2 sentenced to death for killing 12-year-old boy Rakib

A Khulna court on November 8 convicted two people and sentenced them to death in the case over the killing of 12-year- old boy Rakib.
The convicts are M Omar Sharif and Mintu Khan.
Khulna Metropolitan (City) Sessions Judges Court acting Judge Dilruba Sultana gave this verdict at around 12.50pm when the accused were produced before the court in the morning.
The court also acquitted Beauty Begum as the allegation brought against her could not be proved.
Earlier, on November 1, a Khulna court had fixed November 8 to pass the judgment on the much-talked about Rakib murder case.
After hearing the judgment, Rakib’s mother became unconscious. “The departed soul of Rakib will get peace when the verdict would be executed”, said Rakib’s father Nur Alam Hawlader in his reaction following the verdict.
A total of 38 prosecution witnesses, out of 40 of the murder case, were placed for arguments in the Rakib murder case that began from October 11 in the presence of 3 accused.
On August 3, Rakib, who used to work at a motorcycle garage at Tutpara Central Road in Khulna city, was tortured to death allegedly by his former employer over quitting job. On August 4, Nur Alam Hawladar, victim’s father, filed a case with Khulna Sadar Police Station against three people-M Omar Sharif, Mintu and Beauty Begum—after the brutal killing.
On August 25, Sub-Inspector Mostafa Ahmed, also the investigation officer of the case, submitted charge sheet against the three accused. The metropolitan magistrate had accepted the charge-sheet and immediately transferred the case to the Khulna Metropolitan and Sessions Judge court.
On October 5, the charge on the Rakib murder case was framed.
On October 28, the allegation was read out in the presence of the accused, but the accused of the murder case had claimed themselves innocent.
“It is the first ever judgment in the history of Bangladesh as the trial has been completed within three months and five days only”, said Prosecution Lawyer Sultana Rahman Shilpi in his reaction about the verdict.
Expressing her satisfaction over the judgment, Shilpi said the verdict would bring more confidence of the people on the judicial system of the country. “The trial has proved that the criminals would not go away after committing the crime”, said prosecution lawyer Advocate Mominul Islam also a coordinator of Manobadikar Bastabayan Sangstha of Khulna branch.

On August 3, 2015, a 12-year-old boy Rakib, son of Nur Alam Hawlader of Tutpara Central Road area, was brutally tortured to death by pumping air from a compressor into his abdomen through his anus. Rakib was working at a motorcycle garage in Tutpara graveyard area of the Khulna Metropolitan city. (Source: BSS, November 08, 2015)

Bangladesh: INCOME TAX DEDUCTION AT SOURCE : NBR to set up 5 spl zones to intensify monitoring

INCOME TAX DEDUCTION AT SOURCE : NBR to set up 5 spl zones to intensify monitoring

Bangladesh: Stop wasteful expenditure in public procurement

Stop wasteful expenditure in public procurement

Bangladesh: BGMEA lobbies for reviving 10pc reduced income tax facility

BGMEA lobbies for reviving 10pc reduced income tax facility

Bangladesh: AD upholds BSEC order for MF winding up

AD upholds BSEC order for MF winding up

Bangladesh: Stocks fall for 5th day on panic selling

Stocks fall for 5th day on panic selling

Bangladesh: Tofail for more time for banks’ stocks exposure adjustment

Tofail for more time for banks’ stocks exposure adjustment

Bangladesh: Bhutan offers hydroelectricity at ‘cheapest rate’

Bhutan offers hydroelectricity at ‘cheapest rate’

PM Hasina for better Bangladesh-Malaysia economic cooperation

PM for better B’desh-Malaysia economic cooperation

Bangladesh: Justice Ibrahim’s death anniv observed

Justice Ibrahim’s death anniv observed

Bangladesh: 4 ‘drug traders’ held in city

4 ‘drug traders’ held in city

Bangladesh: Primary teachers hold hunger strike tomorrow

Pry teachers hold hunger strike tomorrow

Bangladesh: RAKIB MURDER CASE : Eye witness among six gives deposition

RAKIB MURDER CASE : Eye witness among six gives deposition

Bangladesh: Cricketer Shahadat sent to jail after remand

Shahadat sent to jail after remand

Bangladesh: BNP asst office secy assaulted

BNP asst office secy assaulted

Bangladesh: CPB, SPB start march towards Sunderbans

CPB, SPB start march towards Sunderbans

Bangladesh: Punishment of Hindu idol vandals demanded

Punishment of Hindu idol vandals demanded

Bangladesh: PERMANENT CAMPUS OF PVT UNIVS : UGC may submit compliance report next week

PERMANENT CAMPUS OF PVT UNIVS : UGC may submit compliance report next week

Bangladesh: Youth electrocuted in Sylhet

Youth electrocuted in Sylhet

Bangladesh: Man ‘killed by neighbour’

Man ‘killed by neighbour’

Bangladesh: Youth held with hemp

Youth held with hemp

Bangladesh: Woman found dead in Savar

Woman found dead in Savar

Bangladesh: VIP services hampering airport security: Menon

VIP services hampering airport security: Menon

Bangladesh: Peter Custers remembered

Peter Custers remembered

Bangladesh: MEDICAL ADMISSION TEST : Demonstrators announce fast unto death

MEDICAL ADMISSION TEST : Demonstrators announce fast unto death

Bangladesh: RESTORATION OF TIMESCALE, SELECTION GRADE : BCS cadre officers threaten agitation

RESTORATION OF TIMESCALE, SELECTION GRADE : BCS cadre officers threaten agitation

Bangladesh: 3-WHEELERS ON HIGHWAYS : Ban largely ignored

3-WHEELERS ON HIGHWAYS : Ban largely ignored

Bangladesh: Five killed in Gazipur road accident

Five killed in Gazipur road accident

Bangladesh: HAJJ STAMPEDE : Death toll of Bangladeshi pilgrims rises to 92

HAJJ STAMPEDE : Death toll of Bangladeshi pilgrims rises to 92

Bangladesh: ECNEC sends back secretariat relocation project

ECNEC sends back secretariat relocation project

Bangladesh: Indian rupees recovered from Ctg airport

Indian rupees recovered from Ctg airport

Bangladesh: REB to replace two lakh overloaded transformers

REB to replace two lakh overloaded transformers

Bangladesh: TANGAILBY-POLLS : Nominations of Kader Siddique, wife cancelled for loan default

