Bangladesh - The Daily Ittefaq

PM for collective efforts to solve social problems

BSS — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 17:59:50 +0600

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today called for collective efforts to solve social problems and assured full government support to private-sector initiatives aimed at social welfare. "If everyone in society comes forward a little, it is possible to solve many major problems," he said, while formally inaugurating a programme to distribute 20,000 raincoats to tea garden workers in Sylhet division... Details

Met office predicts rain in parts of country

BSS — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 16:37:21 +0600

Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) today forecasted rain in different parts of the country in next 24 hours commencing from 9 am. "Light to moderate rain/thunder showers accompanied by temporary gusty wind is likely to occur at most places over Rajshahi, Khulna, Barishal, Chattogram & Sylhet divisions and at many places over Rangpur, Mymensingh & Dhaka divisions," said a... Details

Govt launches women-only ‘Pink Bus’ service in Dhaka

UNB — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 15:14:08 +0600

‘Pink Bus’ , a special women-only bus service, has been launched in the capital to ensure safer and more comfortable public transport for women. Road Transport and Bridges Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam inaugurated the service at Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation (BRTC) Tejgaon bus depot on Tuesday afternoon. The buses, driven and operated by women drivers and conductors , will... Details

PM calls for broader tax net, people-friendly revenue system

UNB — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 13:47:56 +0600

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Tuesday called for widening Bangladesh’s tax net rather than burdening existing taxpayers, stressing that a modern, digital data-driven and people-friendly revenue administration is essential for sustainable revenue growth. Addressing the Revenue Conference 2026 at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in the capital, he also said the... Details

Bangladesh to convey position to Myanmar over Rohingya statement

UNB — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 13:12:28 +0600

Bangladesh will convey its position to Myanmar through its envoy in Dhaka today (Tuesday) over a “factually incorrect” statement issued by the Myanmar’s military-backed government recently concerning the Rohingyas sheltered in Bangladesh. Myanmar’s Ambassador to Bangladesh Kyaw Soe Moe is scheduled to meet the Director General concerned at the Ministry of Foreign... Details

PM joins Revenue Conference 2026 at BCFCC

BSS — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 11:52:08 +0600

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman joined the Revenue Conference 2026 as the chief guest at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre (BCFCC) in the city this morning. The Internal Resources Division of the Ministry of Finance and the National Board of Revenue (NBR) jointly organized the event. Boosting revenue collection, making tax administration more effective and mobilizing necessary... Details

HC clears 62,637 old cases in 12 days

BSS — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 11:25:29 +0600

High Court (HC) has disposed of 62,637 old cases in just 12 working days, marking a significant stride toward reducing case backlogs and ensuring speedy justice, a development expected to further strengthen public confidence in the country's judiciary. "Case backlog has long been one of the major challenges facing Bangladesh's judicial system. Therefore, the initiative to expedite... Details

Govt decides to change fiscal year to April-March

BSS — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 22:29:54 +0600

The government has decided to change Bangladesh's fiscal year from the existing July-June period to April-March, aiming to complete infrastructure development activities before the monsoon and improve the quality of development works. The decision was taken at the 17th Cabinet meeting today following a proposal from the Finance Division. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman chaired the meeting at the... Details

Remittance soars 41.4% to $1.788bn in first 16 days of August

UNB — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 22:27:19 +0600

Bangladesh received US$ 1.788 billion in remittances during the first 16 days of August, registering a sharp 41.4 percent growth compared to the same period of the previous year. According to the latest data released by Bangladesh Bank on Monday, remittance inflows stood at $1.264 billion during the corresponding period (August 1-16) last year. In the four days between August 13 and August 16... Details

Saudi Crown Prince invites PM Tarique to visit Saudi Arabia

UNB — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 18:12:19 +0600

Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has invited Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to visit Saudi Arabia to discuss ways to strengthen bilateral relations and exchange views on regional and international issues. Saudi Ambassador to Bangladesh Dr Abdullah Zafer H bin Abiyah handed over the invitation letter to Tarique Rahman during a meeting at the Prime... Details

'E-rickshaws must use solar power to get registration'

UNB — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 15:12:22 +0600

Battery-powered e-rickshaws and auto-rickshaws will have to be charged using solar power to qualify for registration, State Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Mir Shahe Alam said on Monday. He said fines would be imposed on owners who charge the vehicles using electricity from sources other than solar power. “If they recharge with electricity other than... Details

Heavy to very heavy rainfall likely across country

UNB — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 13:51:20 +0600

Heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely to occur at places over Khulna, Barisal, Sylhet and Chattogram divisions during next 48 hours commencing 9 am on Monday. “Due to monsoon depression over Southwestern part of Bangladesh-West Bengal Coast and adjoining Northwest Bay, heavy (44 – 88mm/ 24hours) to very heavy (> 88mm/24hours) rainfall is likely to occur at places over Khulna,... Details

'ADB to help Bangladesh be a trillion-dollar economy by 2034'

BSS — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 12:15:08 +0600

Asian Development Bank (ADB) Vice President Yingming Yang has said the Manila-based lending agency is ready to help Bangladesh realize its ambition of becoming a trillion-dollar economy by 2034 and an upper-middle-income country. "Our vision is to help Bangladesh realize its ambition of becoming an upper-middle-income country and a trillion-dollar economy by 2034. ADB remains committed to... Details

