Addressing Income Inequality in Bangladesh: A Call for Comprehensive Reform

 

The recently released "Household Income and Expenditure Survey (HIES) 2022" by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics has brought to light a concerning rise in income inequality within the country. This article delves into the key findings and proposes constructive measures to address this growing issue.

Understanding the Numbers:
According to the HIES 2022, as much as 40 percent of the country's total income is concentrated within the top 10 percent of the wealthy, reflecting a three-percentage-point increase since 2016. The Gini coefficient, a measure of economic equality, stands at 0.499 in 2022, indicating a rise from 0.482 in 2016.

Expert Insights:
Experts such as Selim Raihan and Hossain Zillur Rahman attribute this inequality to irregularities in the banking sector, tax evasion, and money laundering. While the government's commitment to addressing corruption is acknowledged, concrete actions are essential to combat these issues effectively.

Poverty Dynamics:
While poverty has decreased overall, the rate of decline between 2016 and 2022 is not as substantial as the preceding years from 2010 to 2016. Regional variations in poverty rates suggest the need for targeted measures in specific divisions.

Proposed Solutions:

• Anti-Corruption Measures: Strengthening efforts to combat corruption in the banking sector and ensuring transparency in financial systems is crucial. The commitment made in the election manifesto to take stern action against irregularities is a positive step.

• Social Safety Net Enhancement: To mitigate the impact of economic shocks, particularly in urban areas like Dhaka, there is a need to strengthen social safety net programs. Ensuring these programs reach both rural and urban areas is essential.

• Investment in Education and Skill Development: To address the root causes of inequality, investing in education and skill development programs is paramount. This can contribute to job creation and empower individuals to participate more actively in the economy.

• Progressive Tax Policies: Drawing inspiration from successful global models, implementing progressive tax policies, promoting small and medium-sized enterprises, and prioritizing social welfare can contribute to a more equitable distribution of wealth.

Conclusion:
Addressing income inequality in Bangladesh requires a comprehensive and multifaceted approach. By tackling corruption, strengthening social safety nets, investing in education, and learning from successful global examples, the nation can work towards a more equitable and prosperous future.

National Institute Of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Bangladesh

The ready-made garments (RMG) sector in Bangladesh is an important sector of the nation's economy that gives employment to about 1।5 million workers and earns about 86% of total foreign exchange. Considering the vital contribution of the garment industry.There are about 4500 garments & 1000 Buying house in Bangladesh.Bangladeshi garments needs thousands of technically competent human resources like apparel Manufacturing expert, Fashion Designer, Merchandiser , Production Manager, Quality controller etc. RMG search qualified person & we are ready to provide qualified person.

National Institute Of Fashion Technology (NIFT) trainers are successful in their professional life and many of the holding important position in the RMG sector; many are pursuing their career abroad. To provide good quality Fashion education. To develop the student ability to apply multi-disciplinary concepts, tools and techniques to solve organizational problems. To provide a sound foundation in design and fashion with a strong industry orientation and the students are trained with the latest trend information of color fabric and styles to the global market and competition. Students get to train on machines and the methodology of today's advanced technology such as Computer Aided Design (CAD) Participation in seminars and conferences related to the industry to upgrade the student's knowledge.

Mission :

Live for today, learn for tomorrow. Our mission is to inspire and educate the scholar and leader in each student, building on a strong foundation in the Fashion industry and a commitment to the best of human values, fostering a commitment to a lifetime of service and learning.

We shall continue to be an institute with a difference by developing competent, committed and compassionate leaders through management education, knowledge generation and dissemination, capacity building, technology enabled learning and organizational development.

Vision & Purposes:

To provide accessible, affordable, innovative, high-quality learning opportunities and degree programs that meet the diverse needs of individuals pursuing integrity in their lives, professions and communities.

Logo:

This Candle of knowledge, with its suggestion of enlightened guidance, thus affirms the value we place on wisdom and understanding as the basis for leadership in life, including leadership in personal, professional affairs. A stack of books rests next to the lamp of knowledge, symbolizing the value we place on the interrelationship and inter-dependency of all forms of knowledge. Inside the book in every pages demonstrate everything from fashion industry. There is a certificate which is a sign of strongly recommendation for bright future.

