center and northeast.</div><div><br></div><div>The mines and energy ministry registered 1,262 such accidents between 2011 and May 2022 that left an average of more than 100 people dead per year.</div><div><br></div><div>An explosion in mid-March in Sutatausa municipality, also in Cundinamarca, left 21 people dead and was one of the worst such tragedies in Colombia in recent years. According to AFP reports</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-22 10:52:24', '2023-04-22 10:52:24'),
(6504, 6504, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Kylian Mbappe scored twice as Paris Saint-Germain took another step towards securing the Ligue 1 title despite an unconvincing performance in beating bottom club Angers 2-1 on Friday.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Mbappe scored the opener in the ninth minute and added another before the half-hour mark to move clear as the French top flight\'s leading marksman on 22 goals for the campaign.</div><div><br></div><div>It looked like PSG might go on to record a big victory but they eased off in the second half and relegation-bound Angers pulled a goal back late on through Sada Thioub.</div><div><br></div><div>PSG are now 11 points clear at the top of the table with six games left, although nearest challengers Marseille can cut the gap when they visit Lyon on Sunday.</div><div><br></div><div>A record 11th French crown, and ninth since the Qatari takeover of 2011, is now inevitable with the capital club claiming a third straight win to ease the pressure on embattled coach Christophe Galtier.</div><div><br></div><div>However, Galtier was critical of his side\'s performance after they failed to build on a strong start, just like in last week\'s 3-1 win over Lens when all their goals came before half-time.</div><div><br></div><div>\"As much as we were serious and clinical in the first half, like Lens last week we took our foot off the pedal completely in the second half,\" Galtier told broadcaster Amazon Prime.</div><div><br></div><div>\"We played without any rhythm and didn\'t really try to add to our lead. There is frustration for me as a coach. Of course we won and are top of the league but when you are at Paris Saint-Germain you can\'t settle for only playing for half of the game.\" Source: AFP</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Sports Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-22 11:06:17', '2023-04-22 11:06:17'),
(6505, 6505, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Prime Minister and Awami League President Sheikh Hasina on Saturday urged the countrymen to give her party another chance in the next general election to help establish Bangladesh as a developing country, alerting them if the anti-liberation and corrupt&nbsp; elements come to power again they will destroy all the advancements.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>“I am grateful to the people as they voted us to power time and again and give us scope to serve them. The next general election is knocking at the door. I wish that the people will give us another chance to establish Bangladesh as a developing nation as the country will start its journey as a complete developing nation. We have taken preparation to this end,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>She was exchanging greetings with a cross section of people on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr at her official Ganabhaban residence in the capital this morning.</div><div>“I’m really feel very happy to meet you on the holy day of Eid-ul-Fitr as you people are my near and dear ones and relatives of my soul,” she said, adding that she has got the love and affection of her parents and brothers after losing them on the dreadful night of August 15 in 1975.</div><div><br></div><div>&nbsp;The Prime Minister said Bangladesh has got recognition as a developing nation due to continuation of democratic process in the country and stability since 2009.</div><div><br></div><div>Bangladesh, she said, has witnessed such a huge socio-economic advancement as the people voted the Awami League to power in 2008, 2014 and 2018 elections consecutively.</div><div><br></div><div>“I am expressing my gratitude to Allah and the people of Bangladesh for voting Awami League to power time and again and giving us to serve them,’’ she said.</div><div><br></div><div>Sheikh Hasina said she loves the country and its people like a mother, adding that she has been working relentlessly to bring smiles on the faces of the distressed people by changing their fates, giving them a beautiful and improved life by ensuring all the basic needs as envisioned by Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The Prime Minister however urged the countrymen to remain alert against the war criminals, corrupts and grenade attackers as they are out to destroy the advancement of Bangladesh.</div><div><br></div><div>“The country and all of its advancement will be ruined if the anti-liberation elements, war criminals, killers, grenade attackers and corrupts are voted to power again. So, the countrymen should have to remain alert,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>The Prime Minister hinted about involvement of the BNP-Jamaat clique in the recent fire incidents in different markets that include the Bangabazar and asked the authorities concerned to conduct a thorough investigation into the matters.</div><div><br></div><div>She also urged all the people including the business community to pay special attention to protect their houses and business establishments.</div><div><br></div><div>“Those who can burn people to death can do everything,” she cautioned.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>She reminded all that the Awami League is a servant of the people as it (AL government) always serves the people.</div><div><br></div><div>“I feel proud being a daughter of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Premiership is nothing to me,” she said, adding that she consider power as a means of serving the people.</div><div><br></div><div>The Prime Minister said this year\'s&nbsp; Eid journey was easy and peaceful due to massive infrastructure development that included roads, highways, bridges, especially the Padma Bridge.</div><div><br></div><div>&nbsp;She welcomed the people who went to their native villages to share the joy of Eid with their near and dear ones, saying that people are now enjoying their Eid in villages in a pleasant way as&nbsp; her government has reached electricity every household.</div><div><br></div><div>The Prime Minister urged the people to maintain good relations with neighbours and stand by the poor and needy people.</div><div><br></div><div>She also asked her party men to stay beside the people in their needs.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The Prime Minister reiterated her call to the countrymen to bring every inch of arable land across the country under cultivation so that the Russia-Ukraine war cannot create any crisis.</div><div><br></div><div>“We have to grow food for ourselves and export the surplus food to other countries. We have already started exporting vegetables to other countries,” she said.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The Prime Minister first exchanged&nbsp; Eid greetings with the people of all strata of life that include her party leaders and workers and people of all classes and professions that include poets, litterateurs, writers, journalists, teachers and intellectuals.</div><div><br></div><div>Later, she exchanged Eid greetings with cabinet colleagues, judges, cabinet secretary, chiefs of the three services, foreign diplomats, senior secretaries, secretaries and other civil and military officials with rank equivalent to secretaries.</div><div><br></div><div>The programme could not be held in 2020, 2021 and 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to BSS reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-22 14:27:36', '2023-04-22 14:27:36'),
(6506, 6506, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Over six lakh Muslims offered Eid-ul-Fitr prayers at Gor-e-Shaheed Maidan in Dinajpur at 9 am today.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>Maulana Shamsul Islam Qasimi led the Eid jamaat.</div><div><br></div><div>Supreme Court Appellate Division Justice Enayetur Rahim and Jatiya Sangsad Whip Iqbalur Rahim, among others, attended the Eid jamaat.</div><div><br></div><div>People from far and wide joined the Eid jamaat ignoring the heat, to be part of the large congregation.</div><div><br></div><div>A three-tier security measure was taken on the occasion, including traffic arrangements, and installation of CCTV cameras. A large number of police, Ansar members as well as Rab personnel were deployed to ensure the safety of the devotees. According to UNB reports</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-22 14:51:48', '2023-04-22 14:51:48'),
(6507, 6507, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>President-elect Md Sahabuddin will take oath as the 22nd President of Bangladesh tomorrow.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The oath-taking ceremony will be held in Historic Durbar Hall of the Bangabhaban at about 11am.</div><div><br></div><div>Jatiya Sangsad (Parliament) Speaker Dr Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury will administer the oath of the office of the President, according to Bangabhaban.</div><div><br></div><div>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, cabinet members and hundreds of distinguished guests will attend the event. Cabinet Secretary Md Mahbub Hossain will conduct the programme.</div><div><br></div><div>After the swearing-in ceremony, Md Sahabuddin will sign the oath documents of the office of the President.</div><div><br></div><div>New President Md Sahabuddin and outgoing president M Abdul Hamid will officially alter the seat after taking oath, President\'s press secretary Md Joynal Abedin told BSS.</div><div><br></div><div>Family members of the new President, including his wife Dr Rebecca Sultana and son Arshad Adnan Rony will attend the function.</div><div><br></div><div>Chief Justice Hasan Foez Siddique, Members of Parliament, Chief Election Commissioner, Supreme Court judges, political leaders, chiefs of the three services, diplomats, senior journalists, including editors, and high-ranking civil and military officials will witness the event.</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier, the 73-year-old politician was elected as the 22nd President of Bangladesh on February 13, 2023.</div><div><br></div><div>Md Sahabuddin was born on December 10 in 1949 in Shibrampur\'s Jubilee Tank area of Pabna Town. His nickname is Chuppu. His father\'s name is Sharfuddin Ansari and mother Khairunnessa.</div><div><br></div><div>Obtained his MSc degree from Rajshahi University in 1974, he later passed LLB and BCS (Law) examinations.</div><div>The President-elect was the general secretary of Pabna Edward College unit of Chhatra League, president of Pabna District Chhatra League and Jubo League later also. He was the joint secretary of Bangladesh Krishak Sramik Awami League (BaKSAL) of the district unit and publicity secretary of Awami League district unit.</div><div><br></div><div>Sahabuddin actively participated in 6-Point Movement in 1966, Bhutta (Maize) Movement in 1967, mass-uprising in1979, election of 1970 and Liberation War in 1971.</div><div><br></div><div>He was in the frontline movement organizer of Pabna district and raised protest soon after the brutal incidents on August 15, 1975. Subsequently he was imprisoned for three years and subjected to inhuman torture by the then military dictators.</div><div><br></div><div>Md Sahabuddin was also involved in journalism (Dainik Banglar Bani) and a good numbers of articles were also published at different vernaculars.</div><div><br></div><div>During his career, he served as District and Sessions Judge, Anti Corruption Commissioner (ACC) Commissioner.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>He also served as the Director of the Prime Minister\'s Office and the Coordinator assigned to the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs in the Bangabandhu Murder Case.</div><div><br></div><div>Sahabuddin was elected Secretary General of BCS (Judiciary) Association twice in a row. After retirement from service, he was engaged in legal profession in the High Court.</div><div><br></div><div>He later served as the Chairman of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry in the investigation into the 2001 post-election violence.</div><div><br></div><div>As the ACC Commissioner, Md Sahabuddin proved his deep firmness in dealing with the \'so-called corruption\' plot against the Padma Bridge project.</div><div><br></div><div>This former student leader, Md Sahabuddin, also served as a member of Bangladesh Awami League\'s Advisory Council and the Chairman of the party\'s Central Publicity and Publication Sub-Committee.</div><div><br></div><div>Heroic Freedom Fighter and politician Md Sahabuddin will replace the 21st President M Abdul Hamid.</div><div><br></div><div>Abdul Hamid will go on retirement after spending 10 years and 41 days as President for two consecutive terms.</div><div><br></div><div>He took the responsibility of the President in-charge on March 14, 2013 while the then President Md Zillur Rahman was under treatment in Singapore. After the death of Zillur Rahman, he became the Acting President on March 20, 2013. According to BSS report</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-23 13:51:25', '2023-04-23 13:51:25'),
(6508, 6508, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Nine teenagers were shot in an east Texas residence early Sunday at a prom after-party attended by hundreds, local officials said in a statement.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Just after midnight, deputies responded to shots fired at a private home in Jasper County where the party was held and found nine victims with gunshot wounds, according to a statement by the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office. The injuries are expected to be non-life threatening, according to Jasper County officials.</div><div><br></div><div>About 250 people are estimated to have been present at the time of the shooting, according to a statement from the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office.</div><div><br></div><div>Eight people were taken in personal vehicles to Jasper Memorial Hospital in Jasper, Texas, and “at least one” of those were transferred to Christus Southeast Texas-St. Elizabeth Hospital in nearby Beaumont, Texas for further treatment, Jasper County Sheriff’s Office spokeswoman Karli Cherry said. One person did not go to the hospital, she said.</div><div><br></div><div>A second shooting within the city limits of Jasper, Texas occurred shortly after the first, the statement said.</div><div><br></div><div>There were no injuries in the second shooting, but a connection between the two incidents is being investigated due to a “common vehicle at both locations,” the statement said.</div><div><br></div><div>According to the statement, “people of interest are being questioned” and the investigation is ongoing. According to AP report</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-24 09:48:11', '2023-04-24 09:48:11'),
(6509, 6509, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">About 60 civilians were killed in a village in northern Burkina Faso by men wearing military uniforms, the local prosecutor said late Sunday, announcing an investigation into the latest bloodshed in the insurgency-hit country.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Landlocked and in the heart of West Africa\'s Sahel, the country is one of the world\'s most volatile and impoverished.</div><div><br></div><div>Attacks blamed on suspected jihadists are on the rise in Burkina Faso, which is battling an insurgency that spilled over from neighbouring Mali.</div><div><br></div><div>\"About 60 people were killed by people wearing the uniforms of our national armed forces\" on Thursday in the village of Karma, in northern Yatenga province, Ouahigouya High Court prosecutor Lamine Kabore told AFP in a statement, citing the gendarmerie.</div><div><br></div><div>The wounded have been evacuated and are currently being taken care of within our health facilities,\" he said, adding that the perpetrators had \"taken various goods\".</div><div><br></div><div>The village of Karma is near the Malian border and attracts many illegal gold miners.</div><div>According to residents contacted by AFP, survivors said more than 100 people on motorbikes and pick-up trucks raided the village.</div><div><br></div><div>Dozens of men and young people were killed by the men, dressed in military uniforms, they said.</div><div><br></div><div>Survivors gave a toll of \"around 80 dead\". - AFP</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-24 09:57:28', '2023-04-24 09:57:28'),
(6510, 6510, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Bangabhaban bade a grand farewell to outgoing President M Abdul Hamid in a state ceremony through an impressive function, in the first such ceremony for an outgoing president in Bangladesh.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>A smartly turned-out contingent of the horse-mounted President Guard Regiment (PGR) of the army extended him a guard of honor as part of the ceremony while a band group comprising military, navy, and air force played the farewell tune.</div><div><br></div><div>\"In the last 52-year of Bangladesh\'s history, this was the first such farewell extended to an outgoing President of the republic,\" a Bangabhaban spokesman said.</div><div><br></div><div>The outgoing President Hamid, moved into his own residence at capital\'s Nikunja along with his family members in a ceremonial motorcade under the supervision of the Special Security Force (SSF).</div><div><br></div><div>The Bangabhaban officials and staffs queued up in two lines on both sides of the vehicle to bid him the farewell and showered flower petals on his open jeep from Bangabhaban to its main gate, where he got onboard the presidential car to leave the presidential palace.</div><div><br></div><div>The outgoing President reached his Nikunja residence at about 2pm, where he was welcomed by his family members and relatives with bouquets.</div><div><br></div><div>Reaching his private residence at Nikunja Hamid expressed his gratitude to the people and particularly to the media for their heartfelt support \"in my political life\".&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>\"I\'m (also) very much grateful to the Prime Minister and her government for their necessary support in discharging my tasks in perfect manner,\" Hamid added.</div><div><br></div><div>The farewell came shortly after President Mohammad Shahabuddin was sworn in as the 22nd President of the country, an event followed by the swapping of the chairs by the new and the outgoing presidents.</div><div><br></div><div>The ceremonial change of the chairs was part of the presidential palace ritual to mark the handing over of the charge of the republic to the new president.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>President Hamid is the lone President in Bangladesh who held the post for two consecutive terms of ranging over 10 years.</div><div><br></div><div>&nbsp;A veteran politician with a colourful career, Hamid for the first time took the responsibility of the President in-charge on March 14, 2013, when the then President Mohammad Zillur Rahman was under treatment in Singapore and after his death he became the Acting President on March 20, 2013.</div><div><br></div><div>President Hamid was sworn in as the 20th President in April 2013 and subsequently 21st President for the second term on April 24, 2018.</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier today, new President Shahabuddin was administered the oath office by parliamentary Speaker Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury at the Durbar Hall of Bangabhaban at 11 am at an event joined by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Chief Justice Hasan Foez Siddique, ministers, lawmakers, foreign diplomats, senior officials and distinguished citizens.</div><div><br></div><div>After the Bangabhaban ceremony, Shahabuddin went to his Gulshan residence in a presidential motorcade. Bangabhaban officials said he is set to return to the presidential palace at 8:20 pm in the evening.</div><div><br></div><div>The new President will be given a guard of honour tomorrow morning as part of the extended installation ceremony.</div><div><br></div><div>Hamid was born on January 1, 1944 at Kamalpur in Mithamain upazila under Kishoreganj district and made his debut as a political activist in 1959 by joining the then Awami League student front Chhatra League. He joined the Awami League at the end of 1969.</div><div><br></div><div>He was elected as Speaker in the Ninth Parliament and served the office from 2009-2013 while was he elected to parliament seven times since 1970. Source: BSS</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-24 18:37:34', '2023-04-24 18:37:34'),
(6511, 6511, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>A cheetah has died in India\'s Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh state, the second in less than a month.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Forest officials said the cause of the six-year-old male animal\'s death was not immediately known.</div><div><br></div><div>It was one of 12 big cats that were brought to India from South Africa in February.</div><div><br></div><div>India reintroduced cheetahs last year, more than 70 years after the animal was declared officially extinct in the country.</div><div><br></div><div>On 27 March, a female cheetah who was part of the first batch of animals brought from Namibia had died of a suspected kidney ailment.</div><div><br></div><div>The reintroduction of cheetahs in India has generated excitement and any news related to them has been making headlines.</div><div><br></div><div>Eight Namibian cheetahs - five males and three females - were translocated to India last year amid fanfare.</div><div><br></div><div>Twelve more cheetahs were brought to India from South Africa in February. They were all first kept in a controlled quarantine zone at the park in Kuno before being released into the wild. A team of forest officials and doctors have been tracking and monitoring their movements.</div><div><br></div><div>The country also welcomed the birth of four cheetah cubs on 29 March. They were born to one of the females that came from Namibia last September.</div><div>India\'s environment minister, Bhupendra Yadav, had announced the news, calling it a \"momentous event\".</div><div><br></div><div>Cheetahs have great symbolic value in India as they are part of many folktales. But it is also the only large mammal to become extinct since independence in 1947.</div><div><br></div><div>Hunting, diminishing habitats and non-availability of enough prey - black buck, gazelle and hare - were the main reasons for the extinction of the cat in India. During British rule, cheetahs were also eliminated through bounty hunting because they were entering villages and killing livestock.</div><div><br></div><div>Wildlife experts have welcomed the reintroduction of the animal in India but some have also warned of potential risks to them from other predators and not having enough prey. - BBC</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-24 18:49:20', '2023-04-24 18:49:20'),
(6512, 6512, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Three people including a baby were killed in two separate road mishaps in Chapainawabganj district today.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>The deceased were identified as Afia, 4, daughter of Rafiqul Islam of Hayatpur village under Chapainawabganj sadar upazila, Jahid, 19, son of Saiful Islam of Dariapur Chowhodditola under Chapainawabganj municipality and Umar Faruk, 17, son of Kazipara village under Chapainawabganj sadar upazila.</div><div><br></div><div>Officer in Charge (OC) of Chapainawabganj Sadar Model thana Sajjad Hossain said, Afia was going by an auto-rickshaw along with her family members and as they reached Ramchandrapur area under sadar upazila, another auto-rickshaw hit their auto-rickshaw from behind at around 10-30 am. At a result of this, Afia fell on the road and died on the spot.</div><div><br></div><div>In another accident, Jahid and Umar Faruk were going by a motorcycle towards Shahjahanpur under sadar upazila and it was hit a roadside tree losing control over their bike at Narendrapur Pashchimpara in sadar upazila at around 12-15 pm. At a result, both the bikers died on the spot, he added.</div><div><br></div><div>Police recovered the bodies and sent them to the Chapainawabganj Sadar Hospital morgue for autopsy. According to BSS reports</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-24 18:51:33', '2023-04-24 18:51:33'),
(6513, 6513, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will leave here tomorrow on a 15-day official tour to Japan, the USA and the UK, while Dhaka is expected to sign around eight deals with Tokyo during the visit.&nbsp;</b></span><br></div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>\"In the presence of the two prime ministers (Bangladesh and Japan), nearly eight Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) are likely to be signed between the two countries,\" foreign minister Dr AK Abdul Momen said in a curtain raiser briefing at the foreign ministry.</div><div><br></div><div>He said the deals on agriculture, metro rail, industrial upgrade, ship recycling, customs matters, intellectual properties; defence cooperation, ICT and cyber security cooperation will be signed during the visit in Japan.&nbsp;</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will leave Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on a special flight from Biman Bangladesh Airline at 7:45 am tomorrow and on the same day she is scheduled to arrive in Tokyo at 5:00 pm (local time).</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>Momen said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will pay a curtsey call on Emperor of Japan Naruhito on April 26.&nbsp;</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>On the same day, she will hold a bilateral meeting with her Japanese counterpart, Fumio Kishida after the signing of the deals.&nbsp;</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>The meeting will conclude with a dinner at the residence of the Prime Minister of Japan, said the foreign minister.&nbsp;</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>During the visit to Japan, the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is also scheduled to attend an investment summit and a community reception.&nbsp;</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>She will also hand over the \"Friends of Liberation War Honour\" to four Japanese nationals for their contribution to Bangladesh\'s Liberation War in 1971, Momen said.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The prime minister will arrive in the United States from Tokyo to attend the ceremony, marking a 50-year partnership between Bangladesh and the World Bank in Washington DC on May 1.&nbsp;</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>On May 4, Momen said, Bangladesh\'s premier would leave Washington for London to attend the coronation of Charles III and his wife, Camilla, as king and queen of the United Kingdom and the other Commonwealth realms.&nbsp;</div><div>The Prime Minister will leave London for Dhaka on May 8.&nbsp;</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>State Minister for foreign affairs Md Shahriar Alam also spoke at the briefing. - BSS</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-24 18:58:55', '2023-04-24 18:58:55'),
(6514, 6514, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>A team of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is due in Dhaka tomorrow to discuss the progress in the use of the first tranche of its USD 4.7 billion loan for Bangladesh and release of the second instalment.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The Ministry of Finance and Bangladesh Bank sources confirmed to UNB today that during its April 25 to May 2 visit, the IMF team will hold meetings with officials of the ministry’s Finance Division, Financial Institutions Division, Economic Relations Division (ERD), Bangladesh Bank, and National Board of Revenue (NBR).</div><div><br></div><div>IMF Asia and Pacific Division Head Rahul Anand will be leading the team comprising three to four members, finance ministry sources said.</div><div><br></div><div>Md Mesbaul Haque, executive director and Bangladesh Bank spokesperson, said that on behalf of the government the central bank will have several meetings with the IMF team during the visit.</div><div><br></div><div>Bangladesh has received the first tranche of USD 476.2 million of the USD 4.7 billion loan approved by the IMF on January 30.</div><div><br></div><div>The entire amount of the loan will be paid in seven instalments over three and a half years, until 2026. As such, there are six more instalments left.</div><div><br></div><div>A senior official of the ministry said the IMF usually reviews various aspects of compliance before disbursing each tranche. Accordingly, an IMF team will come next September to review the fulfilment of loan conditions before disbursing the second tranche.</div><div><br></div><div>Usually before each budget announcement, an IMF mission comes to Dhaka to discuss budget assistance. Now that the loan programme is on, besides budget assistance, issues of fulfilling the loan conditions will also come up for discussion, said the sources.</div><div><br></div><div>The foreign exchange crisis in Bangladesh eased after the global lender released the first instalment of the USD 4.7 billion loan.</div><div><br></div><div>IMF approved about USD 3.3 billion under the Extended Credit Facility ECF) and the Extended Fund Facility (EFF), and about USD 1.4 billion under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility for Bangladesh.</div><div><br></div><div>Bangladesh Bank received the first instalment of USD 476 million from the IMF on February 2. Source: UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-24 19:06:49', '2023-04-24 19:06:49'),
(6515, 6515, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday morning left Dhaka for Tokyo on&nbsp; the first leg of her two-week official visit to Japan, the USA and the UK.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>Hasina is visiting Japan from April 25 to 28, at the invitation of Japanese counterpart Kishida Fumio.</div><div><br></div><div>A VVIP chartered flight of Biman Bangladesh Airlines carrying the prime minister and her entourages departed Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 7:56am.</div><div><br></div><div>The fight is scheduled to land in Haneda International Airport, Tokyo at 5pm (Japan time).</div><div><br></div><div>Japanese State Minister for Foreign Affairs Takei Shunsuke will welcome her at the airport.</div><div><br></div><div>She will be given static guard of honour in the airport.</div><div><br></div><div>As per the foreign ministry officials, during her visit Bangladesh and Japan are likely to sign eight memorandums of cooperation (MoCs) or agreements including one on defence cooperation without purchase.</div><div><br></div><div>The MoCs or agreements would be signed during a meeting between the two Prime Ministers (Sheikh Hasina and Kishida Fumio) of the friendly countries on April 26.</div><div><br></div><div>Eight MoCs or deals are likely to be signed between the two countries in the sectors of agriculture, metro-rail, industrial up-gradation, ship recycling, customs matters, intellectual property, defense cooperation, ICT and cyber security cooperation etc in presence of the two leaders after the formal bilateral meeting between the heads of government of the two countries at the Prime Minister\'s Office of Japan.</div><div><br></div><div>Sheikh Hasina will have a courtesy call on Emperor of Japan Naruhito on April 26 and a guard of honour will be given to the Bangladesh Prime Minister there.</div><div><br></div><div>The formalities of the meeting will conclude with a dinner hosted at the residence of the Prime Minister of Japan in honor of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.</div><div><br></div><div>This will be the sixth visit of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to Japan. Earlier, the PM visited Japan in 1997, 2010, 2014, 2016 and 2019.</div><div><br></div><div>During the visit, the PM is scheduled to attend an investment summit and a community reception along with a few bilateral meetings.</div><div><br></div><div>She will also hand over the “Friends of Liberation War Honour” to a few Japanese nationals, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Source: UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-25 12:31:48', '2023-04-25 12:31:48');
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(6516, 6516, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>South Korea seeks a “free, peaceful and prosperous” Indo-Pacific region, and wants to expand its “substantial cooperation” with Bangladesh – considering it as one of the most important countries in the South Asia region.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>“Bangladesh is one of the most important countries in the South Asia region. The South Asian nations are key partners in pushing forward our Indo-Pacific Strategy. Bangladesh and our country share common values including democracy, freedom and human rights,” Deputy Foreign Minister of South Korea, Choi Youngsam, told UNB today on the sidelines of World Journalists Conference 2023 at Hotel President in Seoul.</div><div><br></div><div>He said the partnership and cooperation with Bangladesh have been growing in many areas, including in economy, and that they believe that the two countries can “further strengthen” the bilateral relations.</div><div><br></div><div>Responding to a question, the South Korean deputy foreign minister said mutual high-level visits may take place in the coming days as the two countries seek to expand the relationship.</div><div><br></div><div>South Korea is Bangladesh’s 5th largest FDI provider with USD 1.3 billion invested here. Almost 200 South Korean companies have already invested in various sectors in Bangladesh.</div><div><br></div><div>Recently, South Korea’s investments have been diversified in infrastructure, energy, and consumer goods such as electronics – thereby contributing to further expansion of collaboration.</div><div><br></div><div>The South Korea International Trade Association (SKITA) estimates that the two nations’ bilateral trade volume reached USD 3.035 billion in 2022 – a 38.71 percent increase from USD 2.188 billion the year before.</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier, speaking at the inaugural session of the World Journalists Conference at the same venue, he said they will enhance strategic partnership with India and expand cooperation with other South Asian countries as part of exploring regional opportunities.</div><div><br></div><div>The South Korean Deputy Foreign Minister described its relations with Japan as “future-oriented” while it seeks to have a healthy and mature relationship with China.</div><div><br></div><div>He mentioned that South Korea will host a third “Summit for Democracy”. The United States and the Republic of Korea share deep bonds, rooted in their common democratic values and respect for human rights, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>The two countries are committed to further strengthening robust political, economic, security, and people-to-people ties.</div><div><br></div><div>Based on South Korea’s unwavering support for ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific, the country will also reinforce substantive and strategic cooperation with the regional body. “We will work closely with ASEAN,” said the deputy foreign minister.</div><div><br></div><div>Polycrisis and Working Together</div><div><br></div><div>The South Korean deputy foreign minister said they are living in a “polycrisis” and mentioned the impacts of Covid-19, climate change, supply chain disruption and Russia-Ukraine war – noting that these are affecting everyday life in an unprecedented manner.</div><div><br></div><div>“We have to resolve these challenges together because we are interconnected,” Youngsam said while addressing journalists from around the world.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>In line with its Global Pivotal State Initiative, South Korea seeks to take on a more active role in promoting freedom, peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.</div><div><br></div><div>The deputy minister said his country unveiled the details of its Indo-Pacific strategy in December last year, with a focus on promoting freedom, peace and prosperity through the establishment of a rules-based order and cooperation on human rights.</div><div><br></div><div>“It is a concrete policy roadmap,” he said, adding that it is not only seeking South Korea’s national interest but also peace and prosperity in the whole Indo-Pacific region.</div><div><br></div><div>He said it will be implemented on the principles of cooperation – inclusiveness, trust and reciprocity.</div><div><br></div><div>He also highlighted regional scopes in the North Pacific, Oceania, African coast, Europe and Latin America.</div><div><br></div><div>The core lines of the efforts are: building regional order based on norms and rules; cooperate to promote rule of law and human rights, strengthen non-proliferation and counter-terrorism efforts across the region; expand comprehensive security cooperation; build economic security networks, regional cooperation on climate change and energy security; engage in “contributive diplomacy” through tailored development cooperation partnerships; and to promote mutual understanding and exchanges.</div><div><br></div><div>Youngsam said South Korea will promote international peace and security, eying a non-permanent seat in the Security Council (2024-25).</div><div><br></div><div>President of Journalists Association of Korea Kim Dong Hoon and Professor Emeritus at Chungnam National University Sung Kyum Cho, among others, spoke at the event. According to UNB reports</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-25 13:01:50', '2023-04-25 13:01:50'),
(6518, 6518, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Axar Patel starred with bat and bowl and impact sub Mukesh Kumar held his nerve as Delhi Capitals edged Sunrisers Hyderabad by seven runs in a low-scoring Indian Premier League battle on Monday.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>The left-handed Axar (34) lifted Delhi from a precarious 62-5 to 144-9 in a gritty partnership of 69 with Manish Pandey (34) on Hyderabad\'s home turf.</div><div><br></div><div>Axar then returned figures of 2-21 with his left-arm spin.</div><div>Fast bowler Mukesh, who came in under the new impact player rule, defended 12 off the final over to keep Hyderabad down to 137-6.</div><div><br></div><div>It was Delhi\'s second successive victory after starting the season with five losses. The David Warner-led team stayed bottom of the 10-team heap.</div><div><br></div><div>\"I love it here. It\'s an amazing crowd. I haven\'t been here for a long time,\" Warner, after playing at his former franchise, which he led to victory in 2016, said.</div><div><br></div><div>The Australian opener said, \"To win tonight, hopefully we can make it three in a row. We\'ve got another against Sunrisers next.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Hyderabad, led by Aiden Markram, are one place above Delhi on ninth with four points and five losses.</div><div><br></div><div>Delhi\'s South African fast bowler Anrich Nortje dented the Hyderabad chase as he bowled Harry Brook bowled for seven. Axar soon joined in to cut short Mayank Agarwal\'s knock on 49.</div><div>Pace spearhead Ishant Sharma and left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav picked up a wicket each to rattle the opposition middle-order before Heinrich Klaasen and Washington Sundar attempted to revive the chase.</div><div><br></div><div>Klaasen fell to Nortje after a 19-ball 31 and Sundar, a left-hand batsman, made an unbeaten 24 but Mukesh and Delhi had the last laugh.</div><div><br></div><div>Delhi elected to bat first but lost half their side, including Warner who hit 21, in eight overs before Axar and Pandey turned the innings around.</div><div><br></div><div>\"I ordered for coffee and I left the glass like that, when three wickets fell in one over,\" man of the match Axar said with a smile. \"Pandey and I discussed we need to take it as deep as possible.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Sundar returned figures of 3-28 with his mystery spin as he struck three times in one over including the wicket of Warner.</div><div><br></div><div>Seam bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar took two wickets and the innings witnessed three run outs. - AFP</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Sports Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-25 13:21:28', '2023-04-25 13:21:28'),