TANGAILBY-POLLS : Nominations of Kader Siddique, wife cancelled for loan default

Bangladesh: LAWACHARA NAT’L PARK : 800-acre land grabbed

LAWACHARA NAT’L PARK : 800-acre land grabbed

Bangladesh: FOREIGNER KILLINGS : Kunio buried in Rangpur

FOREIGNER KILLINGS : Kunio buried in Rangpur

Bangladesh: ‘Stalker’ kills Gazipur schoolgirl

‘Stalker’ kills Gazipur schoolgirl

Bangladesh: Politicians, rights activists echo Hamid’s view on politics

Politicians, rights activists echo Hamid’s view on politics

Bangladesh: 34th BCS cadres want appointment

34th BCS cadres want appointment

Bangladesh: 34th BCS cadres want appointment

34th BCS cadres want appointment

Bangladesh: BNP shrugs off PM’s Khaleda-Tarique remarks

BNP shrugs off PM’s Khaleda-Tarique remarks

Bangladesh: UK clarifies fresh travel alert

UK clarifies fresh travel alert

Bangladesh: Demo continues for fresh medical test

Demo continues for fresh medical test

Bangladesh: Schoolgirl violated in Laxmipur

Schoolgirl violated in Laxmipur

Bangladesh: 3 held, 1,800 Yaba tablets seized

3 held, 1,800 Yaba tablets seized

Bangladesh: Five arrested for killing schoolboy

Five arrested for killing schoolboy

Bangladesh: Malaysian healthcare being showcased in capital Dhaka

Malaysian healthcare being showcased in capital

Bangladesh: 4 shops fined for food adulteration

4 shops fined for food adulteration

New Age reporter assaulted

New Age reporter assaulted

MONEY LAUNDERING REVIEW : APG team to start visit today

MONEY LAUNDERING REVIEW : APG team to start visit today

SHOOTING AT SCHOOLBOY : MP not held, no progress in probe

SHOOTING AT SCHOOLBOY : MP not held, no progress in probe

BGB deployed in Dhaka’s diplomatic zone

BGB deployed in Dhaka’s diplomatic zone

No account in Moosa’s name in Swiss banks

No account in Moosa’s name in Swiss banks

PM Hasina says Khaleda conspiring to destabilise country

PM says Khaleda conspiring to destabilise country

Bangladesh: Capital battles dengue fever surge

Capital battles dengue fever surge

SM Sultan’s 21st death anniv today

SM Sultan’s 21st death anniv today

Runa Laila to perform in Singapore

Runa Laila to perform in Singapore

Uttarayan to celebrate 5th founding anniversary

Uttarayan to celebrate 5th founding anniversary

Visitors pour in to watch Novera’s sculptures

Visitors pour in to watch Novera’s sculptures

3 Bangabandhu Prajonma League leaders held with firearm

3 Bangabandhu Prajonma League leaders held with firearm

Bangladesh: Govt urged to declare poultry industry tax-free

Govt urged to declare poultry industry tax-free

Yunus addresses ‘Innovation for Cool Earth Forum’ in Tokyo

Yunus addresses ‘Innovation for Cool Earth Forum’ in Tokyo

No headway in Khizir murder case, say police

No headway in Khizir murder case, say police

Farhad’s dream for repression-free country remains unfulfilled

Farhad’s dream for repression-free country remains unfulfilled

Halim Azad achieves M Nurul Kader Shishu Shahitya award

Halim Azad achieves M Nurul Kader Shishu Shahitya award

HAJJ STAMPEDE : Bangladeshi pilgrims’ death toll rises to 79

HAJJ STAMPEDE : Bangladeshi pilgrims’ death toll rises to 79

Family members meet Mojaheed in prison

Family members meet Mojaheed in prison

Woman ‘killed by son’ in Comilla

Woman ‘killed by son’ in Comilla

Four fishermen jailed in Rajbari

Four fishermen jailed in Rajbari

20 Bangladeshis held at Benapole

20 Bangladeshis held at Benapole

Bangladesh: Bus, auto-rickshaw collision kills 5 in Ctg

Bus, auto-rickshaw collision kills 5 in Ctg

No alternative to movement, says Khaleda

No alternative to movement, says Khaleda

Bangladesh: Lipi buried, killer yet to be arrested

Lipi buried, killer yet to be arrested

Bangladesh: One killed in ‘crossfire’

One killed in ‘crossfire’

FOREIGNER KILLING : Bangladesh Police look for bank official

FOREIGNER KILLING : Police look for bank official

Bangladesh: Billboard campaign passes onto public offices

Billboard campaign passes onto public offices

Bangladesh: ECNEC clears tier-IV national data center project

The Bangladesh government has launched a project to set up Tier-IV level national data centre aimed at ensuring secure and safe data storage as well as optimum uses of ICT for the “digital Bangladesh”.
Once the data centre is installed on seven acres of land at Kaliakoir Hi-Tech Park, the hosting capacity of the shared data center of the government would be enhanced. Besides, the government would also be able to run its official activities without basing on paper.
Bangladesh Computer Council (BCC) is entrusted to implement the project by June 2018.
The Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) today approved the “Establishment of Four Tier National Data Center” with Taka 1516 crore at its 9th meeting in the current fiscal.
ECNEC Chairperson and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina chaired the meeting held at the NEC conference room in the city’s Sher-e-Bangla Nagar.
Planning Minister A H M Mustafa Kamal, after the meeting, briefed the newsmen about the outcome. He said the ECNEC cleared a total of four development projects with an outlay of Taka 2,474 crore.
“Of the total project cost, the government will provide Taka 1,089 crore from the national exchequer while the remaining Taka 1,385 crore would come as project assistance,” he added.
State Minster for Finance and Planning M A Mannan was present at the briefing.
Planning minister said the capacity of the existing data center is
insufficient against the demand of NBR, Land Ministry, DLRS, banking and financial institutions, educational institutions and power division as well as other government organizations.
Besides, there is a need for an exclusive high security building for ensuring security of the data center, he added. Against the cost of Taka 1516.91 crore for the proposed data center, the government will contribute Taka 317.55 crore while China EXIM Bank would provide the remaining Taka 1199.36 crore.
Meeting sources said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in the meeting thanked all the members and officials of the Planning Commission for their efforts saying Bangladesh received the highest UN accolade “Champions of the Earth” award and “ICT Sustainable Development Award” from ITU due to the all-out support from the country’s people.
Commenting on the growth projections made by various international
organizations, the Prime Minister said now the international organizations have started to make upward growth projection of 6.5 to 6.7 for Bangladesh.
She said her government’s target is to attain 7 percent GDP growth rate in the current fiscal, adding “Bangladesh would be able to attain the target although it would be a bit tough”.
The other projects approved in the meeting are: WFP Assisted Enhancing Resilience to Disasters and the effects of climate change project with Taka 715.37 crore (1st revised), re-excavation of River Titas (upper) under Brahmanbaria district with Taka 155.88 crore and Protecting Rajshahi Cadet College and adjacent important structures from Padma River Erosion with Taka 86.79 crore.
Ministers and State Ministers attended the meeting while Planning