Value:

1. Integrity and Honesty
2. Respect for Individuals
3. Transparency and Accountability
4. Commitment and Dedication
5. Concern for Quality
6. Passion for Innovation and Performance
7. Social, Ecological and Ethical Sensitivity

Contacts:

Dhaka Campus:
National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT)
74, C/A, Wireless Gate, Mohakhali, Dhaka.
Phone: 02 9852132
Cell: 017 31 22 00 99, 019 71 00 77 77, 019 92 07 70 29

Gazipur Campus:
National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT)
Chandana Chowrasta, Gazipur City, Gazipur
Contact: 01992077041-45

Email address : info@nift.edu.bd
Web address : http://www.nift.edu.bd

Acc & Licensure:

Certificate of Registration of Societies(ACT XXI of 1860)

Issue no:8749

No.S-7129(317)/07

Dhaka 07/10/2007

APPLYING FOR HIGHER EDUCATION IN SWEDEN USING “STUDERA.NU”

Entry requirements

To meet the entry requirements for second cycle (postgraduate/Master's) studies, you must:

• have been awarded a Bachelor's degree (equivalent to a Swedish Kandidatexamen) from an internationally recognised university. The HEI must be listed in the latest edition of the International Handbook of Universities.
• be able to demonstrate proficiency in English by means of an internationally recognised test, e. g. TOEFL, IELTS or the equivalent. Check the website of the HEI where you would like to study for more information about language requirements.

Internationally recognized universities of BANGLADESH:

• Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology
• American International University-Bangladesh
• Asian University of Bangladesh
• Atish Dipankar University of Science and technology
• Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Medical University
• Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University
• Bangladesh Agricultural University
• Bangladesh Open University
• Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology
• BGC Trust University Bangladesh
• BRAC University
• Central Women's University
• Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology
• Chittagong Veterinary and Animal Sciences University
• City University
• Comilla University
• Daffodil International University
• Darul Ihsan University, Dhaka
• Dhaka Bishwabidyalaya
• Dhaka International University
• Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology
• East West University
• Eastern University
• Gono Bishwabidyalay
• Green University of Bangladesh
• Hajee Mohammad Danesh University of Science and Technology
• Independent University, Bangladesh
• International Business Administration and Information System (IBAIS) University
• International Islamic University Chittagong
• International University of Business, Agriculture and Technology
• Islamic University
• Islamic University of Technology
• Jagannath University
• Jahangirnagar University
• Jatiya Biswabiddalay
• Khulna University
• Khulna University of Engineering and Technology
• Leading University
• Manarat International University
• Mawlana Bhasani Science and Technology University
• Metropolitan University
• North South University
• Northern University Bangladesh
• Patuakhali Science and Technology University
• Premier University
• Presidency University
• Prime University
• Pundra University of Science and Technology
• Queens University
• Rajshahi University
• Rajshahi University of Engineering and Technology
• Rangamati Science and Technology University
• Rangpur Science and Technology University
• Royal University of Dhaka
• Shahjalal University of Science and Technology
• Shanto Mariam University of Creative Technology
• Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University
• Southeast University
• Southern University of Bangladesh
• Stamford University Bangladesh
• State University of Bangladesh
• Sylhet International University
• The Millennium University
• The People's University of Bangladesh
• The University of Asia Pacific
• United International University
• University of Chittagong
• University of Development Alternative
• University of Information Technology and Sciences
• University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh
• University of Science and Technology, Chittagong
• Uttara University
• Victoria University of Bangladesh
• World University of Bangladesh

Specific entry requirements:

In addition to the requirements described above there may be specific entry requirements stipulated by a HEI and/or department. You can find more information directly from the HEIs. See 'List of Higher Education institutions' on the right.

English language requirements:

For most masters' programmes the English language entry requirement is the equivalent of English studies at upper secondary level (post-16) in Sweden, known as English course B. For som masters' programmes the English entry requirement is at a lower level, known as English course A.

Minimum language test results required in IELTS:

You should send a copy of your IELTS test results to University Studies in Sweden, FE1, SE-833 83, Stroemsund, SWEDEN. They will verify your results online.

Academic modules:

For course B: an overall mark of 6.0 and no section below 5.0 

For course A: an overall mark of 5.0 and no section below 4.5

How to apply using “studera.nu”:

Check the programme description(s) carefully for detailed information, either at the university website or in the result list in 'Course search'. Then:

1. Go to 'Your pages' and create a user account. NB! If you do not have a Swedish civic registration number you must use the link for 'Users with NO Swedish civic registration number'.
2. Search for the study programmes you would like to apply for via the search engine Course search. (You can apply for up to 4 study programmes at Master's level).
3. Click on 'Add' for the study programmes you are interested in and place them in your basket. Click on 'To application' to create an application in your name.
4. Rank the selected study programmes in order of preference.
5. Click on 'Send application' and print a cover sheet as instructed. 
6. Sign the cover sheet, enclose all supporting documents and send the application to:

University Studies in Sweden 

FE 1 

SE-833 83 Stroemsund 

SWEDEN

NB! Applications sent by fax or e-mail will not be considered. This also applies for online applications without supporting documentation.

Supporting documents submitted with online application:

You must submit the following documents (stamped and signed copies) once you have completed your online application:

1. Cover sheet.
2. Certificates and diplomas from previous education at an internationally recognised higher education institution.
3. Transcripts of completed courses and grades (including course list). If possible, sort them in reverse chronological order, i. e. the most recent on top.