(6519, 6519, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>With the return of calm seas, migrant smugglers launched dozens of boats from Tunisia during the weekend and some 1,200 people ended up on a tiny Italian island while several were reported missing at sea, the Italian Coast Guard said Monday.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Coast guard officials said in a statement that they responded to 35 boats that had left Tunisia, three of which came to grief.</div><div><br></div><div>In one shipwreck some 20 nautical miles off Lampedusa island coast guard and border police vessels said three migrants were missing. In a second, in Malta’s search-and-rescue area, survivors said some 20 people were missing, while in the third, also in Malta’s rescue area, Italian rescuers recovered a man’s body, the Coast Guard said.</div><div><br></div><div>Some 20 more boats crowded with migrants were in the sea Monday night, it said.</div><div><br></div><div>The coast guard said air and naval assets of the Coast Guard, the Border Police, the European border protection agency Frontex as well as a humanitarian organization were involved in the assistance.</div><div><br></div><div>Dozens of the migrants sat Monday morning near Lampedusa’s port, awaiting transfer to the island’s overcrowded shelter or eventually to Sicily or the Italian mainland.</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier Monday, a Tunisian fishing boat off Lampedusa aided a distressed migrant boat carrying 34 people and a body, and the survivors were later transferred to an Italian coast guard vessel, Italian news reports said.</div><div><br></div><div>On Sunday, with seas calm after four days of rough conditions, a total of 640 migrants reached Lampedusa, and hundreds more on Monday.</div><div><br></div><div>Last week, Italian authorities used commercial ferries and military vessels to transfer migrants from Lampedusa to Sicily or the mainland — bringing Lampedusa’s migrant center below its approximately 400-person capacity. But with the slew of boats arriving from Sunday, the number of migrants there quickly swelled, and authorities were scrambling anew to make arrangement for more transfers off the island.</div><div><br></div><div>Separately, the humanitarian group Doctors Without Borders said its rescue vessel Geo Barents came to the aid of 75 migrants — including 40 minors — in a wooden boat foundering in international waters off Libya on Monday.</div><div><br></div><div>The rescue vessel must now wait for Italian authorities to assign it a port to disembark the migrants. The right-wing government has been sending charity vessels to ports in northern Italy, far from the rescue area, to try to limit their time at sea. Government officials contend that the vessels encourage illegal migration by providing safety to the smugglers’ passengers.</div><div><br></div><div>Although far-right Premier Giorgia Meloni has led a crackdown both on smugglers and on the charity vessels, migrants keep risking dangerous voyages in the Central Mediterranean — departing from Tunisia, Libya and Turkey — in hopes of finding work or relatives in Europe.</div><div><br></div><div>According to Italian Interior Ministry figures, by Monday morning more than 36,600 migrants had arrived in Italy since the start of the year. That’s more than four times the number for the same period in each of the two previous years.</div><div><br></div><div>Italy rejects most of their asylum bids because they are fleeing poverty, not war or persecution. But, since barely a handful of countries have repatriation accords with Italy, the migrants who lose asylum bids often stay on for years in a legal limbo, or try to make their way to northern European countries.</div><div><br></div><div>Italy’s pleas to fellow European Union nations to take on some of the migrants have largely gone unheeded for years now. - AP</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-25 13:36:51', '2023-04-25 13:36:51'),
(6520, 6520, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Chargé d\'affaires at Bangladesh Mission in Sudan, Tareq Ahmed, has said the safety and security situation in the area where the Bangladesh Embassy and Bangladesh House are located, is still volatile.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>\"Our staff were unable to get access to the embassy premises as of today,\" he told UNB early today.</div><div><br></div><div>The chief of Bangladesh mission said they are organising evacuation of expatriate Bangladeshis in Sudan.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Nothing is final though, we are expecting it to be carried out by this month or early next month. We are compiling information of our expatriates interested to be evacuated now,\" he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Responding to a question, the envoy said all the western countries have relocated their embassy officials, but embassies of India, Pakistan, Malaysia, Indonesia and a few others, including Bangladesh, are still operational.</div><div><br></div><div>\"We, all the officials and their families, are outside capital at a safe place,\" he said, adding that the situation remains unpredictable in Khartoum, although they are receiving some information of some improvement in a few areas.&nbsp; According to UNB reports</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-26 11:51:55', '2023-04-26 11:51:55'),
(6521, 6521, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Two former leaders of Awami League’s (AL’s) associate bodies--Juba League (JL) and Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) have been shot to death in an attack allegedly by their rivals over establishing supremacy in Sadar upazila of Laxmipur on Tuesday night.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The deceased were identified as Abdullah Al Noman, 35, and Rakib Imam, 28, were former general secretary and organising secretary of the district units JL and BCL respectively.</div><div><br></div><div>Police said there had long been a dispute between AL leader Abul Kashem Jehadhi, former chairman of Bashikpur union parishad (UP) and AL leader Mahfuzur Rahman, also incumbent chairman of the UP and elder brother of murdered JL leader Noman in the area.</div><div><br></div><div>A group of miscreants opened fire on the duo in the Poddar Bazar area under the UP around 10pm, leaving them critically injured, they said.</div><div><br></div><div>They were rushed to the Laxmipur Sadar Hospital where physicians declared Noman dead on arrival, said Dr Anowar Hossain, residential medical officer of the hospital.</div><div><br></div><div>Rakib was referred to Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) after giving first aid.</div><div><br></div><div>The former BCL leader succumbed to his injuries on the way to DMCH, he said, adding that the duo sustained bullet injuries in their heads and mouths.</div><div><br></div><div>Noman’s brother Mahfuzur alleged that their opponent Jehadhi committed the killing to establish their supremacy in the area while UNB could not verify the allegations immediately.</div><div><br></div><div>Mahfuzzaman Ashraf, superintendent of police of the district, said two people sustained bullet injuries in an incident and one of them succumbed to his injuries on the spot.</div><div>Legal actions will be taken in this connection after investigation, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Additional numbers of law enforcers were deployed in and around the area to ward off any unexpected incident further, the SP added. Source: UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-26 12:03:46', '2023-04-26 12:03:46'),
(6522, 6522, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The Taliban government has killed the alleged mastermind of a devastating suicide bomb attack at the Kabul airport during the chaotic withdrawal of US forces in 2021, the White House said Tuesday.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>The bomber detonated among packed crowds at the airport\'s perimeter as they tried to flee Afghanistan on August 26, 2021. The blast killed some 170 Afghans and 13 US troops who were securing the airport for the traumatic exit.</div><div><br></div><div>It was one of the deadliest bombings in Afghanistan in recent years, and prompted a wave of criticism of President Joe Biden for his decision to pull American forces out of the country nearly 20 years after the US invasion.</div><div><br></div><div>The leader of the Islamic State cell that planned the attack was killed by Taliban authorities, White House national security spokesman John Kirby said in a statement.</div><div><br></div><div>\"He was a key ISIS-K official directly involved in plotting operations like Abbey Gate, and now is no longer able to plot or conduct attacks,\" Kirby said, referring to the spot outside the airport where the attacks took place.</div><div><br></div><div>ISIS-K refers to Islamic State Khorasan, the branch of the group operating in Afghanistan and Pakistan.</div><div><br></div><div>\"He was killed in a Taliban operation,\" Kirby added without giving any details of it.</div><div><br></div><div>The pullout, ending on August 30, 2021, saw Taliban fighters sweep aside Western-trained Afghan forces in just weeks, forcing the last US troops to mount the desperate evacuation from Kabul\'s airport.</div><div><br></div><div>An unprecedented military airlift operation managed to get more than 120,000 people out of the country in a matter of days.</div><div><br></div><div>Biden has long defended his decision to leave Afghanistan, which critics have said helped cause the catastrophic collapse of Afghan forces and paved the way for the Taliban to return to power two decades after their first government was toppled.</div><div><br></div><div>Nothing \"would have changed the trajectory\" of the exit and \"ultimately, President Biden refused to send another generation of Americans to fight a war that should have ended for the United States long ago,\" the White House National Security Council said in a report to Congress earlier this month.</div><div><br></div><div>A recent Washington Post report citing leaked Pentagon documents said the United States believes that since the withdrawal, Afghanistan is becoming a \"staging ground\" for the Islamic State group.</div><div><br></div><div>In his statement, Kirby said Tuesday, \"We have made clear to the Taliban that it is their responsibility to ensure that they give no safe haven to terrorists, whether Al-Qaeda or ISIS-K.\"</div><div><br></div><div>He added: \"We have made good on the President\'s pledge to establish an over-the-horizon capacity to monitor potential terrorist threats, not only from Afghanistan but elsewhere around the world where that threat has metastasized, as we have done in Somalia and Syria.\"</div><div><br></div><div>The Taliban and IS have long engaged in a turf war in Afghanistan, and experts have pointed to the jihadist group as the biggest security challenge for the new Afghan government going forward. Source: AFP&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-26 12:14:14', '2023-04-26 12:14:14'),
(6523, 6523, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The Taliban government has killed the alleged mastermind of a devastating suicide bomb attack at the Kabul airport during the chaotic withdrawal of US forces in 2021, the White House said Tuesday.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The bomber detonated among packed crowds at the airport\'s perimeter as they tried to flee Afghanistan on August 26, 2021. The blast killed some 170 Afghans and 13 US troops who were securing the airport for the traumatic exit.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It was one of the deadliest bombings in Afghanistan in recent years, and prompted a wave of criticism of President Joe Biden for his decision to pull American forces out of the country nearly 20 years after the US invasion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The leader of the Islamic State cell that planned the attack was killed by Taliban authorities, White House national security spokesman John Kirby said in a statement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"He was a key ISIS-K official directly involved in plotting operations like Abbey Gate, and now is no longer able to plot or conduct attacks,\" Kirby said, referring to the spot outside the airport where the attacks took place.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">ISIS-K refers to Islamic State Khorasan, the branch of the group operating in Afghanistan and Pakistan.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"He was killed in a Taliban operation,\" Kirby added without giving any details of it.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The pullout, ending on August 30, 2021, saw Taliban fighters sweep aside Western-trained Afghan forces in just weeks, forcing the last US troops to mount the desperate evacuation from Kabul\'s airport.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">An unprecedented military airlift operation managed to get more than 120,000 people out of the country in a matter of days.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Biden has long defended his decision to leave Afghanistan, which critics have said helped cause the catastrophic collapse of Afghan forces and paved the way for the Taliban to return to power two decades after their first government was toppled.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Nothing \"would have changed the trajectory\" of the exit and \"ultimately, President Biden refused to send another generation of Americans to fight a war that should have ended for the United States long ago,\" the White House National Security Council said in a report to Congress earlier this month.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A recent Washington Post report citing leaked Pentagon documents said the United States believes that since the withdrawal, Afghanistan is becoming a \"staging ground\" for the Islamic State group.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In his statement, Kirby said Tuesday, \"We have made clear to the Taliban that it is their responsibility to ensure that they give no safe haven to terrorists, whether Al-Qaeda or ISIS-K.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He added: \"We have made good on the President\'s pledge to establish an over-the-horizon capacity to monitor potential terrorist threats, not only from Afghanistan but elsewhere around the world where that threat has metastasized, as we have done in Somalia and Syria.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Taliban and IS have long engaged in a turf war in Afghanistan, and experts have pointed to the jihadist group as the biggest security challenge for the new Afghan government going forward. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-26 14:17:24', '2023-04-26 14:17:24'),
(6524, 6524, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Litchi farmers of Magura are worried about low yield, as they have been facing a drought-like situation due to the scorching heat and lack of rain.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Litchis grown in 20 villages, including Hazrapur, Mithapur, Hazipur, Raghabdair, Shibrampur, and Mirzapur, are famed for their sweetness.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Traders from different parts of the country purchase litchi from Magura district, supplying it nationwide.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Litchi trees start blooming by the end of March and the time between flowering and fruit formation is very important as yields are dependent on the care given in this duration.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But this year, the litchi pods are dropping off due to the drought-like situation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Raza Hossain, a litchi farmer in Mirzapur village under Sadar upazila, said, “I have 400 litchi trees in my orchard and I kept nurturing them when the trees started blooming. The usual care is being given to ensure the pods are ok.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">High temperature, lack of rain threaten lucrative litchi production in Magura&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also claimed that 40 percent of litchi pods have fallen from the trees and now he is trying to protect the rest by spraying water, as per advice from the Department of Agriculture Extension (DAE).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Every year, I sell litchis worth Tk 8 lakh, but this year, I might be able to sell litchis worth Tk 4-5 lakh if weather improves,” said Raza.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Quddus Biswas of Alaipur village in Sadar upazila, said, “I have ten litchi orchards and due to the drought-like conditions, most of the litchi pods are falling from trees. I failed to spray water regularly in my orchards due to lack of water in the adjacent canal.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also feared losing all litchi pods if there was not enough water.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This year, temperatures are going over 41 degree Celsius, which is damaging litchi production.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sufi Md Rafiquzzaman, deputy director of Magura’s Department of Agriculture Extension (DAE), said the litchi of Magura is quite popular, and is supplied to other districts after meeting local demand.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This year, a total of 640 hectares of land have been brought under litchi cultivation and different varieties including China, Mozaffar, Bombay and Hazrapuri litchi are being grown in the district.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Litchi growers have earned Tk 10 crore every year, he said. But this year, the farmers are afraid of poor yield due to lack of rain and extreme heat, he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We have already asked the litchi farmers to spray water on the trees and if the root of the trees remain wet then there is a possibility of high yield,” said Rafiquzzaman. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-26 14:36:40', '2023-04-26 14:36:40'),
(6525, 6525, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">President Mohammed Sahabuddin today paid rich tributes to Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman by placing a wreath at the mazar (mausoleum) of the late leader at Tungipara in Gopalganj.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">After placing the wreath, the President stood in solemn silence for some time.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A smartly turned out contingent drawn from the Bangladesh Army, Navy and Air Force presented the state salute while the bugles played the last post.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sahabuddin took oath as the 22nd President of Bangladesh on Monday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Starting from Bangabhaban at 10:13 am, the President\'s motorcade reached Tungipara via Padma Bridge at 12:45 pm.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">President\'s wife Dr. Rebecca Sultana and son Mohammed Arshad Adnan Roni, other family members and close relatives, secretaries concerned to the President and senior civil and military officials accompanied the President during the visit.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Valiant Freedom Fighter and veteran politician President Sahabuddin offered fateha and munajat seeking eternal peace of the departed souls of Bangabandhu as well as other martyrs of the August 15 carnage.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The President signed the visitors\' book kept on the mazar premises.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Subsequently, another wreath was placed at the mazar on behalf of President\'s family members, led by Dr Rebecca Sultana.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On his arrival here, the President was welcomed by political leaders, including Colonel (Retd) Faruk Khan, MP, Sheikh Salahuddin Jewel, MP, Sheikh Helal Uddin, MP, and Sheikh Sarhan Naser Tanmoy, MP, and senior officials of the local administration.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier, on his way to Tungipara in the morning, the President made a stopover for a few minutes at the middle of the Padma Bridge, where he joined a photo session with his family members. BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-26 14:43:01', '2023-04-26 14:43:01'),
(6526, 6526, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Mild heat wave is sweeping over many places of the country and it may continue and spread, said a weather forecast issued by the Bangladesh Metrology Department (BMD) here today.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Mild heat wave is sweeping over the districts of Chattogram, Rangamati, Feni, Cox\'s Bazar, Bandarban and Patuakhali and it may continue and spread,\" said the bulletin valid for the next 24 hours commencing 9am today.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Weather may remain mainly dry with temporary partly cloudy sky over the country, it added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Day and night temperature may rise by (1-2)oC over the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Country\'s maximum temperature on Tuesday was recorded 37.7 degrees Celsius at Bandarban while today\'s minimum temperature 19.2 degrees Celsius was recorded at Tetulia.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">However, no rainfall recorded across the country during the last 24 hours.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The sun sets at 6.25pm today and rises at 5.27 am tomorrow in the capital.&nbsp; BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh&nbsp;&nbsp;</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-26 14:51:19', '2023-04-26 14:51:19'),
(6527, 6527, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina met Emperor of Japan Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo on Wednesday afternoon.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier attended an audience with the emperor at the Imperial Palace at 3:00pm local time.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;Hasina, now on a four-day official visit to Japan, will also hold a summit meeting with her Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio at the latter’s office in Tokyo on Wednesday evening.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">After the summit meeting, both the prime ministers will sign a joint statement. They will also witness the exchange of agreements and memorandums of cooperation (MoCs) for bilateral cooperation in different sectors.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Bangladesh premier also held meetings separately with Foreign Minister of Japan Yoshimasa Hayashi and President of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Dr Tanaka Akihiko, Chairman of Japan-Bangladesh Committee for Commercial &amp; Economic Cooperation (JBCCEC) Fumiya Kokubu, Chairman and CEO of Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) Ishiguro Norihiko and President of Japan-Bangladesh Parliamentary Friendship League (JBPFL) Taro Aso on Wednesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">PM Hasina arrived here in Tokyo on Tuesday on a four-day official visit to Japan at the invitation of her Japanese counterpart Kishida Fumio. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-26 16:34:20', '2023-04-26 16:34:20'),
(6528, 6528, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">A Dhaka court on Wednesday granted bail to film producer Rahmat Ullah in a case filed by Dhallywood star Shakib Khan over murder attempt and extortion.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The court granted the bail when Rahmat Ullah surrendered before the court of Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate Arafatul Rakib and sought bail.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Meanwhile, the court ordered the transfer of the case as it was ready for trial.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Shakib Khan did not appear before the court citing illness.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier, on March 23, Shakib Khan filed a case against film producer Rahmat Ullah over murder attempt and extortion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On March 20, Shakib went to the Detective Branch (DB) office of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) and filed a written complaint against Rahmat Ullah who brought a rape allegation against him.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On March 15, Rahmat Ullah filed a written complaint against the actor in the Bangladesh Film Artists Association, accusing him of sexual misconduct and raping an Australian woman, a co-producer of the film \"Operation Agneepath\". UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd24/kh</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"13\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-26 17:32:04', '2023-04-26 17:32:04'),
(6529, 6529, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Chief of Bangladesh Army General SM Shafiudin Ahmed left Dhaka on Wednesday on a three-day official visit to India, according to an Inter Services Public Relation Directorate (ISPR) press release.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During the visit Gen. Shafiuddin will take the parade salute after attending the passing out parade of commissioned officers at the Officers Training Academy in Chennai.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He will also meet the chiefs of army, navy, air force, chief of defense staff, defense secretary, foreign secretary and other high officials concerned, said the press release.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Gen Shafiuddin will also discuss the development of the bilateral relations and mutual cooperation between the two countries.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He will also visit the important establishments of the Indian army.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Army chief is expected to return home on April 30. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-26 20:38:16', '2023-04-26 20:38:16'),
(6530, 6530, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Ace allrounder Shakib Al Hasan made him unavailable for the three-day practice camp in Sylhet for the upcoming Ireland series as he flew to USA to spend time with his family by the permission of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He however will join Bangladesh team in London directly from the USA, an official of the BCB said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Shakib opted out IPL, citing family reasons but played for Mohammedan Sporting Club in the Dhaka Premier League (DPL). Then he spent the Eid-uf-Fitr at his village home in Magura.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He was seen spending time with his family and friends during the Eid-ul-Fitr with jovial mood. However he left the country for USA silently.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Apart from Shakib, all of the team members will join the practice camp, according to the team sources.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The members of the Bangladesh team will leave Dhaka on evening flight today (Wednesday) for Sylhet. They will come back Dhaka on April 29 immediate after completing their three-day practice session. They however will board the UK flight on May 1.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The three ODIs, part of the ICC ODI Super League, are slated to be held on May 9, 12 and 14.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The series is particularly important for the Irish. If they can whitewash Bangladesh in the three-match series, which is the part of ICC ODI Super League, they will qualify to the ODI World Cup in India later this year directly at the expense of South Africa. BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-26 20:41:34', '2023-04-26 20:41:34'),
(6531, 6531, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Bangladesh and Japan are currently enjoying a very friendly relationship and the friendship is getting deeper day by day, said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She made the remarks to Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi who called on her at the bilateral meeting room of Akasaka Palace Guest House in Tokyo.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">PM’s deputy press secretary KM Shakhwat Moon briefed reporters after the meeting.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said Hasina and the Japanese foreign minister praised the friendly relationship existing between Bangladesh and Japan.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">They observed that the friendship is gradually increasing.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">PM Hasina mentioned that Bangladesh-Japan relations emanate from the unwavering support of Japanese people for the cause of the independence of Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She mentioned that Japan recognised Bangladesh soon after its independence on February 10, 1972.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Last year (2022), we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relationship between our two countries,” she was quoted as saying.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Bangladesh premier thanked the government and the people of Japan for their part in the elaborate celebrations, which further strengthened bilateral ties and people-to-people bonds.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Expressing happiness to undertake her sixth visit to Japan as the prime minister of Bangladesh, she recalled her visit to Japan in 1997, when the two countries observed the 25th anniversary of the diplomatic relations.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She recalled the official visit of the Father of the Nation of Bangladesh Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to Japan on 18-24 October 1973, which laid the rock-solid foundation for today\'s exemplary Bangladesh-Japan relations.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Bangabandhu was an ardent admirer of Japan\'s development model and was inspired to build his own war-ravaged country with Japan\'s experience,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hasina said Japan is the largest bilateral development partner of Bangladesh. “Japan\'s contribution is evident in major development initiatives being undertaken in Bangladesh,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She thanked Japan for sustained and generous support over the years to Bangladesh\'s socio-economic advancement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;She said Bangladesh counts on Japan\'s continued support and cooperation to turn Bangladesh into a \"Smart Bangladesh\" by 2041 as per the Vision-2041.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Bangladesh PM sought Japan’s support in its bid to become a vice-president of the Asian Development Bank.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She also sought Japan\'s support, as a Council member country of the IMO, for Bangladesh\'s candidature for IMO Secretary General Post as its election would be held on 17-18 July 2023 in London.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Japanese FM Yoshimasa highly appreciated the ongoing development of Bangladesh in every sector including agriculture, education, ICT and health under the leadership of PM Hasina. “You are advancing your country,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said that Japan was always beside Bangladesh for its development and will remain in the future.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen, Agriculture Minister Dr Abdur Razzaque, Prime Minister\'s Private Industry and Investment Adviser Salman F Rahman, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md Shahriar Alam, State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Nasrul Hamid, and State Minister for ICT Zunaid Ahmed Palak were present.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Besides, President of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Dr Tanaka Akihiko, Chairman of Japan-Bangladesh Committee for Commercial &amp; Economic Cooperation (JBCCEC) Fumiya Kokubu, Chairman and CEO of Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) Ishiguro Norihiko and President of Japan-Bangladesh Parliamentary Friendship League (JBPFL) Taro Aso separately met Sheikh Hasina at her palace of residence --Akasaka Palace—here on Wednesday. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-26 20:46:26', '2023-04-26 20:46:26'),
(6532, 6532, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Dhaka Reporters’ Unity (DRU) on Wednesday strongly protested and condemned the case filed against UNB Special Correspondent Mohd Jahangir Alam.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In a statement on Wednesday, DRU president Mursalin Nomani and acting general secretary Mainul Ahsan also demanded immediate withdrawal of the case against the UNB journalist.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The journalist community has been saying since the beginning that the Digital Security Act is a threat to free and independent media. Journalists are being subjected to abuse of this law,” the statement reads.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The DRU leaders demand immediate repeal of the DSA.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On April 12 last, Hatirjheel Police Station Sub-Inspector Md Al-Amin filed the case under the Digital Security Act against 21 people, including Jahangir.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The UNB journalist was made accused in the case as he was a member of the social media group where anti-government activities were allegedly discussed.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Jahangir, however, said he is not aware of such a group and also does not know who made him its member.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Jahangir is the Chief Crime Correspondent of news agency UNB and former vice president of Crime Reporters\' Association of Bangladesh (CRAB).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He is also the General Secretary of the Shipping and Communications Reporters Forum (SCRF) and permanent member of Dhaka Reporters’ Unity (DRU).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Meanwhile, the High Court granted anticipatory bail to Jahangir in the DSA case filed with Hatirjheel Police Station.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The bench of Justice Mustafa Zaman Islam and Justice Mohammad Ali passed the order on Wednesday after hearing the bail petition.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Barrister Ruhul Quddus Kazal along with advocate Farhad Hossain appeared for Jahangir in the court. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-26 20:51:28', '2023-04-26 20:51:28');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(6533, 6533, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">It was an impressive performance as Bangladesh U-17 women\'s football team thrashed Turkmenistan by 6-0 goals in their opening group D match of AFC U-17 Women\'s Asian Cup qualifiers held today (Wednesday) at Jahan Besar Stadium, Kallang in Singapore.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the proceeding, forward Thunuye Marma scored a brace while midfielder Puja Das, skipper Ruma Akter, forward Sourovi Akter Prity and substitute forward Srimoti Trishna scored one each to secure commanding victory for Bangladesh after leading the first half by 3-0 goals.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Bangladesh U-17 eves, who went to participate in the tournament in the foreign soil for the first time, launched attack early and got reap when Puja scored the first goal in the 3rd minute. Thunuye Marma doubled the lead scoring the second goal for Bangladesh in the 5th minute while Ruma Akter further widened the team\'s margin scoring the third goal in the 39th minute of the match.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Back with a healthy 3-0 lead after the first half, Bangladesh continued onslaught and also maintained their domination in the second half.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Thunuye Marma scored her second and fourth goal for Bangladesh in the 65rd minute.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sourovi Akter Prity joined the party scoring the fifth goal for Bangladesh in the 60th minute while Srimoti Trishna completed the tally scoring the sixth goal for Bangladesh in the 82nd minute, both from the spot kick.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh completely dominated the entire proceeding and notched their deserving victory on the day while Turkmenistan were totally off-colored.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh, which pitted in Group D of AFC U-17 Qualifiers along with Turkmenistan and Singapore, will play their ultimate group match against host Singapore on Sunday (Apr 30).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Only one among the three teams of this group will move to the next round. BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-26 22:18:37', '2023-04-26 22:18:37'),
(6534, 6534, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The salt production in the country has reached the highest level in the last 62 years.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh Small and Cottage Industries Corporation (BSCIC) confirmed the information in a press release on Wednesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to the BSCIC, salt production stood at 18.39 lakh tonnes in the current fiscal year, which is the highest in the last 62 years.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the current salt season, the total amount of salt was cultivated in 66424 acres of land, last year it was 63291 acres. Compared to last year, this year salt farming land has increased by 3133 acres.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the current salt season, the number of salt farmers is 39467, which was 37231 last year. Compared to last year, the number of salt farmers has increased by 2236. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-26 22:21:34', '2023-04-26 22:21:34'),
(6535, 6535, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">President Mohammed Shahabuddin today paid glowing tributes to Bangamata Begum Fazilatunnesa Mujib by placing wreaths at her grave at the Banani Graveyard in the capital.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Head of State stood in solemn silence for some time. Subsequently, President\'s wife Dr Rebecca Sultana joined the President.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">They also spread flower petals on the graves of Bangamata and other August 15 martyrs who were the victims of the brutal assassination on the fateful night.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Besides, they offered Fateha and prayed for eternal peace of the departed souls of the martyrs of August 15.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Begum Fazilatunnesa, wife of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and mother of incumbent Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, embraced martyrdom along with Bangabandhu and other family members in a brutal predawn attack by some disgruntled army personnel on August 15 in 1975.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At the Banani graveyard, Bangamata Begum Fazilatunnesa Mujib, her three sons Sheikh Kamal, Sheikh Jamal, and Sheikh Russel and other martyrs of August 15, 1975 were laid to eternal rest.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mohammed Shahabuddin took oath as the 22nd President of Bangladesh on Monday last. It is the first time, he paid the rich tributes to the martyrs at Banani graveyard this noon. BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-27 15:06:45', '2023-04-27 15:06:45'),