Commission members and secretaries concerned were present. (Source: BSS, October 06, 2015)

WAR CRIMES : JP MP Hannan, three others land in jail

WAR CRIMES : JP MP Hannan, three others land in jail

BNP happy with Bangladesh getting UN award for 2nd time: Ripon

BNP happy with Bangladesh getting UN award for 2nd time: Ripon

Bangladesh: Diarrhoeal patients on rise in flood-hit districts

Diarrhoeal patients on rise in flood-hit districts

ABC radio RJ found dead in city

ABC radio RJ found dead in city

Bangladesh: Kidnapped schoolgirl rescued from Mymensing

Kidnapped schoolgirl rescued from Mymensing

Bangladesh MP shoots schoolboy

MP shoots schoolboy

MONITORING MONEY LAUNDERING : APG team due in Dhaka this month

MONITORING MONEY LAUNDERING : APG team due in Dhaka this month

PLOTS FOR NEW MPS : RAJUK selects land near Basila Bridge

PLOTS FOR NEW MPS : RAJUK selects land near Basila Bridge

HAJJ STAMPEDE : Death toll of Bangladeshis increase to 43

HAJJ STAMPEDE : Death toll of Bangladeshis increase to 43

HAJJ STAMPEDE : Death toll of Bangladeshis increase to 43

HAJJ STAMPEDE : Death toll of Bangladeshis increase to 43

UGC official dies from torture in RAB custody, family allege

UGC official dies from torture in RAB custody, family allege

ITALIAN AID WORKER KILLING : Bangladesh Police quiz witnesses, still clueless on killers

ITALIAN AID WORKER KILLING : Police quiz witnesses, still clueless on killers

A backpack that can save your life

A personal device for self rescue from multi-storey buildings may save lives, according to its creators. See the video:

Bangladesh: Journalist Humayun Zaman’s qul khwani today

Journalist Humayun Zaman’s qul khwani today

Bangladesh: Woman killed after rape at Narsingdi, another admitted to Feni hospital

Woman killed after rape at Narsingdi, another admitted to Feni hospital

Bangladesh: Remand, bail petitions for Shawkat Mahmud rejected

Remand, bail petitions for Shawkat Mahmud rejected

Bangladesh: 5 war crime suspects of Patuakhali shown arrested

5 war crime suspects of Patuakhali shown arrested

Freedom fighter kidnapped in Sylhet, freed after paying ransom

Freedom fighter kidnapped in Sylhet, freed after paying ransom

Dr Yunus signs MoU with Boston Consulting Group

Dr Yunus signs MoU with Boston Consulting Group

Bangladesh: Nahid asks public univ teachers to keep academic life going

Nahid asks public univ teachers to keep academic life going

MILITANCY CAMPAIGN : Bangladesh Govt fell into its own trap: Mahbub

MILITANCY CAMPAIGN : Govt fell into its own trap: Mahbub

Bangladesh: New bus fares yet to come into effect

New bus fares yet to come into effect

Bangladesh: City buses’ errant parking add to traffic woes

City buses’ errant parking add to traffic woes

WAR CRIMES : JP MP Hannan, four others arrested

WAR CRIMES : JP MP Hannan, four others arrested

Bangladesh: PDB’s prepaid meter project in fund crisis

PDB’s prepaid meter project in fund crisis

ITALIAN AID WORKER KILLING : Third party role under scanner

ITALIAN AID WORKER KILLING : Third party role under scanner

Bangladesh: Justice Shamsuddin quietly retires

Justice Shamsuddin quietly retires

Australia cricket team scraps Bangladesh tour

Australia scraps Bangladesh tour

HAJJ STAMPEDE : Death of 41 Bangladeshis confirmed so far

HAJJ STAMPEDE : Death of 41 Bangladeshis confirmed so far

SQC, MOJAHEED EXECUTION : Warrants issued

SQC, MOJAHEED EXECUTION : Warrants issued

Bangladesh: Singapore co gets nod to install 200mw solar power plant

S’pore co gets nod to install 200mw solar power plant

Bangladesh: Foreign RMG buyers worried about security situation

Foreign RMG buyers worried about security situation

Japan seeks more scope for heavy industries in B’desh

Japan seeks more scope for heavy industries in B’desh

Bangladesh: 20pc cash incentive for export of tinned pineapple, baby corn, aloe vera

20pc cash incentive for export of tinned pineapple, baby corn, aloe vera

Bangladesh: Nurul elected AmCham president, Showkat vice-president

Nurul elected AmCham president, Showkat vice-president

Bangladesh: MoU signed to ensure implementation of hi-tech parks

MoU signed to ensure implementation of hi-tech parks

Bangladesh: Western Union clients to get bonus from ICB Islamic Bank

Western Union clients to get bonus from ICB Islamic Bank

Bangladesh: Mobile subscribers cross 13cr mark

Mobile subscribers cross 13cr mark

49 illegal Bangladeshis deported from Malaysia

49 illegal Bangladeshis deported from Malaysia

Bangladesh: Two arrested on charge of torturing a minor boy

Two arrested on charge of torturing a minor boy

Bangladesh: 4 bank officials among 7 sued by ACC

4 bank officials among 7 sued by ACC

BLOGGER OYASIQUR MURDER CASE : Charge sheet against five ‘Ansarullah men’ accepted

BLOGGER OYASIQUR MURDER CASE : Charge sheet against five ‘Ansarullah men’ accepted

FORMER MINISTER KIBRIA MURDER CASE : Witness testimony recording begins

FORMER MINISTER KIBRIA MURDER CASE : Witness testimony recording begins

Deteriorating law and order led to Tavella killing: Fakhrul

Deteriorating law and order led to Tavella killing: Fakhrul

Ashulia cinema sealed for showing `filthy’ films

Ashulia cinema sealed for showing `filthy’ films

Bangladesh: Detained Indian fisherman ‘commits suicide’