Please note: If your degree was awarded in Cameroon, Canada, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Nigeria, Sudan or the USA, your transcript of record must be sent directly from your university. If you send it yourself, it will not be accepted.

Certain countries have specific requirements. If you received your degree from Bangladesh, Cameroon, China, France, Germany, India, Nigeria, Nepal, Pakistan, the Philippines or the United States, you should see what these specific requirements are:

Specific requirements for students from BANGLADESH:

1. For entry to a Master's study programme, the minimum requirement is a 4-year Bachelor's degree, or a Bachelor's degree followed by a Master's degree. Some, but not all, study programmes require for that first degree to be in a related field.
2. Consideration will also be given to applicants who have attained a 3-year Bachelor's degree with honours.
3. Students holding only a 3-year Bachelor's degree without honours will not satisfy the entry requirements for a Master's programme.
4. Supporting document requirements
5. Please note that college-issued mark sheet/result card/transcript will not be accepted.
6. If the transcripts/mark sheets do not contain the names of the courses studied, a syllabus must be submitted, e. g., transcripts/mark sheets where the courses are listed as “Paper1" , “Paper2"are not sufficient.
7. Proof of English language skills.
8. Proof that you meet the specific entry requirements.
9. A copy of the page in your passport with your personal data and photograph or some other document of identification

Sort the documents in the same order as stated in this list and send them in one envelope to the address stated on the cover sheet. Only send one set of documents. Avoid using staplers, paper clips, and documents printed on both sides.

If the specific entry requirements of a higher education institution and/or department include a dissertation or essay, send these directly to the HEI (Letters of Intent can be sent to University Studies). The specific entry requirements are stipulated in the study programme descriptions.

Please, only submit the required documents that are listed here above, and do not send letters of recommendation unless they are specifically required by the university to which you are applying.

NB! There is no collation between the number of documents and your chances of being accepted. On the contrary, problems arise because required documents can be overlooked due to the number of pages that must be reviewed. Furthermore, concerning the time factor, an excess of documents only delays the evaluation of your application.

Do not send the original documents, unless you are requested to do so. No original documents, apart from documents requested by an Admissions Officer, will be returned. 

Requirements for documents:

All documents, copies and scanned documents supporting your application must be stamped and signed by the issuing institution, or a notary public. If this is not done, your application will not be processed.

All documents mentioned above, must be submitted, even if you submit an evaluation from Högskoleverket (Swedish National Agency for Higher Education).

Documents should be in the original language, and in officially certified translations into Swedish, English, French or German, if the original documents are in a language other than the Scandinavian languages.

All TOEFL tests must be sent straight from Educational Testing Service (ETS) and reach University Studies in Sweden by the deadline for submitting documents. The institution code is Sweden 9520 and this must be stated.

Verification:

University Studies in Sweden checks the authenticity of your documents with the issuing institution. University Studies in Sweden reserves the right to revoke admission if supporting documents are discovered to be fraudulent. 

Submission of false documents is a violation of Swedish law and is considered grounds for legal action. Furthermore, those who buy and submit false documents, obstruct the processing of applications in any way, or contribute to the incrimination of other applicants from the same country are also in violation of Swedish law.

Semester start at August

Late applications:

Although you should submit your application as early as possible, late applications may be considered for some Master's programmes.

However, places are subject to availability and there is no guarantee that if you submit a late application, it will be considered by the university where you would like to study. 

NB! Only those Master's programmes that are still open for application will have an 'Add' button in the result list.

After selection:

You may be able to add a study programme that has been deleted in a selection round, provided that it has an active 'Add' button. Remember that the programme you add will be treated as a late application.

The application process:

Every semester, there are tens of thousands of applications to process. Opening the post, and scanning and reviewing documents can take several months.

One application:

As studera.nu offers a pooled admissions system, you only have to submit one application per semester and cycle (education level). For current dates, please see 'Key dates' for each cycle.

Once your application has been registered, you will receive a confirmation email.

One set of supporting documents:

All documents are scanned and accessible online for every Swedish university and their staff to view. You should never send in more than one set of supporting documents.

Scanned documents:

Once your application package has arrived all documents are prepared for scanning. The scanning may take up to six weeks, depending on the number of applicants and applications. Any paper clips, staples and bindings delay the processing of your documents so you should avoid using them.

Confirmation by email:

After you have submitted your application for a Master's programme, you are notified by email when your documents have been scanned and matched with your application.

Assessment:

Your application will be registered and then go through a review process by different institutions. In some cases, the final assessment will not be made until the very last week before selection.

Notification of Selection Results:

Once the selection results have been published, you will get an email reminder to check the results on 'Your pages'. Your notification will be accessible online as well as in a printable PDF-file. If you are offered a place, read the instructions about applying for a student visa as well as any information about enrolment/registration days or introductory meetings held by the university.