(6536, 6536, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today visited Miraikan, The Japanese National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, at Amoi, Koto-ku, in Tokyo.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The Prime Minister has taken around various sections of the Miraikan, The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation,\" PM\'s Speechwriter M Nazrul Islam told BSS.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At her arrival in the museum, Sheikh Hasina was warmly received by the authorities concerned.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Prime Minister was apprised of how humankind can survive in a sustainable way in environment friendly atmosphere, Nazul Islam said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She was also briefed on how the carbon dioxide emissions, plastic and other human actions risking the lives of mankind and other animals in planet and the way to survive it, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Prime Minister was also witnessed an exhibition of the spaceship.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman\'s youngest daughter Sheikh Rehana accompanied her elder sister Sheikh Hasina during the visit.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">State Minister for Foreign Md Shahriar Alam and State Minister of Information and Communication Technology Division Zunaid Ahmed Palak, Bangladesh Ambassador to Japan Shahabuddin Ahmed and Director General of Bangladesh National Museum Md Kamruzzaman and PMO Secretary Mohammad Salahuddin were present.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Visitors can experience the technological progress of today, from simple day-to-day questions, to the latest technologies, the global environment, space exploration and life science.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In addition to exhibitions that provide people with a chance to enjoy hands-on contact with science and technology, Miraikan\'s colorful line-up of offerings includes experienced based classes and talks. BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-27 15:16:57', '2023-04-27 15:16:57'),
(6537, 6537, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today paid deep homage to the Japanese who raised voice during the great War of Liberation of Bangladesh and hoped the new generation would carry forward the \'lasting friendship\' and \'enviable partnership\' between the two country in the years to come .</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I am confident that the people of Japan will always be on our side besides the government as they did in our need in the past. Our lasting friendship and enviable partnership over the past fifty years will be carried forward by our new generation in the years to come,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She was addressing a ceremony to confer \"Friends of Liberation War Honour\" to four Japanese nationals at Akasaka Palace Guest House, Tokyo. </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I thank all of you for joining us on this humble occasion where we not only honour our friends but also celebrate the bonds of amity with Japan,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Prime Minister welcomed all in that august occasion to honour the great souls who had raised voice and put efforts for the cause of humanity during the War of Liberation in 1971. </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Among them were Japanese citizens who are with us today. This is an auspicious occasion for Bangladesh and its people,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier said the Japanese people stood beside the suffering humanity of Bangladesh, adding that Bangladesh had a modest list of eight honourees whom the country has honoured with \'Friends of Liberation War Honour\' on 27 March 2012 and 1 October 2013. </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"This evening we are in Tokyo to honour four more great friends of Bangladesh who stood by us, organized the moral and material support and ensured assistance. They rose to protest atrocities and sent humanitarian reliefs, medical facilities to our helpless people,\" she said. </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mentioning that it was a period of sorrow which cannot be expressed in mere words, she said Bangladesh was ravaged by the occupying forces. </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"At that critical moment, our Japanese friends understood our plight and went forward for the cause of humanity,\" she added. </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"They (Japanese) faced great challenges, but did not fall back. Their act of selflessness rekindled our spirit in the face of threats. Most unforgettable was the charitable gesture of Japanese school children who saved and donated their Tiffin money to help our people,\" she recalled.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Bangladesh recalls with deep gratitude the support of the people of Japan which reconfirmed that our cause was right and could not be trampled,\" she said, adding, \"You heard our yearning for justice, honour, dignity and human rights.\" </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Your voice added strength to our voice and was magnified to the global community. You rallied with our cause and together raised a human citadel against a ruthless force. In the land of the rising sun, we see the image of a nation with dignity and humanity,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina said for her it was an honor to carry on her father\'s legacy and visit Japan in 1997, 2010, 2014, 2016 and 2019 to further strengthen the relations. </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I am happy today that during my tenure, our time-tested friendship has evolved in depth and dimension from a \"Comprehensive Partnership\" to a \"Strategic Partnership,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier said that Bangladesh and Japan share the same noble ideas and principles of equality, democracy and democratic practice, inclusive development, social justice and rule of law. </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We are following the vision of our Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman who declared the core of our foreign policy \"Friendship to all, malice towards none\" which is also practiced in Japan,\" she added. </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said they acknowledge the sustained economic cooperation and support of Japan in their socio-economic pursuit. </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We have achieved the status to graduate from LDC to a developing country,\" she added. </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier said bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Japan are based on mutual trust, respect, friendship and cooperation. The historic visit of the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, to Japan in October 1973, laid the foundation of a steadfast and lasting friendship. </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said they are paying deep homage to the greatest Bangalee of all times, Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman who led Bangladesh\'s War of Liberation and three million martyrs of the Liberation War, 200 thousand women who endured inhuman torture, the martyrs of 15 August, four national leaders, all the valiant freedom fighters and all the foreign friends of Bangladesh who contributed to the cause of our liberation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We have dedicated ourselves to Bangabandhu\'s dream of a true Sonar Bangla (Golden Bengal) and to turn Bangladesh into a land of opportunity. We are confident that Japan will be on our side as it had been in the past,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Prime Minister\'s younger sister Sheikh Rehana was present on dais while Lt Col (Retd) Quazi Sazzad Ali moderated the function.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Foreign Minister Dr. AK Abdul Kalam recited the citation in honour of the four Japanese. They are President Emeritus of Japan Red Cross Society Tadateru Konoe, Prof Gallop Pema, political leader Hideo Takano (posthumous) and photo journalist Taizo Ichinose (posthumous).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prof Gyalpo expressed his feelings in the function on behalf of the honour recipients.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Prime Minister said she feels very happy as she, along with her younger sister Sheikh Rehana, has been able to honour the Japanese friends for their contribution during the Liberation War. </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">They helped Bangladesh in its need during the Liberation War in 1971, she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"It is the great thing that we never forget our friends,\" she added. BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-27 16:17:32', '2023-04-27 22:54:12'),
(6538, 6538, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">A weather bulletin issued by the Bangladesh Meteorology Department (BMD) predicted rain or thundershowers at six divisions with hails at isolated places of the country in the next 24 hours commencing 9am today.</b><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 to occur at one or two places over Rajshahi, Rangpur, Dhaka, Khulna, Mymensingh and Sylhet divisions with hails at isolated places,\" said the bulletin.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mild heat wave is sweeping over Dhaka, Khulna, Chattogram divisions and the districts of Rajshahi, Pabna, Patuakhali and Bhola and it may continue. However, weather may remain mainly dry with temporary partly cloudy sky elsewhere over the country, it added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Day temperature may remain nearly unchanged and night temperature may rise slightly over the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Country\'s maximum temperature on Wednesday was recorded 38.1degrees Celsius at Cox\'s Bazar while today\'s minimum temperature 18.8 degrees Celsius was recorded at Tetulia.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The highest rainfall was recorded 17 mm at Ishurdi for last 24 hours till 6am today.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The sun sets at 6.25pm today and rises at 5.27 am tomorrow in the capital. BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-27 16:47:00', '2023-04-27 16:47:00'),
(6539, 6539, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Awami League (AL) General Secretary Obaidul Quader said on Thursday&nbsp; fight against communal forces will continue aiming to build Smart Bangladesh.&nbsp;</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Our fight against communal evil forces is going on. This fight will continue to build Smart Bangladesh,” he told the reporters after paying homage, on behalf of the AL, to the then Chief Minister of undivided Bengal Sher-e-Bangla AK Fazlul Huq on the occasion of his 61st death anniversary.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Quader, also the Road Transport and Bridges Minister, said communal evil forces are still putting their clutches on the Bangladesh’s politics and “today we are non-communal and humanist spirit united against the communal forces”.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Our goal is to build Smart Bangladesh by fighting those (communal forces) under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina,” he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">About the remarks of BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir over the role of new President in resolving ongoing political crisis, the AL general secretary said President Mohammed Shahabuddin is a Bangalee by heart and he believes in the spirit of democracy and patriotism.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“He (President) is a follower of Bangabandhu\'s ideology. I want to say it about him that he would prove the rest by his works,” he said.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">About Sher-e-Bangla, Quader said Fazlul Huq was a true Bangalee and the chief minister of the undivided Bengal.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sher-e-Bangla presented the historic Lahore Resolution in 1940, while he had given relief to the debt-ridden peasant society of Bengal by forming the Debt Arbitration Board, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“When we recall Sher-e-Bangla, we remember his contribution…we remember Sher-e-Bangla, as a non-communal nationalist and humanitarian leader, with respect.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;He worked in a humanistic non-communal spirit,” the AL general secretary said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">AL presidium member Dr Mustafa Jalal Mohiuddin, joint general secretary AFM Bahauddin Nasim, organising secretaries Ahmed Hossain and Advocate Afzal Hossain, science and technology affairs secretary Engineer Abdus Sabur, women affairs secretary Jahanara Begum, culture affairs secretary Ashim Kumar Ukil, deputy office secretary Sayem Khan and executive member Shahabuddin Faraji were, among others, present on the occasion. BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-27 18:06:53', '2023-04-27 18:06:53'),
(6540, 6540, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Former education and planning minister Dr A Majeed Khan died of old age complications while undergoing treatment at a city hospital on Wednesday.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He was 94, said a press release here today.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dr Khan was serving as the president of the Executive Board of Bangladesh Center for Communication Programs (BCCP) until his demise.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He dedicated his life to the cause of social development, particularly to expand education among the mass people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Born on July 01, 1929 in Faridpur, Dr Khan was educated in Kolkata, London and Minnesota in the USA.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Throughout his life, he held several important positions at home and abroad.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Former education minister and planning minister Dr Khan earlier served as Ambassador of Bangladesh to France, Spain and Morocco. He was a Senior Director to UNDP and a member of the Executive Board and Permanent Representative to the UNESCO.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dr Khan founded the Independent University Bangladesh (IUB) and was honored as the president emeritus and founder president of IUB. He also established the first-ever IT-based university called University of Information Technology and Sciences (UITS).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dr Khan established the Bangladesh Academy for Rural Development in Cumilla. He was the founder Chairperson of the Committee of Action for Research, Extension and Services (CARES).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">His Namaz-e-Janaza will be held at the Baridhara Jame Mosque and Islamic Center after the Jumma Prayers tomorrow. BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-27 18:14:09', '2023-04-27 18:14:09'),
(6541, 6541, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The Embassy of the Republic of Korea has reminded all visa applicants in Bangladesh that the visa application process (except visa fees) does not require any financial transactions.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We are committed to providing a safe and secure visa application process for all applicants,\" said the Embassy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Embassy of South Korea or any Korean person will never ask for money to be wired or transferred for any visa-related purposes, said the Embassy in a message on Thursday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Please be cautious of any individuals or entities that claim to be affiliated with the Embassy of the Republic of Korea and request financial transactions in exchange for visa services or assistance,\" the message reads.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">These are likely to be fraudulent schemes designed to take advantage of unsuspecting applicants, according to the message shared by the Embassy on its verified Facebook page.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"If you encounter any suspicious activity or individuals, please report it to the Embassy of the Republic of Korea immediately,\" it said. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-27 18:57:42', '2023-04-27 18:57:42'),
(6542, 6542, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">A Dhaka court has dismissed a case filed under the ‘Digital Security Act’ against former DUCSU vice president (VP) Nurul Haque Nur.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On Thursday (April 27), Dhaka Cyber Tribunal judge AM Zulfiqar Hayat was scheduled to take cognizance of the chargesheet in a case filed against VP Nur for making derogatory comments about Awami League activists and supporters on Facebook Live.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">However, the court rejected the chargesheet against Nur after acquitting him of all charges and ordered the case to be dismissed.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The chargesheet was submitted on February 28 to the Chief Metropolitan Magistrate\'s Court in Dhaka by Inspector Mohammad Saiful Islam of the Cyber and Special Crime Division of DB police, the investigating officer of the case.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the chargesheet, Nur was declared a fugitive and the investigating officer sought an arrest warrant against him. Later, the case was transferred to Dhaka Cyber Tribunal for trial.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On April 19, 2021, musician Eliyas Hossain filed the case under the ‘Digital Security Act’ with Paltan Police Station as a plaintiff. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-27 19:10:43', '2023-04-27 19:10:43'),
(6543, 6543, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Tadao Ando Architect and Associates established by world renowned architect Tadao Ando will build a children\'s library in Dhaka.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This was disclosed when a delegation led by Tadao called on visiting Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at her place of residence, Akasaka Palace here.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">PM\'s Speechwriter M Nazrul Islam briefed the reporters after the meeting.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prior to the call on, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Bangladesh National Museum (BNM) and the Tadao Ando Architect and Associates were exchanged by BNM Director General Md Kamruzzaman and Tadao Ando in presence of the prime minister.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The MoU was signed earlier to build a children\'s library in Bangladesh on Japanese donation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During the call on, the PM said they have taken various measures that include building museums across the country to preserve the true history of the Liberation of Bangladesh and the glory of the war heroes.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said her government has transformed the house of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman into a museum to preserve his contribution to liberate the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Ando highly praised the socio-economic advancement of Bangladesh under the dynamic leadership of PM Hasina.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md Shahriar Alam, Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen and PMO Secretary Mohammad Salahuddin were present. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-27 19:13:36', '2023-04-27 19:13:36'),
(6544, 6544, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The country’s both stock markets’ trading ended with the highest transaction on Thursday.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The index points of Dhaka stock exchange rose&nbsp; by 7 points and Chittagong stock by 14 points—the highest in five and a half&nbsp; months.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;As a result, the stock market index rose on the four working days after Eid. Even before Eid, the five-day index traded in an upward trend. All in all, the capital market has risen for the last nine consecutive working days.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On Thursday, shares of Rahima Food, ITC, Kohinoor Chemical, Heidelberg Cement and Bashundhara Paper Mills have played a major role in the rise, along with the food, insurance and IT sectors. These five companies contributed about 35 percent to the increase in the share index.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to DSE data, over 15.90 crore shares and units were traded in DSE today (Thursday). Over Tk 967.69 crore has been transacted in it while Tk765.33 crore was traded on Wednesday. The transaction has increased by more than Tk 200 crore compared to the previous day.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It was the highest transaction in the last 5 and a half months. Earlier on November 9, 2022, Tk1018.85 crore was transacted in the DSE.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">On this day, the main index DSE increased by 7.70 points from the previous day to 6274 points. Among the other two indexes, DSE Shariah Index rose by 3.10 points to 1,362 points. However, the DSE-30 index fell by 4.64 points to 2088 points.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A total of 351 shares and units of companies were traded on DSE. Among them, the prices of 79 companies increased, 62 companies decreased and 210 companies\' share and unit prices remained unchanged.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Shares of Genex Infosys were at the top of the transaction on DSE on Thursday. After that, shares of Unique Hotel were traded the most. The share of Bangladesh Shipping Corporation was in the third place. Then in the top 10 were shares of Eastern Housing, Bashundhara Paper Mills, Olympic Industries, Gemini Sea Food, Rupali Life Insurance, Apex Footwear and IT Consultants Limited respectively.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The overall index of the other stock market CSE CASPI increased by 14.93 points to 18466 points. Shares and units of 160 companies were traded on CSE. Among them, the prices increased for 44 companies, decreased for 45 companies and remained unchanged for 68 companies.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;At the end of the day, over 7.95 crore shares and units were traded in CSE. The previous day the transaction was 9.67 crore. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-27 20:29:53', '2023-04-27 20:29:53'),
(6545, 6545, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) and Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Thursday at the Westin Tokyo of Japan to strengthen bilateral trade and economic relations between the two countries.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">FBCCI President Md. Jashim Uddin and JCCI Chairman Ken Kobayashi signed the MoU on behalf of their organisations.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The MoU was signed at the inauguration of the summit on Trade &amp; Investment Opportunities between Bangladesh and Japan held at The Westin Tokyo of Japan. Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was present at the program as the chief guest.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Under the MoU, the parties agreed to cooperate with each other to develop more productive contacts between the businesses of the two countries, exchange knowledge and information related to bilateral trade and economic development.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Private industry and investment adviser to the Prime Minister Salman F Rahman, Foreign Minister Dr. A. K. Abdul Momen, State Minister of ICT Division Zunaid Ahmed Palak, FBCCI Former President Md. Shafiul Islam (Mohiuddin) MP, Vice Presidents M A Momen, Aminul Haque Shamim, Md. Amin Helaly, Salahuddin Alamgir, Md. Habib Ullah Dawn, Directors, Executive Chairman of BIDA Mr. Lokman Hossain Miah, Executive Chairman of BEZA Mr. Shaikh Yusuf Harun, Ambassadors of the two countries, high officials of the governments, business leaders were present at the summit. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-27 20:33:39', '2023-04-27 20:33:39'),
(6546, 6546, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Five more world leaders, including US President Joseph R. Biden Jr, today congratulated President Mohammed Shahabuddin on his assumption of the exalted office as the President of the Republic of Bangladesh.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Greetings of the global leaders are still coming after Mohammed Shahabuddin took oath as the 22nd President of the country on April 24.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">US President Joseph R. Biden Jr, President of Finland Sauli Niinisto, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of Belarus Aleksandr Lukashenko and President of Switzerland Alain Berset, in separate messages, congratulated him.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The separate messages containing greetings from the five world leaders, including the heads of the state and heads of the government, arrived here today.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Wishing peace and prosperity for the people of Bangladesh, the leaders stressed further strengthening of the ties with Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">US President Joseph Robinette Biden Jr (Joe Biden) congratulated Shahabuddin saying that the longstanding partnership between Bangladesh and the US has helped forge a more peaceful and prosperous future for all of our people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;\"Together, we have expanded economic growth and development between our two countries . . . . And together, we continue to tackle corruption and address global challenges such as climate change and the Rohingya refugee crisis-creating a better world for future generations,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said the United States stands ready to continue to deepen the partnership between the two countries and work together to strengthen the democracies, stand up for our shared values, including advancing human rights and defending democratic principles.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I look forward to working with Bangladesh to continue building a more free, prosperous, and secure future for all Bangladeshis and Americans.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In his congratulatory message, President of the Republic of Finland Sauli Niinisto, said, \"I look forward to continuing the good and long-standing cooperation between our two countries, both bilaterally and in the multilateral fora.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has extended his heartfelt congratulations on Shahabuddin\'s assuming the highest office of Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He expressed hope that Shahabuddin\'s far-sighted leadership and great experience will lead Bangladesh to high peaks and further prosperity and two countries\' partnership with traditional friendship will be strengthened for the mutual benefit of people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko congratulated Mohammed Shahabuddin and sought Bangladesh\'s support for expanding Belarus-Bangladesh cooperation successfully in all potential areas.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Belarus is interested in strengthening interaction in the areas of industrial cooperation, mechanical engineering, electric transport, agriculture, pharmacy, science and education, he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In a congratulatory message, President of the Swiss Confederation Alain Berset said Switzerland has been and will remain a steadfast partner in Bangladesh\'s efforts to build a better future.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I am confident that the ties between our two countries will continue to deepen and will help us to tackle global challenges together,\" the Swiss President hoped. BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-27 20:48:47', '2023-04-27 20:48:47'),
(6547, 6547, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday said that&nbsp; denocracy in Bangladesh is practiced&nbsp; only by her pary Awami League which has a history of holding free elections.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Awami League practices the democratic system and fair democratic practices prevail during Awami League regime,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister, now on a four-day official visit to Japan, said this while speaking at a civic reception at Westin Hotel here.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said all elections under the Awami League regime were held fairly.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In this connection, Hasina said the President of Bangladesh Abdul Hamid made history by completing his two terms peacefully.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“This has been the first time in the history of the country where the outgoing president and the new president could complete all related procedure peacefully. This is a democratic process,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Awami League chief said that former military dictator Ziaur Rahman destroyed the election process during his military regime. The process continued by another military ruler HM Ershad and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She mentioned that there was no political stability in 29 years out of 50 years of Bangladesh after the assassinations of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on August 15, 1975.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“There was no democratic process and there was no democratic rule of law in those days” she stated.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She slammed those who fail to see democracy and development in the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hasina said that opposition BNP\'s history is so tarnished that it has no face to take part in elections.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said that in 2008 election BNP-Jamaat alliance got only 30 seats while AL-led grand alliance bagged all other seats.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“For that reason they (BNP-Jamaat) did not take part in 2014 election,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Referring the arson terrorism by BNP-Jamaat nexus in 2013-15, she said that they killed at least 500 people and destroyed many government and private establishments.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Now how could they participate in the election and seek votes from the people?,” she questioned.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She urged all to remain alert so the country remain s free from militancy, terrorism and drugs.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The PM said there are some people who do not see democracy in the country and they have been favouring those who violated human rights and concealed bodies after killing people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said they could not even file a case after the assassination of her father Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman along with her mother and brothers as the killers were indemnified from charges and trial.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The killers had got a gift instead of punishment,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister said two killers of Bangabandhu are now staying in the USA and Canada, adding that they have repeatedly requested the governments of the two countries to send back the killers to Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“But, they do not pay heed to the request,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Pointing at the USA, she said, “Giving killers (of Bangabandhu) shelters in their own country, they are talking of humanity in Bangladesh.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hasina said her government has done everything possible to stop the culture of impunity in Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She called upon the expatriate Bangladeshis to invest in Bangladesh saying that they have taken measures for attracting foreign investments to the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Referring to establishing 100 economic zones across the country, she said those who have interest can invest in the economic zones.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She also suggested Bangladeshis also invest in Bangladesh as It will be better to invest with a Japanese partner.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Referring to the suffering of the people across the globe due to global economic recession because of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, the prime minister said her government has taken every possible measure so that the citizens won\'t have to suffer at least for food.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She asked all to bring every inch of land under cultivation as Bangladesh needs not depend on any country for food.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The PM said her government has been working to bring every person under the housing scheme following the footprints of Bangabandhu to make sure that none will remain homeless and landless across the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“No one in the country will remain homeless and landless in the country,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Spelling out her government’s measures for the overall development of Bangladesh, the premier said Bangladesh has completely changed in the last 14 years in terms of socio-economic uplift.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The PM vowed to transform Bangladesh into a developed, prosperous and Smart Bangladesh by 2041.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen was present on the dais while Ambassador of Bangladesh to Japan Shahabuddin Ahmed gave welcome address at the function. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-27 22:53:24', '2023-04-27 22:53:24');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(6548, 6548, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader on Friday said that Awami League will give a fitting reply to anyone who will try to obstruct the free, fair and peaceful election.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The AL memers will remain in the field until the next election to ensure no disruption occurs,&nbsp; said Quader, who is also the general secrerary of Awami League.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said this after laying wreath on the grave of Sheikh Jamal to mark his birthday at Banani graveyard this morning. Jamal, the second son of father of the nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, was killed during the August 15 massacre in 1975.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Quader denied that the AL holds any programme to counter BNP\'s movement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We are holding peace rallies to protect the lives and property of the people of this country from bad politics. We are not giving any programme with a deadline. We will be on the streets till the next election,\" he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also called upon the people to join their peace movement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said the most brutal murder in the history of human civilisation was the killing of&nbsp; Bangabandhu Sheikh and his&nbsp; family members in 1975.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In continuation of the same conspiracy, killings were carried out on November 3, 1975 and August 21, 2004. These three events are linked together, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Emphasing the need to establish democracy in Bangladesh and build the golden Bangla of Bangabandhu\'s dream, Quader said democracy should be institutionalized instead of the politics of murder, conspiracy and betrayal.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He called upon people and party activists to build resistance against militancy and defeat them. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-28 13:50:04', '2023-04-28 13:50:04'),
(6549, 6549, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">China\'s defense minister says conditions along the tense, high-altitude border with India are \"stable overall,\" in sharp contrast with the far more pessimistic view from New Delhi.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The remarks from Li Shangfu came in a statement issued shortly after a meeting Thursday with his Indian counterpart Rajnath Singh in New Delhi.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"China and India have far more common interests than differences,\" Li was quoted as saying.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"At present, conditions on the China-Indian border are stable overall,\" Li said. The sides should \"take a long-term view, put the border issue at an appropriate place in bilateral relations, and promote the normalization of the border situation as soon as possible,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In its own statement, India\'s defense ministry quoted Singh as saying China had eroded the \"entire basis\" of ties between the countries by violating bilateral agreements, in reference to a nearly 3-year-old standoff involving thousands of soldiers stationed along their disputed border in the Ladakh region.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The development of India-China relations \"is premised on the prevalence of peace and tranquility at the borders\" and all border issues need to be resolved in accordance with existing agreements and commitments, the ministry said in a statement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The differing tone of the statements reflects India\'s desire to draw attention to what it says is the deployment of a large number of Chinese troops, their aggressive behavior, and attempts to unilaterally alter the border status quo between the countries.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">China, for its part, has tried to downplay moves to consolidate its border presence and often portrays the frictions as part of deliberate U.S. attempts to sow discord between the two nuclear-armed Asian giants.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A clash three years ago in Ladakh killed 20 Indian soldiers and four Chinese. It turned into a long-running standoff in the rugged mountainous area, where each side has stationed tens of thousands of military personnel backed by artillery, tanks and fighter jets.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Days before Li\'s visit, top Indian and Chinese army commanders held an 18th round of talks in an attempt to work out a disengagement of troops from tense areas. Such discussions have helped lay protocols to avoid clashes but have done little to nothing to resolve the larger issue.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Both India and China have withdrawn troops from some areas on the northern and southern banks of Pangong Tso, Gogra and Galwan Valley, but continue to maintain extra troops as part of a multitier deployment.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A Line of Actual Control separates Chinese and Indian-held territories from Ladakh in the west to India\'s eastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, which China claims in its entirety. As its name implies, the demarcation line divides the areas of physical control rather than territorial claims.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">India and China fought a bloody monthlong war over their border in 1962 and tensions have remained high in the region ever since, with the dispute at times fueling strong anti-China sentiment in India.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to India, the de facto border is 3,488 kilometers (2,167-mile) long, although China promotes a considerably shorter figure.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In all, China claims some 90,000 square kilometers (35,000 square miles) of territory in India\'s northeast, including Arunachal Pradesh with its mainly Buddhist population.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the western sector, India says China occupies 38,000 square kilometers (15,000 square miles) of its territory in the Aksai Chin Plateau, which India considers part of Ladakh, where the current face-off is happening.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Li is visiting New Delhi to attend a meeting of the defense chiefs of the Chinese and Russian-dominated Shanghai Cooperation Organization on Friday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The group, formed originally to constrain U.S. influence in the region, consists of China, India, Pakistan, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. AP/UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-28 13:52:57', '2023-04-28 13:52:57'),