Tourists thrilled by beauty of Sajek Valley

BSS — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 11:36:21 +0600

Sajek Valley, located in Baghai Chhari upazila of Rangamati and known as the kingdom of clouds, is an extraordinary recreational destination for tourists. Ruilui Para and the peak of Konglak Hill, renowned for their breathtaking natural beauty and views of sunrise, have made Sajek one of the country's most popular tourist spots. Every day, travel enthusiasts from different parts and... Details

It’ll take two years to resolve energy crisis: Khosru

UNB — Sun, 16 Aug 2026 19:01:44 +0600

Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury on Sunday said it will take at least two years to resolve Bangladesh’s ongoing gas and electricity shortages. “The problem with gas and electricity will not be resolved within six months or a year. It will take at least two years,” he said. Explaining the timeframe, Khosru said even setting up infrastructure such as... Details

Renewables can boost RMG competitiveness: CPD

UNB — Sun, 16 Aug 2026 14:21:05 +0600

Bangladesh's garment sector can meaningfully improve cost predictability and competitiveness by scaling up renewable energy but structural "carbon lock-in" rooted in machinery, finance and regulation, means the transition cannot be achieved through incremental efficiency measures alone, a new study by the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) has found. The findings were presented at a... Details

PM releases fish fry into Brahmaputra River

BSS — Sun, 16 Aug 2026 13:23:30 +0600

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today released fish fry into the Brahmaputra River at Pakundia in Kishoreganj as part of his daylong visit to the district. The Prime Minister reached Pakundia by road at around 11:30am and released the fish fry at the Brahmaputra River near Mirzapur Chairman Bari Ghat. After completing his programme in Pakundia, Tarique Rahman visited the Katiadi Carp Hatchery... Details

Rain likely in parts of country

BSS — Sun, 16 Aug 2026 12:20:50 +0600

Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) today forecasted rain in different parts of the country in next 24 hours commencing at 9 am. "Light to moderate rain/thunder showers accompanied by temporary gusty wind is likely to occur at many places over Dhaka, Mymensingh, Khulna, Barishal, Chattogram & Sylhet divisions and at a few places over Rangpur & Rajshahi divisions," said a Met... Details

PM Tarique leaves Dhaka for Kishoreganj on daylong tour

UNB — Sun, 16 Aug 2026 09:58:11 +0600

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman left Dhaka by road on Sunday morning for Kishoreganj where he will attend several programmes including the formal inauguration of the National Fisheries Week-2026. The prime minister left his Gulshan residence at around 9:15am, said his Additional Press Secretary Atiqur Rahman Rumon. During his daylong visit, Tarique Rahman will inaugurate the National Fisheries... Details

PM assures swift steps to restore energy supply

UNB — Sat, 15 Aug 2026 22:19:07 +0600

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday apologised to the people for the ongoing power and gas shortages and assured that his government was taking urgent steps to ease the crisis, expressing hope that the gas situation would improve significantly within the next few days. Addressing a cheque distribution and doa mahfil programme at the Mohakhali Wireless TNT field under Dhaka-17... Details

Hilsa returns to Bhola rivers

BSS — Sat, 15 Aug 2026 19:04:06 +0600

Fishermen in Bhola district become hopeful as they are seeing a welcome surge in hilsa catches in the rivers after a prolonged period of poor fishing. Fishermen said they are now catching significant quantities of hilsa in the Meghna, Tetulia, Ilisha, Kalabadar and Buragouranga rivers and other waterways surrounding Bhola. Both small and large hilsa are being caught, they said.... Details

PM vows hassle-free retirement benefits for teachers

UNB — Sat, 15 Aug 2026 18:23:16 +0600

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday pledged that retired teachers and employees of non-government MPO-listed educational institutions would no longer have to visit offices repeatedly or face harassment to receive their retirement and welfare benefits. “Teachers who teach millions of students about ethics, morality and ideals should not have to pay bribes or visit office after... Details

Govt moves to replace RAB with SRB

BSS — Sat, 15 Aug 2026 14:49:14 +0600

The government has moved to dissolve the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and establish a new specialised law-enforcement unit namely Special Response Battalion (SRB), under Bangladesh Police. The government has floated the draft of the proposed Special Response Battalion (SRB) Act, 2026 on the Home Ministry Website on August 4 for public consultation. All concerned were requested to submit their... Details

Rain likely across country

UNB — Sat, 15 Aug 2026 12:05:39 +0600

Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has forecast rains in all the divisions in 24 hours commencing 9 am on Saturday. History “Light to moderate rain or thunder showers accompanied by temporary gusty wind is likely to occur at a few places over Rangpur, Rajshahi, Dhaka, Mymensingh, Khulna, Barishal, Chattogram and Sylhet divisions with moderately heavy falls at places over... Details

Khaleda Zia’s 81st birth anniversary today

UNB — Sat, 15 Aug 2026 11:59:46 +0600

The 81st birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia is being celebrated on Saturday. Khaleda Zia was born on August 15, 1945. She died on December 30 last year. She served as Bangladesh’s prime minister three times and remained BNP chairperson until her death. History Khaleda’s elder son Tarique Rahman is currently leading the BNP and serving as Prime Minister... Details