No reply required at studera.nu:

If you are offered a place on a study programme, no reply is required at studera.nu. However, you may need to communicate with the university or department that has offered you an admissions place.

Contact us:

You may contact us via the link contact/english. Due to the large volume of applications, the service is restricted to general questions; we are unable to answer more specific questions about your application via email. It is important to remember that the admission process can take several weeks. Your patience is appreciated.

Notification of selection results:

The results of the current selection round will be presented in your Notification of Selection Results.

If you are offered a place on a course or study programme, the term 'Admitted' appears after the title in the 'selection results' column.

If the term 'Deleted' appears after the title of the programme this means that you have been offered a place on a course or study programme you gave higher priority to in your application or that you did not meet the entrance requirements. The reason for not meeting the entry requirements could include: missing documents, verification difficulties or insufficient knowledge of English.

If the term 'Reserve' or 'Res' appears after the title of the course or programme, this means you have been placed on a waiting list.

Late applications will be marked 'Not processed'.

Print-out:

The notification is accessible online as a printable PDF-file, so no hard copy is sent by post. The print-out serves as the official document and should be used for any visa application.

Plastic Money Revolution In Bangladesh

Plastic Money business is definitely going big time in Bangladesh. More and more local and international financial institutions are exhibiting enthusiasm in this direction. It reflects prospects in Bangladesh market in accommodating numerous credit card competitors operating on the circuit, ensuring healthy and competitive card business deals.

Carrying wads of cash for a weekly or monthly shop is risky and not having enough when you get to the till is embarrassing. Those days are gone when we had to carry loads of cash and plan our shopping sprees. To keep their money secure is an age-old problem. The 21st century solution is plastic.

Today credit and debit cards have largely replaced cheques as alternatives to cash. Both are reasonably secure compared to cash and are widely accepted.

Credit cards are financial instruments, which can be used more than once to borrow money or buy products and services on credit. Basically banks, retail stores and other businesses issue these.

A number of banks in Bangladesh are encouraging people to use credit card. The concept of credit card was used in 1950 with the launch of charge cards in USA by Diners Club and American Express. Credit card however became more popular with use of magnetic strip in 1970.

Credit card in Bangladesh became popular with the introduction of foreign banks in the country. Although credit card was introduced in Bangladesh in 1997 by a local bank namely National Bank.

There are thirteen banks and one financial institution issuing Credit Cards in Bangladesh. They are-Standard Chartered Bank, National Credit & Commerce (NCC) Bank, Premier Bank, Prime Bank, Arab Bangladesh (AB) Bank, Dhaka Bank, Southeast Bank, National Bank, The City Bank, United Commercial Bank, Mercantile Bank, EXIM Bank, One Bank and Lanka Bangla.

In addition to credit cards, debit cards are now being introduced in Bangladesh. Money spent using these cards is deducted automatically from a bank account.

Debit cards in particular are rapidly growing more popular. In fact debit cards look like credit or ATM cards, but work like cash or a personal cheque. By definition you can't run up credit on a debit card; you must have money in your account. In short they offer you the transactional convenience of a credit card, without a credit facility.

According to Mohammad Anisur Rahman, officer of National Credit & Commerce(NCC) Bank, "a credit card has many advantages that make it preferable to paper money in many countries. The expansion of credit facilities holds great promise for spurring the growth of the Bangladeshi economy and pulling it out of recession."

He added that, currently there are more than two lakhs credit card holders in Bangladesh. In case of salaried persons, two copies of photos, six months bank transaction, the TIN certificate and salary certificate is sought and in case of businessmen, an including photos, TIN certificate, bank transaction and trade license/ partnership deal or article of memorandum is required. The other optional things, which are necessary for applying cards, are passport id, voter id, driving license, commissioner certificate, any utility bill and other card statement copy.

The growth of credit cards has had an enormous impact on the economy-changing buying habits by making it much easier for consumers to finance purchases and by lowering savings rates (because consumers do not need to save money for larger purchases).

Technology advances have facilitated the use of credit cards. Merchants are now connected to banks by modem, so purchases are approved rapidly; on-line shopping on the Internet is possible with credit card payment. Credit card companies are also experimenting with smart cards that would act like a small computer, storing account and other information necessary for its use. An alternative to credit cards is the debit card, which is used to deduct the price of goods and service directly from customers' bank balances.

When you applied for your very first credit card you probably told yourself it was an important step in your financial future. Having a credit card is an essential part of building credit and cards come in handy in the case of an emergency too.

But after a few weeks-or even days-you found yourself charging lattes and late-night pizzas on your card. Suddenly "emergencies" consisted of clothes, meals and other things you just couldn't live without. Before you knew it, these charges that seemed so small at the time, had quickly added up to a sum that was too large to pay off all at once.