(6550, 6550, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today left here for Washington DC after wrapping up her four-day official visit to Japan at the invitation of her Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A flight of the United Airlines carrying the Prime Minister and her entourage members took off from the Haneda International Airport in Tokyo around 15.55 pm (Japan time) for Dallas International Airport in Washington DC to attend the ceremony marking a 50-year partnership between Bangladesh and the World Bank in Washington DC on May 1, PM\'s Speechwriter M Nazrul Islam told journalists.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The flight is scheduled to land in the Dallas International Airport around 15:50pm (USA time).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ambassador of Bangladesh to the USA Muhammad Imran will receive the Prime Minister at the airport.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier will leave Washington DC for London on May 4 to attend the coronation of Charles III and his wife, Camilla, as king and queen of the United Kingdom and the other Commonwealth realms.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier on April 25, a special chartered VVIP flight (BG1403) of the Biman Bangladesh Airlines carrying the prime minister and her entourage members landed at the Haneda International Airport, Tokyo at 4.45pm (local time) on the first leg of her 15-day official visit to Japan, the USA and the UK.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Japan had rolled out a red carpet to welcome the Bangladeshi Prime Minister and gave her the static guard of honour at the airport.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During her visit to Japan, Dhaka and Tokyo signed eight instruments on agriculture, metro rail, industrial upgrade, ship recycling, customs matters, intellectual properties; defence cooperation, ICT and cyber security cooperation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On April 26, Sheikh Hasina paid a courtesy call on Emperor of Japan Naruhito On the same day, she also held a bilateral meeting with her Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida after the signing of the deals.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Premier also attended an investment summit and a community reception alongside handing over the \"Friends of Liberation War Honour\" to four Japanese nationals for their contribution to Bangladesh\'s Liberation War in 1971 on April 27.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During her visit in Tokyo, the prime minister attended several additional bilateral meetings, including meeting with Japanese foreign minister Yoshimasa Hayashi, and meeting with leaders of JAICA, JETRO, JEBIC, JBPFL and JBCCEC.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She also met the late former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe\'s wife Akie Abe and a Japanese architect Tadao Ando.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Her sister Sheikh Rehana, foreign minister AK Abdul Momen, agriculture minister Abdur Razzaque, prime minister\'s private industry and investment adviser Salman F Rahman, state minister for foreign affairs Md Shahriar Alam, state minister for power, energy and mineral resources Nasrul Hamid and state minister for information and communication technology Zunaid Ahmed Palak along with the relevant high level government officials accompanied the prime minister during her visit to Japan.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Prime Minister is expected to return home from London on May 9. BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd24/kh</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-28 15:34:19', '2023-04-28 15:34:19'),
(6551, 6551, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The World Bank has approved $1.2 billion financing for Bangladesh in three new projects under a new Country Partnership Framework for Bangladesh (2023-2027).</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The approval came on Thursday at a meeting of the global lender\'s Board of Directors in Washington, said WB press release.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Country Partnership Framework (CPF), anchored in the government’s eighth “Five Year Plan” and the “Long-Term Perspective Plan 2021–2041”, will support Bangladesh’s goal to achieve upper-middle-income country status by 2031 by helping the country address key barriers to higher and sustainable growth.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It will help develop a diversified and competitive private sector to create more and better jobs; promote socio economic inclusion to expand opportunities for all; and address climate and environmental vulnerabilities. These three outcomes are key priorities for Bangladesh’s growth aspirations.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Guided by these priorities, the CPF proposed a programme of technical and financial support focusing on eight objectives—improved business environment for broad-based private sector development; strengthened financial intermediation for long-term growth and resilience; improved effectiveness of public institutions to deliver better services; improved quality and equitable access for human capital development services; enhanced economic opportunities for women and vulnerable groups; strengthened spatial and digital connectivity for inclusive growth; improved effectiveness of delta management for accelerated climate resilience building and sustainability; and productivity in the use of natural capital for green growth and energy transition.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"This Country Partnership Framework builds on five decades of strong partnership between the World Bank Group and Bangladesh,\" said Abdoulaye Seck, World Bank country director for Bangladesh and Bhutan.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“As Bangladesh aims to be more prosperous, it will need stronger institutions and policies to serve the needs of an upper-middle-income country. This CPF will support the government’s reform programs to deliver jobs and support inclusion and resilience,” said Seck.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">To prepare the CPF, the World Bank Group held extensive countrywide and online consultations with key stakeholder groups, including the government, the private sector, civil society, think tanks, academia, media, and other development partners.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Bangladesh has an ambitious goal – to achieve upper middle income status within a short period and that too in face of the daunting challenges of climate change, \" said Junaid Kamal Ahmad, MIGA vice president of Operations.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Access to private capital and global financial markets will increasingly be needed to achieve this goal,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Bangladesh has been one of the world’s outstanding development growth stories. Additional reforms to spur the development of a more diversified and competitive private sector will grow exports and create quality jobs,” said Martin Holtmann, IFC’s country manager for Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Financing for green investments to help tackle and mitigate climate risks will become increasingly important,” said Holtmann.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The World Bank Board of Directors yesterday also approved $1.25 billion financing in three projects to help Bangladesh achieve greener and more resilient development and greater inclusion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The $500 million “Program on Agricultural and Rural Transformation for Nutrition, Entrepreneurship, and Resilience” (PARTNER) project will help promote diversification, food safety, entrepreneurship, and climate resilience in the agri-food systems.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The $500 million “First Green and Climate Resilient Development Credit” will help the country’s transition to green and climate-resilient development. The $250 million “Sustainable Microenterprise and Resilient Transformation” (SMART) project will help transform the micro-enterprise sector into a more dynamic, less-polluting, resource-efficient, and climate-resilient growth sector.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">With these three projects approved, the International Development Association’s (IDA) total ongoing programme in Bangladesh stood at $16.3 billion. MIGA’s current programme in Bangladesh is just over $1 billion and IFC’s ongoing programme is about $1 billion. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-28 15:37:57', '2023-04-28 15:37:57'),
(6552, 6552, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The WHO said Wednesday that Covid-19 deaths had dropped by 95 percent since the start of the year -- but warned the virus was still on the move.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The World Health Organization said Covid-19 was here to stay and countries would have to learn how to manage its ongoing non-emergency effects, including post-Covid-19 condition, or Long Covid.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We\'re very encouraged by the sustained decline in reported deaths from Covid-19, which have dropped 95 percent since the beginning of this year,\" WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a press conference.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"However, some countries are seeing increases, and over the past four weeks, 14,000 people lost their lives to this disease.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"And, as the emergence of the new XBB.1.16 variant illustrates, the virus is still changing, and is still capable of causing new waves of disease and death.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Maria Van Kerkhove, the WHO\'s technical lead on Covid-19, said XBB sub-lineages were now dominant worldwide.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">They have an increase in growth advantage and are also showing immune escape, meaning people can be reinfected despite having been vaccinated or previously infected.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She called for increased surveillance through testing \"so that we can monitor the virus itself and understand what each of these mutations means\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">That knowledge could feed into vaccine composition and inform decisions on handling the virus, she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Tedros reiterated that the WHO remained hopeful of declaring an end to Covid-19 as a public health emergency of international concern, with the committee that advises him on the status due to convene next month for its regular quarterly meeting.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"But this virus is here to stay, and all countries will need to learn to manage it alongside other infectious diseases,\" he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Tedros meanwhile said that an estimated one in 10 infections resulted in Long Covid, suggesting that hundreds of millions of people would need longer-term care.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The WHO chief also noted how the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted vaccination programmes, with an estimated 67 million children missing out on at least one essential jab between 2019 and 2021.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Following a decade of stalled progress, vaccination rates are back to where they were in 2008, he said, leading to rising outbreaks of measles, diphtheria, polio and yellow fever.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">All countries must address \"the barriers to immunisation, whether it\'s access, availability, cost or disinformation\", he said. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd24/kh</div></div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"6\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-28 16:43:47', '2023-04-28 16:43:47'),
(6553, 6553, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Awami League (AL) Joint General Secretary and Information and Broadcasting Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud today said BNP is the main patron of the killers of meritorious youth and heroic freedom fighter Sheikh Jamal, son of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"It is sorrowful but true that they (killers) are still active in making evil efforts,\" he said while talking to journalists after paying tributes to Sheikh Jamal by placing wreaths at his grave at Banani graveyard marking his birthday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On August 15 in 1975, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the country\'s architect, with most of his family members, including Sheikh Jamal, was assassinated by a group of disgruntled army officers.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hasan said today is the birthday of Shaheed Sheikh Jamal. \"I am praying for eternal peace of his soul on his birthday. I am paying profound tributes to his memories,\" he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Jamal was under house arrest at their Dhanmondi residence along with his other family members including Bangamata Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Mujib, Bangabandhu\'s daughters Sheikh Hasina and Sheikh Rehana and Sheikh Russel, during the great Liberation War in 1971.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Later, Sheikh Jamal fled from their Dhanmondi residence and joined the Liberation War after reaching Agartala, India after a very risky journey on foot, he mentioned.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Jamal took part in the Liberation War for entire nine months and he fought from the frontline, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Later, he joined Bangladesh Army and subsequently, he received training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom (UK) and later he was promoted to the rank of Second Lieutenant, the information minister said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Sheikh Jamal was a brilliant youth. At the same time, he liked to do cultural activities. He had a deep passion for sports too,\" Hasan said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">With the killing of Sheikh Jamal, Bangladesh had lost a meritorious youth, he observed.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hasan said Sheikh Jamal, a promising youth who could serve the country a lot and make contributions to the nation building, was assassinated.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">AL Deputy Publicity Secretary Syed Abdul Awal Shamim, party\'s National Committee Member Balaram Poddar and Swadhinata Chikitsak Parishad General Secretary Dr Kamrul Hasan were present, among others. BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd24/kh</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"4\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-28 17:15:13', '2023-04-28 17:15:13'),
(6554, 6554, '<div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Law Minister Anisul Haque said that health care and safety at the workplace is a fundamental right of every worker.&nbsp;</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He highlighted the importance of a safe and decent working environment for the realization of this right, while speaking as the chief guest at a discussion meeting on \'National Occupational Health and Safety Day\' organized by the Ministry of Labor and Employment.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This year\'s theme for the day was \'Ensure a decent working environment, build a smart Bangladesh.\'</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He stressed that the observance of safety rules at workplaces and ensuring a decent working environment is crucial for sustainable development.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He emphasized that ensuring occupational safety in factories and establishments is not solely the responsibility of the government or factory owners. Instead, it has become a liability for the factory owners.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Bangladesh Labor Act and Bangladesh Labor Regulations mandate that workplaces be safe and dignified for workers, and this requirement is now recognized internationally, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As Bangladesh moves towards becoming a developed country, occupational safety should be given great importance, he added.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The minister urged all stakeholders, including workers, owners, and the government, to work together to establish occupational health and safety as a national culture.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He emphasized the need for joint initiatives to ensure a decent working environment, including the proper implementation of the Bangladesh Labor Act and Bangladesh Labor Rules.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He called for working sincerely towards ensuring a decent working environment for workers.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The implementation of these measures will go a long way in protecting workers\' rights and promoting sustainable development in Bangladesh, he added. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-28 17:48:24', '2023-04-28 17:48:24'),
(6555, 6555, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak\'s mother-in-law, Sudha Murty said that her daughter, Akshata Murty, \"made her husband a Prime Minister.\"</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rishi Sunak\'s quick ascension to power has been highlighted before but his mother-in-law claims it was her daughter who made that possible.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">His mother-in-law, Sudha Murty, has claimed in a video circulating online that because of her daughter, Rishi Sunak became the youngest prime minister of UK.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the video, Ms Murty can be heard saying: \"I made my husband a businessman. My daughter made her husband Prime Minister of the UK.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The reason is the glory of the wife. See how a wife can change a husband. But I could not change my husband. I made my husband a businessman, and my daughter made her husband a Prime Minister,\" said Sudha Murty in an Instagram post.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rishi Sunak married Akshata Murty in 2009, and the Prime Minister made a quick rise to power in the years that ensued.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The daughter of one of the world\'s wealthiest billionaires and with an estimated personal fortune of around Pound 730 million, Akshata Murty is a powerful woman. Her parents, who are from India and own a tech company worth billions, similarly kept out of the limelight.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Narayana Murthy, father of Akshata Murty is one of India\'s richest men and founder of the Infosys tech company.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mr Sunak is the youngest prime minister of UK in modern history at age 42, as well as the MP who became the Prime Minister in just seven years.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the video of Ms Murty\'s mother, she also speaks about how her daughter has influenced the prime minister\'s life in other ways, particularly his diet.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Murthy family, she says, have long followed a tradition of fasting every Thursday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Yes, what should be started on Thursday, they started Infosys on Thursday, not only that! Not only that, but our son-in-law, who married our daughter, has been in England for 150 years from their ancestor\'s time, but they are very religious. After getting married, he asked why you start anything on Thursday. They said that we will go to Raghavendra Swami. He fasts every Thursday after just saying good day. Our son-in-law\'s mother fasts every Monday but our son-in-law fasts on Thursdays,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rishi Sunak and his wife have been subject to repeated scrutiny over the last four years due to the billionaire status of his wife\'s father, which has raised questions about whether he has declared the full extent of his family\'s financial interests. ANI</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-28 18:12:03', '2023-04-28 18:12:03'),
(6556, 6556, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Armed Police Battalion (APBN) detained four members of the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) with a huge amount of arms and ammos in Ukhiya upazila of Cox’s Bazar on Friday morning.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The detainees, identified as Md Jobayer, 20, Nur Mohammad, 25, Jamila Begum, 48 and Bibi, 16, are residents of different blocks of the Rohingya camps in the upazila.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to an APBN media release signed by Syed Harunur Rashid, commander of 14-APBN, the battalion conducted a drive at block G in camp No.7 on information that 10 to 15 ARSA members including terrorist Chhamiuddin were staying there.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sensing the presence of the law enforcers, the miscreants allegedly opened fire on the APBN members forcing them to retaliate with bullets, it said, adding that a terrorist sustained bullet injuries in the incident.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As a consequence of the gunfight, the APBN members also conducted another drive at block C in camp No.5 when they came to know that the ARSA operatives including Chhamiuddin were staying there.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Though terrorists including Chhamiuddin managed to flee the scene , sensing the presence of the law enforcers, the four people including the bullet-hit one were detained with the arms.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Four locally-made one-shooter guns, 30 rounds of bullets of Chinese rifle, 27 rounds of pistol bullets, five cartridges of shotgun, three blank magazines, four walkie talkies, five mobile phone sets and one knife were recovered from the house, according to the APBN.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A process was underway to file a case against them in this connection at the local police station, it added. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-28 18:18:48', '2023-04-28 18:18:48'),
(6557, 6557, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">A new gas well, named Ilisha-1, has been discovered in Bhola, capable of extracting 20 to 22 million cubic feet of gas daily.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">BAPEX, the Bangladesh Petroleum Exploration and Production Company Limited, has successfully extracted gas experimentally from the well, bringing the total number of wells discovered in the district to nine.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">If everything goes well, gas extraction will officially begin on May 15th, according to BAPEX.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The government has taken various steps to increase domestic gas production to eliminate the energy crisis in the country. The discovery of the Ilisha-1 gas field in Bhola brings hope amidst the high global fuel gas prices and the crisis.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">International company Gazprom of Russia conducted the well drilling based on the BAPEX design and location, which was successfully completed on April 24th through Drill Stem Test in three levels at a depth of 3,436 meters.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">BAPEX\'s General Manager of Geophysical Department, Alamgir Hossain, estimates that initially, 20 to 22 million cubic feet of gas will be available from this well daily, with 180 to 220 BCF of gas reserves.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">However, further testing will be conducted to determine the actual production per day. The gas reserves in these wells are 1.7 TCF cubic feet.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Currently, only four wells are extracting gas, with 140 MMcf of gas being extracted per day but not fully utilised. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-28 19:10:37', '2023-04-28 19:10:37'),
(6558, 6558, '<div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Members of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB have arrested a man allegedly carrying six gold bars worth over Tk 50 lakh in Dhamoirhat upazila of Nagaon district along the India border.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The arrestee is identified as Kibria, 38, son of Md Alauddin of Chakbadal village under the upazila.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">BGB-14 Commander Lieutenant Colonel Hamid Uddin at a press conference at the battalion’s headquarters in Naogaon said tipped-off a special team of the border force conducted a drive at Chakilam village under the upazila along the India border on Thursday night.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Man arrested with 6 gold bars worth over Tk 50 lakh in Naogaon&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Kibria was detained following his suspicious movement from the border, he said, adding that the six gold bars weighing around 700 grams were recovered from his possession during the drive.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The market price of the seized gold bars is estimated over Tk 53, the BGB officer said, adding that the gold bars were handed over to the exchequer. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-28 19:13:42', '2023-04-28 19:13:42'),
(6559, 6559, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The country is experiencing scattered rain and thunderstorms in different parts of the country due to the impact of a localized low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This weather condition is expected to persist for the next few days, said the weather office on Friday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to the regular bulletin of Met office, rain/thundershowers accompanied by temporary gusty/squally wind is likely to occur at one or two places over Rangpur, Rajshahi, Dhaka, Khulna, Baishal, Mymensingh, Chattogram, and Sylhet divisions with hails at isolated places.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In Dhaka, the weather is expected to remain mostly cloudy with a possibility of scattered rain and thunderstorms throughout the day. The highest temperature is likely to be around 33 degrees Celsius and the lowest temperature is expected to be around 26 degrees Celsius. The humidity level is expected to be moderate to high.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the northern region of Bangladesh, the weather is expected to remain mostly cloudy with occasional rain and thunderstorms in some areas. The temperature is likely to range between 23 to 28 degrees Celsius with moderate to high humidity.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The central regions of the country are also experiencing scattered rain and thunderstorms with cloudy weather. The temperature is expected to range between 25 to 30 degrees Celsius with moderate humidity.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the southern region of Bangladesh, the weather is expected to remain cloudy with occasional rain and thunderstorms. The temperature is likely to range between 26 to 31 degrees Celsius with moderate to high humidity.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The country’s highest temperature was recorded at 38.6 degrees Celsius in Jashore on Thursday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The highest temperature today is expected to be around 35 degrees Celsius in some areas, and the lowest temperature is likely to be around 25 degrees Celsius. The humidity level is expected to vary from moderate to high.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has advised people to take necessary precautions during the rain and thunderstorms and to stay indoors as much as possible.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Furthermore, it also advised fishermen and maritime ports to exercise caution and remain alert for possible rough to very rough sea conditions in the Bay of Bengal. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-28 19:51:24', '2023-04-28 19:51:24'),
(6560, 6560, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">National Legal Aid Services Day was observed on Friday with a view to ensure the rule of law, fundamental human rights and justice for everyone.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Different programs were taken across the country marking the day.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A procession was brought out from the premises of the Directorate of Registration in the capital at 10 am. Secretary of Law and Justice Division Md Golam Sarwar and other senior officials joined the rally, which was also participated by employees of different organizations under the division.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Law and Justice Division took different steps to further expand legal aid services activities under the leadership of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Anisul Huq. All should work jointly to ensure equal legal safety for the poor and underprivileged people of the society,\" Md Golam Sarwar said on the occasion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Various programs including holding discussions, meetings, legal aid fairs, publication and distribution of magazines, souvenirs and posters, have been organized at the district levels. BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-28 20:54:28', '2023-04-28 20:54:28'),
(6561, 6561, '<div><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Inspector General of Police (IGP) Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun said Bangladesh Police is ready to follow instructions of the Election Commission (EC) to make the upcoming city elections free and fair.&nbsp;</b><br></div><div><br></div><div>\"Police do not see any challenge centering elections to five city corporations. But, the police are prepared to deal with any situation during the polls,\" he told reporters after visiting the Mazar Sharif of Hazrat Shahjalal (RA).</div><div><br></div><div>Claiming that police have enough experience and training in holding elections, the IGP said during the elections, police work under the EC. \"We will work according to the instructions given by the Election Commission,\" he added.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Today (Friday), Al-Mamun visited the shrine after offering Jummah prayers at the Dargah Mosque. Then he visited the graves of his parents.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Sylhet Range Md Mizan Shafiur Rahman, Sylhet Metropolitan Police (SMP) Commissioner Ilias Sharif, Sylhet District Superintendent of Police Abdullah Al Mamun, Sylhet Metropolitan Police Deputy Commissioner (traffic) Muhammad Abdul Wahab and Deputy Commissioner (North) Azbahar Ali Sheikh were, among others, present. BSS</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-28 21:03:47', '2023-04-28 21:03:47'),
(6562, 6562, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has urged the international community to lend more support for Rohingya refugees who have fled from native country Myanmar to Bangladesh.&nbsp;</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier made the urge in an interview with NHK, a Japanese public broadcaster, in Tokyo on Thursday, as she was on a four-day state visit to Japan. She left Tokyo this afternoon for Washington.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina met Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio on Wednesday. They agreed to elevate bilateral relations to a strategic partnership.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh saw the largest influx of the Rohingyas from neighboring Myanmar in 2017, who fled their homeland to escape the military crackdown.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, during the interview, said the cost of operating refugee camps for about one million Rohingya is rising as energy and food prices have soared on the back of the Ukrainian situation.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said her government has already started discussions with the Myanmar military about returning the refugees. Myanmar has agreed to take them back, but nothing has materialized so far, she added.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier also said that she wants to conclude an economic partnership agreement with Japan by 2026.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh, she said, has a large population of young people, and there are huge markets in South and Southeast Asia. BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-28 22:12:59', '2023-04-28 22:12:59');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(6563, 6563, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The government has taken measures to bring back Bangladeshi citizens stranded in Sudan, through Jeddah in Saudi Arabia.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Seheli Sabrin said that at first the Bangladeshi nationals will be taken to Port Sudan from Khartoum, and from there they will be taken to Jeddah.</div><div><br></div><div>Later, they will be brought to Bangladesh by several flights of Biman Bangladesh Airlines.</div><div><br></div><div>The Bangladesh Embassy in Khartoum has already arranged nine buses to take the Bangladeshi nationals to Port Sudan from Khartoum and adjacent cities and a team from Bangladesh’s Consulate General in Jeddah will reach there to assist them.</div><div><br></div><div>All the Bangladeshis, stranded in Sudan, will be taken to Port Sudan by May 2.</div><div><br></div><div>The Bangladeshi nationals are likely to reach Jeddah by May 3 or May 4.</div><div><br></div><div>Two Bangladeshi schools in Jeddah are providing food, drink, medicine and temporary accommodation for the Bangladeshi nationals being brought from Sudan.</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier, on April 25, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam said a decision has been made to evacuate Bangladeshi nationals from Sudan through other countries.</div><div><br></div><div>“The Bangladesh Embassy in Khartoum has already started spreading this message among the Bangladeshis living there,” he wrote in a Facebook post on Tuesday.</div><div><br></div><div>The state minister urged the Bangladeshi nationals in Sudan to follow the instructions provided by the embassy and complete registration.</div><div><br></div><div>Meanwhile, a number of Bangladeshi nationals were evacuated by the Royal Saudi Naval Forces.</div><div><br></div><div>More than 420 people, including at least 291 civilians, have been killed and over 3,700 wounded since the fighting erupted between Sudanese military and the country’s largest paramilitary force last week, AP reports.</div><div><br></div><div>United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called the situation in Sudan a “catastrophic conflagration” that could engulf the whole region. According to UNB reports</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-29 11:40:35', '2023-04-29 11:40:35'),
(6564, 6564, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Dismissing all speculations about the party’s subtle strategy to take part in city polls, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Saturday categorically said their party is not joining the upcoming elections to five city corporations in any way.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>“We have made it very clear that we are not going for any kind of local government elections. Especially in the city corporation polls, our party won’t vie for any post of mayor or commissioner.\"</div><div><br></div><div>He made the remarks while talking to reporters after placing a wreath at the grave of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman together with the leaders of the newly formed Jatiyatabadi Swechchasebak Dal committee.</div><div><br></div><div>Fakhrul said Awami League wants to establish a one-party Baksal rule by destroying democracy as the party does not believe in elections and democracy.</div><div><br></div><div>He alleged that the ruling party made the national election in 2014 a complete farce by depriving people of their right to franchise.</div><div><br></div><div>“Similarly, in 2018, they usurped power by stuffing ballots the night before the election day and people didn\'t participate in that polls either,\" the BNP leader observed.</div><div><br></div><div>Even, he said people are not participating in the local government elections under the current government. “Only 14% of people went to vote in the recent by-polls polls (in Chattogram). So people understand and the entire world understands that there will never be any fair election if this regime stays in power,” reports&nbsp; UNB</div><div><br></div><div>The BNP leader said people will also not participate in the next national election if it is held under the Awami League government.</div><div><br></div><div>He said the Prime Minister is talking about fair elections after going abroad to mislead people and repair her government’s dented image.</div><div><br></div><div>\"But the country’s people have now woken up. We believe that the people will defeat this regime through a fierce movement and establish a truly democratic system in the country,” Fakhrul said.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-29 15:31:13', '2023-04-29 15:31:13'),
(6565, 6565, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">A massive fire broke out in&nbsp; a tyre warehouse at Dewanhat in Chattogram port city on Saturday.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>The fire broke out in the warehouse, adjacent to Dhaka-Chattogram rail track around 12:45 pm and spread soon, said deputy assistant director of Chattogram Fire Service and Civil Defense Abdul Hamid.</div><div><br></div><div>On information, 11 firefighting units rushed to the spot and are trying to bring the fire under control.</div><div><br></div><div>However, what caused the fire could not be known immediately.</div><div><br></div><div>People also joined with fire service men to extinguish the blazed.</div><div><br></div><div>Meanwhile, train communication of Chattogram with Dhaka and other parts of the country remained suspended following the fire as the Chattogram-bound ‘Sonar Bangla’ express train failed to enter the Chattogram station, said Chattogram Railway Master Zafar Alam.</div><div><br></div><div>Besides, two trains-Bijoy and Mahanagar Express trains- remained stuck at Marshal Yard. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-29 15:37:10', '2023-04-29 15:37:10'),
(6566, 6566, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Mango farmers in Sharsha Upazila of Jashore are facing huge losses due to the nor\'wester that hit the area on Thursday (April 27).</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The storm caused complete destruction of the mango orchards in the area, with 40-50% of the mangoes falling to the ground.</div><div><br></div><div>According to reports, there are 9 thousand hectares of mango orchards, with about 3,140 big and small mango orchards in the Upazila, and almost all gardens were affected by the storm.</div><div><br></div><div>Mango farmers are now struggling to recover from this loss, with some reporting losses of up to TK 15 lakh.</div><div><br></div><div>Mango farmer Zafar Sheikh reported a loss of TK 10 to 15 lakh due to the kalbaishakhi, while Delbar of Baguri village said that his dream of getting a good price for mangoes this year was shattered.</div><div><br></div><div>Sharsha Upazila Agriculture Officer Pratap Kumar Mondal expressed concern over the huge damage caused to the mango farmers in the area, stating that the farmers could suffer significant losses</div><div><br></div><div>The extent of the damage caused by the storm is yet to be determined, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>On Thursday evening, around 5:30 pm, a Kalboishakhi hit the area. The fallen mangoes covered the orchards like a carpet, leaving most of the orchards with significant losses. According to UNB reports</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-29 15:42:57', '2023-04-29 15:42:57'),
