United News of Bangladesh

Workers across the country have received their wages and Eid bonuses on time this year, ensuring a smooth and stress-free Eid, said Prime Minister’s Adviser Mahdi Amin. In a Facebook post on Friday night, he said, “For many years, a familiar picture would emerge before Eid, with a sense of anxiety across the country. Labour unrest, unpaid wages, road blockades and uncertainty over returning home had almost become the norm.” However, Mahdi said the situation has changed this year, with most workers in export-oriented industries, including the garment sector, receiving their salaries and bonuses in advance. “Smile of relief and satisfaction can be seen on the faces of working people.” He said said almost all factories paid February wages and Eid bonuses in a peaceful and stable environment, while many export-oriented factories also paid a significant portion of March salaries. Mahdi said the progress was achieved under the guidance and close monitoring of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, along with active involvement of the labour and employment ministry and coordinated efforts by officials. “Behind these unprecedented efforts were continuous discussions with key stakeholders, coordinated planning, responsibility and accountability, he said.  The adviser said police, administration, intelligence agencies, BGMEA, BKMEA, trade associations, workers’ organisations, various government bodies and local political leaders worked together to ensure that no worker was deprived of their rightful dues and that no one’s Eid joy was disrupted. He said a series of measures — including tripartite meetings among the government, workers and employ ers, identification of high-risk factories, separate strategies for troubled factories, formation of field-level monitoring teams, emergency coordination meetings and regular data-driven decisions—played effective roles in maintaining stability. At the same time, the adviser said through coordination with Bangladesh Bank and other financial institutions, necessary loans and financial support were arranged to clear outstanding wages and bonuses. As a result, Mahdi said workers were able to return home smoothly and with peace of mind. “The joy of returning to their families in a festive atmosphere reflects not only personal happiness but also a collective sense of care and commitment.” He said the government, elected by the people, is following worker-friendly policies and remains deeply committed to Bangladeshi workers both at home and abroad.  Amid ongoing instability in the Middle East, Mahdi said  the government has been actively working from the beginning to ensure the safety and necessary support for Bangladeshi expatriates. “The compassion and commitment of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s government towards every working person will continue, Insha’Allah,” he added. 