The good news, if there is any, is that you aren't alone. Credit card debt can sneak up on anyone quickly, but if you don't get it under control right away, it can be quite detrimental to your financial future. It really isn't as hard as you might think; it just takes persistence and dedication. Here are some tips to get you on your way to being debt free.

Most people have heard the rule that you should always put at least 10% of every paycheck into savings. Instead of building up a savings account, however, those with debt should put all their extra money towards credit card payments. If you're truly serious about getting out of debt, putting every penny toward your bills makes better financial sense than setting aside money in a low interest rate savings account.

Another important tip to remember is that you should always pay off your higher interest rate credit cards first. On the highest interest rate debt, always pay as much as you can possibly afford. At the very least, you should always pay the minimum but funnel any additional money into paying this debt off first. On the lower interest rate debt, continue to make timely minimum payments. Once you have paid off your higher interest rate debt, begin to apply that money to pay off your second debt. Continue to make minimum payments on any other cards as well-always allocating the most money to your highest interest rate debt. Doing this will have a snowball effect; eventually, you will see your debt diminish.

If you are able, it is helpful to pay more than the minimum payment each month. The minimum payment is usually two to three percent of your balance and is made up of 90% interest, with only 10% going towards reducing the principal. Pay a little more than the minimum and you will be surprised at how fast the balance decreases.

Also, do not be afraid to ask your credit card company for a better deal. Lenders are very competitive these days, so it cannot hurt to call and negotiate a lower rate or ask them to eliminate the annual fees. When you speak to the customer service executive, tell them that you are going to close your account if your request is not met. Remind them that other cards are offering you lower rates and no fees.

Some says that plastic money can be convenient and liberating, but it also comes with a lot of hidden traps and added responsibility. Many consumers are unable to take advantage of these benefits because they carry a balance on their credit card from month to month. Many find it hard to resist using the old "plastic" for impulse purchases or buying things they really can't afford.

Some things to remember
When deciding on the right card, consider the cost involved in holding it and the benefits enjoyed from it. The credit card company will always make their features sound unique and amazing. Whenever in doubt, it is advisable to ask the right questions and demand explanations for features you don't understand.

There are many things that the banker didn't tell you when he "gave" you a credit card: For example, because of the interest charged, the credit on one's card can work out to be extremely costly land completely invisible if you don't read the statements carefully. And then there are interest rates, processing fees, joining fees, annual fees, add-on cards, transaction fees, late fees, credit limits, besides a host of other smaller issues, which can make life on credit quite expensive.

Always retain sales/charge slips to compare with the amount specified on the billing statement. If your card ever gets stuck in the ATM, do not reveal your PIN even to the connected bank official/institution. It would suffice to let him/her know that your card has got stuck in the ATM.

If you forget you PIN, contact card issuing bank/institution and intimate then of the same. The bank will then send you a new card with a new PIN on receipt of which you should immediately cut up your old card.

The banker will also make the late payment fee sound ridiculously low, but you will hear another story if you ask what it amounts to on an annual basis. Also, remember that each card has a different spending limit. Make sure you know what it is and compare it to what others are offering.

Remember, your card often covers health and accident insurance. So don't forget to claim it when the need arises!

Debit cards, which allow you to make purchases by directly debiting your account, can save you a lot of trouble from unpaid bills. But there are other unknown facts about their usage.

Interest charge: As you know, on the due date, you can choose to pay your entire outstanding amount at one go, or delay by paying a "minimum amount". But by doing that, you automatically loose the free credit privilege, until you pay off the balance amount. The amount rolled over will get charged an interest. And you will be charged for every little purchase you make in the future, until you pay the entire outstanding amount! Banks will answer this concern by introducing revolving credits and interest-free days, but what they won't mention is the fact that they can change interest rates as they please. And often the special offers are for a short period, or strict "conditions apply". And last but not least, after this year's union budget was passed, we have more to be careful about: The standard service tax rate has increased.

Annual fee: All card issuers charge an annual fee (depending upon the type of card - standard, gold, or platinum), which is payable at the start of the year. In order to attract customers, as a privilege, this fee is sometimes waived for the first one year. But when the time comes for renewal, the banker never asks if you wish to continue using their services or not - he renews it and charges you.

Withdrawing money: Few people are aware that when you withdraw from an ATM with your debit card, the transaction is free only if you are using your own bank's network. As a safety measure, you are also allowed to withdraw only up to a certain limit at a time. The machine normally displays the allowed amount when you log on your request. This depends on the sum you have in your account and/or the amount of currency the machine holds at the moment of withdrawal.

Avoid card fraud

Extra copies of charge slips: When processing your credit card, a dishonest merchant may decide to imprint extra copies of the charge slip and after submit them on phony charges. So watch clerks process your credit payments. Open your credit card bills each month and check the listed purchases.