PM opens 500-bed new building at Neurosciences Hospital

BSS — Sat, 15 Aug 2026 11:55:34 +0600

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today opened a newly constructed 500-bed building at the National Institute of Neuro Sciences and Hospital (NINSH) in the capital. The prime minister, accompanied by his wife Dr Zubaida Rahman inaugurated the 15-storey building at around 10:00am this morning. With the addition of the new 500 beds, the total capacity of the National Institute of Neurosciences and... Details

Summit FSRU begins gas supply

BSS — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 21:51:47 +0600

Summit LNG Terminal has commenced supplying to the national gas grid from 6:10 pm today. Approximately 110 mcf gas per day (MMCFD) is being supplied amd it is expected to gradually bring up to full speed of 550 mfc at 2 am tomorrow, according to Summit spokesperson today. The increased supply is expected to help improve gas availability for industries, power generation and other... Details

Sitakunda shipyard gas leak death toll rises to 8

UNB — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 19:15:38 +0600

Eight workers, including two siblings, died and 14 others fell ill after inhaling leaked gas during shipbreaking at a yard in Bhatiary of Sitakunda upazila on Friday morning. The identities of the deceased could not be known immediately. Witnesses said a gas pipeline was accidentally severed while workers were dismantling a ship at Ferdous Steel Ship Recycling Industries around 11:15am,... Details

Eggs down, fish and veggies still pricey

Click Ittefaq Desk — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 16:04:17 +0600

There has still been no major relief from the high prices of essential commodities in the capital’s wet markets. Fish and meat are still being sold at nearly the same high prices as before. However, there is some good news in the egg and chicken markets: the price of eggs has fallen by Tk 10 per dozen, while broiler chicken has dropped by around Tk 10 per kilogram. Fish prices, however, are... Details

TCB plans open market sale of essential commodities

BSS — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 14:28:10 +0600

The state-run Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB) is planning to launch a new pilot initiative to sell selected essential commodities in the open market outside of its existing Smart Family Card distribution system, aiming to help ease market prices and thus giving relief to the consumers. Under the plan, commodities procured at comparatively lower prices from abroad will be sold to... Details

Emirates offers 96-hour Dubai visa to Bangladeshi travellers

BSS — Thu, 13 Aug 2026 18:56:13 +0600

Bangladeshi travellers flying to international destinations can avail themselves of a 96-hour Dubai transit visa through eligible Emirates Holidays packages, allowing them to spend up to four days in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The facility is particularly relevant for passengers travelling from Bangladesh to destinations including the United Kingdom, United States, Europe, Mauritius,... Details

BNP submits nomination paper for Mirza Fakhrul Islam

UNB — Thu, 13 Aug 2026 15:34:41 +0600

BNP on Thursday filed the nomination paper for its presidential candidate Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir in the election slated for August 20. A BNP delegation submitted the nomination paper to Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin, who is serving as the returning officer in the presidential election, at Nirbachan Bhaban in the city's Agargaon area at 2:24pm. In the nomination paper, PM's... Details

CPD for urgent measures to address energy crisis

BSS — Thu, 13 Aug 2026 13:07:24 +0600

The Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) has recommended a combination of immediate, medium- and long-term measures to address Bangladesh's growing energy crisis, including optimising LNG procurement, accelerating domestic gas exploration and scaling up renewable energy. The recommendations were made at a discussion titled "Navigating Bangladesh's Energy Crisis: Immediate Priorities and the Path... Details

DMP unveils holistic road safety plan

BSS — Thu, 13 Aug 2026 12:25:51 +0600

The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) is moving beyond conventional traffic enforcement to adopt a broader, technology-driven approach to road safety, with plans for GPS-based vehicle monitoring, scrapping of ageing vehicles, healthcare for drivers, stronger noise-pollution control and improvements in road infrastructure. DMP Additional Police Commissioner (Traffic) Anisur Rahman outlined the... Details

Govt orders to shut markets, shops by 8pm

Click Ittefaq Desk — Wed, 12 Aug 2026 20:49:02 +0600

The government has introduced a new schedule to further strengthen electricity conservation and overall power management. Starting tomorrow, all shopping malls, markets, and shops across the country will be allowed to remain open from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. every day. At the same time, strict instructions have been issued to reduce pressure on electricity consumption by turning off decorative... Details

Nomination papers to be submitted Thursday

UNB — Wed, 12 Aug 2026 18:55:14 +0600

Nomination papers must be submitted between 10am and 4pm on Thursday to run in the presidential election slated for August 20 next. The ruling BNP has formally not declared its presidential candidate yet, while the opposition Jamaat-e-Islami-led 11-party alliance has named LDP Chairman Col (Retd) Oli Ahmed as its candidate. However, both the ruling and opposition camps have collected... Details

'SDG implementation must improve quality of life for every citizen'

UNB — Wed, 12 Aug 2026 17:11:36 +0600

Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury on Wednesday said the government is committed to implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in a manner that goes beyond the existing targets, with a focus on improving the quality of life and economic participation of every citizen. “SDG is already built into the BNP election manifesto. If we can implement the manifesto 100... Details

