Wednesday, 20 May 2026
The Dhaka News

Bangladesh, US reaffirm stronger bilateral partnership commitment

Bangladesh and the United States have reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening bilateral partnership across various areas of mutual interest.The discussion was held when State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam met US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs S. Paul Kapur at the Department of State on Monday, according to a message received here today. During the meeting, the two sides discussed issues relating to bilateral cooperation and shared interests, underscoring the importance of deepening Bangladesh-US engagement in multiple sectors.They reiterated their commitment to advancing the longstanding partnership between the two countries through enhanced cooperation and constructive engagement.
19 hrs ago

PM chairs NEC meeting

A meeting of the National Economic Council (NEC) is being held with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman in the chair.The meeting began at 10:00 am Monday (May 18, 2026) at the Bangladesh Planning Commission Auditorium in the city’s Agargaon area, PM’s Deputy Press Secretary Jahidul Islam Rony said.The meeting’s agenda includes discussion on the Annual Development Programme (ADP) for the 2026-27 fiscal year.The NEC meeting is scheduled to continue till 1:00 pm. Later, a press conference will be held on the outcome of the meeting.
18 May 2026

Is Technology Building the Future, or Destroying the Young Generation?

From the moment they wake up until late at night, many young people spend countless hours on smartphones-scrolling through social media, watching short videos, gaming, or chatting online. While technology has made life easier and more connected, excessive smartphone use is creating a dangerous addiction, especially among teenagers and young adults.Experts say technology itself is not harmful; rather, the problem lies in its misuse. The same smartphone that wastes hours on endless scrolling can also become a powerful tool for learning skills, building careers, and earning income online.Today, many students are spending more time on social media than on their studies. Late-night gaming and nonstop screen time are reducing concentration, increasing stress, and causing sleep problems. It is also creating distance between family members and weakening social relationships.However, technology also offers countless positive opportunities. Many young people are now learning freelancing, digital marketing, graphic design, and other valuable skills through smartphones. Online courses, educational platforms, and YouTube tutorials are opening new doors for success.Educators believe that technology should not be banned, but used wisely and responsibly. Families need to create awareness, set healthy screen-time limits, and encourage children to participate in sports, reading, and social activities.In this digital age, smartphones can either become a source of knowledge and opportunity or a cause of wasted time and addiction. The future depends on how we choose to use technology.
17 May 2026
Government Releases New Design 5 Taka Note

Government Releases New Design 5 Taka Note

government is releasing a newly designed Tk 5 currency note under the theme "Historical and Archaeological Architecture of Bangladesh" from today (Tuesday May 19, 2026 ).According to a press release issued by the Finance Division of the Ministry of Finance, the new note has been printed with updated design and security features bearing the signature of Finance Secretary Dr. Md. Khairuzzaman Mozumder.The note will initially be issued from the Motijheel office of Bangladesh Bank and later from its other offices across the country.The newly designed Tk 5 note measures 117 mm by 60 mm. The front side of the note features an image of the historic Star (Tara) Mosque on the left side, while the background contains an image of Bangladesh’s national flower, the water lily, with leaves and buds.The reverse side of the note carries an image titled "Graffiti-2024".The note contains several modern security features, including a watermark of the face of the Royal Bengal Tiger with a bright electrotype watermark "5" underneath, alongside the monogram of the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh.A 2 mm wide embedded security thread has been incorporated on the left side of the note, which becomes visible from both sides when held against light. In addition, the upper portion of the guilloche pattern at the lower front side contains numerous horizontally printed "BANGLADESH" microprints.The note predominantly carries a light pink colour tone.The press release said all existing paper notes and metallic coins currently in circulation will remain valid alongside the newly issued Tk 5 note.Considering the demand of currency collectors, a non-exchangeable Tk 5 specimen note has also been printed. The specimen note will be available at a fixed price from the Bangladesh Bank Currency Museum.
18 hrs ago
National

National

Survivor’s Voice Summit 2026 Puts Spotlight on Youth Mental Health and Cyber Safety