Discarded charge slips: Sometimes, people may collect copies of your discarded charge slips from the waste basket, and order merchandise by mail. So always tear them up before throwing them away.

Unsigned credit cards: Stealing and using credit cards that have not been signed is another potential fraud. So when you receive a new or replacement card, sign on the back as soon as it is activated. Always be sure to store it in a safe place. Cut up expired cards before disposing of them.

On the Internet: Software to protect you and your privacy is a part of most web sites. When ordering online, check if you are on a secure server by looking for a security symbol such as an unbroken key or padlock symbol at the bottom of your Internet browser window. These symbols indicate that any information you may send to the web site, including your credit card numbers, is encrypted or put into computer code prior to transmission.

Theft of credit cards: If your credit card is lost or stolen, contact your bank or issuing institution immediately. Your monthly statement should list the phone number of whom to contact. You do not have to pay for any unauthorized charges made after you have notified the issuing bank or institution. Don't ever agree to pay any unauthorized charges, even if the bank suggests bearing part of them.

If used wisely, a credit card can provide convenience and allow you to make purchases with nearly a month to pay for them before finance charges kick in.

Is "VoIP" Setting Free At Last..??

A parliamentary body made some recommendations including opening up of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) for increasing government's revenue earnings from the telecom sector in BANGLADESH.

The parliamentary standing committee on post and telecommunications ministry proposed withdrawal of Tk 800 tax on SIM card, reducing international call routing charge from 4 cents to 3 cents, zero duty on import of mobile sets valued up to TK 3,000 each and fixing monthly internet charge at Tk 300 for home users.

It also gave proposal for reducing import duty on telecom equipment to 10 to 25 percent from existing 10 to 65 percent in different slabs and also on fixed telecom equipment to 25 percent from existing 45 percent.

Besides, the committee suggested that import duty on landline sets should be brought down to zero from Tk 800.

The committee said if the recommendations are implemented, the government's yearly earnings from telecom sector will go up to Tk 7,500 crore from existing Tk 6,000 crore.

The committee has asked the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) to explore the technical and legal process immediately to legalise the use of VoIP. The BTRC has also been asked to submit a report to the ministry concerned detailing the ways of opening up the VoIP. The telecom watchdog last year permitted three private international gateways (IGWs) to handle international calls generated to and from Bangladesh.
But the number of calls made through illegal VoIP could not be stopped because of uncompetitive pricing. The IGWs operators claimed that over 40 percent international calls are handled by illegal VoIP operators due to irrational pricing.
Legal international call handlers now charge 4 cents a minute, which hovers between 2.5 and 3 cents on the illegal market. The standing committee suggested bringing down the charge to 3 cents.
The BTRC has realised Tk 861.16 crore from several mobile and PSTN operators in fine for their involvement in illegal VoIP business.
The committee strongly recommended that the government withdraw Tk 800 tax on mobile SIM card and also duty on import of PSTN (public switched telephony network) handsets.

Such initiatives will increase number of mobile phone users and help the government generate more revenue, said the committee.

source : The Daily Star (Internet Edition, Thursday, April 30, 2009)

"Muktijuddher Itihas" by Md. Jafar Iqbal

There are many books on Liberation War of Bangladesh. They may contain lot of information and facts, but do we really get the chance to read them all..!! I don't think so. Our beloved Md. Jafar Iqbal sir has published a 12-13 page book which is a brief document representing some key facts of our Liberation War. Main purpose of this book was to presenting the history in a compact mode so that anyone can read this book at a instant. You don't need have any special attention and preparation to read this book like other historical documents. It'll take very little of your time...So, take a little of your time and read this book. It is a gift.

DOWNLOAD "MUKTIJUDDHER ITIHAS" HERE

People on rampage in protest at power cuts

People demonstrate at Araihazar in Narayanganj Tuesday morning in protest at power outages. They also attacked a police outpost and two power offices.
— New Age photo