Bomb explodes on Barisal court premises

UNB — Wed, 12 Aug 2026 14:41:10 +0600

A bomb exploded on Barisal Chief Judicial Magistrate Court premises on Wednesday morning, triggering panic among judges, lawyers and court officials. The explosion occurred around 10:30 am inside the main entrance of the 10-storey court building, according to witnesses. The blast caused people inside the court premises to panic and run for safety, they said. Kamrul Islam, administrative... Details

Rains likely as low pressure formed over North Bay

UNB — Wed, 12 Aug 2026 13:39:42 +0600

A low-pressure area has formed over the North Bay and adjoining coastal areas of West Bengal and Bangladesh and it is likely to intensify, according to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department . It forecast rains across all eight divisions in 24 hours commencing 9 am on Wednesday. Light to moderate rain and thundershowers, accompanied by temporary gusty winds, are likely to occur at many... Details

Dhaka records ‘moderate’ air quality this morning

UNB — Wed, 12 Aug 2026 10:13:51 +0600

Dhaka ranked 34th among the world’s cities with the worst air quality on Wednesday morning, recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 71 at 9:35 am. According to the AQI scale, the capital’s air quality was classified as ‘Moderate’, indicating that it generally poses little or no risk to the general population, though unusually sensitive individuals may experience... Details

Inflation eases further to 8.32% in July

BSS — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 22:51:40 +0600

Bangladesh's general point to point inflation fell to 8.32 percent in July 2026, down from 9.16 percent in June, mainly due to a significant decline in both food and non-food inflation, according to data released by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS). The latest BBS data shows that food inflation dropped to 7.16 percent in July, from 8.60 percent in June, while non-food... Details

Fishing resumes in Kaptai Lake after seasonal ban

UNB — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 18:14:15 +0600

Fishing has resumed in Kaptai Lake after a 3-month-and-15-day ban, bringing renewed economic activity to the lakeside areas and relief to thousands of fishermen and their families. The annual fishing ban is imposed to allow fish to breed and reproduce naturally. Following the lifting of the restriction, thousands of fishermen have returned to the lake with their boats and nets, hoping to... Details

President summons 3rd session of 13th JS on Aug 27

BSS — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 16:56:20 +0600

The third session of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad (Parliament) will begin on August 27 (Thursday). Acting President Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Bir Bikram, summoned the session by exercising the powers vested in him under Article 72(1) of the Constitution of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh. The session will begin at 3:00 pm on August 27 (12 Bhadra 1433 of the Bangla calendar), Thursday, at the... Details

Gold prices jump again

UNB — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 15:45:24 +0600

Gold prices have risen again, with the Bangladesh Jewellers Association (BAJUS) increasing the price of 22-carat gold jewellery by Tk 1,108 per bhori (11.664 grams). BAJUS announced the revised prices on Tuesday, with the new rates coming into effect from 10am. Under the new rates, the price of one bhori of 22-carat gold jewellery, including VAT, has been set at Tk 235,146, up from Tk... Details

BMD forecasts rain across country

UNB — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 13:29:29 +0600

Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has forecast rain across all eight divisions in 24 hours commencing 9 am on Tuesday. According to the BMD forecast light to moderate rain or thunder showers accompanied by temporary gusty wind is likely to occur at many places over Mymensingh, Khulna, Barishal, Chattogram and Sylhet divisions and at one or two places over Rangpur, Rajshahi &... Details

Dhaka 9th among world's most polluted cities

UNB — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 10:44:41 +0600

Dhaka ranked 9th among the world's most polluted cities on Tuesday morning, recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 132 at 9:45 am. According to the AQI scale, the city's air quality was classified as “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups”, poses health risks to children, older adults, and people with heart or lung diseases, while the general public is mostly unaffected.... Details

BRTA registration demanded for battery-run auto rickshaw

UNB — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 23:31:57 +0600

Bangladesh Electric Battery & Motor Chalito Auto Rickshaw Auto Bike Service Ltd on Monday demanded registration of Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) to avoid harassment on the road. “We are trying to pay our taxes and operate legally,” said Managing Director Abul Kalam at a press conference at the national press club in the city. He said their vehicles are being... Details

Remittance inflow jumps 69.2pc by August 9

BSS — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 19:02:59 +0600

Bangladesh received US$1.142 billion in workers' remittances during the first nine days of August 2026, marking a robust 69.2 percent year-on-year growth compared with the same period last year. According to the latest data from Bangladesh Bank, the country received $675 million in workers' remittances during August 1-9, 2025, while the inflow rose to $1.142 billion during the corresponding... Details

PM links SDG success with collective efforts, democratic governance

UNB — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 16:24:13 +0600

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Monday said achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) would require collective efforts from all sections of society, outlining the government’s vision of a democratic state based on free elections, rule of law and institutional accountability. “No single ministry or department can implement the SDGs alone. Success requires the collective... Details

Nearly 7 lakh students unsuccessful in SSC 2026

UNB — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 14:51:58 +0600

Nearly seven lakh students failed this year’s SSC and equivalent examinations. A total of 18,29,485 students registered to sit for the examinations this year. Of them, 11,38,877 passed while 6,90,608 failed. The results of this year’s Secondary School Certificate (SSC) and equivalent examinations were published on Monday, with the average pass rate dropping to 62.25 percent.... Details

