Thursday, 14 May 2026
The Dhaka News

Russian Drone and Missile Barrage Kills Six Across Ukraine

At least six people have died after Russia launched a large-scale overnight drone and missile attack targeting several regions across Ukraine. The strikes reportedly hit key infrastructure facilities in major cities, including Kyiv, Odesa, and Lviv, causing widespread damage to energy systems and transportation networks.According to Ukrainian officials, multiple explosions were heard throughout the night as air defense units attempted to intercept incoming drones and missiles. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the attacks heavily affected civilian areas and critical infrastructure, particularly in Kyiv and southern Ukraine.Authorities in Kyiv confirmed casualties and damage to railway operations and electricity facilities. Emergency crews were deployed across affected areas to restore services and assist residents impacted by the strikes. Meanwhile, Russia insisted that its military operation targeted strategic and military-related sites only.In response to the attacks, Ukraine carried out a major drone operation inside Russian territory. Reports indicated that Ukrainian drones struck several regions overnight, including an alleged attack on a missile manufacturing facility in Orenburg. Russian officials claimed their air defense systems intercepted nearly 300 drones across multiple border regions such as Belgorod, Bryansk, and Kursk.The growing tension near Russia’s border regions has also triggered political developments. Governors from Belgorod and Bryansk reportedly stepped down, while Russian President Vladimir Putin appointed acting replacements to oversee the regions.The escalation also prompted neighboring Poland to heighten security measures. Polish armed forces reportedly deployed fighter jets shortly after the Russian assault began in order to monitor and protect the country’s airspace amid concerns over regional security.Ukrainian intelligence officials warned that Russia could be preparing for additional large-scale missile attacks in the coming days. They believe Moscow may attempt to intensify pressure on Ukraine’s defense infrastructure through further ballistic missile operations.Despite the continued fighting, the Kremlin repeated its conditions for potential peace negotiations. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that Russia expects Ukraine to withdraw forces from the Donbas region before any meaningful ceasefire discussions can move forward.At the same time, Moscow signaled interest in broader economic cooperation with the United States if trade and diplomatic relations are separated from the ongoing war in Ukraine. During a separate event in Moscow, President Putin also announced plans to strengthen Russia’s nuclear defense capabilities. He stated that the country is continuing work on advanced missile systems designed to overcome modern defense technologies.
5 hrs ago

Bangladesh Moves to Tax Online Gaming Industry as Esports Recognition Gains Momentum

As Bangladesh’s digital economy continues to grow at a rapid pace, the government is taking steps to bring the online gaming sector under the national tax framework. According to relevant sources, the initiative aims to formalize gaming-related economic activities, boost revenue collection, and ensure transparency in digital financial transactions.The National Board of Revenue (NBR) and the Ministry of Finance have reportedly started working on a policy structure for the sector. Under the proposed framework, VAT and other applicable taxes may be imposed on transactions made through mobile financial services, bank cards, and app store-based gaming platforms. Authorities are also considering automated tax deduction systems through digital payment gateways.Industry analysts say Bangladesh’s online gaming market has already evolved into a multi-billion-taka industry. Despite its rapid growth, a large portion of transactions still remains outside the formal taxation system, limiting potential government revenue. Experts believe that bringing the industry into a regulated framework would help establish a more organized and accountable ecosystem.At the same time, many users on social media see the government’s initiative as an important milestone toward official recognition of esports in Bangladesh. They believe that treating gaming as a legitimate economic sector could strengthen esports-related activities, including tournament organization, sponsorship opportunities, professional team operations, and international participation.Experts further note that balanced and investment-friendly policies could transform online gaming and esports into promising sectors for youth employment and foreign income generation. With proper regulation and infrastructure, Bangladesh could emerge as a competitive player in the global digital entertainment industry.Stakeholders remain hopeful that the government’s latest initiative will open new opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and long-term growth within the country’s rapidly expanding digital economy.
22 hrs ago

8 More Children Die from Measles and Measles-like Symptoms Across the Country

Another eight children have died from measles and measles-like symptoms across the country in the last 24 hours. During the same period, 33,832 patients recovered and were discharged from hospitals. The information was released on Wednesday through a press statement by the Directorate General of Health Services.According to the statement, 1,489 suspected measles cases were reported in the last 24 hours. With this, the total number of suspected cases recorded between March 15 and May 13 has risen to 53,056.In addition, 126 confirmed measles cases were identified in the past 24 hours. From March 15 to May 13, the total number of confirmed measles cases reached 7,150.Data from the health authorities show that 38,054 patients with suspected measles symptoms were admitted to hospitals during the same period. Among them, 33,832 patients have recovered and returned home after receiving treatment.Regarding fatalities, the statement said one person died from confirmed measles in the last 24 hours. From March 15 to May 13, the total number of deaths from confirmed measles reached 69. Meanwhile, deaths related to suspected measles symptoms rose to 363 during the same period.The health authorities said monitoring and treatment activities are continuing across the country.
23 hrs ago
West Bengal Imposes Strict Restrictions on Cow and Buffalo Slaughter