Thousands of people Tuesday morning rampaged through Araihazar in Narayanganj, blocking the roads and attacking a police camp and two power stations, in protest at severe power outages.
The people vandalised several vehicles and razed a temporary police camp and attacked two power offices. At least 30 were injured in the clashes with law enforcers.
Local residents said several hundred people, joined in by hundred more workers of the factories in the industrial belt, took to the streets in the morning demanding smooth power supply.
The people and the workers alleged power outages had taken place for at least four to five hours daily in the industrial belt over the past few days and the factory owners were forced to stop production because of such outages.
Amid the ongoing power crisis, power supply had been snapped for five hours since 11:00pm on Monday till 4:00am Tuesday and electricity went off again half an hour after.
Enraged at the situation, several hundred local people along with several hundred workers, equipped with bamboo sticks, iron rods and other weapons, took to the streets and blocked the Dhaka–Gopaldi and the Araihazar–Narsingdi Road with tree trunks.
They also started fire with tyres in several points on the road, suspending traffic for about six hours.
At the rumour of a police attack, the protestors immediately attacked a police outpost near by at Jalakandi and razed it to the ground.
They also vandalised several vehicles parked on the road. They also assaulted a schoolteacher and damaged his motorcycle.
The people then attacked the 10MW Sadardia power substation and damaged it by throwing stones.
In a few minutes, the workers stormed into the local Palli Biddut Samiti office and assaulted assistant engineer Alamgir Hossain and linesmen Sagar, Suman and Shahar Ali. Others in the office managed to get away.
The people then clashed with law enforcers when the lawmen went to the place to keep law and order.
The lawmen at one point charged at the people with truncheons to disperse them, but they countered the assault by pelting the law enforcers with stones. At least 30 people were injured in the clashes.
Awami League leaders Latif Molla, Salauddin Master and Juba League leaders Moazzem Haque, Jewel, Abdul Barek, Mala, Mintu, Mukul, Zilani, Tajul and Islam were among the injured. The injured were taken to hospital.
The people called off the blockade after high police officials, along with the people of the power authority, had assured them of a smooth power supply.
The Narayanganj police superintendent, Biswas Afzal Hossain, told New Age, ‘The situation is under control and law enforcers are patrolling the area to fend off further troubles.’

War crimes trial may end by Dec'09

The trial of crimes committed in the 1971 war of independence from Pakistan starts Monday and may end by this Victory Day, the law minister said Friday.

"We will appoint investigating agencies and prosecutors early next week or by Monday," Shafiq Ahmed told reporters after inaugurating children's organisation Khelaghar's National Conference-2009 at the Shaheed Minar.

These appointments will mark the start of the trial of war crimes, he added

"We hope to complete the trial of war crimes soon once it starts. It may be complete within next Victory Day (Dec 16, 1971 when Pakistan army surrendered)."

The trial of crime against humanity is going to take place under International Tribunal Act-1973 in line with the electoral pledge of the ruling Awami League and an unanimous decision in parliament, the minister said.

An advisor to Khelaghar, he urged the new generation in his brief speech to be good citizens by knowing the history of independence war. He also called upon their guardians and teachers to teach the right history.

"Our students have to be taught who fought for freedom, introduction of Bangabandhu (independence hero Sheikh Mujibur Rahman)-led freedom fighters and opponents of liberation war."

He earlier administered oaths to participants who expressed solidarity with the demand for war crimes trial.

Educationist Sardar Fazlul Karim was scheduled to open the ceremony but he was indisposed. His statement for the ceremony was read out, though.

BD Govt get blamed

People of different social strata expressed mixed reactions to the Awami League-led alliance government’s performance in its first 100 days, completed on Friday.
While most of the people whom New Age approached were critical of the government, some of them observed that it had some achievements to its credit, including arresting the price-hike of essentials, especially of rice.
Most of them expressed frustration at the armed infighting of the AL’s associate student body, the ruling party’s vengeful attitude towards the opposition, politicisation of the administration and deterioration in the law and order situation. Already the rebellion and killings in the Bangladesh Rifles headquarters on February 25 has made the government shaky, some opined.
‘The government has been successful in controlling the prices of essentials, especially rice, but it has utterly failed to fulfil its electoral pledges,’ said Mizanur Rahman, who works for a computer firm.
Abul Hashem, a farmer of Tangail, said the low price of paddy has disappointed the farmers.
‘The Awami League had pledged that it would ensure an education-friendly environment in all the universities and colleges. But it failed to fulfil its pledge because it didn’t control its student wing. The fighting of the various factions of the Bangladesh Chhatra League has led to the closure of a number of educational institutions across the country,’ he said.
Abdul Aziz, a farmer of Kushtia, thanked the government for its success in fertiliser management. ‘The government has successfully ensured smooth supply of fertilisers to the farmers, and that too at affordable prices due to the giving of subsidy.’‘The honeymoon period of this government has been short because of some of its self-created problems. The government on its own invited chaos and controversy, deviating from its election pledges,’ opined a teacher of a high school in the Dhaka University area.