Indian High Commissioner Trivedi calls on PM Tarique

UNB — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 13:58:37 +0600

Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Dinesh Trivedi paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Monday and discussed issues of bilateral relations. The meeting was held at the Prime Minister’s Office at the Secretariat at around 11am, said the Prime Minister’s Deputy Press Secretary Zahidul Islam Rony. “It was a courtesy meeting. They discussed bilateral... Details

SSC, equivalent exam results published; pass rate 62.25%

UNB — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 11:17:29 +0600

The results of this year’s Secondary School Certificate (SSC) and equivalent examinations were published on Monday, with the average pass rate dropping to 62.25 percent. Education Minister Dr Ehsanul Haque Milon announced the results at a press briefing held at the Secondary and Higher Education Department of the Ministry of Education at around 10am. The pass rate has declined compared... Details

16 Bangladeshis killed in Saudi sofa factory fire: Ministry

UNB — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 09:27:15 +0600

At least 16 Bangladeshis were killed in a fire at a sofa factory in Saudi Arabia on Sunday. The victims are from Naogaon, Natore and Rajshahi, the Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment Ministry said in a statement early Monday. Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury expressed deep shock and sorrow over the deaths. He said the Bangladesh Embassy in... Details

PMI jumps 4.9 points to 57.8 in July

UNB — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 23:09:14 +0600

Bangladesh's economy expanded at its fastest pace in months in July, with the Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) climbing 4.9 points from June to reach 57.8, driven by a sharp rebound in manufacturing activity, according to a report released on Sunday. The Bangladesh PMI, jointly compiled by the Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), Dhaka, and Policy Exchange Bangladesh (PEB),... Details

Forex reserves rise to $36.86bn

BSS — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 21:11:20 +0600

Bangladesh's foreign exchange reserves stood at US$36.86 billion (gross), according to the latest data released by Bangladesh Bank (BB) today. The country's gross foreign exchange reserves reached US$36.86 billion, while reserves calculated under the IMF's BPM6 methodology stood at US$32.04 billion. Meanwhile, Bangladesh received US$915 million in workers' remittances during the first eight... Details

Bangladesh’s total voter count rises to 12.86cr

UNB — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 16:19:14 +0600

The total number of registered voters in Bangladesh has reached 128,632,555 as of July 31, said the Election Commission on Sunday. “The number of voters has increased by 309,315 between May 14 and July 31,” EC Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed told reporters at the Election Commission building in Agargaon. The EC last updated the voter list in May when the total number of... Details

PM hands over new homes to flood-hit families in Banshkhali

UNB — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 15:20:47 +0600

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Sunday handed over keys to new tin-roofed houses to families affected by the recent floods in Banshkhali and inaugurated the government’s rehabilitation programme for them. He visited the flood-hit Baharchhara area of Banshkhali and handed over the keys to the new homes to affected families around 1:20pm, his Deputy Press Secretary Jahidul Islam Rony told... Details

PM arrives in Maheshkhali to inspect deep-sea port, meet flood victims

BSS — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 11:47:15 +0600

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today arrived at Matarbari in Maheshkhali to inspect the activities of several development projects, including the Matarbari deep-sea port and coal-fired power project. During the visit, the prime minister will also hand over new houses to flood victims in Banshkhali and Hathazari, meet Allama Shah Muhibbullah Babunagari in Fatikchhari and pay respects at the... Details

PM leaves Dhaka for Chattogram

UNB — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 10:02:54 +0600

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman left Dhaka by helicopter on Sunday morning for Maheshkhali in Cox’s Bazar to inspect the Matarbari deep-sea port and the coal-fired power project and review ongoing development activities. The helicopter carrying the Prime Minister left Tejgaon Airport around 9:15am, Prime Minister’s Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Rumon told UNB. During the... Details

Patuakhali fisherman nets 2,200 hilsa in a single haul, earns Tk 48 lakh

BSS — Sat, 08 Aug 2026 19:17:25 +0600

Fisherman Alamgir Majhi has struck a rare windfall in the Bay of Bengal, netting around 2,200 hilsa in a single haul and earning Taka 48 lakh from their sale. The large catch was made in the deep sea near Payra Port. Alamgir, along with 16 other fishermen, was fishing aboard the trawler FB Junaid when a single pull of the net brought in the huge haul of hilsa weighing a total of 46 maunds.... Details

Rain likely in parts of country

BSS — Sat, 08 Aug 2026 14:18:26 +0600

Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) today forecasted rain in different parts of the country in next 24 hours commencing from 9 am. According to a Met office bulletin issued this morning, "Light to moderate rain/thunder showers accompanied by temporary gusty wind is likely to occur at many places over Rangpur, Mymensingh, Chattogram & Sylhet divisions and at a few places over... Details

Gold dearer again

UNB — Sat, 08 Aug 2026 12:25:01 +0600

Bangladesh Jewellers Association (BAJUS) on Saturday raised the price of gold by Tk 4,374 per bhori, setting the price of 22-carat gold, including VAT, at Tk 234,038 per bhori. BAJUS announced the new rate in a notice issued on Saturday morning, saying it will take effect from 10am the same day. The trade body said the price adjustment was made in view of the rising price of pure gold in the... Details