Detained Indian fisherman ‘commits suicide’

Tanvir Ahmed appointed VC of Hamrdard Univ

Tanvir Ahmed appointed VC of Hamrdard Univ

Miscreants damage grave of mayor Lokman

Miscreants damage grave of mayor Lokman

JAMALPUR WAR CRIMES : Prosecution seeks indictment of 8 Jamalpur Jamaat men

JAMALPUR WAR CRIMES : Prosecution seeks indictment of 8 Jamalpur Jamaat men

Bangladesh not to allow Indian cattle to protect local farmers

Bangladesh not to allow Indian cattle to protect local farmers

Bangladesh: Biometric SIM registration from Nov 1

Biometric SIM registration from Nov 1

Prof Yunus hails Ban Ki-moon

Prof Yunus hails Ban Ki-moon

Increased bus, minibus fares come into effect today

Increased bus, minibus fares come into effect today

TANGAIL KILLING : HC asks govt if police followed due process of law

TANGAIL KILLING : HC asks govt if police followed due process of law

TCB’s inefficient use of hefty subsidies produces poor results

TCB’s inefficient use of hefty subsidies produces poor results

TENGRATILA BLOWOUTS : BAPEX to file case in ICSID after 10 years

TENGRATILA BLOWOUTS : BAPEX to file case in ICSID after 10 years

HAJJ STAMPADE : Bangladeshi death toll rises to 28

HAJJ STAMPADE : Bangladeshi death toll rises to 28

Police break up protest march of MBBS, BDS admission seekers

Police break up protest march of MBBS, BDS admission seekers

SC publishes verdicts in appeals of Mojaheed, Salauddin

SC publishes verdicts in appeals of Mojaheed, Salauddin

TRAFFIC VIOLATION : DMP warned over filing flawed cases

TRAFFIC VIOLATION : DMP warned over filing flawed cases

Lawyers press for written verdicts pending for years

Lawyers press for written verdicts pending for years

Bangladeshi housemaids in KSA allege rapes, harassments

Housemaids in KSA allege rapes, harassments

FBCCI, US-Bangla Global Chamber to sign MoU

FBCCI, US-Bangla Global Chamber to sign MoU

Journalist Humayun Zaman laid to rest

Journalist Humayun Zaman laid to rest

Bangladesh: Rooppur NPP to get VVER-1200 nuclear reactor from Russia

Rooppur NPP to get VVER-1200 nuclear reactor from Russia

Bangladesh: UK issues travel warning for its nationals

UK issues travel warning for its nationals

Bangladesh: Italian national shot dead

Italian national shot dead

HAJJ STAMPEDE: 18 Bangladeshis among dead

HAJJ STAMPEDE : 18 Bangladeshis among dead

Bangladesh: Banks to hire pvt agencies for loan recovery

LOAN RECOVERY : Banks to hire pvt agencies

Bangladesh: New pay structure breeds widespread resentment

New pay structure breeds widespread resentment

Kamrul among 13 indicted for killing Rajan

After two months and 12 days of the brutal killing of 13-year-old Rajan, a court here on Tuesday indicted Kamrul Islam, the main accused and 12 others.
Sylhet Metropolitan Sessions Judge Akbar Hossain Mridha passed the indictment order. The court also fixed October 1 for deposition to initiate the trial.
“The court framed charges against 13 people including fugitive Kamrul Islam and fixed nine dates, September 1, 4, 7 and 8 and five consecutive dates from September 11 to 15, for recording deposition of 38 witnesses,” Public Prosecutor of Sylhet Metropolitan Sessions Court Advocate Mofur Ali told BSS.
The other indicted accused are: Shamim, Pavel, Muhit Alam, Ali Haider, Ruhul Amin,Dulal Ahmed, Nur Mia, Mayna, Ayaz Ali, Badal, Firoz and Asmat Ali.
Charges were also framed against Shamim, Muhit, Mayna and Taj uddin under separate sections for the help extended to hide the body of Rajan after the brutal killing.
Of them, the main accused Kamrul, his brothers Shamim and Pavel went into hiding after the brutal killing while the remaining others are now in jail. Kamrul fled to Saudi Arabia soon after the killing. The government efforts are on to bring back kamrul from Saudi Arabia.
Jalalabad Police Station confiscated the property of Kamrul and his brother Shamim on august 25 in line with the court order. The court on August 31 ordered the concerned authority to publish advertisement on newspapers showing Kamrul, his brothers Shamim and Pavel fugitives.
Eight of the accused made confessional statement before the court to this end.
Earlier on August 16, inspector of Detective Branch (DB) of Sylhet Metropolitan Police (SMP) Suranjit Talukder submitted the charge sheet in the Rajan murder case accusing the 13 people before Sylhet Metropolitan Magistrate Court.
The magistrate court took the charge sheet into cognizance on August 24. The case was shifted to Sylhet Metropolitan Session Judge Court on September 7.
On July 8, Kamrul along with the other accused beat Rajan to death at Kumargaon Bus Stand area of Sylhet Sadar upazila on charges of stealing and then the 28-minute video of his torture posted on the online which sparked off protest. (Source: BSS, September 22, 2015)

AD upholds HC order on Concord complex handover

The Appellate Division (AD) of the Supreme Court on Tuesday upheld an order passed by the High Court, asking Concord Group to handover an 18-storey complex in capital’s Azimpur to Sir Salimullah Muslim Orphanage.
Appellate Division Chamber Judge, Justice Md Imman Ali refrained from passing any order on the appeal filed by the developer company, leaving the High Court order in effect.
After this order, the developer company has to handover the concerned land and the building to the orphanage authority within 30 days.
Earlier on September 17, the High Court declared the construction of the building on the land of the orphanage illegal and asked the developer company to handover the building to the land owner within 30 days of getting the copy of the verdict. (Source: BSS, September 22, 2015)

Bangladesh: Five Eid Jamaats to be held at Baitul Mukarram

Five Eid-ul-Azha congregations will be held at Baitul Mukarram National Mosque in city on Friday (September 25).
The first jamaat will be held at 7:00am and the second at 8:00am while the third at 9:00am, the fourth at 10:00am and the fifth at 10:45am, a press release of the Islamic Foundation said on Tuesday. (Source: BSS, September 22, 2015)

Bangladesh Main Eid jamaat on National Eidgah at 8 am

The main Eid congregation of the holy Eid-ul-Azha will be held at the Jatiya Eidgah, adjacent to the High Court Mazar, at 8 in the morning on Friday.
Maulana Mizanur Rahman, Senior Pesh Imam of Baitul Mukarram National Mosque, will lead the prayer, said a release of the Islami Foundation here on Tuesday.

