Economy
Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina’s 43rd Homecoming Day today
Today, Wednesday, commemorates a significant milestone in the life of Sheikh Hasina, the President of Awami League and Prime Minister of Bangladesh. It marks the 43rd Homecoming Day of Sheikh Hasina, symbolizing her return to Bangladesh from India on May 17, 1981.
This momentous event occurred after she had spent nearly six years in exile, a consequence of the tragic assassination of her father, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the esteemed Father of the Nation, along with numerous family members, on August 15, 1975, at the hands of misguided army officers.
Fortunately, both of Bangabandhu’s daughters, Sheikh Hasina and Sheikh Rehana, survived the horrific incident as they happened to be in Germany at the time. Despite the immense personal loss and adversity, Sheikh Hasina demonstrated her resilience and unwavering commitment to her country and its people.
During Sheikh Hasina’s absence, the Awami League held its national council from February 14-16, 1981, where she was elected as the party’s president. This pivotal moment solidified her leadership role within Awami League, a position she continues to hold with great distinction and dedication.
In honor of this momentous day, Awami League and its affiliated organizations have organized a series of diverse programs to commemorate and celebrate Sheikh Hasina’s Homecoming Day. These activities serve as a testament to her indomitable spirit, perseverance, and remarkable journey as a prominent political figure in Bangladesh.
Sheikh Hasina’s triumphant return to her homeland remains a significant chapter in the nation’s history. It symbolizes her unwavering resolve to uphold the principles and ideals cherished by her father, as well as her tireless efforts to build a prosperous and inclusive Bangladesh for its citizens.
The 43rd Homecoming Day of Sheikh Hasina provides an occasion for reflection, gratitude, and admiration for her exceptional leadership, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the betterment of Bangladesh. It stands as a reminder of the enduring legacy of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the continued commitment of Sheikh Hasina to shaping the nation’s future.
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.
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.
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.