(6567, 6567, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Coastguards have recovered the dead of 41 migrants off the coast of Tunisia, as the number of people dying trying to reach Europe from Africa continues to rise.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>According to a senior official, almost 200 people have drowned in the last ten days, reports BBC.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Tunisian morgues were running out of room, he said, and officials were struggling to keep up with the spike in attempted crossings.</div><div><br></div><div>\"On Tuesday, we had more than 200 bodies, well beyond the capacity of the hospital, which creates a health problem,\" said Faouzi Masmoudi, justice official in the port city of Sfax where the central morgue for an area of around a million people is sited.</div><div><br></div><div>\"There is a problem with large numbers of corpses arriving on the shore. We don\'t know who they are or what shipwreck they came from and the number is increasing.\"</div><div><br></div><div>According the UN\'s migration agency, a total of roughly 300 individuals died during the previous week and a half, and 824 people have died this year, with those leaving from the Libyan coast are included.</div><div><br></div><div>Houssem Eddine Jebabli of the national guard told Reuters, the decomposed condition of the recovered bodies indicated that they had been submerged for several days.</div><div><br></div><div>According to him, the total number of fatalities in such a short period was unprecedented.</div><div><br></div><div>Tunisia has become a transit point for irregular migrants, primarily from Sub-Saharan Africa, attempting to reach Europe by sea.</div><div><br></div><div>The number of migrant deaths at sea has varied, with the UN\'s Missing Migrants Project reporting that 300 migrants died in the Central Mediterranean in the last 10 days alone. - UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-29 16:12:58', '2023-04-29 16:12:58'),
(6568, 6568, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The Secondary School Certificate (SSC) and equivalent examinations for 2023 will begin on Sunday.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>According to the Ministry of Education, a total of 20,72,163 candidates are likely to sit for this year’s SSC and equivalent exams.</div><div><br></div><div>In order to ensure a fair and peaceful environment no one except the candidates will be allowed within 200 yards of the examination halls during the examinations, Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) said in a press release on April 27.</div><div><br></div><div>Meanwhile, all coaching centres in the country will remain closed from April 26 to May 23 for holding the examinations smoothly, said Education Minister Dr Dipu Moni on Tuesday, reports UNB.</div><div><br></div><div>Dipu Moni said that the examinations will be held on a short syllabus this year.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-29 16:36:39', '2023-04-29 16:36:39'),
(6569, 6569, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Afghanistan is grateful for Saudi Arabia’s help in evacuating its nationals from Sudan, the chief spokesman of the Taliban administration told Arab News on Friday after the first batch of Afghan evacuees reached Jeddah.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kabul, at least 120 Afghan citizens were trapped in Sudan when fighting broke out between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces on April 15.</div><div><br></div><div>More than 500 people have been killed since and at least 4,200 injured as clashes continued despite a ceasefire that started on Monday and has been extended until the end of Sunday.</div><div><br></div><div>Foreign nationals have been evacuated by land to neighboring Egypt and by sea to Saudi Arabia, as major airports have become battlegrounds.</div><div><br></div><div>Afghan evacuees, who arrived from Port Sudan to Jeddah on Thursday, were among the nearly 2,800 people brought to safety by Saudi forces, which are spearheading rescue efforts.</div><div><br></div><div>The Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement that it was “deeply grateful” to Saudi Arabia for its assistance, while Zabihullah Mujahid, chief spokesman for Afghanistan’s Taliban administration, said it was not the first time Afghans received critical aid from the Kingdom.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Emirate has struggled a lot to evacuate a number of Afghans trapped in Sudan. With the coordination of Saudi Arabia, efforts are underway for the safe evacuation of the remaining Afghans too,” Mujahid told Arab News.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has always supported Afghans and Afghanistan. We want to thank it.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Local media estimated there were about 70 people in the first group of Afghan evacuees.</div><div><br></div><div>Afghan authorities were not immediately available for comment on how many more were going to be brought back from Sudan. The Foreign Ministry said its efforts were ongoing. Source: Arab News</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-29 17:18:04', '2023-04-29 17:18:04'),
(6570, 6570, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Nine students have died by suicide in Andhra Pradesh after results of class 11 and 12 exams were declared on Wednesday by the Andhra Pradesh Board of Intermediate Examination.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Two other students are said to have attempted suicide.</div><div><br></div><div>As many as 10 lakh students appeared for the exam. The pass percentage in class 11 was 61, and it was 72 per cent in class 12.</div><div><br></div><div>Reports say a 17-year-old boy killed himself in Srikakulam district by jumping in front of a train. The student of the intermediate first year, hailing from Dandu Gopalapuram village of the district, was said to be disheartened after failing in most of the papers.</div><div><br></div><div>A 16-year-old girl died by suicide at her residence at Trinadhapuram under Malkapuram police station limits. She hails from the Visakhapatnam district, and was reportedly upset after failing in some subjects of the intermediate first year.</div><div><br></div><div>Another 18-year-old ended his life by hanging at his residence in the Kancharapalem locality of Visakhapatnam. He had failed in one of the subjects in the intermediate second year.</div><div><br></div><div>Two 17-year-old students from the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh died by suicide after failing in the AP intermediate exam. A girl student killed herself by jumping into a lake, while a boy in the same district died after consuming a pesticide.</div><div><br></div><div>Another 17-year-old student hanged himself to death at his residence in Anakapalli. He was said to be depressed over securing low marks in the intermediate first year.</div><div><br></div><div>The shocking news comes amidst a spate of suicides in India\'s premiere colleges. Four students have died in suspected suicides this year at various campuses of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT).</div><div><br></div><div>Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud had in February expressed concern over instances of alleged suicides by students and said his heart goes out to the bereaved family members of the victims. He said he was wondering where our institutions are going wrong, that students are forced to take their life. Source: NDTV</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-29 17:36:54', '2023-04-29 17:36:54'),
(6571, 6571, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Information and Broadcasting Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud said taking care of the elderly parents and guardians is a social and legal responsibility of children.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>\"Not providing maintenance to helpless and sick parents or to leave them on the streets is a punishable offence,\" he said while visiting the \'Child and Old Age Care\' at Dakkhin Paikpara in city\'s Mirpur.</div><div><br></div><div>The minister visited Selim Master, a teacher of his upazila at Ranguniya in Chattogram, at the center and talked with him. He asked the authorities concerned to find out his children.</div><div><br></div><div>Selim told the minister that he wanted to go to his village to campaign in favour of Dr Hasan Mahmud in the next polls.</div><div><br></div><div>Hasan also visited other inmates of the care center and handed over gifts to them. He handed over a cheque to Miltan Samaddar, founder of the \'Child and Old Age Care Foundation\'.</div><div><br></div><div>Hasan said every child must take care of parents till their death. The government has also passed a law to this end, he added.</div><div><br></div><div>He said the persons who are not taking care of their parents are doing social injustice and it is a punishable offence. This crime is unpardonable, said Hasan, also Awami League joint general secretary.</div><div><br></div><div>Praising the role of Miltan Samaddar, the minister said it is an extraordinary work, reports BSS&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>\"As a citizen and a minister of the country, I\'m extending my gratitude and congratulations to Miltan. The government has already awarded him and he got youth award and a social welfare award for his outstanding contribution. We will provide more assistance if needed,\" he added.</div><div><br></div><div>The minister hoped that many would come forward for doing social work like Miltan.</div><div><br></div><div>Miltan said that he established the center in 2014 after bringing a helpless old person to his home. Now, there are 15 orphan children, 20 children with disabilities and 135 elderly persons in the center.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-29 18:18:47', '2023-04-29 18:18:47'),
(6572, 6572, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Most markets under Dhaka\'s two city corporations are at fire risk - major reasons being breaching the Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (Rajuk) plan and not maintaining fire service standards.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>More fire incidents can occur if Rajuk and other relevant authorities do not respond promptly.</div><div><br></div><div>Mouchak and Anarkali markets in Dhaka’s Malibagh, Siddheshwari areas are adjacent to each other. Almost every floor of the Mouchak market has more shops than the original plan accommodates. The shops’ designs have also been altered.</div><div><br></div><div>Shops have even been set up in spaces that were marked as passageways within the market. From the bottom of these two markets to the four sides, there is no room in the corner. Furthermore, the entry and exit points are quite small, making these two markets prone to fire incidents.</div><div><br></div><div>Meanwhile, Chandni Chawk market near New Market is also at fire risk. Condition at Chandni Chawk is similar to Mouchak’s. The Rajuk plan and requirements were not implemented at this market either.</div><div><br></div><div>It should be mentioned that a fire at New Supermarket — next to New Market and opposite Chandni Chawk — was devastated by a fire on April 15.</div><div><br></div><div>In Sayedabad Supermarket, Phulbaria Sundarban market, Nagar Plaza, City Plaza, and other markets and shopping centres, there are many more shops than the original Rajuk-approved plans allow.</div><div><br></div><div>Fires are also likely to occur in crowded markets with no fire extinguishing system.</div><div><br></div><div>Similarly, Rajuk Uttara Shopping Complex has significantly more shops than the market is meant to accommodate, according to the development authority\'s plan. There are illegal structures everywhere, including the basement, as well as the market\'s entrance.</div><div><br></div><div>A fire service team recently visited Gausia Market and found that Rajuk rules were not followed. If a fire occurs as a result of breaching the plans, not enough people will be able to come down the stairs. Electrical wires were also seen unconcealed everywhere in the market. There is no fire alarm system either.</div><div><br></div><div>Except for shopping malls like Bashundhara City Shopping Complex and Jamuna Future Park, almost all markets in Dhaka city are at fire risk.</div><div><br></div><div>Local influential people, according to the fire department, have set up marketplaces and allotted shops at their discretion.</div><div><br></div><div>These markets, according to city planner Adil Mohammad Khan, were constructed without regard to any standard or regulation. The tin-shed markets are also quite risky.</div><div><br></div><div>If not closely monitored, there will be more fire incidents in the future, he warned.</div><div><br></div><div>The city planner also said Dhaka city corporations and the concerned authorities need to increase proper supervision. This situation has emerged due to lack of proper supervision, for example, the fire that happened in Bangabazar, he observed.</div><div><br></div><div>In this respect, Brig Gen Md Moin Uddin, director general of the Department of Fire Service and Civil Defense, told UNB that fire incidents occur as a result of markets failing to maintain proper fire safety systems. In addition, unplanned market construction is one of the causes of fire.</div><div><br></div><div>He also said there are several risky markets in Dhaka, including Gausia and Rajdhani Super Market. These markets are at risk of fire because they were built in an unplanned manner.</div><div><br></div><div>In response to another query, the fire service DG stated that action will be taken by identifying hazardous markets in the capital. The fire service department and civil defense have already begun a campaign to identify markets that are vulnerable to fire and danger.</div><div><br></div><div>“We began the market survey on April 6 and are currently issuing notices to these markets. We are alerting them. These markets must have several access and exit points as well as fire fighting measures, according to the national code,” he added.</div><div><br></div><div>Rajuk Chairman Anisur Rahman Mia informed UNB that Rajuk\'s proposal was correct. However, the markets were developed and shops were alloted in violation of the rules, and despite the markets’ conditions, there is no safety system, resulting in accidents.</div><div><br></div><div>In response to another query, he said, \"Although there is no continuous monitoring with limited manpower, we are taking action as soon as we receive any complaint,\" reports UNB</div><div><br></div><div>There are other additional departments involved in market construction. There should be a consensus on this, he added.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-29 18:35:47', '2023-04-29 18:35:47'),
(6573, 6573, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Speakers at a discussion arranged by Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) were of the opinion that taxing the digital economy and curbing tax evasion of both domestic and non-resident multinational companies will help improve the tax-GDP ratio in line with the IMF programme for Bangladesh.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>Bangladesh’s tax-GDP ratio can reach 9.4% from the current 7.8% over the next 3 years through digital adaptation of the National Board of Revenue (NBR) along with raising the capacity of tax officials, they pointed out.</div><div><br></div><div>The speakers made the observations at a discussion on “Taxing the Digital Economy: Trade-offs and Opportunities’’, organised by CPD and sponsored by the European Union (EU) on the occasion of 50 years of EU-Bangladesh partnership.</div><div><br></div><div>Professor Mustafizur Rahman, distinguished fellow, CPD, gave a presentation on the topic — highlighting some areas of taxing the digital economy and a scope of increasing revenue, desired by 2026.</div><div><br></div><div>He illustrated that despite setting high revenue and tax collection targets in various policy plans, Bangladesh has consistently failed to meet them. For instance, the tax-GDP target set in the 7th five-year plan for FY 2019-20 was 14.1 percent, but the actual ratio was down, and was below half of that.</div><div><br></div><div>Bangladesh has to earn an additional revenue of Tk 2.34 lakh crore by 2026. As per IMF recommendation, the tax-GDP ratio is to improve by 0.5 percent in FY 2023-24, 2024-25 and 0.7 percent in FY 2025-26, which is two-thirds more than the current fiscal year’s tax collection target.</div><div><br></div><div>The presentation recommended that non-resident tech giants such as Facebook, Google, Amazon and Netflix be brought under taxation system along with strengthening the monitoring of NBR against tax evasion.</div><div><br></div><div>Former finance secretary Mahbubur Rahman said the number of individual taxpayers is quite low in the country in contrast to those who should be paying taxes. It can introduce old age benefits for individual taxpayers to encourage people to pay income tax, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Former NBR Chairman Dr Mohammad Abdul Mazid said the government and the parliament should study first why the tax-GDP ratio is not increasing. After finding the gaps, measures can be taken to resolve it.</div><div><br></div><div>He also said the Digital Security Act is also a barrier to freedom of growing the digital economy, so the government can keep provisions of other acts to protect from cybercrime.</div><div><br></div><div>CPD’s distinguished fellow Dr Debapriya Bhattacharya gave five points for increasing the tax revenue from the digital economy and said that ensuring transparency, neutrality, fearlessness, efficient human resources and simplicity in the method of collecting tax will help to increase tax collection.</div><div><br></div><div>Kazi Nabil Ahmed MP, member of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Ministry of Finance, was present at the function as the chief guest.</div><div><br></div><div>Ahsan Adelur Rahman MP, member of Parliamentary Standing Committee on Estimates, and Mostafa Azad Chowdhury Babu, senior vice-president of FBCCI, were present as special guests.</div><div><br></div><div>Dr Fahmida Khatun, Executive director of CPD, moderated the programme.</div><div><br></div><div>EU officials, former NBR chairmen, former finance secretaries, economists, representatives of different trade bodies were present at the CPD discussion. - UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-29 19:19:29', '2023-04-29 19:19:29'),
(6574, 6574, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">People watching the Coronation will be invited to join a \"chorus of millions\" to swear allegiance to the King and his heirs, organisers say.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The public pledge is one of several striking changes to the ancient ceremony revealed on Saturday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In a coronation full of firsts, female clergy will play a prominent role, and the King himself will pray out loud.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Christian service will also see religious leaders from other faiths have an active part for the first time.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Coronation on Saturday will be the first to incorporate other languages spoken in Britain, with a hymn set to be sung in Welsh, Scottish Gaelic and Irish Gaelic.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Despite changes designed to reflect other faiths, the three oaths the King will take and form the heart of the service remain unchanged, including the promise to maintain \"the Protestant Reformed Religion\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Full details of the Westminster Abbey service - the theme of which is \"called to serve\" - have been published by Lambeth Palace.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Archbishop of Canterbury said it would \"recognise and celebrate tradition\" as well as contain \"new elements that reflect the diversity of our contemporary society\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The public will be given an active role in the ceremony for the first time, with people around the world set to be asked to cry out and swear allegiance to the King.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This \"homage of the people\" replaces the traditional \"homage of peers\" where hereditary peers swear allegiance to the new monarch. Instead everyone in the Abbey and watching at home will be invited to pay homage in what Lambeth Palace described as a \"chorus of millions\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The order of service will read: \"All who so desire, in the Abbey, and elsewhere, say together: I swear that I will pay true allegiance to Your Majesty, and to your heirs and successors according to law. So help me God.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It will be followed by the playing of a fanfare.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Archbishop of Canterbury will then proclaim \"God save the King\", with all asked to respond: \"God save King Charles. Long live King Charles. May the King live forever.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A spokesman for Lambeth Palace, the archbishop\'s office, said: \"The homage of the people is particularly exciting because that\'s brand new.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"That\'s something that we can share in because of technological advances, so not just the people in the Abbey, but people who are online, on television, who are listening, and who are gathered in parks, at big screens and churches.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Our hope is at that point, when the Archbishop invites people to join in, that people wherever they are, if they\'re watching at home on their own, watching the telly, will say it out loud - this sense of a great cry around the nation and around the world of support for the King.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">While the oaths - which have remained unchanged for centuries - will retain their Protestant pledge, Lambeth Palace said the Archbishop of Canterbury will \"contextualise\" them.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He will say beforehand that the Church of England will seek to create an environment where \"people of all faiths and beliefs may live freely\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The religious and cultural context of the 17th Century was very different to today\'s contemporary, multi-faith Britain,\" a Lambeth Palace spokesperson said. \"So, for the first time there will be a preface to the Oath.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The BBC\'s religion editor Aleem Maqbool said over the years, there has been much speculation about whether the King would change his oaths to reflect an aspiration to protect the practice of all faiths and beliefs, though it would have been a move that would have caused consternation among some Church of England traditionalists.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He added that it may appear a neat solution to leave the oaths unchanged and have the Archbishop of Canterbury express that forward-looking sentiment, but progressives will be left wondering why the protection of the practice of all beliefs could not be part of the oral contract with the nation that the King enters into. BBC</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 07:49:22', '2023-04-30 07:49:22'),
(6575, 6575, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Sudan\'s former prime minister Abdalla Hamdok on Saturday warned that the conflict in the turbulent African nation could deteriorate to one of the world\'s worst civil wars if not stopped early.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">More than 500 people have been killed since battles erupted on April 15 between the forces of army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his number two Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">They have agreed to multiple truces but none has effectively taken hold as the number of dead civilians continues to rise and chaos and lawlessness grip Khartoum.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Many people in this city of five million inhabitants have been trapped in their homes without food, water, and electricity.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"God forbid if Sudan is to reach a point of civil war proper... Syria, Yemen, Libya will be a small play,\" Hamdok said in a conversation with Sudan-born telecoms tycoon Mo Ibrahim at an event in Nairobi.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I think it would be a nightmare for the world,\" he said, adding that it would have many ramifications.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The current conflict was a \"senseless war\" between two armies, he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"There is nobody who is going to come out of this victorious. That is why it has to stop.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">About 75,000 people have been displaced by the fighting in Khartoum as well as in the states of Blue Nile and North Kordofan, as well as the western region of Darfur, according to the UN.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The fighting has also triggered a mass exodus of foreigners and international staff.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hamdok was the premier of Sudan\'s fragile transition to civilian rule before being ousted and detained in a coup. Although he was then reinstated, he resigned in January.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Burhan and Daglo -- commonly known as Hemeti -- seized power in a 2021 coup that derailed Sudan\'s transition to democracy, established after hardline president Omar al-Bashir was ousted following mass protests in 2019.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But the two generals fell out, most recently over the planned integration of the RSF into the regular army.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Diplomatic pressure has ramped up for a ceasefire. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 08:36:31', '2023-04-30 08:36:31'),
(6576, 6576, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">&nbsp;Top-ranked Masters champion Jon Rahm charged into contention with a spectacular 10-under par 61 on Saturday to lie two strokes behind leader Tony Finau at the US PGA Tour Mexico Open.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Spain\'s Rahm, the defending champion, matched his career-best PGA round score, barely putting a foot wrong in a round that featured 10 birdies without a bogey for a course record at Vidanta Vallarta.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Today, everything just seemed perfect,\" Rahm said. \"Made a lot of great swings and the ones that weren\'t great, still gave myself a good result.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Finau, who started the day with a one-shot lead, didn\'t bow to the pressure, carding a six-under par 65 for 19-under 194 and a two-shot lead over Rahm and 21-year-old American Akshay Bhatia.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bhatia had eight birdies and an eagle at 18 in his eight-under par 63 to join Rahm on 17-under.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rahm, making his second start since he claimed a second career major at Augusta National this month, started the day six adrift but wasted no time in making up ground.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He rolled in a 39-foot birdie putt at the first and a 26-footer at the second before rattling in a birdie from two feet at the fourth.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He birdied three in a row from the sixth through the eighth, then put together another burst of three at the 12th, 13th and 14th, where he sandwiched birdie putts of seven and five feet around a 24-footer.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">With a possible sub-60 round in sight, Rahm parred the 15 and 16 -- missing a seven-footer at the latter.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He rolled in a 37-foot birdie at the par-three 17th, but his hopes of bettering his own career best were dented when his tee shot at the par-five 18th ended up under the lip of a fairway bunker.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He had to punch out and his 30-foot birdie putt never threatened the hole.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rahm said he couldn\'t be too disappointed after a round in which he rolled in putts totalling more than 156 feet.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The fact that I made three putts over 30 feet -- one is already a great bonus, to do it twice, three times, is amazing,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">- Aggressive mindset -</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rahm said he didn\'t focus on the fact that he was closing in on a possible sub-60 round, but was just trying to keep pace with Finau.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I know I was behind so I knew birdies were the only thing I had in mind,\" he said. \"I tried to stay as aggressive as I could and I did a really good job at that.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Finau, who finished tied for second behind Rahm at Vidanta last year, opened with a birdie at the first and tapped in for another at the seventh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A chip to two feet set him up for a birdie at the 12th and he chipped in from the greenside rough at the par-three 13th before making it three in a row with a birdie at the par-five 14th.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">That put him one ahead of Rahm, and he padded that lead with birdies at 16 and 18 around his only bogey of the day at 17.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The highlight was the chip-in on 13,\" said Finau, who is chasing his sixth PGA Tour title. \"I hit a great chip on 12 to get it to tap-in and then missed the tee shot on 13, so I thought that gave me some nice momentum on a day where I was hitting it really nicely, wasn\'t getting that much out of my round.\" AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 08:51:38', '2023-04-30 08:51:38'),
(6577, 6577, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">A Texas man went next door with a rifle and fatally shot five of his neighbors, including an 8-year-old boy, after they asked him to stop firing rounds in his yard because they were trying to sleep, authorities said Saturday.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The suspect, identified as 38-year-old Francisco Oropeza, remained at large more than 18 hours after the shooting and authorities warned that he might still be armed. The attack happened just before midnight Friday near the town of Cleveland, north of Houston, on a street where some residents say it is not uncommon to hear neighbors unwind by firing off guns.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">San Jacinto County Sheriff Greg Capers said Oropeza used an AR-style rifle, and as the search for him dragged into Saturday evening, authorities had widened their efforts to as far as “10 to 20 miles\" from the murder scene. He said Oropeza may still have a weapon but that he believes authorities have the rifle used in the shooting.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Capers said they found clothes and a phone while combing a rural area that includes dense layers of forest but that tracking dogs had lost the scent.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“He could be anywhere now,” Capers said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Capers said the victims were between the ages of 8 and 31 years old and that all were believed to be from Honduras. All were shot “from the neck up,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The attack was the latest act of gun violence in what has been a record pace of mass shootings in the U.S. so far this year, some of which have also involved semiautomatic rifles.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The mass killings have played out in a variety of places — a Nashville school, a Kentucky bank, a Southern California dance hall, and now a rural Texas neighborhood inside a single-story home.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Capers said there were 10 people in the house — some of whom had just moved there earlier in the week — but that that no one else was injured. He said two of the victims were found in a bedroom laying over two children in an apparent attempt to shield them.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A total of three children found covered in blood in the home were taken to a hospital but found to be uninjured, Capers said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">FBI spokesperson Christina Garza said investigators do not believe everyone at the home were members of a single family. The victims were identified as Sonia Argentina Guzman, 25; Diana Velazquez Alvarado, 21; Julisa Molina Rivera, 31; Jose Jonathan Casarez, 18; and Daniel Enrique Laso, 8.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The confrontation followed the neighbors walking up to the fence and asking the suspect to stop shooting rounds, Capers said. The suspect responded by telling them that it was his property, Capers said, and one person in the house got a video of the suspect walking up to the front door with the rifle.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The shooting took place on a rural pothole-riddled street where single-story homes sit on wide 1-acre lots and are surrounded by a thick canopy of trees. A horse could be seen behind the victim\'s home, while in the front yard of Oropeza\'s house a dog and chickens wandered.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rene Arevalo Sr., who lives a few houses down, said he heard gunshots around midnight but didn\'t think anything of it.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“It\'s a normal thing people do around here, especially on Fridays after work,” Arevalo said. “They get home and start drinking in their backyards and shooting out there.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Capers said his deputies had been to Oropeza\'s home at least once before and spoken with him about “shooting his gun in the yard.” It was not clear whether any action was taken at the time. At a news conference Saturday evening, the sheriff said firing a gun on your own property can be illegal, but he did not say whether Oropeza had previously broken the law.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Capers said the new arrivals in the home had moved from Houston earlier in the week, but he said he did not know whether they were planning to stay there.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Across the U.S. since Jan. 1, there have been at least 18 shootings that left four or more people dead, according to a database maintained by The Associated Press and USA Today, in partnership with Northeastern University. The violence is sparked by a range of motives: murder-suicides and domestic violence; gang retaliation; school shootings; and workplace vendettas.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Texas has confronted multiple mass shootings in recent years, including last year\'s attack at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde; a racist attack at an El Paso Walmart in 2019; and a gunman opening fire at a church in the tiny town of Sutherland Springs in 2017.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Republican leaders in Texas have continually rejected calls for new firearm restrictions, including this year over the protests of several families whose children were killed in Uvalde.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A few months ago, Arevalo said Oropeza threatened to kill his dog after it got loose in the neighborhood and chased the pit bull in his truck.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“I tell my wife all the time, ‘Stay away from the neighbors. Don’t argue with them. You never know how they\'re going to react,\'” Arevalo said. “I tell her that because Texas is a state where you don\'t know who has a gun and who is going to react that way.” AP/UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 09:43:06', '2023-04-30 09:43:06');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(6578, 6578, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Saturday said Bangladesh has taken a loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as a \"breathing space\" while the global lender assured of continuing to provide such support in future.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We have taken the loan from the IMF as breathing space,\" quoting the Prime Minister as saying Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen told a news briefing.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Prime Minister made the remarks when an IMF delegation led by its Managing Director (MD) Kristalna Georgieva paid a courtesy call on her at the meeting room of The Ritz-Carlton hotel here this afternoon.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The IMF had recently approved a loan of 4.7 billion US dollar for Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Foreign Minister said that the IMF MD has highly praised the unprecedented advancement of Bangladesh in various sectors under the dynamic leadership of Sheikh Hasina which makes Bangladesh economy stable after the Covid-19 pandemic.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Bangladesh is a role model in the world (in terms of its overall development) which makes its economy even after the Coronavirus pandemic,\" Momen said quoting the IMF managing director.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The IMF chief said leadership like Bangladesh Prime Minister is necessary to go ahead towards prosperity confronting all the hurdles.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said Bangladesh has achieved remarkable progress due to establishing massive infrastructure development, well connectivity and maintaining the law and order.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Kristalna also hailed the maintaining stability in the macro economy even in the Covid-19 pandemic.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh\'s Prime Minister apprised the IMF chief of her government initiatives to make sure the overall development of her country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The development of the country has not made in a day rather it\'s a result of longtime planning,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina said that she prepared the plan on how she wanted to develop Bangladesh while she was in jail after the changeover and started working with the plan after assuming power for the second time in 2009.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She apprised the IMF boss of Bangladesh\'s measures to fight the adverse impact of the climate change and women empowerment.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Prime Minister hailed the role of IMF in the journey of Bangladesh\'s development and wish continuation of the support in future.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During the briefing, Bangladesh Bank Governor Abdur Rouf Talukder said the IMF has always stand by Bangladesh in the last 14 years to maintain stability in the macro economy and also gave required advices as the country never derailed from it.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh is currently engaged with a programme of 4.7 billion US dollar with IMF which Bangladesh has got only two weeks negotiation despite the fact many countries cannot avail the loan after negotiation of years, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"IMF will continue such kind of cooperation in future,\" Rouf said quoting the IMF chief.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Finance Division Senior Secretary Fatima Yasmin and Economic Relations Division Secretary Sharifa Khan were present during the briefing. BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 09:52:19', '2023-04-30 09:52:19'),