Prosecution concludes indictment hearing against 5 Kishoreganj Razakars

The prosecution at the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) on Tuesday concluded their part of hearing on charge framing against five alleged Razakars from Karimganj upazila of Kishoreganj.
Prosecutor Sultan Mahmud Simon took part in the hearing in presence of the two defence counsels.
Justice Anwarul Haque, chairman of the three-member panel of ICT, set September 28 for defence hearing on the matter.
The five accused are advocate Shamsuddin Ahmed, his brother Md Nasiruddin Ahmed, Gazi Abdul Mannan, Hafiz Uddin and Azharul Islam. Of them, Shamsuddin is now in custody.
Earlier on May 13, the tribunal took seven charges against them into cognizance.
According to the prosecution, the accused had carried out gruesome crimes against humanity in Bidyanagar, Aila, Fatergup Beel, Piraton Beel and adjacent areas under Karimganj upazila of Kishoreganj in 1971. (Source: BSS, September 22, 2015)

ECNEC approves seven projects with TK 5,039 crore

The Bangladesh government will establish an economic and industrial zone for the Chinese investors, which would create congenial business environment for attracting Chinese companies as well as creating scopes for employment of the locals.
The project “Acquisition of Land for Development of Anwara-II Economic Zone” will require a total amount of Taka 420 crore for implementation. BEZA would implement the project by June 2016.
The Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) on Tuesday approved the project at its 7th meeting in the current fiscal at the NEC conference room in city’s Sher-e-Bangla Nagar with ECNEC chairperson and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in the chair.
Planning Minister A H M Mustafa Kamal, after the meeting, briefed newsmen about the outcome. He said the ECNEC cleared a total of seven projects including the economic zone with an outlay of Taka 5,039 crore.
“Of the total project cost, the government will provide Taka 2,916 crore from the national exchequer while the remaining Taka 2,123 crore would come as project assistance,” he added.
Kamal said that of the approved projects five are new and two are revised.
The move for setting up an exclusive Chinese Economic and Industrial Zone came after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina had proposed an industrial zone during her visit to China on June 6-11 last year. BEZA had signed an agreement with the Commerce Ministry of China to this end.
As per the deal signed with China’s Commerce Ministry, Bangladesh will provide land to Chinese investors on a long-term lease basis and a firm nominated by China will set up the economic zone. Once the project is implemented, a huge number of jobs will be created for Bangladeshis.
The ECNEC approved another project “Greater Chittagong District Rural Infrastructural Development (Chittagong and Cox’s Bazar district)” with Taka 366 crore. Local Government Engineering Department (LGED) will implement the project by June 2019.
The project will cover 14 upazilas of Chittagong district and eight upazilas of Cox’s Bazar district.
Moreover, “Extension of irrigation facilities by using surface water through ‘double lifting technology’ (3rd phase)” project with Taka 118.73 crore got nod of the ECNEC. Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation (BADC) will implement the project by June 2020.
Other projects cleared by the ECNEC are Second Local Governance Support Project (LGSP-2) with Taka 3,940 crore (1st revised), Bongaon-Nunni-Hatipagar road widening and strengthening project with Taka 63.66 crore, Postal transport system strengthening project with Taka 78.33 crore and establishment of Chancery complex at Islamabad in Pakistan (1st revised) with Taka 51.79 crore.
Ministers and State Ministers attended the meeting while Planning
Commission members and secretaries concerned were present. (Source: BSS, September 15, 2015)

Khaleda Zia’s appeal verdict in Barapukuria coalmine case Sept 17

The Bangladesh’s High Court (HC) on Tuesday fixed September 17 for delivering verdict on a petition of BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia challenging legality of the trial proceedings against her in Barapukuria coalmine graft case.
A division bench of the HC comprising Justice Md Nuruzzaman and Justice Abdur Rob set the date as the petition was kept waiting for the verdict any day.
Khaleda Zia’s lawyer Barrister Ragib Chowdhury confirmed it.
The petition was kept waiting for verdict on August 30 after hearing both the prosecution and defence, said Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) counsel Advocate Khurshid Alam Khan.
ACC filed the case with Shahbagh Police Station on February 26 in 2008 accusing 16 persons including former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and 10 ministers of the BNP-Jamaat alliance four-party government.
They were accused of causing a loss of Tk 159 crore to the state exchequer by awarding a contract of operating Barapukuria coalmine to a Chinese company, abusing power.
ACC submitted a charge sheet before a Dhaka court in the case accusing the 16 people on October 5, 2008.
The HC on October 16, 2008 stayed the proceeding of the Barapukuria coalmine case upon a petition and issued a rule upon the concerned authority asking why the case would not be cancelled. (Source: BSS, September 15, 2015)

AD rejects High Court order clearing Nazmul Huda from corruption charges

The Appellate Division (AD) of the Supreme Court (SC) on September 7 rejected the High Court (HC) order that acquitted former BNP leader Barrister Nazmul Huda of a graft case filed against him on charges of acquiring illegal wealth.
A four-member AD bench led by Chief Justice Surendra Kumar Sinha passed the order upon an appeal filed by Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) challenging the HC order.
Earlier on April 3, 2008, a special court set up a Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban sentenced Huda to 12 years in jail and fined Taka one crore, in default, he would have to suffer one more year in jail.
On August 18 in 2010, the HC cleared Huda from the graft charges upon his appeal challenging the special court order. Later, ACC lawyer Advocate Khurshid Alam Khan filed an appeal against the HC order. (Source: BSS, September 7, 2015)

Deposition against 147 persons including Rizvi, Aman Oct 7

A Dhaka court on September 7 set October 7 for recording deposition in connection with a case of subversive act filed against 147 persons including BNP leaders Ruhul Kabir Rizvi and Aman Ullah Aman.
Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate Atiqur Rahman set the date upon a time petition of the defence.
Sub Inspector (SI) Jahangir Hossain filed the case with Paltan Police Station in connection with exploding crude bombs and damaging vehicles in front of the BNP office at Naya Paltan in the capital city on March 11 in 2013.
The court indicted Rizvi, Aman and others on 25 August in 2014.
Rizvi and Aman are now in jail as they were wanted in different criminal cases. (Source: BSS, September 7, 2015)

18 business ideas you can start with almost no money

Returning with our series of business you can with little or virtually no investment, we present some varied ideas for a changing world that is causing so many headaches as business opportunities.