The country’s main Eid-ul-Fitr congregation will be held at the National Eidgah at 8:30am on Eid day while five separate congregations are scheduled at the Baitul Mukarram National Mosque.   All preparations have been completed at the Eidgah ground, including extensive cleaning, installation of large pandals and enhanced security measures to ensure a smooth arrangemrnt  of the main congregation.   According to a press release from the Islamic Foundation, Mufti Muhammad Abdul Malek, Khatib of Baitul Mukarram, will lead the main prayers at the National Eidgah while Dr Maulana Md Abu Saleh Patwary will serve as the alternate imam.   At Baitul Mukarram National Mosque, five congregations will be held in succession at 7:00am, 8:00am, 9:00am, 10:00am and 10:45am, led by senior imams. Maulana Shahidul Islam will serve as the alternate imam during these prayers.   President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will offer Eid-ul-Fitr prayers at the main congregation at the National Eidgah at 8:30am.   The Eidgah ground, covering around 25,400 square metres, can accommodate approximately 35,000 devotees at a time.   Separate entry and prayer arrangements have been made for women.   Facilities such as fans, lighting, air-conditioning and drinking water have been ensured for the comfort of worshippers.   To tackle possible adverse weather, rain protection and improved drainage systems have also been put in place.   If the weather turns unfavourable, the main congregation will be shifted to Baitul Mukarram National Mosque at 9:00am.   In addition, an Eid congregation will be held at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban at 8:00am, where MPs, officials and local devotees are expected to participate.   Separate arrangements have also been made for women there.   Meanwhile, the central Eid congregation of Dhaka North City Corporation will be held at 8:00am at the old Trade Fair ground adjacent to the China-Bangladesh Friendship Exhibition Center in Agargaon.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) has outlined 10 immediate ways households, businesses and governments can save money as oil prices surge above $100 per barrel following what it calls the largest supply disruption in global oil market history. The crisis stems from the US-Israel war on Iran, which has severely reduced shipping through the Strait of Hormuz — a key artery that normally carries around 20 per cent of global oil consumption, or roughly 20 million barrels per day. The loss of these flows has tightened markets sharply, pushing up not just crude prices but also refined fuels such as diesel, jet fuel and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), reports GulfNews. While countries have already responded with supply-side measures — including a record 400 million barrel release from emergency reserves — the IEA says these alone are not enough. “The war in the Middle East is creating a major energy crisis, including the largest supply disruption in the history of the global oil market. In the absence of a swift resolution, the impacts on energy markets and economies are set to become more and more severe,” said IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol. “As the global energy authority, the IEA is doing everything we can to support the stability of energy markets. We have recently launched the largest ever release of IEA emergency oil stocks – and I am in close contact with key governments around the world, including major energy producers and consumers, as part of our international energy diplomacy,” Birol said. Measures to adopt In addition, Birol said today’s report provides a menu of immediate and concrete measures that governments, businesses and households can take on the demand side to shelter consumers from the impacts of this crisis. “It draws on the IEA’s decades of expertise in this field and highlights measures that have been proven to work in practice in different contexts. I believe it will be of use to governments around the world, in both advanced and developing economies, in these challenging times,” Birol added. Why demand cuts matter The agency stressed that reducing demand is a “critical and immediate tool” to ease pressure on consumers, improve affordability and support energy security until normal supply flows resume. Road transport — which accounts for around 45% of global oil demand — is the biggest focus, though the recommendations also cover aviation, cooking and industry. The 10 ways to save money So, what are the 10 ways to save money? IEA’s report highlights simple, proven actions that can quickly cut fuel use and lower household expenses: 1. Work from home where possible Cuts fuel use by reducing daily commuting. 2. Reduce highway speed limits by at least 10 km/h Lower speeds reduce fuel consumption across vehicles. 3. Use public transport Switching from private cars to buses and trains reduces oil demand. 4. Alternate private car access in cities Number-plate rotation systems can cut congestion and fuel use. 5. Car sharing and efficient driving Higher occupancy and eco-driving lower fuel consumption. 6. Improve efficiency in deliveries and freight Better driving, maintenance and load optimisation reduce diesel use. 7. Divert LPG use from transport Preserves LPG for essential needs like cooking. 8. Avoid air travel where alternatives exist Reduces demand for jet fuel, especially business travel. 9. Switch to modern cooking solutions Electric cooking can reduce reliance on LPG. 10. Improve industrial efficiency and switch feedstocks Helps reduce oil consumption and free up fuel for critical uses. The IEA said that while these demand-side measures cannot fully offset the scale of the supply disruption, widespread adoption can “play a meaningful role” in lowering costs, reducing market strain and preserving fuel for essential uses.

Opposition Chief Whip and convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP), Nahid Islam, on Friday extended Eid greetings to the country’s people, saying the opportunity to celebrate Eid in a free environment came through the sacrifices of hundreds of martyrs. In a message issued in the evening, Nahid greeted Bangladeshi muslims at home and abroad on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, saying, “Eid Mubarak.” Referring to Eid-ul-Fitr as the largest religious festival of the muslims world following a month of fasting and spiritual discipline, Nahid said the festival fosters unity by bridging social divides and strengthening bonds of harmony. “This festival teaches us peace, compassion and brotherhood, removing hatred and division, and bringing tranquility to our hearts,” he said. Describing this as the second Eid-ul-Fitr in a post-fascist era, Nahid said many leaders and activists of anti-fascist political forces had been deprived of the true joy of Eid for over a decade and a half. “We must not forget that it is through the sacrifices of hundreds of martyrs that we can celebrate Eid today in a free environment.” He urged people to stand beside the families of those who sacrificed everything for a ‘fascism-free Bangladesh’ and to support injured activists, calling it a moral responsibility. Expressing gratitude to expatriate Bangladeshis’, Nahid said they continue to keep the country’s economy running through their relentless efforts, despite being away from their families during Eid. He also stressed that it is a humanitarian duty for every conscious Muslim to stand by neighbours, relatives, and the poor and underprivileged on the day of Eid. “In this sacred and joyous moment, I pray to Almighty Allah to bless Bangladesh and the entire Muslim Ummah with peace, prosperity and happiness.” According to the NCP, Nahid Islam is scheduled to offer Eid prayers at Beraid Purbapara Boro Mashjid at 7:00 am on Saturday, where he will also exchange greetings with locals after the prayers.  