(6579, 6579, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan dives Sunday into the final two-week stretch before a momentous election that has turned into a referendum on his two decades of divisive but transformative rule.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The 69-year-old leader looked fighting fit as he strutted back on stage after a three-day illness and tossed flowers to rapturous crowds at an Istanbul aviation fest on Saturday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It was the perfect venue for reminding Turks of all they had gained since his Islamic-rooted party ended years of secular rule and launched an era of economic revival and military might.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He was flanked by the president of Azerbaijan and the Ankara-backed premier of Libya -- two countries where drones built by his son-in-law\'s company helped swing the outcome of wars.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Istanbul itself has become a modern and chaotic megalopolis that has nearly doubled in size since Erdogan came to power in 2003.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But hiding beneath the surface are a more recent economic crisis and fierce social divisions that have given the May 14 parliamentary and presidential polls a powder keg feel.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">- \'Political coup attempt\' -</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The nation of 85 million appears as splintered as ever about whether Erdogan has done more harm than good in the only Muslim-majority country of the NATO defence bloc.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Polls show him running neck-and-neck against secular opposition leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu and his alliance of six disparate parties.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The entry of two minor candidates means that Erdogan and Kilicdaroglu will likely face each other again in a runoff on May 28.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But some of Erdogan\'s more hawkish ministers are sounding warnings about Washington leading Western efforts to undermine Turkey\'s might through the polls.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu referred Friday to US President Joe Biden\'s 2019 suggestion that Washington should embolden the opposition \"to take on and defeat Erdogan\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"July 15 was their actual coup attempt,\" Soylu said of a failed 2016 military putsch that Erdogan blamed on a US-based Muslim preacher.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"And May 14 is their political coup attempt.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">- Splintered society -</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Erdogan continues to be lionised across more conservative swathes of Turkey for unshackling religious restrictions and bringing modern homes and jobs to millions of people through construction and state investment.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Turkey is now filled with hospitals and interconnected with airports and highways that stimulate trade and give the vast country a more inclusive feel.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He empowered conservative women by enabling them to stay veiled in school and in civil service -- a right that did not exist in the secular state created from the Ottoman Empire\'s ashes in 1923.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">And he won early support from Turkey\'s long-repressed Kurdish minority by seeking a political solution to their armed struggle for an independent state that has claimed tens of thousands of lives.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But his equally passionate detractors point to a more authoritarian streak that emerged with the violent clampdown on protests in 2013 -- and became even more apparent with sweeping purges he unleashed after the failed 2016 coup attempt.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Erdogan turned against the Kurds and jailed or stripped tens of thousands of people of their state jobs on oblique \"terror\" charges that sent chills through Turkish society.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">His penchant for campaigning and gift for public speaking enabled him to keep winning at the polls.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But the current vote is turning into his toughest because of a huge economic crisis that erupted in late 2021.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">- Democratic traditions -</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Erdogan\'s biggest problems started when he decided to defy the rules of economics by slashing interest rates to fight inflation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The lira lost more than half its value and inflation hit an eye-popping 85 percent since his experiment began.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Millions lost their savings and fell into deep debt.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Polls show the economy worrying Turks more than any other issue -- a point not lost on Kilicdaroglu.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The 74-year-old former civil servant pledges to restore economic order and bring in vast sums from Western investors who fled the chaos of Erdogan\'s more recent rule.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Kilicdaroglu\'s party will send out 300,000 monitors to Turkey\'s 50,000 polling stations to guarantee a fair outcome on election day.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Opposition security pointman Oguz Kaan Salici sounded certain about a smooth transition should Erdogan lose.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Power will change hands the way it did in 2002,\" he said of the year Erdogan\'s party first won.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A Western diplomatic source pointed to Turkey\'s strong tradition of respecting election results.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Erdogan\'s own supporters turned against him when the Turkish leader tried to annul the opposition\'s victory in 2019 mayoral elections in Istanbul.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But the source observed a note of worry among Erdogan\'s rank and file.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"For the first time, (ruling party) deputies are openly evoking the possibility of defeat,\" the source said. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 10:14:55', '2023-04-30 10:14:55'),
(6580, 6580, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Napoli can finally end a 33-year wait for the Serie A title on Sunday when they take on Salernitana with potentially one more win enough to take them over the line.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Authorities in Naples are steeling themselves for a wave of partying should the current crop of stars emulate Diego Maradona and seal a third Scudetto for Napoli, with fans ready to unleash an explosion of joy after three decades of pent-up frustration.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In order to win the league a record-breaking six matches before the end of the season, Napoli have to hope closest challengers Lazio do not to win at Inter Milan in Sunday\'s early kick-off.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Luciano Spalletti\'s side will then seal the deal if they beat Salernitana in what will be a colourful stadium named after their Argentine icon.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Whether it comes on Sunday, midweek against Udinese or the following weekend against Fiorentina, Spalletti says Napoli need to emulate icon Diego Maradona, the talisman behind their previous two titles in 1987 and 1990, and give fans the chance to let loose in southern Italy\'s biggest city over May Day weekend.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"It\'s above all about them who we should be thinking about... Let\'s think about them because they\'ve had the joy of watching a group of committed players who give everything for them,\" added Spalletti.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"They have shown a lot for us, and have been really important in us having such an exciting end of season.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The match with Salernitana was pushed back a day as a security measure due to a number of other events happening in the city, including a major comic book convention being held all weekend a stone\'s throw from the Stadio Maradona.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">- Party time -</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The decision angered Salernitana owner Danilo Iervolino, who told the Gazzetta Dello Sport on Saturday that it \"sets a very dangerous precedent\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Iervolino is livid as his team, who are not safe from relegation, have one day less to prepare for Wednesday\'s home match with Fiorentina.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"No-one has thought about our needs,\" said Iervolino.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The dignity of one team has been trampled on in favour of another team\'s... I hope it never happens again.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">With a 17-point lead at the top there is next to no chance of Napoli not winning the league, even if it doesn\'t come this weekend.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As such, Naples has been raring to party for weeks, with flags, banners and cardboard cutouts of players dotted around the city that is preparing for an invasion of supporters from all over Italy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Enthusiasm is such that some fans have even floated the idea of celebrating by setting off a small artillery\'s worth of flares on the summit of Mount Vesuvius to simulate an eruption of Europe\'s last remaining active volcano.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Opposition supporters often insult Naples and Neapolitans with offensive chants about Vesuvius \"washing with fire\" the city, taunts that Napoli fans have reappropriated and thrown back at their rivals.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The plan has been blasted by the Vesuvius National Park Authority, who called the idea \"dangerous and not feasible\" and asked local authorities to stop any intrusion on the volcano\'s fragile ecosystem. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 10:45:10', '2023-04-30 10:45:10'),
(6581, 6581, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Dhaka\'s air quality continued to be in the \'unhealthy\' zone this morning.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">With an air quality index (AQI) score of 153 at 9 am, the capital of Bangladesh ranked fourth in the list of cities around the world with the worst air quality.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">An AQI between 101 and 200 is considered \'unhealthy\', particularly for sensitive groups.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Thailand’s Chiang Mai, Nepal’s Kathmandu, and China’s Wuhan occupied the first three spots in the list, with AQI scores of 162, 159, and 157, respectively.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">An AQI between 201 and 300 is said to be \'poor\', while a reading of 301 to 400 is considered \'hazardous\', posing serious health risks to residents.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In Bangladesh, the AQI is based on five criteria pollutants -- Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2 and Ozone.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dhaka has long been grappling with air pollution issues. Its air quality usually turns unhealthy in winter and improves during the monsoon.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Air pollution consistently ranks among the top risk factors for death and disability worldwide. Breathing polluted air has long been recognised as increasing a person’s chances of developing a heart disease, chronic respiratory diseases, lung infections and cancer, according to several studies.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As per the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year, largely as a result of increased mortality from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer and acute respiratory infections. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 11:09:16', '2023-04-30 11:09:16'),
(6582, 6582, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The White House Correspondents\' Association dinner — known for its fun albeit ferocious jabs at Washington — took a more solemn tone this year as what many see as the brazen attack on press freedom across the globe was on painful display.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Upon arriving at the Washington Hilton on Saturday, President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden met privately with the parents of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who has been imprisoned in Russia since March. He was charged with spying, despite strong denials from his employer and the U.S. government. Some guests wore buttons with “Free Evan” printed on them.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Also among the 2,600 people attending the gala is Debra Tice, the mother of Austin Tice, who has not been heard from since disappearing at a checkpoint in Syria in 2012. U.S. officials say they operate under the assumption that he is alive and are working to try to bring him home.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“They are among hundreds of journalists around the world who are wrongfully detained for the simple act of doing journalism — which is not a crime,” said Tamara Keith, a White House correspondent for NPR and the association’s president.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Bidens also made a beeline for Brittney Griner, the WNBA star and Olympic gold medalist who was detained in Russia for nearly 10 months last year before her release in a prisoner swap. Griner is attending with her wife, Cherelle, as guests of CBS News.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The black-tie dinner draws a wide array of celebrities and media moguls to Washington, with parties being held across the capital. Among those in attendance are actor Liev Schreiber, singer John Legend and his wife, Chrissy Teigen, the model and television personality.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Actor and former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger opened the dinner with a pre-taped video about the importance of a free and independent press. Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris are seated on the stage along with comedian Roy Wood Jr., a correspondent for “The Daily Show,” as the featured entertainer.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Wood gave a preview of where his jokes were headed, predicting that Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis wasn’t likely to end his culture clashes or stop his feud with Disney just because of a few jibes. The comedian told CNN not to expect DeSantis to say, \"\'You know what, man, you’re right. Go ahead and put Black history back in them books.’ ... He’s fighting Mickey Mouse. You can’t change that person’s mind with a joke.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The venue is a familiar one for Biden, who attended several as vice president to Barack Obama. The Washington event returned last year after being sidelined by the pandemic in 2020 and 2021. Biden was the first president in six years to accept the invitation after Donald Trump shunned the event while in office.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Biden took the opportunity last year to take aim at his many critics, including Republicans and the leader of their party: Trump. This year, he is coming not only as the commander in chief but as a presidential contender. AP/UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd24/kh</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 11:38:00', '2023-04-30 11:38:00'),
(6583, 6583, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Leader of the opposition in parliament Rowshan Ershad has urged the government to take steps to immediately bring back expatriate Bangladeshis stranded in Sudan as war rages on in the African country.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In a statement, she said that about 3,000 Bangladeshi nationals are stranded in Sudan since the war broke out. They are now spending their days in fear, having no money and food with them.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The opposition leader also urged the foreign ministry and the ministry of expatriates’ welfare and overseas employment to take measures to move the stranded Bangladeshis from the Sudanese capital Khartoum and arrange food and a safe place for them. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"4\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 12:12:23', '2023-04-30 12:12:23'),
(6584, 6584, '<p style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The Secondary School Certificate (SSC) and equivalent exams for 2023 began today (April 30, 2023) across Bangladesh.</b></span><br></p><p style=\"text-align: justify; \">SSC exams began at 10 am with Bangla 1st Paper.</p><p style=\"text-align: justify; \">According to the Ministry of Education, a total of 20,72,163 candidates are sitting for this year’s SSC and equivalent exams.</p><p style=\"text-align: justify; \">In order to ensure a conducive and peaceful environment, no one except the candidates will be allowed within 200 yards of the exam halls during the SSC exams, Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) said in a press release on April 27.</p><p style=\"text-align: justify; \">Meanwhile, all coaching centres in the country will remain closed from April 26 to May 23, for holding the SSC examinations smoothly, Education Minister Dr Dipu Moni said on Tuesday.</p><p style=\"text-align: justify; \">SSC exams are being held on a short syllabus this year. UNB</p><p style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</p>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 12:46:03', '2023-04-30 12:46:03'),
(6585, 6585, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Actor Salman Khan has revealed that he had plans to become a father. In a new interview, Salman said that he once thought about having a child but was unable to because of \'the laws in India\'. He also spoke about his wedding plans.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Salman\'s love for kids is known to all. In several pictures and videos, he is often seen spending time with his nieces and nephews. The actor\'s sister Arpita Khan has two children--Ayat Sharma and Ahil Sharma. Salman\'s other sister Alvira Khan also has two kids--Alizeh Agnihotri and Ayaan Agnihotri. His brothers Sohail and Arbaaz also have sons.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In an interview with India TV\'s show Aap ki Adalat, Salman spoke about planning for a child. \"Abhi kya bolu woh toh plan tha. Plan tha. Bahu ka nahi tha, baccha ke tha. Lekin ab woh law ke hisaab se woh toh Hindustan mein ho nahi sakta. Toh ab dekhenge kya kare (What to say, that was the plan. It wasn\'t for a daughter-in-law, it was for a child. But according to the Indian laws, it\'s not possible. Now we\'ll see what to do).\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Salman also reacted to filmmaker Karan Johar being a father to two children. The actor said, \"Wahi main koshish karraha tha lekin woh law shayad change hogaya hai. Toh ab dekhenge. Bachchon ka bada shaukh hai mujhe. I love kids. Lekin kids jab aate hai toh maa bhi aati hai. Maa unke liye bohut acchi hai, lekin humare ghar mein maa hi maa padi hai sir. Humare paas pura zila hai, pura gaon hai.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Woh unka accha khayal rakh lengi. Lekin unki maa, jo real maa hongi, woh meri patni hogi (makes a face) (That\'s what I was trying to do. But, that law may have changed, so let\'s see. I am very fond of children. But when kids come then their mother also comes. A mother is good for them but we have a lot of mothers at home. We have the whole district, the whole village. They will take care of them. But my kid\'s real mother will also be my wife).\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Fans saw Salman recently in the action entertainer film Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan. Helmed by Farhad Samji, the film also stars actors Pooja Hegde, Shehnaaz Gill, Palak Tiwari, Sidharth Nigam, Venkatesh Daggubati, Bhumika Chawla, Raghav Juyal and Jassie Gill in pivotal roles.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Salman will be next seen in the upcoming action thriller film Tiger 3 opposite actor Katrina Kaif. The film is all set to hit the theatres on the occasion of Diwali 2023. HT</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"13\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 13:18:32', '2023-04-30 13:18:32'),
(6586, 6586, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">You\'re still not over your ex: If you\'re still pining after your ex or comparing everyone you meet to them, you\'re not ready for a new relationship. It\'s not fair to the person you\'re interested in, and it\'s not healthy for you to be holding onto feelings that aren\'t reciprocated.(Unsplash)</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">You have a history of unhealthy relationships: If you\'ve been in a string of toxic or emotionally abusive relationships, it\'s important to take a step back and work on your own emotional well-being before pursuing a new relationship. Otherwise, you\'re likely to repeat the same patterns of behavior.(Unsplash)</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">You don\'t prioritize your own needs: If you\'re the type of person who always puts other people\'s needs first, you might not be ready for a relationship. Being in a relationship requires a balance of give and take, and you need to be able to advocate for your own needs and set healthy boundaries.(Unsplash)</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">You\'re not comfortable being alone: If the idea of spending an evening by yourself fills you with anxiety, you might not be ready for a relationship. It\'s important to be comfortable with your own company before embarking on a relationship, so you don\'t rely on your partner to fill a void in your life.(Unsplash)</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">You don\'t have a clear idea of what you want: If you\'re not sure what you\'re looking for in a relationship, you might not be ready to be in one. Take some time to figure out what your goals and values are, so you can find someone who aligns with them.(Unsplash) HT</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 13:30:53', '2023-04-30 13:30:53'),
(6587, 6587, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Eleven people have died following an industrial gas leak in India, an official said Sunday.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Eleven dead and four in hospital. Rescue operation is on,\" the official, who asked not to be named, told AFP after the incident in the northern city of Ludhiana. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 14:05:02', '2023-04-30 14:05:02'),
(6588, 6588, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Bangladesh Metrological Department (BMD) predicted rain or thundershowers in eight divisions of the country in 24 hours starting from 9 am on Sunday (April 30, 2023).</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Rain/thunder showers accompanied by temporary gusty/squally wind is likely at one or two places over Rangpur, Rajshahi, Dhaka, Mymensingh, Khulna, Barishal, Chattogram &amp; Sylhet divisions with hails at isolated places,” BMD said in its latest bulletin.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mild heat wave is sweeping over Dhaka, Madaripur, Rajshshi, Pabna, Moulvibazar, Cumilla, Chandpur, Noakhali, Feni, Cox’s Bazar, Rangamati, Bandarban, Khulna, Jashore, Chuadanga, Barishal, Patuakhali &amp; Bhola districts and it may abate from some places.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Day temperature may fall slightly and night temperature may remain nearly unchanged over the country, said the bulletin.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The highest temperature was recorded at 38 degrees Celsius in Bandarban and Khulna&nbsp; on Saturday while the lowest temperature was recorded at 20 degrees Celsius at three spots in the country on Sunday.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The weather office recorded the highest 31 mm rainfall in Jashore.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Meanwhile, a Trough of low lies over West Bengal and adjoining area. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 14:15:51', '2023-04-30 14:15:51'),
(6589, 6589, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The nomination paper of Gazipur City Corporation’s (GCC) former mayor Jahangir Alam was cancelled today in primary scrutinization, as he is a “loan defaulter”.&nbsp;</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">However, the nomination of his mother Zaida Khatun was declared valid at the same time.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Faridul Islam, returning officer of the GCC election, announced the cancellation of nomination papers of three candidates, including Jahangir Alam, during scrutinizing.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On the other hand, nomination papers of nine out of the 12 mayoral candidates, including Awami League-backed Advocate Azmat Ullah Khan, were declared valid.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The former Gazipur mayor was the guarantor of an industrial organization. Jahangir was declared a loan defaulter along with the organization, the returning officer said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Though the former mayor and his counsel submitted documents demonstrating paying off the loan along with the nomination paper, the returning officer cancelled his nomination during the scrutinization.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Terming the role of election officers “biased”, Jahangir said he will move the court to get justice in this regard.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On the other hand, the candidates whose nominations were declared valid termed the process “just and fair”.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Among the mayoral candidates whose nominations were declared valid are Jatiya Party\'s MM Niaz Uddin; independent candidates Abdullah Al Mamun Mandal, Sarkar Shahnur Islam and Md. Harun-or-Rashid.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The deadline for the submission of nomination papers was April 27, while the date for the scrutinization of nomination papers was today, and the last date for withdrawal of candidature has been set on May 8.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Information from the Office of Returning Officer shows 13 candidates withdrew their nomination papers. Meanwhile, 290 submitted nominations for the post of general councillors and 82 for the post of reserved women councillors.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to the district election office, the total number of registered voters in the 57-ward Gazipur City Corporation is 11,843,363. The voters will choose their next mayor through electronic voting machines (EVMs) on May 25. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 14:48:02', '2023-04-30 14:48:02'),
(6590, 6590, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Fighting has intensified in Sudan\'s capital, Khartoum, shattering the latest ceasefire aimed at allowing people to flee to safety.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>On Sunday the army said it was attacking the city from all directions, with air strikes and heavy artillery, to flush out its paramilitary rivals.</div><div><br></div><div>The latest truce was due to end late on Sunday. Millions remain trapped in the capital, where food is running short.</div><div><br></div><div>Foreign countries have been evacuating their nationals amid the chaos.</div><div><br></div><div>More than 500 people have been reported killed since fighting erupted on April 15 between the regular army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). But the number of dead and injured may be much higher.</div><div><br></div><div>Army commander Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and RSF chief Gen Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, better known as Hemedti, are vying for power - and disagree in particular about plans to include the RSF into the army.</div><div><br></div><div>Thursday night\'s agreement to extend an uneasy ceasefire followed intensive diplomatic efforts by neighbouring countries, the US, UK and UN. But the 72-hour extension has not held.</div><div><br></div><div>By Saturday evening, heavy fighting had resumed in Khartoum. The army said it had conducted operations against RSF troops north of the city centre.</div><div><br></div><div>Eyewitnesses told Reuters news agency that army drones had targeted RSF position near a major oil refinery.</div><div><br></div><div>\"We woke up once again to the sound of fighter jets and anti-aircraft weapons blasting all over our neighbourhood,\" one resident told AFP news agency on Sunday.</div><div><br></div><div>BBC diplomatic correspondent Paul Adams, who is monitoring events from Nairobi in Kenya, says the army will find it difficult to expel the RSF from Khartoum.</div><div><br></div><div>For all the army\'s superior firepower, the RSF are highly mobile and more suited to urban warfare, our correspondent adds.</div><div><br></div><div>On Saturday the UK government has ended its evacuation operation. The Foreign Office said the last flight left Khartoum at 22:00 local time (20:00 GMT), and in total nearly 1,900 people were flown out.</div><div><br></div><div>A US-organised convoy has reached Port Sudan to evacuate more US citizens by ship to Jeddah in Saudi Arabia. It said hundreds of Americans had already left, in addition to the diplomats evacuated by air a week ago.</div><div><br></div><div>Also on Saturday Sudanese former Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok warned that the conflict could become worse than those in Syria and Libya. Those wars have led to hundreds of thousands of deaths and caused instability in the wider regions.</div><div><br></div><div>Speaking in Nairobi, he said: \"I think it will be a nightmare for the world. This is not a war between an army and small rebellion. It is almost like two armies.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Meanwhile, there are chaotic scenes in Port Sudan where people are desperate to board ships, some of which are heading to Saudi Arabia and Yemen. According to BBC reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 16:36:50', '2023-04-30 16:36:50'),
(6591, 6591, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>A Dhaka court on Sunday sentenced businessman Salim Prodhan, who ran illegal casino business, to eight years’ imprisonment in a case over amassing illegal wealth and money laundering.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Dhaka Special Judge Court-8 Judge Md Badrul Alam Bhuiyan also fined the convict Tk 8 lakh, in default of which he will have to serve seven months’ more in jail.</div><div><br></div><div>For acquiring wealth illegally, he was given four years’ imprisonment and fined Tk one lakh, in default of which he will have to serve one month more imprisonment.</div><div><br></div><div>The court also sentenced him to four year’s jail with fine of Tk 6 lakh, in default, to suffer six months’ more jail for money laundering.</div><div><br></div><div>The court also ordered the authorities concerned to confiscate all his properties.</div><div><br></div><div>The court in its observation said the corruption can’t be removed from the society only by verdict.</div><div><br></div><div>It urged people not to attend the invitation by corrupt people and marry off their children with such people. Corrupts will have to be boycotted socially, it said.</div><div><br></div><div>According to the case statement, Anti-Corruption Commissioner’s Deputy Director (DD) Anwar Prodhan filed the case against Salim on charge of amassing over Tk 12.27 crore illegally on October 27, 2019.</div><div><br></div><div>The DD submitted the chargesheets against Salim on January 17, 2021, alleging that he acquired wealth over Tk 57.79 crore beyond the known sources of income and laundered over Tk 21.99 core to Thailand and the US.</div><div><br></div><div>On October 31 of the same year, Dhaka Special Jude Court-6 ordered&nbsp; framing the charges against him. - UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 17:03:30', '2023-04-30 17:03:30'),
(6592, 6592, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md Shahriar Alam on Sunday urged the Bangladesh nationals to get registered with Bangladesh Embassy in Sudan as the evacuation will begin within a couple of days.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>He said there are 1500 Bangladesh nationals in Sudan, and so far, 700 of them have registered with Bangladesh Embassy in Sudan.</div><div><br></div><div>The state minister briefed media at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the current situation in Sudan and evacuation of the Bangladesh citizens.</div><div><br></div><div>Around 35 Bangladesh nationals safely left Sudan so far, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>\"On May 2, we hope to bring all 700 Bangladesh nationals who are already registered,\" he said, adding that there are arrangements.</div><div><br></div><div>Before the meeting, he had a coordination meeting at the Ministry with the relevant senior officials.</div><div><br></div><div>The Bangladeshis will first move to Jeddah Port from Port Sudan, and their return to Bangladesh depends on quick return to Jeddah. According to UNB reports.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 17:18:28', '2023-04-30 17:18:28'),
(6593, 6593, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Actor Jiah Khan\'s mother \"destroyed the case of the prosecution\" by giving contradictory statements and withholding facts, the special CBI court which cleared the movie star\'s boyfriend Sooraj Pancholi of driving her to suicide, has said in its judgment.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>\"The complainant (Rabia Khan) in her evidence directly blamed both the investigating agencies stating that they had not conducted a proper and correct investigation. By giving such open contradictory evidence, the complainant himself has destroyed the case of the prosecution,\" the court said.</div><div><br></div><div>\"The complainant openly shown distrust on the prosecution.&nbsp; When the case of prosecution was of suicide, the complainant stated it was murder case. However, there is no charge of murder in this case. In fact, the complainant herself denied the prosecution\'s case and disowned her earlier statement. Inspite of the said fact, the prosecution requested to declare her hostile and continue the trial with such handicap evidence,\" it observed.</div><div><br></div><div>The CBI court also observed that Jiah Khan\'s mother Rabia Khan raised doubts on everyone except herself.</div><div><br></div><div>\"When expert witnesses gave their opinion regarding cause of death of the deceased as suicidal, the complainant took exactly contradictory view stating that doctors have given a wrong opinion. The complaint raised doubts even on the doctor who conducted postmortem examination. The complainant raised doubts on everyone except herself.The evidence given by the complainant is found to be full fledged with improvements and constrictions,\" CBI court judge AS Sayyad said in the 53-page order.</div><div><br></div><div>The CBI court also raised doubt on a letter, allegedly written by Jiah Khan on her deteriorating relationship with Mr Pancholi. The letter was found \"all of sudden\" by Rabia Khan, four days after Jiah Khan\'s death, in her own notebook, the order said. The court also observed that Rabia Khan refused to hand over the letter for investigation, but got it published in the media.</div><div><br></div><div>\"The circumstances as above creates serious suspicion regarding the actual author of the said letter,\" the judge observed.</div><div><br></div><div>The judge also questioned the delay in filing the First Information Report, or FIR, in the case.</div><div><br></div><div>Sooraj Pancholi was acquitted on Friday by the special CBI court in Mumbai.</div><div><br></div><div>Reacting to the verdict, Rabia Khan reiterated that her daughter was killed and said she will approach the high court. \"The verdict is on alleged suicide, but I have always maintained that Jiah was murdered. This, in fact, strengthens my case\",\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>Jiah Khan, 25, was found dead at her Juhu home in Mumbai on June 3, 2013. Source: NDTV</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Entertainment', '[\"13\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 17:32:14', '2023-04-30 17:32:14');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(6594, 6594, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Lauding the unprecedented advancement of Bangladesh, IMF managing director Kristalina Georgieva said leadership like Bangladesh Prime Minister is necessary to go ahead towards prosperity confronting all the hurdles.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>\"Bangladesh is a role model in the world, it has made unprecedented advancement in various sectors under the dynamic leadership of Sheikh Hasina,\" said the IMF chief while paying a courtesy call on Bangladesh Prime Minister at the meeting room of The Ritz-Carlton hotel in Washington.</div><div><br></div><div>The International Monetary Fund (IMF) chief led a delegation at the meeting, Bangladesh Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen told reporters during a press briefing.</div><div><br></div><div>Sheikh Hasina is now on an official visit to the US mainly to attend the celebration of Bangladesh\'s 50 years of partnership with the World Bank, scheduled for Monday.</div><div><br></div><div>The Foreign Minister said that the IMF chief said the dynamic leadership of Sheikh Hasina has made Bangladesh economically stable after the Covid-19 pandemic.</div><div><br></div><div>Leadership like Bangladesh Prime Minister is needed to go ahead towards prosperity confronting all the hurdles, said Georgieva.</div><div><br></div><div>She also lauded maintaining stability in the macro economy even during the Covid-19 pandemic.</div><div><br></div><div><div>She said Bangladesh has achieved remarkable progress due to establishing massive infrastructure development, well connectivity and maintaining the law and order.</div><div><br></div></div><div>Bangladesh\'s Prime Minister apprised the IMF chief of her government\'s initiatives to make sure the overall development of her country.</div><div><br></div><div>&nbsp;\"The development of the country has not made in a day rather it\'s a result of longtime planning,\" she added.</div><div><br></div><div>Bangladesh Bank Governor Abdur Rouf Talukder, Finance Division Senior Secretary Fatima Yasmin and Economic Relations Division Secretary Sharifa Khan were present during the briefing, according to BSS reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 19:36:49', '2023-04-30 19:36:49'),