While many of these ideas could start as a way to earn extra money, the fact is that they may well end up becoming a source of steady income or a full time business. Everything depends on the approach ycreatividad each person.

1. advertising delivery company.

Although we are in a highly technological age, still many small and medium businesses, and even large companies that prefer their offers continue to come directly to the door of your prospects. Creating this kind of business or take up part-time advertising the cast requires no initial investment.

2. Personal Assistant.

The figure of personal assistant or virtual assistant, still does not take off in this country. If you have communication skills, basic programs such as Office, you can capture several companies to manage them calls or accumulation of tasks. If you decide to do a more professional way and dedicate a virtual assistance can help companies and freelancers to give them a more professional image. I wondered how some companies would be willing to pay for it, and the truth is that if you put them affordable monthly flat fee, many professionals would be willing to outsource these tasks. Maybe it's a matter of you cast you to the streets in search of customers.

3. Consultant focused on technology SMEs.

If you have working knowledge of internet and social networks, you can offer your services at the time of making a small or medium business to build your image on the internet, and help you capture leads launching its advertising on social networks like Facebook.

4. corporate business blog.

Most companies today have a website, but according to data from Google itself, small and medium enterprises still have a low percentage of internet presence. Perhaps more important than knowing how to do, we would be talking about the time a person from a small company devoted to building your own corporate blog and perhaps we could come to an agreement for the subsequent management and maintenance of content.

5. Personal Trainer.

If you have knowledge in training and even in sports nutrition, this market is beginning to emerge in Spain, where even many gyms are outsourcing services outside the gym personal trainers. Thus, the gym does not have to pay once it produces a considerable drop in customers, with recourse to external personal trainers to a high point increase in their service. Although now a personal trainer can also earn money with your own blog or posting your videos on YouTube with its series of training and advice.

6. Commercial intermediary.

If you have skills in sales, today there are many companies that do not want to hire on the payroll, but they want to sell their products. Therefore, you can use your business skills to become the agent of different companies building a large portfolio of varied customers and charging a commission for each product sold. If you get yourself a large client you can end up building a very profitable full-time business in this fascinating profession.

7. Oriental Therapies.

From teaching Yoga, Tai Chi to all kinds of oriental and / or spiritual therapies, today is a business that many start in your own living room at home charging a low fee to its users and making a community around such therapies. If you have knowledge in these disciplines, go ahead.

8. self defense classes for women.

Perhaps the group of women is a good customer for this type of service, we're not going to teach them how to cope in a melee fight. Only enough to teach us how to escape or release from an attacker to run later. Something that certainly can be as productive as entertaining and fun if you do it with a healthy group of women willing to learn to defend themselves.

9. dropshipping business.

Dropshipping is basically sell products without having to store them or have them in stock. Therefore, anyone can start this business without any money. Thus the boy he started talking a few days ago that earning extra money started selling clothes to your Facebook contacts, and when he wanted to agree was billed million. (Read: how to open your own clothing store free internet and make money by selling your designs)

10. Image consultant.

Begins to emerge this profession that was formerly focused on the luxury market. If you like the dress and understand protocol for each situation, you can start your own business image consulting.

11. Recording of professional models.

Youtube provides an opportunity for new artists to promote their songs, but some do not have the experience to make them in a professional manner. Today was not a big studio is needed to record a demo in a professional manner. Just the right program and through your computer you can create a model and even a disco in a completely professional manner. If you know how, with the bubble of programs that seek music stars, you can make money providing this service.

12. Low Cost decoration.

The other day we saw several business opportunities aimed at customers looking for bargains. One of those ideas was the Low Cost decoration, and that as in any business where you're the middleman, barely investment can present your design and get in touch with distributors. The agreement may be both the distributor to buy the material and raise the price to the end customer, and become the commercial and the various distribution companies charge a commission for the sale and delivery of services.

13. Editing movies.

If you love video editing, you can offer your professional services to a broad set of customers. From companies that are making promotional videos to couples who seek someone to edit them your wedding video as movie titles and explanations.

14. Sale of homemade food.

If you love cooking and are aware of the damage that the new food is causing to the health of people, and you have the essential motivation to sell this idea to people who do not have time to prepare a healthy meal and are tired of feeding Fast and canned food. Big Dipper was born, a leading specialist in children's home cooking company whose entrepreneurial started recently in his kitchen stove selling its neighbors.

15. Alterations.

With the crisis, more and more people prefer to settle before buying, as well as many people who can not get a low fix some pants or a jacket. The number of people making up clothes at home has grown significantly becoming the economic output of many housewives have all family members unemployed.

16. Hair and beauty at home.

One way to save the opening and handling is to offer your local beauty and hairdressing services at home. In this way we can also offer customers the advantage of not having to travel anywhere and be available the weekend to prepare a family for weddings and communions.

17. Sale of products and handmade accessories.

There are good ideas on the internet to manufacture all kinds of home products for resale. From a charm of its own products with instagram photos. Here are some examples of product ideas that you can do from home using only the photos in social networks. You can also make handicrafts such as gloves, hats, etc ...

18. Custom Clothing.

When we gave our ideas of micro talk about an entrepreneur who customizes sneakers. Today if you are passionate about art somehow or create your own drawing and stamp it on a T-shirt, it's easier than ever to do so much as to make it known. See the case where the employer treadless 35 million bill selling designs and giving users the opportunity for users to earn money with their designs.

There are many business ideas you can start with virtually no money to invest.

Medical Insurance: Four Misconceptions You Should Know


Health should be our priority and we should not limit investments we make for it. Today, we can all be exposed to serious diseases, regardless of our economic status; therefore, it is advisable to have a major medical insurance, which works as a preventive financial tool, allowing us to save a lot of money on hospitals, doctors, treatments and medications, to an accident or illness.
Figures from the Mexican Association of Insurance Institutions (AMIS) in Mexico indicate that only 7% of the population has health insurance, ie 8.5 million Mexicans; which is a low penetration when compared with the growth of population diseases.
This low rate of insurance in the health sector is mainly due to the lack of a culture of prevention; Likewise, people do not know the great benefits that offer such policies.

Therefore, on this occasion, I would like to clarify some erroneous thoughts that exist on the major medical insurance:

1. I will never use
In Mexico we are more corrective than preventive, but we must not forget that accidents and diseases make no distinction of age, gender or socioeconomic status; It is much better to be insured and not use it, not have it when it comes to need.

