National
PM Sheikh Hasina Extends Pahela Baishakh Greetings
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina issued a message today, extending greetings to the nation on the occasion of Pahela Baishakh, the first day of Bengali New Year 1431, to be celebrated tomorrow. In her message, she emphasized that Pahela Baishakh holds significance as the universal festival marking the beginning of Bengali New Year. It symbolizes harmony and serves as a unifying celebration for Bengalis worldwide.
Sheikh Hasina urged everyone, regardless of religion or caste, to embrace the new year with joy, leaving behind the sorrows and setbacks of the past. She highlighted that Pahela Baishakh embodies the essence of Bengali identity and heritage, reflecting the cultural richness of the Bangalees.
During the Pakistan period, Sheikh Hasina recalled, Bengalis faced attempts to suppress their traditions and culture by the colonial power. However, they resisted these efforts with determination, ultimately joining the struggle for liberation under the leadership of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
The prime minister emphasized that the fusion of culture and politics during the liberation struggle paved the way for the emergence of independent Bangladesh. She noted with pride that the traditional Mangal Shovajatra has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage, symbolizing the resilience and spirit of the Bangalee nation.
Sheikh Hasina expressed confidence that following this path would lead Bangalees to excel on the global stage. She asserted that the achievements and progress of Bangalee heroes would endure through the ages, showcasing the indomitable spirit of the Bengali nation.
The premier underscored the lifelong commitment of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to uphold ideologies such as secularism, liberalism, nationalism, and democracy, which are integral to Bangladesh’s identity. She hoped that the spirit of Pahela Baishakh would inspire the nation to combat militancy, fundamentalism, extremism, and anti-liberation forces, striving towards a society free from hunger and poverty, and realizing the vision of a golden Bangladesh envisioned by Bangabandhu.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the newly constructed Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP) Bhaban and Senaprangan (Army Central Auditorium) Bhaban in Dhaka Cantonment today, unveiling their name plaques and cutting ribbons to enter AFIP Bhaban. During her visit, she toured different facilities within AFIP Bhaban, where AFIP Commandant Major General Dr Nishat Jubaida briefed her on its main features and facilities.
The project, “Extension and Modernization of the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP),” approved by the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) in 2019, aimed to meet the increasing demand for pathology services. Remarkably, the project was completed ahead of schedule, by December 2024.
The 14-storey AFIP Bhaban boasts a modern laboratory equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including next-generation sequencing, automated microbial identification systems, transmission electron microscopes, and multi-headed microscopes, ensuring international standard services.
Health and Family Welfare Minister Prof Dr Samanta Lal Sen, Chief of Army Staff General SM Shafiuddin Ahmed, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral M Nazmul Hassan, and other dignitaries graced the occasion.
Following the inauguration of Senaprangan Bhaban, the prime minister also cut a ribbon to enter the new facility. Senaprangan serves as the army’s central auditorium for hosting various national and international-level events such as meetings, seminars, and social gatherings, with Chief of Army Staff General SM Shafiuddin Ahmed and high-level army officers in attendance.
Rain or thundershowers are likely in various parts of the country as the day temperature may further decrease amidst a severe heat wave in Pabna, Jashore, Chuadanga, and Bagerhat districts, according to a meteorological release today.
The release predicts rain or thundershowers accompanied by temporary gusty/squally winds in a few places across the Sylhet division and at one or two places in Rangpur, Dhaka, Mymensingh, Barishal, and Chattogram divisions, with hails possible at isolated locations within the next 24 hours starting from 9 am today.
Mild to moderate heat waves are sweeping over Dhaka, Rajshahi, Rangpur, Mymensingh, and Barishal divisions, as well as the remaining parts of Khulna division, and the districts of Moulvibazar and Chandpur, as per the release.
The weather is expected to remain mainly dry with temporary partly cloudy skies elsewhere across the country.
Day and night temperatures are likely to remain nearly unchanged nationwide.
The sun sets at 6:29 pm today and rises at 5:21 am tomorrow in the capital.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina urged mill and factory owners to prioritize the welfare of laborers by reducing their luxuries. Addressing a discussion at the Bangabandhu International Conference Centre, she emphasized that laborers enable owners to lead lavish lives through their hard work.
She cautioned laborers against actions that could harm the factories providing them with employment opportunities. Sheikh Hasina noted that some individuals incite workers to protest unnecessarily, which ultimately damages both the workers’ interests and the country’s economy.
Highlighting the symbiotic relationship between owners and laborers, she stressed the need for increased industrial production for Bangladesh’s overall development. Sheikh Hasina encouraged both parties to approach her directly to resolve any issues, emphasizing her commitment to addressing their concerns.
She distributed financial assistance to labor families and attended a cultural program, accompanied by various dignitaries including State Minister for Labour and Employment, Md Nazrul Islam Chowdhury, and representatives from international organizations.
Sheikh Hasina proudly described her government as pro-labor, citing initiatives such as wage increases, workplace safety measures, childcare facilities, and maternity leave provisions. She highlighted the steady increase in workers’ salaries under her government’s tenure, affirming her party’s dedication to labor welfare.
Asserting Bangladesh’s commitment to international labor standards, she warned against any exploitation of workers and pledged to hold accountable those responsible for withholding fair wages.
The Prime Minister also outlined government efforts to boost education and employment opportunities, including free textbooks and vocational training programs. She mentioned the Karmasangsthan Bank, established to provide loans to youth entrepreneurs without collateral.
In summary, Sheikh Hasina’s government prioritizes labor welfare, fosters a conducive environment for economic growth, and remains vigilant against any exploitation of workers.