(6595, 6595, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia has been kept under close observation of physicians in a cabin at Evercare Hospital in the capital for various ailments, said her personal physician Professor Dr AZM Zahid Hossain.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>\"Madam (Khaleda) is under close observation and supervision of doctors in a cabin. Her condition has improved a little as she has been given treatment as per the advice of her medical board,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier on Saturday night, the BNP chief was admitted to Evercare Hospital for some medical tests and required treatment.</div><div><br></div><div>Since her conditional release in 2020, the BNP chief has been receiving treatment at the hospital under a medical board headed by cardiologist Prof Shahabuddin Talukder.</div><div><br></div><div>Dr Zahid said the medical board had a meeting on Saturday night following Khaleda’s admission to the hospital and they suggested various medical tests.</div><div><br></div><div>“We’ve already got the reports of some tests and the medical board will sit this (Sunday) evening again to review the reports and decide the next course of her treatment. The medical board gave her initial treatment after observing her condition yesterday (Saturday),” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Zahid said some members of the medical board examined her physical condition also in the morning.</div><div><br></div><div>About the reason behind her admission to the hospital, he said the BNP chief’s health check-ups and treatment were necessary as some new symptoms appeared along with her previous diseases.</div><div><br></div><div>\"It is not right to talk about the patient\'s illness in the media. I can only say she has been suffering from various diseases, including heart, liver, and kidney complications… some of them have deteriorated a little. That’s why she’s admitted to the hospital for check-ups and treatment,” the physician said.</div><div><br></div><div>Dr Zahid said specialist doctors and nurses have been properly taking care of Khaleda in the cabin.</div><div><br></div><div>Asked how long Khaleda can stay in the hospital, he said, \"It will depend on the decision of the medical board and her physical condition. So nothing can be said at this moment.”</div><div><br></div><div>Apart from local doctors, Zahid said some physicians from the USA and Australia and Khaleda’s daughter-in-law Dr Zubaida Rahman are there in the medical board.</div><div><br></div><div>Khaleda’s another daughter-in-law and her late son Arafat Rahman Koko’s wife Sharmila Rahman Shinthi has also been staying with her at the hospital.</div><div><br></div><div>Khaleda, a 77-year-old former prime minister, has been suffering from various ailments, including liver cirrhosis, arthritis, diabetes, and kidney, lung, heart, and eye problems.</div><div><br></div><div>She visited the same hospital for health check-ups on February 27 last. Khaleda received treatment at the hospital six times since she was infected with Coronavirus in April 2021.</div><div><br></div><div>In November 2021, Khaleda Zia was diagnosed with liver cirrhosis.</div><div><br></div><div>On June 10 last, the BNP chief suffered a heart attack due to a 95 percent block in her left artery, and a stent was placed there by removing the blockage at the same hospital the following day.</div><div><br></div><div>Doctors also found two more blocks in her blood vessels, but they could not remove those due to her health complications. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 20:06:28', '2023-04-30 20:06:28'),
(6596, 6596, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Not every one of us wakes up fresh and is ready to face the day. Being fresh and stress free can make you more productive and successful throughout the day. </b></span></div><div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><br></span></div><div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The moment we wake up in the morning, we should do something which we should never miss. According to Hansa, Director of the Yoga Institute, these are the things which should be included in our daily routine to have a stress-free day, The Statesman reported.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>* Always remember to thank God for whatever we have in our lives, and it is important to have full confidence that God is there with us and that if we are doing everything right, then no one can stop us. Starting the day with positive strength is very important. It will make the day stress free.</div><div><br></div><div>* Do breathing exercises in the morning. It is important to breathe fresh air which flows in the morning. People with anxiety issues then breathing efficiently in the morning makes the body energized and also healthy. </div><div><br></div><div>Becoming aware of your breath while deep breathing is an important thing. Long inhalation and exhalation for 10 seconds and start concentrating on the abdomen because we have to evacuate all the bad feelings and thoughts which are not required. Doing this will make us energetic to start the day stress-free.</div><div><br></div><div>* The stomach is important to get empty as it contains toxins which should be released from the body in the morning. If the stomach gets constipated, then we feel stressed the whole day. This can be released by doing certain exercises or yoga which will make our digestive system strong and ultimately release all the stress.</div><div><br></div><div>* Planning out the day quickly and doing everything accordingly can make the day stress free. Preplanning can seek the day with no confusion; it can make a person organised and happy. Our brain is efficient in the morning which helps us to make better decisions. Making a to-do list must be the thing which can make the day soughted and stress-free.</div><div><br></div><div>* It is very important for everyone that the moment a person leaves a beck, the first thing is to drink a glass of warm water so that the gums become softer, and the throat becomes a little relaxed and removes toxins. </div><div><br></div><div>Drinking water helps the body to maintain itself overall. If the body is fully maintained it will ultimately make us fully charged and happy.</div><div><br></div><div>All these things will not take much time. It can be finished in a few minutes and doing it step by step is the key to starting a stress-free day and can bring positivity around you. </div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"24\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 20:27:01', '2023-04-30 20:27:48'),
(6597, 6597, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Ninety percent boro paddy have been harvested so far in the flood-prone haor areas in the country, said Agriculture Minister Dr. Muhammad Abdur Razzaque on Sunday.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Thirty three percent boro paddy have been harvested across the country so far which is a good start, he said while speaking at a press briefing held at the secretariat.</div><div><br></div><div>Mentioning that boro season is the main season of paddy, Razzaque, said every year, 48-49 lakh hectares of land are brought under boro cultivation but this year, 50 lakh hectares of land have been brought under boro cultivation exceeding the target.</div><div><br></div><div>Of the total cultivation, 9.50 lakh hectares of land in haor areas have been brought under boro cultivation with a production target of 38 lakh tonnes of paddy, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Recalling the previous experiences during the harvesting time of boro paddy, the minister said haro areas always see flash flood during boro season. “But this year, 90 percent of paddy have been harvested in haro areas and we have made it possible as we encouraged the farmers to harvest their paddy earlier.”</div><div><br></div><div>Besides, boro growers in Sunamganj used 1000 combine harvester and 668 reapers to harvest paddy, which is a great achievement, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>“This year, the government has set a target to produce 2.15 crore tonnes rice but we hope that we will be able to produce 2.20-2.25 crore tonnes,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>He also hoped that there will be no crisis of food as the weather seems to be favorable till now.</div><div><br></div><div>He also said that the price of paddy is better than the previous year and no complaint has been found yet from the farmers in this regard. According to UNB reports</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 21:15:58', '2023-04-30 21:15:58'),
(6598, 6598, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The Bangladesh national cricket team is set to depart for England tonight for their three-match series against Ireland, part of the World Cup Super League. Tamim Iqbal and his team will be playing all their matches in Chelmsford.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>To acclimatize to the conditions in England, the team held a three-day practice camp in Sylhet prior to their departure. Coach Chandika Hathurusingha had noted that the conditions in Sylhet are similar to those in Chelmsford.</div><div><br></div><div>Notably, Mustafizur Rahman and Shakib Al Hasan will not be joining the team on their flight.</div><div><br></div><div>While Shakib is currently in the USA with his family, Mustafizur is busy playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Both players are expected to join the team separately.</div><div><br></div><div>Bangladesh team for the Ireland series: Tamim Iqbal (captain), Najmul Hossain Shanto, Towhid Hridoy, Yasir Ali, Rony Talukdar, Shakib Al Hasan, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Litton Das, Mushfiqur Rahim, Taijul Islam, Ebadot Hossain, Shoriful Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, Mrittunjoy Chowdhury, and Hasan Mahmud. According to UNB reports</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Sports Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 21:42:29', '2023-04-30 21:42:29'),
(6599, 6599, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>A 4.6 magnitude earthquake shook Chattogram and some other parts of the country on Sunday noon, said the US Geological Survey (USGS).</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The tremor was felt around 12:56 pm.</div><div><br></div><div>According to the USGS the epicenter of the earthquake was at a depth of 98.8 kilometers (61.39 miles) near Mawlaik, Myanmar.</div><div><br></div><div>However, no casualties have been reported so far.</div><div><br></div><div>The earthquake also jolted various districts of south and south-east parts of the country including Dhaka, said Patenga Meteorological office.</div><div><br></div><div>Meghnad Tanchangya, assistant meteorologist at the Patenga Met Office, said a mild earthquake was felt in Chattogram and surrounding areas of Dhaka at noon. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 22:12:05', '2023-04-30 22:12:05'),
(6600, 6600, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Bangladesh may soon prefer to set the petroleum fuel prices in line with with the international market prices.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Such an idea was floated by the Energy and Mineral Resources Division during its meeting with the visiting team of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Sunday, said a source at the division.</div><div><br></div><div>According to sources, the IMF has been pressing the government to follow a specific formula to set its petroleum fuel prices as per the prices in the international market as part of the lending agency’s $4.7 billion loan agreement, as it does with the LPG price at present.</div><div><br></div><div>Currently, at the beginning of every month the government announces the LPG price as per the global market rate.</div><div><br></div><div>As a result, no subsidy is being given on LPG.</div><div><br></div><div>But the government has to provide a huge subsidy in the petroleum sector.</div><div><br></div><div>Officials said the IMF has been pressing the government to withdraw its subsidy by liberalising the petroleum fuel price like the LPG price.</div><div><br></div><div>The IMF team was led by Rahul Anand, the head of the Asia Pacific Region of the lending agency, while energy secretary Dr Khairuzzaman Majumder led the Energy and Mineral Resources Division at the meeting.</div><div><br></div><div>Official sources said the officials of the Energy and Mineral Resources Division briefed the IMF teams about the measures taken by the division in the energy sector following the government’s loan agreement with the lending agency.</div><div><br></div><div>They said that earlier the government had to raise the prices of gas, petroleum and electricity as per conditions of the IMF to receive the $4.7 billion in loan.</div><div><br></div><div>“But the lending agency wants Bangladesh fully pursue a policy in setting the energy prices under which it should not need to provide any subsidy,” said a senior official of the Energy and Mineral Resources Division.</div><div><br></div><div>However, energy secretary Dr Khairuzzaman Majumder was not available to comment on the issue. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-04-30 22:58:29', '2023-04-30 22:58:29'),
(6601, 6601, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Pope Francis has urged Hungarians to \"open doors\" to migrants, ending his visit to the country led by a nationalist anti-immigration cabinet.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Speaking at an open-air mass in the capital Budapest, the pontiff said it was \"sad and painful\" to see doors closed to people who were \"unlike us\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Up to 100,000 people attended the mass, including Prime Minister Viktor Orban.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mr Orban has criticised migration, building a barbed-wire border fence to stop migrants crossing into Hungary.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Addressing the crowd near the Hungarian parliament building on Sunday, Pope Francis pleaded to everyone - including \"those with political and social responsibilities\" - to be more open.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He was speaking about \"the closed doors of our selfishness with regard to others... the doors we close towards those who are foreign or unlike us, towards migrants or the poor\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During the mass, the Argentinian pontiff, 86, also referred to Russia\'s full-scale invasion of Ukraine launched more than a year ago.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He prayed for the \"beleaguered Ukrainian people and the Russian people\" and for \"a future of hope, not war\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The three-day visit was Pope Francis\' first trip to Hungary since he became Pope 10 years ago.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">What kept him away was the tough anti-migrant stance of Mr Orban, in contrast to his own compassion for all refugees, says the BBC\'s Nick Thorpe in Budapest.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">What brought him to the country, besides his support for Catholics, was the war in Ukraine, our correspondent adds.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hungary and Ukraine share a 134km (85-mile) border.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Unlike other leaders of the European Union, Mr Orban has refused to back military aid for Ukraine and maintained relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During the carefully calibrated visit to Hungary, the Pope met people of all spheres of society, including youths, the poor, politicians and academics, our correspondent says. BBC</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-05-01 07:50:12', '2023-05-01 07:50:12'),
(6602, 6602, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Turkish forces have killed the suspected leader of Islamic State (IS) in Syria, Turkey\'s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has announced.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Abu Hussein al-Qurayshi is said to have taken over the group after his predecessor was killed last autumn.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mr Erdogan told broadcaster TRT Turk the IS leader was \"neutralised\" in a Turkish MIT intelligence agency operation on Saturday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">IS has so far made no comment on the reported operation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The BBC has been unable to independently verify President Erdogan\'s claim.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The MIT intelligence agency had been following Qurayshi for a \"long time\", Mr Erdogan said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We will continue our struggle with terrorist organisations without any discrimination,\" he added, providing no further details.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Syrian sources quoted by Reuters news agency said the operation took place in the northern town of Jandaris, close to the Turkish border.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Last November, the jihadist group announced the death of its leader, Abu al-Hassan al-Hashemi al-Qurayshi. The US said he was killed in an operation by the rebel Free Syrian Army in south-west Syria in mid-October 2022.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He took over the group after previous leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi set off a blast killing himself and his family as US special forces rounded on his hideout after a gunfight in February 2022.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">That operation \"removed a major terrorist threat to the world\", US President Joe Biden said at the time.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">IS once held 88,000sq km (34,000sq miles) of territory stretching from north-eastern Syria across northern Iraq and imposed its brutal rule on almost eight million people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The group was driven from its last piece of territory in 2019, but the UN warned in July that it remained a persistent threat.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It is estimated to have between 6,000 and 10,000 fighters in Syria and Iraq, who are based mostly in rural areas and continue to carry out hit-and-run attacks, ambushes and roadside bombings.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">IS regional affiliates also pose threats in other conflict zones across the world. The UN said the most vigorous and well-established networks were based in Afghanistan, Somalia and the Lake Chad basin. BCC</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-05-01 09:45:00', '2023-05-01 09:45:00'),
(6603, 6603, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The top United Nations humanitarian official is heading to the Sudan region due to the rapidly unfolding impact of the war there and its wider fallout, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Sunday.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The announcement came shortly after rival Sudanese forces announced the extension of a truce they have largely violated, as warplanes roared overhead and fighting continued on the ground in Sudan\'s capital.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The scale and speed of what is unfolding is unprecedented in Sudan. We are extremely concerned by the immediate as well as long-term impact on all people in Sudan, and the broader region,\" Stephane Dujarric, the spokesman for Guterres, said in a statement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said the UN chief was \"immediately\" sending Martin Griffiths, his emergency relief coordinator, to the area \"in light of the rapidly deteriorating humanitarian crisis in Sudan.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Deadly hostilities between the army and heavily-armed paramilitaries in Khartoum and other parts of the country have entered a third week.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The latest widely-breached ceasefire was scheduled to formally expire at midnight (2200 GMT) before the rival forces announced an extension for 72 hours that the Sudanese army said came due to \"US and Saudi mediation\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">More than 500 people have been killed and tens of thousands of people forced to leave their homes for safer locations within the country or abroad since battles erupted on April 15.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The fighting pits the forces of army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan against his ex-deputy Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Witnesses on Sunday evening reported continued armed clashes as well as fighter jets soaring above various parts of the capital and its twin city Omdurman, across the Nile River.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The civil aviation authority on Sunday announced Sudan\'s airspace would remain closed until May 13, with the exception of aid and evacuation flights.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"There has been very heavy fighting and loud gunfire,\" a southern Khartoum resident told AFP earlier in the day.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Further complicating the battlefield, Central Reserve Police, a paramilitary unit, were being deployed across Khartoum to \"protect citizens\' properties\" from looting, the Sudanese police said, confirming an army statement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Police said Central Reserve had arrested 316 \"rebels\", a reference to the RSF, which did not confirm the information and had previously warned police against joining the fight.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Washington last year sanctioned the Central Reserve for \"serious human rights abuses\" related to its use of \"excessive force\" against pro-democracy protests after the October 2021 coup that brought Burhan and Daglo to power.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Daglo\'s RSF is descended from the Janjaweed unleashed by former strongman Omar al-Bashir in Sudan\'s western Darfur region, leading to war crimes charges against Bashir and others. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-05-01 09:52:03', '2023-05-01 21:01:30'),
(6604, 6604, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">At least 18 Mexican tourists died and two dozen were injured when their tourist bus plunged into a ravine in the western state of Nayarit, a local official told AFP on Sunday.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The bus, from a private company, was transporting tourists on a 220-kilometer (136-mile) journey from Guadalajara in the neighboring state of Jalisco to the beach destination of Guayabitos in Nayarit when it went off the road, according to civil protection official Pedro Nunez.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The cause of the accident late Saturday was not known.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">All the passengers were Mexican nationals, said Nunez. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-05-01 09:58:28', '2023-05-01 21:01:50'),
(6605, 6605, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp could face disciplinary action after accusing the referee in Sunday\'s dramatic 4-3 win over Tottenham of bearing a grudge against his team.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Diogo Jota\'s stoppage-time strike sealed victory at Anfield, just 99 seconds after Spurs thought Richarlison\'s first Premier League goal for the club had rescued a point after the visitors had been 3-0 behind.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Klopp, however, was so incensed by the officiating throughout the match that he charged down the touchline to celebrate wildly in front of fourth official John Brooks -- and injured himself in the process.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Klopp then lambasted referee Paul Tierney.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We have our history with Tierney, I really don\'t know what he has against us, he has said there is no problem but that cannot be true,\" Klopp told Sky Sports.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"How he looks at me, I don\'t understand it. My celebration was unnecessary, but what he said to me when he gave me the yellow card is not OK.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The German boss, asked what Tierney had said, replied: \"I will not say anything about it. The refs don\'t say what is said so I don\'t say what is said.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">That did not stop Klopp from going on to reference Tierney\'s performance during Liverpool\'s 2-2 draw away to Spurs last season.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Paul Tierney didn\'t give Harry Kane a red card but Robbo (Liverpool\'s Andy Robertson) got a red card. It was not the first time, there are so many things.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Professional Game Match Officials Limited said in a statement that, having checked audio of the game, Tierney \"acted in a professional manner\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We strongly refute any suggestion that Tierney\'s actions were improper,\" the statement added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier, Klopp explained his touchline antics following Jota\'s winning goal by saying: \"Of course, we are emotional in these moments. It\'s difficult. It is not OK, we shouldn\'t do that.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I didn\'t say a bad word to the fourth official -- not at all -- but I pulled my hamstring probably in that moment so, fair enough, I\'m already punished.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Tottenham\'s Ryan Mason was also unhappy with the officials, particularly the VAR, following a defeat that left Spurs sixth in the table, two points behind Liverpool.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The interim head coach wanted to know why Jota was still on the pitch after a head-high challenge on Oliver Skipp only led to a yellow card.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I would like an explanation and a reason why it wasn\'t (a red card),\" said Mason. \"I can understand referees on the pitch missing it.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He added: \"We want the VAR to help the official on the pitch at that moment, but an experienced referee and VAR haven\'t given it... It was a big decision, a crucial decision and one you can\'t really miss.\" AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-05-01 10:07:23', '2023-05-01 21:02:38'),
(6606, 6606, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The exchange rate of US dollar has been increased by Tk1.0 and fixed at Tk 108 and Tk 106 for inward remittances and repatriation of export income respectively.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As a result, the remitter will get Tk 110.5 against a dollar including the government declared incentive of Tk2.5 and exporter will get Tk 106 against per dollar.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Till today (Sunday) the price of a dollar against inward remittance was Tk107 and against repatriated export income was Tk105.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The decision was taken at a joint meeting of Association of Bankers Bangladesh (ABB) and Bangladesh Foreign Exchange Dealers Association (BAFEDA) on Sunday. The new exchange rate will be executed from Monday (May 1).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The meeting held at the head office of Sonali Bank was attended by the chairman of BAFEDA and the managing director (MD) and CEO of Sonali Bank Afzal Karim, Chairman of ABB and Managing Director (MD) of BRAC Bank Salim RF Hossain and Managing Directors of various commercial banks.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As per the previous instruction of Bangladesh Bank (BB), the exchange rate will be fixed by the ABB and BAFEDA consultation with the central bank. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-05-01 10:24:00', '2023-05-01 10:24:00'),
(6607, 6607, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Sudan\'s army and its rival paramilitary said Sunday they will extend a humanitarian cease-fire a further 72 hours. The decision follows international pressure to allow the safe passage of civilians and aid, but the shaky truce has not so far stopped the clashes.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In statements, both sides accused the other of violations. The agreement has deescalated the fighting in some areas but violence continues to push civilians to flee. Aid groups have also struggled to get badly needed supplies into the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The conflict erupted on April 15 between the nation’s army and its paramilitary force, and threatens to thrust Sudan into a raging civil war. The U.N. warned on Sunday that the humanitarian crisis in Sudan was at “a breaking point.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The scale and speed of what is unfolding in Sudan is unprecedented,” the UN’s humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths said in as statement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said water and food are becoming increasingly hard to find in the country’s cities, especially the capital, Khartoum, and that the lack of basic medical care means many could die of preventable causes. Griffiths said that “massive looting” of aid supplies has hindered efforts to help civilians.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier Sunday, an aircraft carrying eight tons of emergency medical aid landed in Sudan to resupply hospitals devastated by the fighting, according to the International Committee of the Red Cross, which organized the shipment. It arrived as the civilian death toll from the countrywide violence topped 400 and aid groups warned that the humanitarian situation was becoming increasingly dire.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">More than two-thirds of hospitals in areas with active fighting are out of service, a national doctors\' association has said, citing a shortage of medical supplies, health workers, water and electricity.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The air-lifted supplies, including anesthetics, dressings, sutures and other surgical material, are enough to treat more than 1,000 people wounded in the conflict, the ICRC said. The aircraft took off earlier in the day from Jordan and safely landed in the city of Port Sudan, it said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The hope is to get this material to some of the most critically busy hospitals in the capital” of Khartoum and other hot spots, said Patrick Youssef, ICRC’s regional director for Africa.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Sudan Doctors’ Syndicate, which monitors casualties, said Sunday that over the past two weeks, 425 civilians were killed and 2,091 wounded. The Sudanese Health Ministry on Saturday put the overall death toll, including fighters, at 528, with 4,500 wounded.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Some of the deadliest battles have raged across Khartoum. The fighting pits the army chief, Gen. Abdel Fattah Burhan, against Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, the head of a paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The generals, both with powerful foreign backers, were allies in an October 2021 military coup that halted Sudan\'s fitful transition to democracy, but they have since turned on each other.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ordinary Sudanese have been caught in the crossfire. Tens of thousands have fled to neighboring countries, including Chad and Egypt, while others remain pinned down with dwindling supplies. Thousands of foreigners have been evacuated in airlifts and land convoys.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On Sunday, fighting continued in different parts of the capital where residents hiding in their homes reported hearing artillery fire. There have been lulls in fighting, but never a fully observed cease-fire, despite repeated attempts by international mediators.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Over the weekend, residents reported that shops were reopening and normalcy gradually returning in some areas of Khartoum as the scale of fighting dwindled after yet another shaky truce. But in other areas, terrified residents reported explosions thundering around them and fighters ransacking houses.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Youssef, the ICRC official, said the agency has been in contact with the top command of both sides to ensure that medical assistance could reach hospitals safely.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“With this news today, we are really hoping that this becomes part of a steady coordination mechanism to allow other flights to come in,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Youssef said more medical aid was ready to be flown into Khartoum pending necessary clearances and security guarantees.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sudan’s healthcare system is near collapse with dozens of hospitals out of service. Multiple aid agencies have had to suspend operations and evacuated employees.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On Sunday, a second U.S.-government organized convoy arrived in Port Sudan, said State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller. He said the U.S. is assisting American citizens and “others who are eligible” to leave for Saudi Arabia where U.S. personnel are located. There were no details on how many people were in the convoy or specific assistance the U.S. provided.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Most of the estimated 16,000 Americans believed to be in Sudan right now are dual U.S.-Sudanese nationals. The Defense Department said in a statement on Saturday it was moving naval assets toward Sudan\'s coast to support further evacuations.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Meanwhile, Britain has announced that an extra evacuation flight will depart from Port Sudan on Monday, extending what it called the largest evacuation effort of any Western country from Sudan.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The government asked British nationals who wish to leave Sudan to travel to the British Evacuation Handling Centre at Port Sudan International Airport before 12:00 Sudan time. The flight comes after an evacuation operation from Wadi Saeedna near Khartoum, involving 2,122 people on 23 flights. AP/UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-05-01 11:14:40', '2023-05-01 11:14:40'),
(6608, 6608, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">May Day is being observed in Bangladesh, as elsewhere across the world, with due respect.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">May Day, also known as the International Workers\' Solidarity Day, commemorates the historic uprising of workers in Chicago, USA at the height of a prolonged fight for an eight-hour workday in the late nineteenth century.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">May Day is a public holiday in Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This year, the theme of the day in Bangladesh is \"Sramik-malik oikya gori, smart Bangladesh gore tuli\'\' (roughly translated: “Let’s develop workers-employers unity, build smart Bangladesh”).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Newspapers published special supplements while radio and television channels are airing special programmes highlighting the significance of the day.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Different organizations and political parties have chalked out various programmes to observe the day.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On May 1, 1886, 10 workers were killed when police opened fire on a demonstration in the US city of Chicago, demanding an eight-hour workday instead of a 12-hour shift. The authorities had to accept the workers\' demand and the eight-hour day was introduced universally.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On July 14, 1889, an international workers\' rally in Paris declared May 1 as the International Workers’ Solidarity Day in recognition of the Chicago workers\' sacrifice and achievement and since 1890, the day has been observed globally as the International Workers’ Solidarity Day.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">President Md Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina have issued separate messages ahead of the day.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The President said the progress of the country\'s industries and trade needs an investment-friendly environment, workers’ concentration and good relations between workers and employers.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Through positive participation of workers and employers, stability and productivity in the labour sector will increase, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“I hope that all concerned will play their respective roles to improve their standard of living and protect their just rights,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Prime Minister in her message said, “I believe that inspired by the ideals of the great May Day, workers and employers will be dedicated to increase national production by maintaining good relations with each other. We will build a developed and prosperous ‘Sonar Bangladesh’ as dreamt by the Father of the Nation by working for the welfare of working people and the country\'s overall development.\" UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-05-01 11:33:14', '2023-05-01 11:33:14');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(6609, 6609, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is set to attend a programme here this morning at the invitation of World Bank (WB) President David Malpass marking the 50-year partnership between Bangladesh and WB.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><b>&nbsp;</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She will address the plenary session on \"Reflection on 50 years of World Bank-Bangladesh Partnership\" held at the Preston Auditorium of the WB.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">PM\'s Information and Communication Technology Affairs Adviser Sajeeb Wazed, Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen, Planning Minister MA Mannan, and PM\'s Private Industry and Investment Adviser Salman Fazlur Rahman, among others, will be present.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">WB President David Malpass and its Former Chief Economist Kausik Basu will speak at the programme while the global lenders VP Martin will provide the closing remarks.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier will later attend a high level business luncheon after the plenary session with WB president, MDs and VPs at East Dining Room of the World Bank.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She will also address a meeting with the WB Board members at Shihata Conference Room at WB headquarters.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On her arrival in the WB headquarters in Washington DC, the Bangladesh prime minister will be welcomed by its Country Director for Bangladesh Abdoulaye Seck and its SAR VP Martin Raiser with a flower bouquet.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At the outset of the programme, the premier with the WB president will jointly open a photo exhibition and will walk-through of some key elements of the exhibition.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina later will witness a dance performance.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A video presentation on \"Bangladesh-World Bank 50 Years of Partnership\" will also be screened at the function.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister earlier on April 28 reached Washington DC to attend the WB programme.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">After her six-day visit to Washington DC, she will leave the USA for London on May 4 to attend the coronation of Charles III and his wife Camilla as the King and the Queen of the United Kingdom and the other Commonwealth realms.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier on April 25, a special chartered VVIP flight (BG1403) of the Biman Bangladesh Airlines carrying the prime minister and her entourage members landed at the Haneda International Airport, Tokyo at 04.45pm (local time).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Japan had rolled out a red carpet to welcome the Bangladesh prime minister and gave her the static guard of honour at the airport.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During her visit to Japan, Dhaka and Tokyo signed eight instruments on agriculture, metro rail, industrial upgradation, ship recycling, customs matters, intellectual properties; defence cooperation, ICT and cyber security cooperation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On April 26, Sheikh Hasina had a courtesy call on the Emperor of Japan Naruhito.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On the same day, she also held a bilateral meeting with her Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida after the signing of the deals.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier also attended an investment summit and a community reception alongside handing over the \"Friends of Liberation War Honour\" to four Japanese nationals for their contribution to Bangladesh\'s Liberation War in 1971 on April 27.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During her visit to Tokyo, the prime minister attended several additional bilateral meetings with Japanese foreign minister Yoshimasa Hayashi and leaders of JAICA, JETRO, JEBIC, JBPFL and JBCCEC.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She also had meetings with the late former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe\'s wife Akie Abe and Japanese architect Tadao Ando. BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-05-01 12:41:11', '2023-05-01 12:41:11'),