West Bengal Imposes Strict Restrictions on Cow and Buffalo Slaughter

The newly elected BJP government in India’s West Bengal has introduced strict restrictions on the slaughter of cattle and other specified livestock, while also banning animal slaughter in public places across the state.The directive was issued on May 13 by the Home & Hill Affairs Department of the Government of West Bengal under the “West Bengal Animal Slaughter Control Act, 1950.”According to the public notice, no bull, bullock, cow, calf, buffalo, or castrated buffalo can be slaughtered without obtaining a fitness certificate jointly approved by local authorities and a government veterinary surgeon.Under the new rules, an animal can only be considered fit for slaughter if it is over 14 years old and no longer suitable for breeding or work. Animals suffering from permanent disability, severe injury, deformity, or incurable disease may also qualify for approval.The government has further directed that approved animals may only be slaughtered in municipal slaughterhouses or locations designated by local authorities. Slaughtering animals in open or public places has been declared strictly prohibited.Authorities including municipal chairpersons, panchayat officials, and government veterinary officers have been empowered to inspect premises to ensure compliance with the law. Obstructing such inspections will also be treated as a violation.Violators may face up to six months in prison, a fine of up to Rs 1,000, or both, according to the notification. The move comes shortly after the BJP assumed power in West Bengal, marking a significant policy shift that is expected to trigger political and social debate across the state.
3 hrs ago
National

National

Tarique Rahman joins views-exchange meeting with BNP dist-level leaders

Tarique Rahman joins views-exchange meeting with BNP dist-level leaders

BNP Chairman and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has joined a views-exchange meeting with district-level leaders of the ruling BNP and its three associate bodies.(May 9, 2026) The day-long meeting began at 10:45am today at the Krishibid Institution Bangladesh (KIB) auditorium in the city's Farmgate area with BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi in the chair.BNP Chairman and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman joined the meeting as the chief guest while Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir joined it as the special guest.BNP Standing Committee members Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain, Abdul Moyeen Khan, Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, Salahuddin Ahmed, Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku, Selima Rahman and Dr AZM Zahid Hossain also joined in the meeting.This is the first views-exchange meeting between BNP Chairman and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and the party's grassroots leaders after the 13th parliamentary election held on February 12.About the meeting, Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said, during the meeting, the party's election manifesto and the plans of the government will be presented to the leaders. Party's organizational activities will also be discussed in the meeting, he added.
9 May 2026
International

International

West Bengal Imposes Strict Restrictions on Cow and Buffalo Slaughter

West Bengal Imposes Strict Restrictions on Cow and Buffalo Slaughter

The newly elected BJP government in India’s West Bengal has introduced strict restrictions on the slaughter of cattle and other specified livestock, while also banning animal slaughter in public places across the state.The directive was issued on May 13 by the Home & Hill Affairs Department of the Government of West Bengal under the “West Bengal Animal Slaughter Control Act, 1950.”According to the public notice, no bull, bullock, cow, calf, buffalo, or castrated buffalo can be slaughtered without obtaining a fitness certificate jointly approved by local authorities and a government veterinary surgeon.Under the new rules, an animal can only be considered fit for slaughter if it is over 14 years old and no longer suitable for breeding or work. Animals suffering from permanent disability, severe injury, deformity, or incurable disease may also qualify for approval.The government has further directed that approved animals may only be slaughtered in municipal slaughterhouses or locations designated by local authorities. Slaughtering animals in open or public places has been declared strictly prohibited.Authorities including municipal chairpersons, panchayat officials, and government veterinary officers have been empowered to inspect premises to ensure compliance with the law. Obstructing such inspections will also be treated as a violation.Violators may face up to six months in prison, a fine of up to Rs 1,000, or both, according to the notification. The move comes shortly after the BJP assumed power in West Bengal, marking a significant policy shift that is expected to trigger political and social debate across the state.
3 hrs ago
Campus

Campus

The Green Synergy: IUBAT Webinar Bridges Botany and Agriculture

The Green Synergy: IUBAT Webinar Bridges Botany and Agriculture

Yesterday, more than 100 students and academics gathered online to explore the future of farming at "The Green Synergy" webinar. Hosted by the IUBAT chapter of the International Association of Students in Agricultural and Related Sciences (IAAS), the event focused on bridging the gap between basic plant biology and applied agriculture through new research.Professor Dr. Mihir Lal Saha, former Acting Dean of the Faculty of Biological Science at the University of Dhaka, led the session as the guest speaker. Drawing from his extensive background in botany, he shared his expertise on how understanding plant science and biodiversity is essential for developing better, more reliable farming methods.Instead of a standard one-way lecture, Dr. Saha sparked a lively discussion about the practical ways botanical research can solve modern agricultural challenges. He explained that looking closely at plant biology gives researchers and farmers the tools they need to grow food reliably without exhausting natural resources.The virtual event gave young scholars and agriculture enthusiasts an open space to share ideas and ask questions. Participants left with a clearer understanding of how hands-on research in botany is actively shaping the future of global agriculture.
27 April 2026
Web Story