PM opens doctors’ rally

BSS — Sat, 08 Aug 2026 11:38:50 +0600

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today inaugurated a doctors’ rally on the occasion of the 37th founding anniversary of the Doctors Association of Bangladesh (DAB). He inaugurated the rally at the LD Hall of Jatiya Sangshad here this morning. Earlier, the primer planted a neem sapling on the premises of Jatiya Sangshad. At the same time, his wife Dr Zubaida Rahman also planted a sapling... Details

Dhaka’s air quality continues to be ‘moderate’

UNB — Sat, 08 Aug 2026 10:28:52 +0600

Dhaka, the overcrowded capital city of Bangladesh, has ranked 26th on the list of cities with the worst air quality with an AQI score of 73 at 09:22 am this morning. History Today Dhaka’s air was classified as ‘moderate,’ referring to a light healthy threat, according to the AQI index. Uganda’s Kampala, Qatar’s Doha and Bahrain’s Manama occupied the... Details

No alternative to independent media for sustainable democracy: Fakhrul

BSS — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 15:54:43 +0600

Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today said there is no alternative to an independent, responsible and strong media for establishing sustainable democracy. “Democracy will be strengthened if the media is strengthened. However, not only the government but also media owners, journalists and state institutions must collectively play... Details

SSC, equivalent examination results to be published Aug 10

BSS — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 12:26:32 +0600

The results of this year's Secondary School Certificate (SSC) and equivalent examinations will be published on August 10, according to a press release issued by the Ministry of Education on Thursday. The theoretical examinations of the SSC and equivalent examinations began on April 21 and continued until May 20. The practical examinations were held from June 7 to June 14. A total of... Details

Road accidents claim 14 lives in Sylhet, Bogura

UNB — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 11:29:03 +0600

At least 14 people were killed and several others injured in two separate road accidents in Sylhet and Bogura districts on Friday morning. In Sylhet, a collision between two buses on the Dhaka-Sylhet highway in Osmaninagar upazila left eight people, including a child, dead. Inspector (Investigation) of Osmaninagar Police Station Joynal Abedin said a Dhaka-bound Unique Paribahan bus collided... Details

Agri credit disbursement crosses Tk 42,834cr in FY26

UNB — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 22:36:23 +0600

The scheduled banks disbursed Tk 42,834.16 crore in agricultural and rural credit in the just-concluded fiscal year 2025-26, exceeding the central bank's annual target of Tk 39,000 crore (9.83 percent), according to a monthly report released by Bangladesh Bank (BB). The report, titled "Monthly Report on Agricultural and Non-Farm Rural Credit Position" and prepared by the Agricultural Credit... Details

Lottery system to continue for Class-I admission: Ministry

UNB — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 20:52:00 +0600

The government has announced that no admission test will be held for Class-I from the next academic year, with students to be selected through the existing lottery system. The Ministry of Education issued a notice in this regard on Thursday, signed by its Senior Information Officer Abdullah Shibli Sadiq. According to the notice, admissions to Class-I in all schools will continue through the... Details

Indian High Commission warns against visa scammers

BSS — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 18:18:12 +0600

The High Commission of India in Dhaka has warned the public against fraudsters impersonating its officials and offering fake visa and consular services in exchange for money. The warning came in a public advisory issued by the Indian mission and posted on its official X handle on Tuesday, according to a press release. The High Commission said it had received reports of scammers contacting... Details

PM calls for eco-friendly solutions to tackle riverbank erosion

UNB — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 16:54:41 +0600

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday stressed the need for adopting innovative and environmentally sustainable solutions to tackle riverbank erosion and asked the authorities to move forward with the use of vetiver grass to protect rivers, canals, embankments and transport infrastructure. He gave the directive while chairing a meeting at the Cabinet Division in the Secretariat on the use... Details

Presidential election on Aug 20, EC announces schedule

UNB — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 15:17:43 +0600

The Election Commission (EC) on Thursday announced the schedule for the presidential election, with voting set to take place on August 20. EC Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed announced the schedule at a press conference at Nirbachan Bhaban in the capital in the afternoon. According to the schedule, nomination papers will be submitted from 10:00am to 4:00pm on August 13. Scrutiny of nomination... Details

Moheshkhali LNG terminal resumes partial operation

UNB — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 13:43:53 +0600

The LNG terminal operated by Excelerate Energy at Moheshkhali which remained out of service for the past two weeks due to a technical fault has resumed operation. Dr. Rafiqul Islam, member (operation) Petrobangla said around 115 mmcfd gas is being supplied today after the resumption of operation of Floating Storage and Regasification unit (FSRU). The gas supply will increase by 750 to... Details

Gold price jumps by Tk 9,856 per bhori

UNB — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 13:26:11 +0600

Bangladesh Jewellers Association (Bajus) has raised the price of gold in the domestic market by a significant margin, fixing the price of 22-karat gold at Tk 232,930 per bhori, including VAT, with an increase of Tk 9,856. The new price came into effect from 10 am on Thursday, according to a notification issued by the association. Bajus said the decision was taken in line with the rising price... Details