(6610, 6610, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Dhaka’s air quality is ‘moderate’ this morning as few vehicles are on the road during the May Day holiday.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">With an air quality index (AQI) score of 82 at 10:43 am, Dhaka ranked 18th in the list of world cities with the worst air quality this morning.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">An AQI between 50 and 100 is considered ‘moderate’ with an acceptable air quality. However, there may be a moderate health concern for a very small number of people who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Nepal’s Kathmandu,Indonesia\'s Jakarta and Vietnam\'s Hanoi occupied the first three spots in the list, with AQI scores of 153, 151 and 137, respectively.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">An AQI between 101 and 200 is considered \'unhealthy\', particularly for sensitive groups.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Similarly, an AQI between 201 and 300 is said to be \'poor\', while a reading of 301 to 400 is considered \'hazardous\', posing serious health risks to residents.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In Bangladesh, the AQI is based on five criteria pollutants — Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2 and Ozone.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dhaka has long been grappling with air pollution issues. Its air quality usually turns unhealthy in winter and improves during the monsoon.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Air pollution consistently ranks among the top risk factors for death and disability worldwide. Breathing polluted air has long been recognised as increasing a person’s chances of developing a heart disease, chronic respiratory diseases, lung infections and cancer, according to several studies.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As per the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year, largely as a result of increased mortality from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer and acute respiratory infections. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-05-01 12:44:52', '2023-05-01 12:44:52'),
(6611, 6611, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">On the occasion of International Labour Day (May Day), all activities including the import and export of goods between Bangladesh and India through Hili land port in Dinajpur have been stopped.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Abdur Rahman Liton, president of the Banglahili Customs C&amp;F Agents Association, said, \"May Day is being observed across the world today. Therefore, it has been decided to stop the import-export activities between the two countries through Hili land port today as it is a transport-labour-based operation, and this is a public holiday. All port operations will resume on Tuesday.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">SM Haider, assistant manager of Panama Hili Port Link Limited, a private operator, said the land port authority has organized a discussion with the workers at 11 am. There will be a doa mahfil and food will be distributed among the workers.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Ashraful, officer-in-charge (OC) of Hili Immigration Check-post, said immigration activities are normal from 9:00 am to 6:30 pm every day of the week, and they are exempt from public holidays. On May Day, the import and export of goods, including the activities of the land port, will be closed, but using the check post, travelers will be able to move between Bangladesh and India with valid visas. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-05-01 12:47:41', '2023-05-01 12:47:41'),
(6612, 6612, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Russian strikes killed one person and wounded three others in the Ukrainian region of Kherson, a regional official said Monday.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Moscow also launched a hail of missiles across Ukraine early on Monday, with Kyiv reporting it had shot down most of the projectiles.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Over the past day, the enemy carried out 39 shellings, firing 163 shells from heavy artillery, Grads, UAVs and aviation. The enemy shelled the city of Kherson 8 times,\" said Oleksandr Prokudin, of the military administration for Kherson, in Ukraine\'s south.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"As a result of Russian aggression, one person died and three others, including a child, were injured.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Russia still controls part of the Kherson region, having withdrawn from the eponymous regional capital last November.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier this week, regional authorities said Russian shelling killed a 57-year-old woman and wounded three other people in the village of Bilozerka.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Moscow recently renewed heavy missile attacks on Ukraine, killing 23 people in the city of Uman on Friday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It launched another volley from about 2:30 am Monday, officials said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Tonight, the enemy carried out another massive air attack on Ukraine,\" the military administration for the capital Kyiv said on Telegram.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Ukrainian Air Force said on Telegram that 18 missiles were launched from planes, with 15 of them destroyed.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Shelling wounded 25 people in the Dnipropetrovsk oblast and damaged dozens of buildings in the city of Pavlohrad, according to the regional administration.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ukraine\'s air defence systems have been bolstered in recent months by delivery Western equipment, including the American Patriot systems received in April.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The latest Russian attacks came as Kyiv prepares for a long-awaited counteroffensive, having vowed to expel Russian forces from territory they seized in the east and south following their 2022 invasion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On Sunday a pre-dawn Ukrainian strike on a Russian border village killed four people and wounded two others, officials there said. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-05-01 13:23:10', '2023-05-01 13:23:10'),
(6613, 6613, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Midday naps can be blissful after a full meal and nothing is quite as refreshing as a few minutes of shut-eye when the afternoon slumber takes over. One may get rid of the sluggishness, the irritability and the tiredness mostly due to sleep deficit of the past night and feel all refreshed and full of energy for the rest of the day.&nbsp;</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">However, stretch this a little longer to little more than half-n-hour and the benefits may reverse, and one is at risk of feeling groggy all day. This is not it. Your unhealthy addiction to afternoon naps every day can make you susceptible to diseases like diabetes, heart issues, high blood pressure among others. Here\'s what experts told HT Digital.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Researchers believe that longer midday naps of more than 30 minutes may be related to a higher BMI, higher blood pressure, and diseases associated with heart disease and diabetes. However, those who took \'power naps\' - 30-minute or less midday naps - were less likely to have high blood pressure.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">DANGERS OF MID-DAY NAP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Researchers from Brigham and Women\'s Hospital in Boston analysed over 3,000 people from a Mediterranean community where midday naps known as \'siestas\' are widespread in a new study published in the journal Obesity. The researchers investigated the link between siestas and their duration and obesity and metabolic syndrome,\" says Dr Aparna Govil Bhasker, Bariatric and laparoscopic surgeon, Saifee, Apollo Spectra, Namaha and Currae Hospitals, Mumbai.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"People who took siestas of 30 minutes or longer were found to have a higher BMI, higher blood pressure, and other conditions associated with heart disease and diabetes when compared to those who did not nap. It could also be the other way around as the people who did not get a proper sleep in the night due to factors like obesity, obstructive sleep apnoea, sleep disorders etc may tend to take longer naps during the day. More research is needed in this area. Furthermore, those who took short naps were less likely to have elevated systolic blood pressure than those who did not take siestas,\" adds Dr Aparna.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">People are more likely to benefit from afternoon naps if they are sleep deprived. However, sleeping for more than the required hours can do more harm than good. Besides, sleeping in daytime can affect the quality of night-time sleep which is more important.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Sleep is essential to maintain the functionality of the human body and to allow the various organ systems to work in perfect harmony and in an optimal state. An optimal night sleep duration for a healthy lifestyle in adults ranges from 7-8 hours. Sleeping less is associated with tiredness, fatigue and lack of motivation and zeal. Many people tend to compensate for a lack of sleep at night by taking naps in the midday or afternoon,\" says Dr Sanjay Verma, Director - Minimal Access, Bariatric and GI Surgery, Fortis Escorts, Okhla Road, New Delhi. HT</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"6\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-05-01 13:49:50', '2023-05-01 13:49:50'),
(6614, 6614, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">At least 30 homes were gutted in a massive fire at the Tulatali slum in Rajakhali area of Chattogram city on Monday morning.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Seven fire service units brought the fire under control with the help of locals after an hour of frantic efforts.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Deputy Assistant Director of Chattogram region Fire Service, Md. Abdullah, confirmed the matter and said that after receiving information about the fire in Tulatali slum in the morning, seven units of Lamar Bazar and Nandankanan stations reached the spot and were able to bring the fire under control.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The extent of the damage and the cause of the fire couldn’t be known immediately, he added. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-05-01 14:22:00', '2023-05-01 14:22:00'),
(6615, 6615, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">At least 16 people, including workers, were injured in an explosion today at the Cotton Club BD Limited factory in the Jarun area of Kashimpur in Gazipur.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>They were rescued and brought to Dhaka Medical College Hospital, said DMCH Police Outpost In-Charge Inspector Bachchu Miah.</div><div><br></div><div>According to eyewitnesses and fire service, the explosion occurred around 8:30 am today, in the compressor room of the factory. Fire erupted immediately after the explosion. During this time, the wall of the room collapsed, they said.</div><div><br></div><div>Police and fire service personnel visited the spot after the incident, said GM (Operation) of the factory, Aminul Islam, reports UNB.</div><div><br></div><div>About 3,500 people work in the factory, but the entire factory was closed on May Day. However, a foreign buyer delegation is scheduled to arrive at the factory tomorrow. That is why security personnel, some staffers and workers were staying in the factory, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>At the time of the incident, it is believed that the explosion was caused by excessive pressure in the gas line, he added.</div><div><br></div><div>Of the injured, seven suffered burn injuries. All those injured are out of danger and all arrangements have been made for their treatment from the factory, added the GM.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-05-01 16:00:09', '2023-05-01 16:00:09'),
(6616, 6616, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>A man was beaten to death by his brother-in-law with an iron rod at Dhaka’s uhrawardy Udyan early Monday.&nbsp;</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The deceased was identified as Shakil, 18, son of late Babul Mia, a resident of Kamrangirchar’s Asrafabad area.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>He used to sell juice in the park.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Shahin, elder brother of Shakil, said, \"In the morning I heard that my brother Shakil and brother-in-law Babu had a fight.\"</div><div><br></div><div>At one point, Babu hit Shakil in the back with an iron rod, critically injuring him, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Shakil was rushed to Dhaka Medical College Hospital where doctors declared him dead. Inspector Md Bachchu Mia, in-charge of DMCH Police Outpost, confirmed the matter. According to UNB reports</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-05-01 17:07:17', '2023-05-01 17:07:17'),
(6617, 6617, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Regulators seized troubled First Republic Bank early Monday and sold all of its deposits and most of its assets to JPMorgan Chase Bank in a bid to head off further banking turmoil in the U.S.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>San Francisco-based First Republic is the third midsize bank to fail in two months. It is the second-biggest bank failure in U.S. history, behind only Washington Mutual, which collapsed at the height of the 2008 financial crisis and was also taken over by JPMorgan.</div><div><br></div><div>First Republic has struggled since the March collapses of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank and investors and depositors had grown increasingly worried it might not survive because of its high amount of uninsured deposits and exposure to low interest rate loans.</div><div><br></div><div>The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation said early Monday that First Republic Bank\'s 84 branches in eight states will reopen as branches of JPMorgan Chase Bank and depositors will have full access to all of their deposits.</div><div><br></div><div>Regulators worked through the weekend to find a way forward before U.S. stock markets opened. Markets in many parts of the world were closed for May 1 holidays Monday. The two markets in Asia that were open, in Tokyo and Sydney, rose.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Our government invited us and others to step up, and we did,\" said Jamie Dimon, chairman and CEO of JPMorgan Chase.</div><div><br></div><div>As of April 13, First Republic had approximately $229 billion in total assets and $104 billion in total deposits, the FDIC said.</div><div><br></div><div>At the end of last year, the Federal Reserve ranked it 14th in size among U.S. commercial banks. The FDIC estimated its deposit insurance fund would take a $13 billion hit from taking First Republic into receivership. Its rescue of Silicon Valley Bank cost the fund a record $20 billion.</div><div><br></div><div>Before Silicon Valley Bank failed, First Republic had a banking franchise that was the envy of most of the industry. Its clients - mostly the rich and powerful - rarely defaulted on their loans. The bank has made much of its money making low-cost loans to the wealthy, which reportedly included Meta Platforms CEO Mark Zuckerberg.</div><div><br></div><div>Flush with deposits from the well-heeled, First Republic saw total assets more than double from $102 billion at the end of 2019\'s first quarter, when its full-time workforce was 4,600.</div><div><br></div><div>But the vast majority of its deposits, like those in Silicon Valley and Signature Bank, were uninsured - that is, above the $250,000 limit set by the FDIC. And that worried analysts and investors. If First Republic were to fail, its depositors might not get all their money back.</div><div><br></div><div>Those fears were crystalized in the bank\'s recent quarterly results. The bank said depositors pulled more than $100 billion out of the bank during April\'s crisis. San Francisco-based First Republic said that it was only able to stanch the bleeding after a group of large banks stepped in to save it with $30 billion in uninsured deposits.</div><div><br></div><div>Since the crisis, First Republic has been looking for a way to quickly turn itself around. The bank planned to sell off unprofitable assets, including the low interest mortgages that it provided to wealthy clients. It also announced plans to lay off up to a quarter of its workforce, which totaled about 7,200 employees in late 2022.</div><div><br></div><div>Investors remained skeptical. The bank\'s executives have taken no questions from investors or analysts since the bank reported its results, causing First Republic\'s stock to sink further.</div><div><br></div><div>And it\'s hard to profitably restructure a balance sheet when a firm has to sell off assets quickly and has fewer bankers to find opportunities for the bank to invest in. It took years for banks like Citigroup and Bank of America to return to profitability after the global financial crisis 15 years ago, and those banks had the benefit of a government-aided backstop to keep them going. According to AP reports</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-05-01 18:39:02', '2023-05-01 18:39:02'),
(6618, 6618, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Tim David smashed an unbeaten 45 to trump Yashasvi Jaiswal\'s century as Mumbai Indians stunned Rajasthan Royals by six wickets in the Indian Premier League\'s 1,000th match on Sunday.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Chasing 213 for victory, Mumbai\'s Suryakumar Yadav hit 55 before David smashed a hat-trick of sixes in the last over from Jason Holder in his 14-ball blitz to steer the team home with three balls to spare.</div><div><br></div><div>David starred in an unbeaten 62-run stand with Tilak Varma, who hit 29, for a record chase at Mumbai\'s Wankhede Stadium in the second match of the day that ended close to midnight.</div><div><br></div><div>Skipper Rohit Sharma praised David\'s hitting prowess after the Australian batsman was compared to former Mumbai big-hitter Kieron Pollard, who is now the team\'s batting coach.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Big shoes to fill, Polly for so many years won us so many championships,\" Rohit, winner of five IPL trophies with Mumbai, said after the win.</div><div><br></div><div>\"But Tim has so much ability and power. In the back end, having that power keeps the bowler thinking.\"</div><div><br></div><div>On a day of big chases, Zimbabwe batsman Sikandar Raza earlier helped Punjab Kings pull off a stunning last-ball win to edge out Chennai Super Kings by four wickets in the first match that also recorded over 400 runs.</div><div><br></div><div>But the fireworks were reserved for the second match of the day, which began with a ceremony to mark the 1,000-match landmark.</div><div><br></div><div>The left-handed Jaiswal turned on the heat with a six off Cameron Green and then Jofra Archer as he went on to score 124 off 62 balls -- his maiden T20 ton.</div><div><br></div><div>The 21-year-old Jaiswal, who sold street food and lived in tents to pursue his cricket dream, steered the inaugural IPL champions to 212-7 after he reached his 100 off 53 balls.</div><div><br></div><div>The effort seemed a fitting knock for the special match until Suryakumar, a T20 sensation who has endured an ordinary tournament so far, came to life with his 50 off 24 balls.</div><div><br></div><div>The T20 sensation smashed eight fours and two sixes until a superb catch by Sandeep Sharma, who sprinted from short fine-leg to hang on to the ball, ended his innings.</div><div><br></div><div>But David and the left-handed Varma kept up the charge on a big-scoring day.</div><div><br></div><div>Jaiswal was still the man of the match choiceand credited his hard work and hours in the gym for the on-field result.</div><div><br></div><div>- Razor-sharp Raza -</div><div><br></div><div>Mumbai lost Rohit for three on his 36th birthday, before Ishan Kishan (28) and Green (44) set up the chase in their partnership of 62.</div><div><br></div><div>In Chennai, chasing 201 for victory, Liam Livingstone (40), Sam Curran (29) and Jitesh Sharma (21) played attacking cameos before Pakistan-born Raza sealed Punjab\'s win with his unbeaten 13.</div><div><br></div><div>Sri Lanka fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana was tasked with bowling the final over, with Punjab needing nine to win. Raza got three runs off the final ball, his arms outstretched in celebration.</div><div><br></div><div>Punjab moved to fifth in the 10-team table, one below Chennai. Holders Gujarat Titans top the standings.</div><div><br></div><div>Devon Conway\'s 92 off 52 balls proved to be in vain after the left-handed New Zealand opener steered Chennai to 200-4, having elected to bat first, reports AFP.</div><div><br></div><div>\"The last few overs when we were batting, we could have gotten 10-15 more,\" said Chennai skipper M.S. Dhoni, who finished the innings with two big sixes in his 13-run blitz. \"Our bowling needed some cushion.\"</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Sports Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-05-01 18:57:24', '2023-05-01 18:57:24'),
(6619, 6619, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Moves to check Beijing\'s aggressive expansion into the trade routes and strategic islands of the South China Sea will headline talks Monday between President Joe Biden and his Philippines counterpart Ferdinand Marcos at the White House.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Marcos is on a four-day trip that follows last week\'s state visit to Washington by President Yoon Suk Yeol and a meeting at the White House between Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in January.</div><div><br></div><div>\"It is clear that we\'re in a deeply consequential period in terms of our Indo-Pacific engagements,\" a senior US official told reporters ahead of Marcos\' arrival.</div><div><br></div><div>\"It\'s really the first kind of meeting at this level and intensity between United States and the Philippines in decades,\" said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity.</div><div><br></div><div>Alarm bells are ringing for Washington and its Asian allies as China moves ever more confidently to assert claims to sovereignty over almost the whole South China Sea -- ignoring an international ruling that this has no legal basis.</div><div><br></div><div>The tension, combined with constant saber rattling over Taiwan -- the democratically run island that Beijing claims but Washington vows to help defend -- has prompted the Biden administration to rapidly bolster its military capabilities.</div><div><br></div><div>The Philippines, which lies close to key sea lanes and Taiwan, is of particular interest.</div><div><br></div><div>This month, the Philippines identified four military bases -- in addition to five existing sites -- where US forces will be given access, including one located near the tense Spratly Islands. The two allies also carried out their largest-ever military maneuvers in recent weeks.</div><div><br></div><div>That has alarmed China, which accuses Washington of trying to drive a wedge between Beijing and Manila.</div><div><br></div><div>In a reminder of how diplomatic tensions can quickly echo in the real world, a Chinese ship on April 23 narrowly missed colliding with a much smaller Philippine Coast Guard vessel in the Spratly Islands.</div><div><br></div><div>- New military muscle -</div><div><br></div><div>The focus of talks between Biden and Yoon last week was on another regional flashpoint: nuclear-armed, communist North Korea.</div><div><br></div><div>Expressing disappointment that China has not done more to rein in North Korea, US officials announced that a US nuclear submarine would make a visit to South Korea soon -- the first in decades.</div><div><br></div><div>During Kishida\'s visit, Biden also underlined the US treaty commitment to defend Japan. Tokyo is meanwhile on a shopping spree to buy an arsenal of US-made Tomahawk missiles.</div><div><br></div><div>The senior official briefing journalists ahead of Marcos\' visit said Manila is likewise \"looking for reassurance and a strong desire to maintain peace and stability in this complex period.\"</div><div><br></div><div>\"Recent events have caused much greater focus in both capitals on taking the necessary steps to up our game, to improve engagement on the security side between United States and the Philippines.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Although giving few details, the official said new \"bilateral defense guidelines\" would see \"a series of steps to support the Armed Forces of the Philippines modernization.\"</div><div><br></div><div>The shifting geostrategic situation will feature when Biden visits Japan for a meeting of the G7 in May, reports AFP.</div><div><br></div><div>The US official said Biden would also meet separately during that trip in a trilateral format with the leaders of Japan and South Korea. He then heads to Australia for a session of the Quad group: Australia, India, Japan and the United States.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-05-01 19:42:36', '2023-05-01 19:42:36'),
(6620, 6620, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and World Bank president David Malpass on Monday jointly inaugurated a photo exhibition marking the 50-year partnership between Bangladesh and the WB.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The exhibition at the Atrium of the World Bank headquarters kicked off the dayling celebration of the 50 years of relation between Bangladesh and the WB</div><div><br></div><div>The PM went around the show and also witnessed a dance performance.</div><div><br></div><div>A video presentation on \"Bangladesh-World Bank 50 Years of Partnership\" was screened at the function.</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier, On her arrival in the WB headquarters in Washington DC, Sheikh Hasina was welcomed by WB Country Director for Bangladesh Abdoulaye Seck and its SAR VP Martin Raiser with a flower bouquet.</div><div><br></div><div>Later in the day she is due to attend an informal interaction with the Board of Executive Directors of the World Bank, address the plenary session on \"Reflection on 50 years of World Bank-Bangladesh Partnership\" and attend a high-level business luncheon with WB president, MDs and VPs. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-05-01 20:23:18', '2023-05-01 20:23:18'),
(6621, 6621, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has introduced e-visa, eliminating visa stickers for work, visits, and transit.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Saudi Ambassador to Bangladesh Essa Yousef Essa Alduhailan made the announcement at the Embassy in Dhaka on Monday afternoon.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The Saudi government has plans to introduce a similar e-visa system in a few countries, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>\"We choose Bangladesh as the first country to implement the new technology,\" said the Saudi Ambassador while talking to journalists at the Embassy.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>With the decision, Bangladeshi nationals do not need to get a sticker visa of any category including work visa for travelling to the oil-rich Kingdom. The KSA hosts more than two million Bangladeshi expatriate workers.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Introduction of error-free e-visa, using both Arabic and English language, will reduce hassle, cost and time to get Saudi visas, the envoy hopes.</div><div><br></div><div>The Saudi government spends a huge amount of money to issue sticker visas and printing of such stickers is a difficult task.</div><div><br></div><div>\"It will be a win-win situation for the intending Bangladeshi workers and other stakeholders including the recruiting agencies,\" the Ambassador said, adding that his country is keen to work with Bangladesh for betterment of the expatriate Bangladeshi workers.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier, Saudi Arabia had introduced e-visa facilities only for Umrah visa.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The ambassador said the introduction of e-visa will help the embassy in Dhaka to manage a huge number of visa applications.&nbsp; Currently the Saudi mission in Dhaka issues 7000 to 8000 visas per day.</div><div><br></div><div>Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET) Director General Shahidul Alam also spoke on the occasion. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-05-01 20:39:17', '2023-05-01 20:39:17'),
(6622, 6622, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said that Bangladesh has never defaulted in repaying loans and fallen into a \"debt trap\", calling upon the global development partners including the World Bank (WB) to continue their investments in the digital and physical infrastructures to transform the country into a \"Smart Bangladesh\" by 2041.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>\"The present situation gives an indication of our economy\'s growth opportunities and absorptive capacity and Bangladesh has never defaulted on its debt repayment, or fallen into a so-called \"debt trap\",\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>Sheikh Hasina said this in an informal interaction for 50 Years Partnership between Bangladesh and the World Bank with the board of executive directors at the Shihata Conference Room at the WB headquarters here this (Monday) morning.</div><div><br></div><div>World Bank Executive Director Parameswaran Iyer, its Managing Director Anna Bjerde and Alternative Executive Director Dr Ahmad Kaikaus also poke at the function.</div><div><br></div><div>The Prime Minister said her government is looking for enhanced partnership with the World Bank.</div><div><br></div><div>\"We now wish to look into the future of our partnership. The World Bank must remain focused on its core purpose of poverty alleviation and development financing,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>\"The World Bank is actively engaged in our digital transformation. Our government has kept its words to our people by building together a \'Digital Bangladesh\' by 2021. We have set our next target to become a knowledge-based \'Smart Bangladesh\' by 2041,\" Sheikh Hasina said.</div><div><br></div><div>The Premier called upon the development partners like the World Bank to continue investing in our digital and physical infrastructure.</div><div><br></div><div>\"We also seek international support for trade diversification, investment promotion and domestic resource generation,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>The Premier said the World Bank is now committed to 53 different projects in Bangladesh, involving USD 15 billion, adding that this is part of the grants and loans of USD 39 billion so far offered by the Bank.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Our strong performance in human capital formation is matched by our investment in infrastructure mega-projects. The construction of the 6.1 km Padma Multipurpose Bridge with Bangladesh\'s own financial and technical resources is a sign of our economic maturity,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>In Bangladesh, the Premier said they have made impressive gains in food security, free and affordable housing, community healthcare, compulsory primary education, women\'s empowerment, financial inclusion, access to electricity, and disaster preparedness.</div><div><br></div><div>\"We wish to achieve our targets on universal health coverage, quality education, child welfare, skills promotion, urban development, sustainable industrialization, environmental protection and effective institution building,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>The Premier said they need the WB to scale up its concessional financing for developing countries to allow them to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).</div><div><br></div><div>\"I look forward to the World Bank sharing its concrete ideas on this at the UN SDG Summit in New York in September,\" she added.</div><div><br></div><div>The Premier will later attend a high level business luncheon after the plenary session with WB President, MDs and VPs at East Dining Room the World Bank.</div><div><br></div><div>She later gave a talk on \"Reflection on 50 years of World Bank- Bangladesh Partnership\" at Preston Auditorium in the World Bank.</div><div><br></div><div>On her arrival at the WB headquarters in Washington DC, Bangladesh Prime Minister was received by Country Director of World Bank to Bangladesh Abdoulaye Seck and its SAR VP Martin Raiser with a flower bouquet.</div><div><br></div><div>At the outset of the programme, the Prime Minister with World Bank President David Malpass jointly opened a photo exhibition and walked-through some of the key elements of the exhibition.</div><div><br></div><div>The Premier also witnessed a dance performance.</div><div><br></div><div>Sheikh Hasina said the World Bank must invest further in building state capabilities and knowledge for sustainable development.</div><div><br></div><div>\"It is encouraging that the World Bank is giving added emphasis on climate financing. For a climate vulnerable country like Bangladesh, we need adequate financing for both mitigation and adaptation,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>Since 2009, she said that Bangladesh has financed 800 projects from its own climate trust fund.</div><div><br></div><div>\"We are launching a Mujib Climate Prosperity Plan to fast-forward our green transition in key sectors. We shall need USD 230 billion by 2050 only for adaptation. The Climate Financing Summit in Paris in June will be an opportunity for the World Bank to give us some meaningful assurance on these,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>The Prime Minister expressed her happiness to have this meeting with the World Bank Board of Governors, she said.</div><div><br></div><div>\"We are witnessing some major shifts in geo-economics this year. These have implications for Bangladesh as an economy in transition. I believe the World Bank is also making itself ready for the future,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>Mentioning that Bangladesh is the world\'s largest active delta situated on the world\'s largest Bay - the Bay of Bengal, saying, \"This is a location at the heart of what is termed as Indo-Pacific.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Referring to some internationally influential economy, she said, \"We are now the world\'s 35th largest economy with a GDP of USD 460 billion. In South Asia, we are the second biggest economy and an emerging growth engine. We are graduating from the UN Least Developed Country (LDC) status, having qualified in all three criteria\".</div><div><br></div><div>\"In 2022, our headcount poverty came down to 18.7%, with a sharp decline in extreme poverty to 5.6%. All this has happened despite the multi-dimensional challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Europe, and the deepening climate crisis,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>The biggest asset of Bangladesh is its resilience, she said, adding that we achieved our independence through a genocide, and a ruined economy in 1971, she said.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Development journey has been far from smooth. Bangladesh experienced repeated military takeovers, extremist threats, and deadly natural disasters. In the last one and a half decade, the nation finally started turning around by tackling these challenges, and ensuring political and economic stability,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>\"These ensure equal treatment without discrimination based on religion, race or gender. The people\'s representatives responsible for governance are subject to different layers of accountability,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>The WB\'s support to repatriate Rohingya, she said that the World Bank has extended grant support for the 1.2 million forcibly displaced Rohingya from Myanmar in Bangladesh.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Their prolonged presence is becoming a huge challenge for us,\" Sheikh Hasina said.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>\"Bangladesh has shown that it can deliver on its commitments. I am confident that our young people will take our nation forward in the right political environment. We wish to further expand our role as a responsible and contributing member of the comity of nations,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>The Prime Minister said they continue to pursue Bangladesh\'s economic diplomacy based on our foreign policy principle of \"Friendship to All, Malice towards None\", reports BSS</div><div><br></div><div>She also hoped that Bangladesh\'s international partners will stay focused on the positive aspects of our march forward and join us in a promising development journey ahead.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-05-01 21:33:19', '2023-05-01 21:33:19'),
(6623, 6623, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The United Nations food relief agency has suspended aid deliveries to Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region amid an internal investigation into the theft of food meant for hungry people, according to four humanitarian workers.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>The World Food Program is responsible for delivering food from the U.N. and other partners to Tigray, the center of a devastating two-year civil war that ended with a ceasefire in November.</div><div><br></div><div>More than 5 million of the region’s 6 million people rely on aid.</div><div><br></div><div>WFP informed its humanitarian partners on April 20 that it was temporarily suspending deliveries of food to Tigray amid reports of food misappropriation, one of the four humanitarian workers told AP. Three other aid workers confirmed this information. They all insisted on anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to a journalist on this matter.</div><div><br></div><div>Last month, AP reported that the WFP was investigating cases of food misappropriation and diversion in Ethiopia, where a total of 20 million people need humanitarian help due to drought and conflict</div><div><br></div><div>A letter sent by the WFP’s Ethiopia director on April 5 asked humanitarian partners to share “any information or cases of food misuse, misappropriation or diversion that you are aware of or that are brought to your attention by your staff, beneficiaries or local authorities.” At the time, two aid workers told AP that the stolen supplies included enough food to feed 100,000 people. The food was discovered missing from a warehouse in the Tigray city of Sheraro. It was not clear who was responsible for the theft.</div><div><br></div><div>Tigray’s new interim president, Getachew Reda, said last month he discussed “the growing challenge of diversion &amp; sale of food aid meant for the needy” with senior WFP officials during a visit by the agency to Mekele, the regional capital.</div><div><br></div><div>A spokesperson for the WFP in Ethiopia did not immediately respond to a request for comment. According to AP reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-05-01 22:41:44', '2023-05-01 22:41:44');