Web Story

Election

Election

New Leadership Elected at Haimchar Press Club Through Peaceful Voting

New Leadership Elected at Haimchar Press Club Through Peaceful Voting

The much-anticipated election of the Haimchar Press Club was held on Thursday (March 12, 2026) in a peaceful environment. A total of five candidates contested for the two key positions—President and General Secretary.There were 47 registered voters in the election, of whom 34 exercised their voting rights.Three candidates competed for the post of President. Among them, Md. Mohsin Mia (symbol: Pen) was elected President after securing 19 votes. His nearest rival, G.M. Fazlur Rahman (symbol: Glasses), received 12 votes, while Masud Alam Riad (symbol: Mobile Phone) obtained 3 votes.For the post of General Secretary, two candidates were in the race. Zahidul Islam (symbol: Camera) was elected General Secretary with 20 votes, while his opponent Hasan Al Mamun (symbol: Laptop) received 14 votes.After the completion of voting, the results were officially announced in a peaceful atmosphere. Members of the press club congratulated the newly elected leaders and expressed hope that the new leadership would play a significant role in strengthening and advancing the activities of the press club.
21 October 2025
13th National Parliamentary Election and Referendum to Be Held Tomorrow

13th National Parliamentary Election and Referendum to Be Held Tomorrow

21 October 2025
Cricket

Cricket

Pakistan Sets Three Conditions for Playing India, Including Compensation for Bangladesh

Pakistan Sets Three Conditions for Playing India, Including Compensation for Bangladesh

A new standoff has emerged in international cricket as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has presented three key demands to the International Cricket Council (ICC) in an effort to resolve the ongoing disagreement over Bangladesh’s exclusion from the T20 World Cup.Earlier, Bangladesh had requested the ICC to change match venues after India declined to play in the tournament. In response, the ICC removed Bangladesh from the competition, a decision that Pakistan strongly supported and publicly backed Bangladesh.After Bangladesh was excluded, the PCB announced its intention to boycott the match against India in protest, creating a deadlock with the global governing body of cricket. Recent developments, however, suggest there may be a way forward.According to NDTV sources, PCB officials met with ICC representatives in Lahore and submitted three major demands aimed at breaking the impasse. The demands are:1. Enhanced compensation for Bangladesh,2. Assurance of participation fees for Bangladesh despite being removed from the World Cup,3. Granting Bangladesh the right to host future ICC events.Despite warnings from the ICC about possible consequences, Pakistan remained firm in its decision to boycott the India match. Some PCB officials are reportedly in favor of playing, but PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has maintained his previous position.Before finalizing the decision, Naqvi is scheduled to meet with Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, today (Monday). How the situation will develop and whether the three demands lead to a resolution remains a key focus for the cricketing world.TDN/
9 February 2026
Nationwide

Nationwide

Independence Day celebrated with due dignity through various programs in Haimchar

Independence Day celebrated with due dignity through various programs in Haimchar

On the occasion of Independence Day, various day-long programs have been organized in Haimchar Upazila of Chandpur with due dignity and festive atmosphere.The day's program was inaugurated by hoisting the national flag on Thursday (March 26) morning at the initiative of the upazila administration. Upazila Executive Officer Amit Roy, Haimchar Police Station Officer (OC) Nazmul Hasan, Upazila Agriculture Officer, Secondary Education Officer, Primary Education Officer and officials of other departments were present at the time. Various political, social and teachers also participated in the program.On the occasion of the day, parades, physical exercises, painting competitions and cultural programs were organized with the participation of students from various educational institutions. The venue became festive with the lively participation of the students. Later, a reception was given to the brave freedom fighters at the Upazila Auditorium building. During this, the guests expressed deep respect and gratitude to the freedom fighters.During the event, some freedom fighters spoke, reminiscing about 1971, and the children of freedom fighters also spoke.The Upazila Executive Officer said at the event, The declaration of independence on March 26 led to a long 9-month war. We often forget the contribution of the brave freedom fighters and the brave women in this war. The story of the brave martyred freedom fighters and brave women in the liberation war,Speaking of the martyred ancestors who were tortured in torture cells, I am paying tribute to them through this meeting and he added, "The correct history of independence must be presented to the new generation and everyone must play a role in building the country, inspired by patriotism."At the end of the day-long program, cultural programs were held with the participation of various educational institutions and prizes were distributed among the winners of the competition. All in all, the day-long arrangements in Haimchar Upazila on the occasion of the great Independence Day were colorful and significant.
21 October 2025