Rain/thundershowers likely across country

BSS — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 12:38:01 +0600

Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) today forecast light to moderate rain or thundershowers accompanied by temporary gusty wind over most parts of the country during the next 24 hours beginning from 9:00 am. According to a Met Office bulletin issued this morning, light to moderate rain or thundershowers accompanied by temporary gusty wind are likely to occur at most places over Dhaka,... Details

Dhaka outraged over Hasina's media interaction in Delhi

BSS — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 09:17:00 +0600

Bangladesh tonight expressed outrage over fugitive disposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina's live media interaction in New Delhi, saying the event was an affront to the country's sovereignty and detrimental to the development of harmonious bilateral relations with India. In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Bangladesh was "outraged" that the "absconding... Details

Flood risk grows as rivers rise

Click Ittefaq Desk — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 23:01:46 +0600

Due to continuous rainfall and heavy rain in the upstream regions of Meghalaya, Assam, and West Bengal in India, at least 12 districts in the northern, northeastern, and north-central parts of Bangladesh are at risk of short-term flooding within the next 24 to 72 hours. This information was released on Wednesday (August 5) in forecasts issued by the Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre (FFWC)... Details

Acting President calls for unity on national interest

UNB — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 19:27:12 +0600

Acting President Hafiz Uddin Ahmed Bir Bikram on Wednesday said differences of opinion are a natural feature of democracy, but there should be no division when it comes to national interest, democratic values, and the country's independence and sovereignty. He made the remarks while addressing a reception and discussion for the families of those killed and the July fighters at the... Details

July Museum bridges past and future: Prof Yunus

UNB — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 14:11:50 +0600

Former interim government Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday described the July Mass Uprising Memorial Museum as a bridge between Bangladesh's past and future, saying it has opened "a new chapter" in the nation's history by preserving the spirit of the 2024 uprising and inspiring future generations to build a better Bangladesh. He made the remarks while addressing a... Details

Heavy rain likely across country for 4 consecutive days

BSS — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 12:50:52 +0600

Bangladesh is expected to experience widespread rainfall over the four days as the monsoon remains fairly active across the country, according to the latest 120-hour weather forecast issued at 9:00am today. The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) said light to moderate rain or thundershowers accompanied by temporary gusty winds are likely to occur at most places in Rangpur, Rajshahi,... Details

Bangladesh observing July Mass Uprising Day

UNB — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 11:29:04 +0600

Bangladesh is observing July Mass Uprising Day today with nationwide programmes, commemorating the student-led mass uprising that culminated in the fall of the Awami League government on Aug 5, 2024. The day is being observed with state ceremonies, political programmes and tributes to those killed and injured during the uprising. The government, political parties and socio-cultural... Details

PM tours July Mass Uprising Memorial Museum after opening

UNB — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 11:26:56 +0600

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday toured the newly inaugurated July Mass Uprising Memorial Museum, viewing exhibits depicting the events leading up to the July 2024 mass uprising and what organisers described as the 16 years of "authoritarian rule" under former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Former interim government Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus accompanied the Prime Minister... Details

“It is our duty to preserve this unity at all costs,” says PM

UNB — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 08:29:25 +0600

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Tuesday said it is duty for every political party, person and group that stands on the side of democracy should uphold the unity forged on the blood-soaked streets during the 2024 July Mass Uprising. “An unprecedented national unity has been forged on the blood-soaked streets sanctified by the sacrifice of thousands of martyrs. It is our duty to preserve... Details

Gross forex reserves rise to $36.59bn

BSS — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 21:53:18 +0600

Bangladesh's foreign exchange reserves stood at US$36.59 billion (gross), according to the latest data released by Bangladesh Bank (BB) on Tuesday. The country's gross foreign exchange reserves reached US$36.59 billion, while reserves calculated under the IMF's BPM6 methodology stood at US$31.78 billion. Meanwhile, workers' remittance to Bangladesh grew by 20.9 percent year-on-year in... Details

India invites PM Tarique to BRICS Summit as BIMSTEC Chair

UNB — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 19:02:45 +0600

India on Tuesday confirmed that an invitation has been extended to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to attend the BRICS Summit as the BIMSTEC Chair, while a separate bilateral invitation has been in place since February this year. India will host the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 12-13, focusing on global cooperation, trade and sustainable development. "You would be aware that a... Details

9.2 tonnes of green chilli imported from India via Benapole

UNB — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 18:41:55 +0600

A consignment of 9.2 tonnes of green chilli has been imported from India through Benapole land port to help stabilise prices in the domestic market. A truck carrying the consignment entered the port's Transshipment Yard No. 31 from India around 9pm on Monday. Port authorities said the consignment was cleared and released the same night after completion of customs and port formalities. Shimu... Details

PM Tarique stresses integrated urban planning

UNB — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 15:18:21 +0600

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Tuesday stressed the need for integrated urban planning to address the challenges of rapid urbanisation and ensure sustainable water management. During an exchange of views with a group of experts on water management, he also assured them of the government's support in addressing the country's water management challenges and ensuring sustainable solutions. The... Details