‘Though the government had to face some obstacles like the BDR rebellion at the beginning of its tenure, it has shown some success in controlling prices and handling the BDR issues. It has, however, failed to control its student wing. The Chhatra League’s infighting has blackened the image of this government,’ said playwright Mamunur Rashid.
‘Besides, inexperienced persons in the ministries have not being performing well. Had there been some experienced persons in the ministries, the government could have handled all the problems it faced in a better manner,’ he added.
Referring to the government’s decision to cancel the lease of Khaleda Zia’s Cantonment house, he said, ‘This definitely seems to be vengeful. The government wants to evict Khaleda overnight. It could have done so after creating mass awareness.’
Professor Dilara Chowdhury, teacher of governance and politics in Jahangirnagar University, said, ‘The government has been successful in controlling the price of rice. However, it will have to keep the interest of farmers in mind.’
‘The government has deviated from its election pledges. It had promised that it would establish a strong local government, but with the passage of the Upazila Parishad law and the scrapping of the ordinance promulgated by the interim government, it has made the Upazila Parishad an extension of the central government and subservient to the lawmakers,’ said Dilara.
‘Besides, it failed to deal with the carnage in the Bangladesh Rifles headquarters. It cannot yet tell the nation who were behind the killing of the country’s army officers,’ she said. ‘It had pledged that it would not politicize the administration, but in reality it has politicized all the institutions, ranging from the universities to the administration.’
A government official, posted at the Bangladesh Secretariat, said, ‘The government has controlled the prices of essentials and initiated the trial of war criminals. But it has not taken any effective steps to make the administration dynamic.’
‘The government is yet to take any initiative to generate more power and solve the electricity problem,’ he said.
‘The government has failed to formulate policies to implement its pledge of bringing about a sea-change in the country. It has deviated from its focus. Without any further delay it will have to form a plan to implement the “din bodoler pala” which should be placed before the public so that they can understand the way the government is going ahead,’ said Iqbal Habib, an architect.
Abdul Karim, a shopkeeper at Adabor, sounded a positive note by saying that the government should be thanked for a number of achievements, including arresting the price-hike of the essentials and maintaining law and order, despite a number of severe problems, including the BDR rebellion, that it had to face.

Eye on the motherland

Documentaries effectively protest the injustices and social anomalies, thus possessing a powerful role to assess the development of a country. Celebrating this power to generate public awareness, a four-day documentary film festival began in the city on April 16.

Titled "Documenting Bangladesh 3," the festival features films that see Bangladesh from different perspectives. The festival has been organised by Bangladesh Documentary Council. A total of 40 documentary films are being screened at the festival being held at Shawkat Osman Memorial Auditorium and Seminar Hall of Central Public Library. This is the third film festival organised by the council. Manusher Jonnyo Foundation and Oxfam GB are sponsors of the event. Step Towards Development, Aktel, Standard Bank Ltd., Singer Bangladesh LTD., United Airways and Mustak Ahmed have also sponsored the festival.

National Professor Kabir Chowdhury, one of the initiators of Bangladesh Chalachchitra Shangshad movement, inaugurated the festival. Filmmaker Manzare Hasin Murad, adviser, Bangladesh Documentary Council; Fauzia Khan, president of the council and Farhana Hafiz, programme officer of Oxfam GB were also present at the inauguration. Anwar Chowdhury, festival director and general secretary of Bangladesh Documentary Council, presented the welcome speech.

In his inaugural speech Kabir Chowdhury noted, "Among the different genres of films, documentary holds a special place. Its significance is recognised worldwide. In a country where people often indulge into forgetting history, documentaries can play an important role in generating awareness in our past."

"While the authenticity of information provided in a documentary is of utmost importance, the filmmaker's responsibility is to present that in an artistic way," he added.

Noted cinematographer Maksudul Bari was given a lifetime achievement award at the event by the council. Manzare Hasin Murad spoke on the awardee. A leading cinematographer of the country, Bari, has worked in acclaimed films like "Agami," "Aandhiar," "Amader Chhelera" and more. Bari continues to work behind the camera with absolute sincerity and commitment. Always eager to work with the talented upcoming directors, Bari dedicated his award to the young who are involved in filmmaking.

Films are being screened at the festival in three categories -- general screening, competition for filmmakers, and competition for film students. The third category has been introduced this year to inspire young filmmakers who are studying the medium at universities or film institutes. Best films from these two competitions will receive the Bangladesh Documentary Award 2009 at the closing ceremony. Manzare Hasin Murad, Mainul Huda, Khurshid Anam, Mafidul Haque, Maksudul Bari, Nargis Jahan Banu, Shabnam Ferdousi and Shamim Reza are in the jury board overseeing the selection and competition.

"Frozen Tears," a 16-minute documentary on the Mirpur Jalladkhana genocide by Polash, Tanvir, Laki, Meherun and Faiz; "Urai Moner Ghuri" by Lutfun Nahar Moushumi and "Rupantorer Rupkotha" by Tasmiah Afrin Mou were selected from the three categories to be screened at the inaugural programme.

On the second day (yesterday) of the festival, premiere of a documentary on veteran activist Hena Das, titled "Abhjatri," was held. Agriculture Minister Matia Chowdhury was present as the chief guest at the event, while eminent litterateur Professor Hasan Azizul Haque was the special guest.

Besides screening films, seminars and round tables are also parts of the festival. "Documenting Bangladesh 3" ends on April 19.