2. It is an extra expense that cannot pay
The major medical insurance covers the fee generated by any illness and / or accident, hospitalization, medications, treatments, studies, consultations, ambulances, etc. If we compare these costs with the cost of such insurance, it is much more convenient to be assured that not be.

3. Until I got sick the contract
Insurance major medical expenses not covered by preexisting, ie if after a diagnosis of a serious illness, it was decided this insurance, the insurance will cover any other disease, except that which was diagnosed in a pre-hire; Additionally, insurers seeking a waiting period for coverage valid in the case of some diseases.

4. I have no money to pay and wait for reimbursement
There is a perception that the insured must pay the amount you have generated illness or accident and then seek reimbursement from the insurance; however, the reality is that insurance companies made payments directly and the insured must pay only the deductible and coinsurance, if these concepts are set out in the policy.

According to expert estimates, in Mexico of 10,000 policyholders, 11 people a year come to suffer an accident involving expenditures of more than a million pesos, while 1 in 10 suffers an accident or illness with an average spending 50,000 pesos.

Reflecting on this we must ask ourselves how much we value our health?

Without health, we have practically nothing; so do not hesitate to investigate and contribute with different insurers such insurance, so you can choose the policy that best suits your needs.

Kahn Design is working on producing a race car retro style

Kahn Design has announced a project that is working and hopes to develop soon. Is to make a roadster inspired by racing cars from the 1930s Called 'Speed ​​7', the idea is to recreate the original experience of the competition of the time with materials and safety systems of our era.
A body of carbon fiber and other lightweight materials, the aluminum would be the standard element. From Kahn Design they have pointed out that the full specifications will be given later.
No missing details, as the company has announced that in the case of the model result, customers that this 'toy' carried his garage can choose from a line of clothing at the time, such as glasses or retro driving gloves, to complementary accessories.
The idea is to construct the 'fireball' hand and include a plaque on it with each of the people involved in the construction of 'Speed ​​7'. There will also be a book that details the design and manufacturing process.
Kahn Design is a British engineering company dedicated to modify other series cars. Its main production is based on models of Range Rover but also works with Mercedes, Audi or Bentley. Coming to the market will draw a modification of an Aston Martin DB9 called WB12 Vengeance. The company owned by Afzal Kahn, has a team of 80 people, including 20 designers.

Bangladesh: Widening of tax net stressed

Speakers at a dialogue on the national budget 2015-16 on Saturday suggested the government to expand the tax net and modernize the collection system to meet the revenue target.
They said if the tax net is not widened and strengthened the collection would remain low forcing the government to go for bank borrowings.
Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) organized the dialogue in a city hotel to analyze the proposed budget for FY16.
Finance Minister Abul Maal Abdul Muhith on June 4 unveiled the national budget of Taka 295,100 crore for fiscal 2015-16, where revenue collection has been set at Taka 208,443 crore in which the NBR would contribute Taka 176,370 crore.
CPD Executive Director Professor Mustafizur Rahman made a keynote
presentation on the proposed budget in which he suggested the government to bring some reforms in the financial sector for implementation of large budget.
CPD advocated for expediting the reform agendas such as public services Act, PPP Act, privatization and financial reporting Act which remained stalled.
The private think-tank body recommended forming five independent
commissions for statistical, agriculture price, local government financing, public expenditure review and financial sector reform towards better macroeconomic management.
Speaking on the occasion as the chief guest, Planning Minister A H M Mustafa Kamal said all the macro-economic indicators give clear indication that proposed budget is implementable.
“We’ve set a goal, and we know the problems and ways of solutions . . . so we are confident that we can implement the budget,” he said.
Replying to the remarks of BNP leaders Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury about the low rate of private sector investment, Kamal said: “when any entrepreneurs see frequent hartal, blockade and petrol bomb why he/she would be interested to invest in the country.”
“Bangladesh economy is moving ahead in a way a balanced economy should run,” the planning minister pointed out.
Terming the budget as a “document of compromise”, State Minister for Finance and Planning M A Mannan said the government has to formulate the budget having consultations with different stakeholders and pressure groups.
Criticizing the proposed budget, BNP leader Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury said investment is the key component of the growth, but for the last few years the private sector is showing reluctance to investment in the country, which forced the public sector to increase its investment.
He said the government has failed to bring reforms in the financial sector that’s why the sector lost dynamism.
Moderated by the CPD Chairman Professor Rehman Sobhan, economists,
academicians, bureaucrats, businessmen, politicians and representatives of stakeholders took part in the dialogue. (Source: BSS)

Bangladesh Supreme Court to reopen June 14 after vacation

The Supreme Court (SC) will resume its regular activities from June 14, 2015 after a two-week vacation.
The apex court went to vacation on June 1.
Vacation bench of the SC has dealt with urgent matters during the vacation.
Some important cases have been put on the cause list of the apex court for this week.
Earlier, the SC fixed June 16 to deliver judgment on the appeal of Jamaat-e-Islami secretary general Ali Ahshan Mohammad Mujaheed challenging legality of his death sentence for his crimes against humanity during the War of Liberation. (Source: BSS)

Speaker Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury calls on China vice-president

Speaker of the Parliament and chairperson of CPA executive committee Dr Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury called on the Vice President of China Li Yuanchao on Friday at his office in China.
During the meeting, they discussed matters of mutual interest both of the countries, said a press release.
Citing Bangladesh and China has a long history of bilateral relationship, the Speaker said that this relationship would also be active in future to boost cooperation between China and Bangladesh, the release also said.
Encouraging the Vice President to invest to different sectors, Dr Chaudhury highlighted the country’s latest progress in the economy and in major social sectors, which have created a very favorable environment for trade, business and investment.
Li Yuanchao also ensured to work together sincerely to promote progress both of the countries.
Earlier the Speaker called on Li Jiheng at his office. He is the secretary of the Yunnan Province Communist Party.
The Speaker left Dhaka for China to attend the 3rd China-South Asia Exposition and 23rd China Kunming Import and Export Commodities Fair scheduled to be held in Yunnan province on 12-14 June.
She will return home on June 14. (Source: BSS)