Top economists and energy analysts are calling on the government to take "emergency preemptive measures" to secure Bangladesh’s fuel and gas supply, as the price of crude oil surged to $112 per barrel following an Israeli strike on the world's largest gas field and no visible sign that the war on Iran is likely to subside soon.  The sharp spike in energy costs—sparked by the escalating conflict in West Asia (or Middle East, from a Western perspective)—poses a significant threat to Bangladesh’s foreign exchange reserves and domestic inflation, experts warned. Professor Mustafizur Rahman, Distinguished Fellow at the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), emphasized that Bangladesh can no longer afford a "wait-and-see" approach. "The escalation in the Middle East has moved from a regional concern to a direct threat to global energy corridors," Professor Rahman said. "With oil prices jumping to $112 on Thursday, the fiscal pressure on Bangladesh will be immense. We must take early measures to secure our supply chains to avoid a sudden breakdown in industrial production and power generation," he added. He further noted that the government should immediately review its energy procurement strategy, particularly its reliance on volatile spot market purchases, which have become prohibitively expensive following the attack on the South Pars field, the world's largest gasfield that is shared by Iran and Qatar (which calls it the North Dome), which makes it a critical global hub for LNG and condensates. Market Volatility and Economic Risks Global markets reacted sharply on Thursday, with Brent crude futures climbing over 8 percent to settle near $112.40, although it has since come down below $110 per barrel again. The attack on South Pars was even condemned by Israel's partners in the war they are waging against Iran, which threatens to choke the Strait of Hormuz. Market experts in Dhaka noted that a $1 increase in oil prices adds millions to Bangladesh's import bill. "At $112, we are looking at a potential balance-of-payments strain," said a senior macroeconomist, Dr. Mashrur Reaz. "If this persists, the government may be forced to hike domestic fuel and electricity prices, which would trigger a fresh wave of inflation across the economy," he said. To buffer against this volatility, economists and market experts suggested a three-pronged strategy: Long-term Contracts: Moving away from the spot market toward more stable, long-term supply agreements for LNG and fuel. Storage Expansion: Maximizing the country’s fuel storage capacity to ensure a buffer in case of shipping disruptions. Energy Conservation: Reinforcing national energy-saving measures to reduce the overall demand for high-cost imports. Energy analysts warned that if the conflict continues to target high-value energy infrastructure like South Pars, the global supply chain for LNG could face long-term delays, directly impacting the national grid and the manufacturing sector, including the vital Ready-Made Garment (RMG) industry.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Friday greeted the people of the country on the eve of Eid-ul-Fitr, expressing hope that the joy of the festival reaches every home and family. In a video message, he extended his greetings to the people of Bangladesh and Muslims around the world. “On the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, I extend my heartfelt greetings to the people of the country. I convey my sincere greetings and Eid Mubarak to the Muslim Ummah in Bangladesh and around the world,” the Prime Minister said. Addressing the nation, he said the holy month of Ramadan has departed, leaving behind the lessons of sacrifice, piety and self-restraint. Tarique said after a month of fasting, Eid-ul-Fitr has arrived with a message of unity, solidarity, compassion and pure joy for the Muslim Ummah. “May the joy of Eid reach every home and every family. Let us be inspired by the ideals of Ramadan and share the happiness of the festival with one another,” he said. Eid-ul-Fitr, one of the biggest religious festivals for Muslims, will be celebrated in the country on Saturday. This will be Tarique Rahman’s first Eid in Bangladesh in 18 years, as he was forced to spend 17 years in exile in London. The Prime Minister will offer Eid prayers at the National Eidgah at 8:30am. After the prayers, he will exchange greetings with people from all walks of life at the State Guest House Jamuna at 10am. Later, the Prime Minister along with his family members will offer fateha at the graves of his late parents - BNP founder and former President Ziaur Rahman, and the party’s longest-serving chairperson as well as thrice-former prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia.

Two stewards of onboard service provider SA Corporation have been permanently dismissed for black-marketing tickets of the Dhaka-Chattogram-bound Subarna Express train. Besides, Bangladesh Railway has imposed an initial fine of Tk 7,500 on the service provider and sought an explanation by March 24, according to a statement from the Ministry of Railways on Friday. The action follows a video that recently went viral on social media, showing two individuals involved in ticket black-marketing for the Subarna Express. An initial investigation found the video to be authentic and confirmed the involvement of the company’s employees—identified as stewards Minhajul and Imran—in the malpractice. Their involvement was proven beyond doubt, leading to their dismissal. The authorities have also summoned the service provider to explain the incident by March 24. Legal action may be taken against the company if its explanation is found unsatisfactory.

