Economy
Happy Mother’s Day Today
In a world filled with love and admiration, today marks a special occasion that honors the selfless devotion and unwavering support of mothers everywhere. Mother’s Day, celebrated annually on the second Sunday of May, serves as a heartfelt tribute to the remarkable women who play an irreplaceable role in shaping our lives.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, Mother’s Day provides an invaluable opportunity to pause and reflect on the immeasurable contributions mothers make to our individual growth and societal harmony. It is a day that allows us to express our deepest gratitude and appreciation for the endless sacrifices they make, the boundless love they give, and the nurturing guidance they provide.
From the very moment we take our first breath, our mothers are there, ready to embrace us with open arms and shower us with affection. They possess an innate ability to provide comfort, wisdom, and strength, even in the face of adversity. Mothers are our pillars of support, our confidantes, and our biggest cheerleaders throughout life’s triumphs and challenges.
Today, families across the globe are finding unique and creative ways to honor the influential women who have shaped their lives. Some may gather for special meals, while others may embark on adventures to create cherished memories. Handmade cards, thoughtful gifts, and warm hugs serve as tokens of appreciation, symbolizing the deep love and gratitude that words alone cannot express.
This year’s Mother’s Day celebration coincides with a time when the world is grappling with unforeseen circumstances. Despite the challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic, the spirit of Mother’s Day remains resilient. Virtual gatherings, heartfelt video messages, and acts of kindness from a distance allow us to bridge the physical gap and connect emotionally with the extraordinary women who have molded us into the individuals we are today.
On this Mother’s Day, let us take a moment to recognize and honor the unconditional love, unwavering strength, and unparalleled sacrifices that mothers make every single day. Their influence extends far beyond our childhood years, shaping our values, instilling compassion, and inspiring us to become the best versions of ourselves.
Today, and every day, let us express our love, appreciation, and gratitude for the phenomenal mothers who have nurtured our dreams, wiped away our tears, and loved us unconditionally. Happy Mother’s Day to all the incredible mothers around the world!
Economy
Remittances Top $2bn in First 28 Days of September
Expatriate Bangladeshis sent approximately US$ 2.11 billion in remittances during the first 28 days of September in the fiscal year 2024-25, according to data released by Bangladesh Bank on 29 September.
Of this total, state-owned and specialised banks handled $679.10 million, while private banks received $1.43 billion in remittances.
Economy
Yunus Pledges Swift Reforms and Election in Bangladesh’s Interim Govt
Chief Adviser to Bangladesh’s interim government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, has vowed to expedite reforms and hold elections swiftly. Yunus, who recently assumed the role after the collapse of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s 15-year administration, expressed his commitment during an interview with Tokyo-based news outlet NHK WORLD in New York on Sunday. He was attending the United Nations General Assembly at the time.
Following mass student-led protests that ended Hasina’s long-standing rule in August, Yunus stepped in as the leader of the caretaker government. Known for founding Grameen Bank, an institution providing microloans to the underprivileged, Yunus, along with the bank, earned the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for his efforts in poverty alleviation.
During the interview, Yunus emphasized that the interim government’s primary mission is to implement reforms promptly and ensure elections are held as soon as the groundwork is complete. He underscored the importance of success, stating, “Failure is not something that we can accept.”
Addressing the pivotal role of students in the ousting of the Hasina administration, Yunus acknowledged the sacrifices made by young people, referring to their involvement as part of a “revolution.” He highlighted his intention to engage the younger generation in shaping policy.
Furthermore, Yunus called for continued support from Japan, Bangladesh’s largest donor, during this crucial transition period. He stressed that Japan’s assistance is vital to stabilizing Bangladesh’s economy and fostering a democratic foundation in the nation.
Economy
Polythene Bags to Be Phased Out, Says Environment Adviser Rizwana Hasan
Syeda Rizwana Hasan, the Adviser for Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, announced today that steps will be taken to restrict the use of polythene shopping bags to safeguard future generations.
Starting from October 1, polythene bags will be banned in shopping malls, followed by a ban in kitchen markets from November 1.
“Everyone must take responsibility and stop using polythene voluntarily. Action against polythene producers will begin from November 1,” Rizwana Hasan stated during a seminar.
The Department of Environment (DoE) organized the seminar to raise public awareness about alternatives to banned polythene bags.
Rizwana Hasan highlighted that the restriction on polythene will be executed in phases according to legal provisions, and discussions with shopping centers and store owners are ongoing to ensure a smooth transition.
She also announced plans to make the government secretariat a plastic-free zone by December.
Other speakers at the seminar included Environment Secretary Dr. Farhina Ahmed, DoE Director General Dr. Abdul Hamid, Director Rajinara Begum, President of the Shop Owners Association Muhammad Helal Uddin, and Md. Arifur Rahman Bhuiyan, Assistant Professor of Environmental Science at BUP. They discussed the harmful effects of polythene and the need for alternative products.
Earlier, Rizwana Hasan inaugurated a fair showcasing eco-friendly alternatives to polythene bags and visited 24 stalls. The fair featured products from government and private entrepreneurs, including reusable bags, jute bags, paper bags, and items made from bamboo and cane.