Bangladesh: 4 journos to get media award for anti-corruption reports

Four journalists of print and electronic media will receive the ‘Media Award on Corruption Prevention’ for their reports on corruption by the Press Institute of Bangladesh (PIB) and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).
The recipients are senior reporter of daily Jugantar Mujib Masud, reporter of Channel 24 Shamima Sultana, cameraperson of Maasranga Television Qumruzzaman Feroz, senior staff reporter of Gramer Kagoj, Jessore-based local newspaper, Faisal Islam, a press release of PIB said in Dhaka on Saturday.
Information Minister Hasanul Haq Inu will hand over the awards to the winners at a function at PIB auditorium at 10.30 am on June 14.
As part of the award, the winners will also attend the ‘Global Media Forum’ to be held in Bonn, Germany between June 22 and 24. (Source: BSS)

Bangladesh: Calls for implementation of Formalin Control Act

Deputy Speaker of Jatiya Sangsad Md Fazle Rabbi Miah has called for proper implementation of Formalin Control Act to prevent the using of the chemical in foods and fruits to protect public health.
“Using of different chemicals including formalin in seasonal fruits including jackfruits and mangos cause a serious threat to public health. Formalin Control Act has already been passed in Jatiya Sangsad to get rid of chemical use in foods. It should be properly implemented,” he said.
The deputy speaker was addressing as the chief guest at a fruit festival organised by cultural organisation ‘Drishti’ at Dhaka University Teacher-Student Centre (TSC) cafeteria here to introduce the seasonal fruits of the country to city children. LGRD Secretary Abdul Malek, Swechchhasebak League President Mollah Md Abu Kawsar, Film personality Syed Salauddin Zaki and Actress Meher Afroz Shaon spoke on the occasion with Drishti president Mosharraf Hossain in the chair.
Later, Fazle Rabbi planted sapling of a fruit-bearing tree at the TSC primises.
Different types of fruits were exhibited in the festival. Fruits were also distributed among destitute children. (Source: BSS)

BNP now in shattering condition without getting any issue, says Railway Minister Md Mujibul Haq

Railway Minister Md Mujibul Haq has recently said being isolated from people BNP is now in a shattering condition without getting an issue of launching any movement.
“BNP, a party of electric polls scam, has now been isolated from the people. But, change in people’s lot takes place whenever Awami League assumes power. The country is marching ahead towards progress and prosperity, which is the main objective of Awami League-led government,” he said.
The minister said this while inaugurating new electricity connections in different villages of Shubhapur, Sripur and Kashinagar Union Parishads under Chowddagram Upazila in the district.
A total of 545 families of 11 villages of three unions of the upazila came under new power connections with erection of a 12-kilometre long electricity line at a cost of Taka 1.44 crore, according to a press release.
The minister said, “BNP doesn’t want that people of the country live in peace and that’s why they hatch conspiracy to create anarchy. It has become crystal clear to the people of Bangladesh, the goons of Jamaat-shibir torched resources of the state with the direct patronization of BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. As people don’t support the politics of torching properties, vandalism and anarchy, they have rejected BNP-Jamaat and kept trust on Awami League.”
The function was also addressed, among others, by Chowddogram Upazila chairman Abdus Sobhan Bhuiyan Hasan, upazila Awami League general secretary Shamsuddin Ahmed Chowdhury Selim and Pourasabha mayor Mizanur Rahman. (Source: BSS)

Man arrested with gold at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport

Customs officials arrested one person with 170 gold bars weighing 1.395 kilogram worth about Taka 70 lakh at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) in Dhaka on Saturday, customs said.
The arrested man Emdadul Halat Khan, 35, arrived here by an Air Arabia flight (G-9517) from Sharjah at 10am yesterday and went to the airport this morning to receive his baggage, assistant commissioner of Customs Priyanka Das Shipu told BSS today.
“The gold bars were concealed in his luggage and customs officials identified the gold after scanning the bag,” she added.
He was handed over to Airport police and a case in this connection has been lodged. (Source: BSS)

Tamim Iqbal surpasses Habibul Bashar in Test

Tamim Iqbal became the highest run-getter for Bangladesh during the fourth day of the one-off Test match against touring India at the Khan Shaheb Osman Ali Stadium on Saturday.
The left handed opener surpassed former Bangladesh captain Habibul Bashar’s record of 3026 runs after playing 40 matches in his career, ten less than to Bashar.
The Southpaw from Chittagong Tamim has scored 3039 runs in 40 Test matches with an average of 39.46. Tamim failed to entertain the local crowds with his impressive batting as the left hander was caught behind by Robindra Ashwin delivery for 19 runs. (Source: BSS)

SDC, UNICEF teamed up to improve sanitation market system in Bangladesh

To improve access to affordable and hygienic sanitation solutions for poor and disadvantaged communities, the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) has signed a deal with UNICEF Bangladesh, committing US Dollar 6.35 million (approximately Taka 49.42 crore).
The agreement of the four-year project, “Improving Sanitation Market Systems in Bangladesh (SanMarkS)” was signed at a function in Dhaka, a UNICEF press release said here June 11, 2015.
Director of Cooperation of SDC Siroco Messerli and UNICEF Bangladesh Representative Edouard Beigbeder inked the deal. The project will be implemented in partnership with International Development Enterprises (IDE).
Beigbeder, UNICEF Bangladesh representative, said Bangladesh has made significant progress in sanitation under the ‘Sanitation for all by 2013’ movement. However, still challenges remain in hard-to-reach areas, urban slums and other flood-prone and geographically challenging parts of Bangladesh.
“We are delighted to be working with SDC as we are all committed to make meaningful changes for maximum impact”, he said.
The UNICEF Bangladesh representative expressed the UN body’s gratitude and thanked SDC for their continued support.
Messerli, Director of Cooperation of SDC, said the most interesting thing about the project funded by SDC and UNICEF Bangladesh is that it brings on board both the private sector service providers and public actors to respond to the needs and demand of the rural population by providing improved sanitation services.
“I would like to thank UNICEF Bangladesh for the excellent partnership”, he said.
By improving the sanitation market system in Bangladesh, the most disadvantaged households, that currently do not have access to proper sanitation facilities, will be able to access services tailored to their needs and their financial capacity which can be offered by the private sector in a sustainable manner.
The project will undertake a number of activities to improve sanitation services which includes, a market-based approach that addresses demand and supply to increase the use of improved sanitation; applying commercial and social marketing techniques to promote hygienic sanitation services; applying people centered design to develop products and services that businesses can profitably produce and sell; and investing in business and production skills and market facilitation activities to expand supply and sales.
As a result of the project, funded by SDC and co-funded by UNICEF, the private sector service providers in collaboration with public actors will respond to the needs and demand of the rural poor and provide improved sanitation services to an estimated 450,000 poor and disadvantaged people in six districts of Bangladesh. (Source: BSS)