Rain likely in parts of country

BSS — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 14:35:45 +0600

Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) today forecasted rain in different parts of the country in the next 24 hours commencing at 9 am. "Light to moderate rain or thundershowers accompanied by temporary gusty wind are likely to occur at many places over Rangpur, Mymensingh, Dhaka, Barishal, Chattogram and Sylhet divisions and at a few places over Rajshahi and Khulna divisions," said... Details

Worsening gas shortage threatens exports, disrupts daily life

UNB — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 07:45:26 +0600

Bangladesh’s worsening gas crisis is disrupting industrial production, straining households and threatening the country’s export earnings as severe shortages force factories to rely on costly diesel generators while consumers grapple with low gas pressure for cooking. Industry leaders said persistent shortages of gas and electricity have disrupted production in key export-oriented... Details

PM to open July Mass Uprising Memorial Museum on Augt 5

BSS — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 23:04:24 +0600

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has consented to attend the inauguration ceremony of July Mass Uprising Memorial Museum, according to a PID handout. The inauguration of the museum has been scheduled for 9 am of August 5, the second anniversary of the uprising. Ministers, senior military and civil officials, and invited distinguished guests will be present at the event. Details

Nov 30 deadline for businesses to switch to new BINs

UNB — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 17:45:47 +0600

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has asked businesses to complete the transition to newly assigned Business Identification Numbers (BINs) by 30 November 2026, following the restructuring of VAT commissionerates, while assuring that import and export activities will continue without disruption during the transition period. In a press release issued on Monday, the NBR said the reorganisation... Details

55 lakh people to receive 30 kg of rice at Tk 15 per kg

UNB — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 16:14:23 +0600

The government has started distributing rice under its Food Friendly Programme from August 1 to ensure food security for low-income people and maintain market stability. A total of 55 lakh card-holding beneficiaries in 495 upazilas will receive 30 kg of rice per month at Tk 15 per kg under the programme for six months—August to November and March to April, according to a PID handout... Details

PM appeals for public help to keep Bangladesh clean and litter-free

UNB — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 12:59:44 +0600

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Monday sought people's cooperation in keeping Bangladesh clean and protecting the environment, urging everyone to refrain from littering and dispose of waste responsibly to help build a cleaner and better more liveable country for future generations. In a video message posted on his verified Facebook page, the Prime Minister said protecting the environment is... Details

Major rivers likely to swell up in August

BSS — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 12:57:52 +0600

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has forecast an overall increase in the water levels of the country's major rivers in August as monsoon rainfall continues. "Due to monsoon heavy rainfall, short-term flooding may occur in the northern, northeastern and southeastern regions of the country," said the monthly climate outlook for August issued by the weather office on Sunday.... Details

BMD predicts heavy rainfall in 3 divisions

UNB — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 11:25:36 +0600

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has forecast moderately heavy to heavy falls at places over Rangpur, Mymensingh and Sylhet divisions in the next 24 hours from 9:00am on Monday. Light to moderate rain or thunder showers accompanied by temporary gusty wind is likely to occur at many places over Rangpur, Mymensingh and Sylhet divisions and at a few places over Rajshahi, Dhaka,... Details

Dhaka's air quality remains moderate this morning

UNB — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 09:26:57 +0600

The air quality in Dhaka remained moderate on Monday morning, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 79 at 8 am. With the score, the capital ranked 19th among the world's most polluted cities. Uganda's Kampala, Pakistan's Lahore and Bahrain's Manama occupied the top three spots on the list, with AQI scores of 158, 154 and 147, respectively. An AQI score between 50 and 100 is considered... Details

Remittance inflows jump 15.4pc to $2.85bn in July

UNB — Sun, 02 Aug 2026 23:21:28 +0600

Expatriate Bangladeshis sent home US$2.85 billion in remittances during July, the opening month of the fiscal year FY2026–27, registering a 15.4 percent year-on-year growth, according to the latest data from Bangladesh Bank. During the corresponding period of July 2025, the country received $2.47 billion in workers' remittances. The central bank figures reveal that in the final... Details

EC forms committee to ease NID correction

BSS — Sun, 02 Aug 2026 19:13:04 +0600

The Election Commission (EC) has formed a four-member committee to ease the process of applications for correction of National Identity Cards (NID). According to an official letter signed today by Habiba Akhter, assistant director of the EC's National Identity Registration Wing, the committee has been formulated to examine documents submitted with NID correction applications and to... Details

12-kg LPG price rises by Tk 70 for August

UNB — Sun, 02 Aug 2026 18:15:13 +0600

Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) on Sunday raised the retail price of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for August by Tk 70, setting the price of a 12kg cylinder at Tk 1598, up from Tk 1,528. The revised price will come into effect from Sunday evening, according to the energy regulator. BERC also increased the price of auto gas (LPG used in vehicles) to Tk 73.67 per litre from Tk... Details

NBR offers up to 5pc tax rebate for returns filed by Sept 30

BSS — Sun, 02 Aug 2026 16:24:43 +0600

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has announced a tax incentive of up to 5 percent, capped at Tk 25,000, for individual taxpayers and Hindu Undivided Family (HUF) taxpayers who submit their income tax returns between July 1 and September 30 under the provisions of the Income Tax Act, 2023. According to an NBR press release issued today, eligible taxpayers who file their returns within the... Details