Survivor’s Voice Summit 2026 Puts Spotlight on Youth Mental Health and Cyber Safety

The Survivor’s Voice Summit 2026 successfully wrapped up today, May 19, in the capital. The daylong event at the Bangladesh Shishu Academy Auditorium focused on raising mental health awareness, ensuring cyber safety, and developing leadership skills among the country's youth. The conference was a joint initiative by Survivor’s Path and the SRI Welfare Foundation.A major highlight of the gathering was the launch of the Monbarta App and a dedicated 24/7 mental health helpline. Professor Dr. S. M. Abdul-Awal, Chief Coordinator for SDG Affairs at the Prime Minister’s Office, officially introduced these new technological tools designed to offer accessible psychological support to young people.Organizers noted that today's youth face mounting pressures from cyberbullying, trauma, and complex social expectations. Unfortunately, social stigma and a general lack of awareness often keep these critical conversations in the shadows. The summit aimed to break those barriers by creating a safe, open space for youth, professionals, advocates, and survivors. This vision was captured in the event's central theme: Breaking Silence, Building Hope, Empowering Every Voice.The second half of the conference featured Dr. Sansila Jebrin Priyanka, MP, as the guest of honor. Shaikh Rifad Mahmud, Chairman of the SRI Welfare Foundation, served as the event's convener, while Munzia Snigdha Moon, Chairperson of the Survivor’s Path Foundation, chaired the proceedings. Special guests included Dr. Md. Zahirul Islam Shakil, Secretary General of the Doctors Association of Bangladesh (DAB), Dr. S.K. Farid Ahmed, and Fahad Hossain.Throughout the day, participants engaged in detailed discussions on vital issues such as digital well-being, personal development, and networking. A standout segment was the Survivor Chronicles, a special session dedicated to stigma-free conversations and courageous personal stories from those who have overcome trauma. Later in the afternoon, a breakout session focused on drafting a Survivors' Manifesto, outlining clear policy demands to present to the government and other key stakeholders.The summit also hosted two major panel discussions. The youth development panel included Abdul Quayyum, Head of Communications at UNDP Bangladesh, alongside Shaikh Rifad Mahmud, Munzia Snigdha Moon, and Mehedi Hasan, with Sanjida from BRAC University moderating. A separate mental health panel brought together prominent psychologist Dr. Atiqul Haq Majumder, researcher and policy analyst Mahadi-Ul-Morshed, public health expert Moududul Hasan, and Dr. A.K.M. Ahsan Habib Nafi, with Dr. Al Amin leading the conversation.Both organizing bodies hope the summit will spark greater mental health awareness and encourage more young people to get involved in social initiatives. Their ultimate goal is to build a strong, lasting network that actively protects the rights and well-being of survivors.
14 hrs ago
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.
14 May 2026
Campus

Campus

Dr Mohammad Musharof Hossain Appointed Vice-Chancellor of JKKNIU

Dr Mohammad Musharof Hossain Appointed Vice-Chancellor of JKKNIU

Professor Dr. Mohammad Musharof Hossain of Chittagong University’s Botany Department has been appointed as the new Vice-Chancellor of Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University (JKKNIU) in Mymensingh.The Ministry of Education issued a notification in this regard on Thursday (May 14), stating that President Mohammed Shahabuddin, also the Chancellor of the university, made the appointment. Prior to this new assignment, Prof Musharof served as the Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Jamalpur Science and Technology University.According to the notification, the appointment was made under Section 10(1) of the Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University Act, 2006. His tenure will be for four years from the date of joining, or until the date of his retirement.The order further specifies that Prof Musharof will receive a salary and allowances equivalent to his current position, along with other benefits as per the rules. As the chief executive officer of the university, he is required to reside on the campus full-time.The notification also mentioned that the President and Chancellor reserve the right to revoke the appointment at any time if deemed necessary.
14 May 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.
1 November 2025
13th National Parliamentary Election and Referendum to Be Held Tomorrow

13th National Parliamentary Election and Referendum to Be Held Tomorrow

1 November 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.
1 November 2025