With the holy festival of Eid-ul-Fitr approaching, kitchen markets across the capital have witnessed a sharp spike in the prices of essential commodities, particularly spices, meat, and fish. Visiting various kitchen markets on Friday (March 20) revealed a trend of rising costs for festive essentials, though vegetable prices have notably remained stable or even decreased as traders prepare to leave for their village homes. The most significant volatility was observed in the market for spices, where prices have jumped by Tk 50 to Tk 200 per kg within a few days. Cardamom (Elachi) has seen the steepest hike, now retailing at nearly Tk 5,000 per kg—an increase of Tk 220–250 from just last week. Other spice prices have also climbed. Cinnamon is selling for Tk 580–600, mace (Jaitri) at Tk 4,000, and nutmeg (Jaiphal) at Tk 1,500 per kg. Cloves are priced between Tk 1,800 and Tk 2,000, while cumin (Jeera) ranges from Tk 700 to Tk 800 per kg. Dry fruits followed suit, with cashews reaching up to Tk 1,800 and pistachios hitting Tk 4,000 per kg. Driven by high festival demand, the price of beef has risen by approximately Tk 80 per kg, now retailing at Tk 850 per kg. Mutton is being sold at Tk 1,350 to Tk 1,400 per kg, marking a jump of over Tk 100. In the poultry stable, broiler chicken is priced at Tk 210–220 per kg, while Sonali chicken is selling for Tk 350–360. However, egg prices have seen a slight decline. The fish market remains expensive, with Ruhi selling for Tk 350–400 and Pabda at Tk 450–500 per kg. Large prawns (Golda Chingri) are retailing for as much as Tk 1,200 per kg. Supply shortages of bottled soybean oil have pushed the price of loose oil to Tk 215–220 per litre. Sugar prices also remain high, with local varieties selling at Tk 140 per kg and imported sugar at Tk 100–105. Fragrant rice (Chinigura), another Eid staple, has seen a Tk 20–30 per kg increase, now selling between Tk 140 and Tk 175 depending on the brand. In contrast to the soaring prices of meat and spices, vegetable prices provided some relief. Many vendors were seen selling off their stock at lower rates to head home for the holidays. "I am leaving for my village tonight," said Kamrul, a retailer in the Karwan Bazar kitchen market. "I have a lot of stock left, so I am selling them at a lower price to clear the inventory," he said. Onions are currently selling for Tk 30–40, potatoes for Tk 18–20, and tomatoes for Tk 30–40 per kg. However, green chillies (Tk 80–100) and lemons Tk 60–80 per Hali ( 4 pieces) remain relatively expensive. Vermicelli (Semai) prices have remained stable, with 200g packets retailing at Tk 40–45.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is keeping a close watch on the situation around passengers travelling home across the country for Eid, to try and ensure smooth journeys for them avoid any problems or hardship. “Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is spending a busy day (Friday) monitoring the situation,” said his additional press secretary, Atikur Rahman Rumon. He said the Prime Minister is in contact with relevant authorities to check for any disruptions on the roads, traffic congestion, or difficulties for passengers travelling by river. “He is also giving necessary instructions wherever required,” Rumon said. He said the Prime Minister has also received updates from officials on the final preparations for Eid greeting events at the National Eidgah and the state guesthouse Jamuna, particularly in view of possible bad weather. Tarique Rahman is also looking forward to celebrating Eid in Bangladesh for the first time in 18 years, having spent every Eid for 17 years in London, where he was in exile. Rumon said, “Friends and acquaintances of the Prime Minister in London, Saudi Arabia and other countries have called to convey their Eid greetings, and he has exchanged greetings with them.” Meanwhile, the Prime Minister offered the Jummah-tul-Wida prayer at the central mosque of the Navy Headquarters in Banani on Friday. Eid-ul-Fitr, one of the two major religious festivals for Muslims, will be celebrated on Saturday across the country.

Muslims across the country observed Jumatul Wida, the final Friday of Ramadan with deep religious fervour and devotion. A large number of fasting devotees attended Jum’a prayers at mosques nationwide, offering special munajats seeking blessings for the nation’s peace and prosperity and the unity of the Muslim Ummah. Jumatul Wida holds particular significance as it marks the approach of the holy month’s conclusion. The largest congregation took place at Baitul Mukarram National Mosque in Dhaka, where special arrangements were made to accommodate the exceptional turnout. Similar preparations were observed in mosques across various parts of the city. During the prayers, imams and khateebs delivered sermons highlighting the significance of Ramadan, the practice of Eitekaf, the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr, and other religious matters. This year, for the first time in three years, devout Muslims had the opportunity to attend five Jum’a prayers during Ramadan.