Bangladesh’s rapid growth in fish farming is threatened by heavy metal contamination. Recent research found chromium levels in farmed Mrigal fish four times above FAO’s safe limit. Though current levels may not harm humans, concerns arise over heavy metals in fish feed and polluted water sources. Lack of regular pond cleaning and use of contaminated feed contribute to the issue. Experts urge government action to monitor fish feed quality and water safety to ensure the health of consumers and sustain the aquaculture industry.

Jessore’s Gadkhali region, once known for native flowers, is now producing foreign flower seedlings like Dutch lilies and gerberas through tissue culture by a private firm, RRF. Previously imported from India at high costs, these seedlings are now locally grown, reducing import dependence. Though current production meets only a fraction of demand, efforts are underway to scale up. Farmers benefit from lower prices, better quality, and training support. Bangladesh aims to become self-sufficient in foreign flower seedling production soon.

Tomato farmers and traders in Panchagarh and Nilphamari have urged the government to stop tomato imports from India, citing a drastic fall in local prices. They held a human chain protest, stating that they bought tomatoes at high prices after the season ended, but prices dropped after Indian imports resumed. Many are now unable to repay farmers and workers. They warned that without a two-week suspension of imports, they could face major financial losses, including selling land to cover debts.

Gazipur Agricultural University has developed GAU-1, Bangladesh’s first salt-tolerant wheat variety. Withstanding salinity up to 12 dS, GAU-1 is ideal for coastal regions and offers high yield and protein content. It matures quickly, is disease-resistant, and contributes to livestock feed due to high straw production. Approved by the National Seed Board, GAU-1 yields up to 4.5 tons per hectare in normal soil and 3.75 tons in saline soil. Researchers see it as a breakthrough for food security and climate-resilient agriculture in the country.

As of now, the Chattogram Food Division has collected 28,280 metric tons of Boro rice during this year’s procurement drive—reaching 60% of its target with two months still remaining.
The government’s procurement program, which began on April 24, will continue until August 31. The initiative, offering farmers a fair price of Tk 36 per kg, has been well received. Farmers are reportedly pleased with the just compensation.

Premature flooding, attributed to climate change, has submerged vast areas of harvest-ready Boro paddy in Gurudaspur and Tarash upazilas of Natore's Chalan Beel region.
Farmers are facing severe financial loss due to crop damage, compounded by labor shortages and storage issues.
Agricultural officer Harunur Rashid explained that 30% of the land was planted with Namla variety paddy after mustard harvesting. Although profitable, the method is risky, and rising water levels have put the harvest in jeopardy.

Heavy upstream rainfall and mountain runoff have caused water levels in the Teesta River to surge, flooding large areas of farmland. The authorities have opened all gates of the Teesta Barrage in response. Many peanut fields have been submerged, and farmers are struggling to harvest crops by boat. One farmer, Anarul Islam, said his 150-acre peanut farm is now largely underwater, with only one-third of the crop harvested so far.

Food Adviser Ali Imam Majumder reported that the country's food situation is currently very satisfactory, with a stockpile of 1.5 million tons—300,000 tons more than the previous year. He noted that food reserves are in constant flux due to ongoing consumption and replenishment. "If the upcoming Aman harvest is successful, we may not need to import rice this year," he stated. Last year, significant imports were necessary, but strong Boro yields this season offer hope for self-sufficiency.

Cultural Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki announced plans to produce a biopic on the life of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam and to translate his literary works into multiple languages. He emphasized Nazrul’s enduring relevance, especially during the July uprising, stating that even a century later, his poetry and songs continue to inspire the nation. “Nazrul’s legacy has long been neglected. We begin commemorations but fail to preserve his memory properly. That needs to change—and we’re committed to it,” Farooki said. Additionally, Nazrul-related landmarks in Cumilla will be protected and restored.

Bangla Academy will confer the prestigious ‘Nazrul Award’ on researcher Anwarul Haque and renowned singer Shabnam Mustari for their significant contributions to the study, promotion, and performance of the works of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. The awards will be presented during the Nazrul Jayanti celebration organized by Bangla Academy on Sunday afternoon. Each recipient will receive a monetary prize of BDT 100,000, along with a commemorative plaque and honorary scarf.

Culture Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki admitted that reversing 54 years of cultural deterioration cannot happen quickly. “We are drafting a blueprint—what needs to be done in the next five years and the next ten,” he said. “Before we leave office, we’ll hold a press conference titled ‘Road to Successor.’ I’ll leave behind a note of insights for the next team.” Farooki criticized the focus on pass rates and GPA-5 achievements, saying the foundations of education and culture have been severely damaged. He added that discussions are ongoing with the education and information advisers about reviving the popular program Notun Kuri, and highlighted efforts to promote local and inclusive cultural initiatives.

The 706th annual Urs of Hazrat Shahjalal (RA) began Sunday in Sylhet, marked by the ceremonial placing of the sacred gilaaf (cover) on the saint’s shrine. Devotees from across Bangladesh flocked to the dargah area, filling the air with chants of "Lal-e-Lal, Baba Shahjalal." Strict security measures were enforced, and the event will conclude today (Monday) with the final prayer (Akheri Munajat). Authorities remained vigilant to prevent any indecency or antisocial behavior during the spiritual gathering.

The 706th annual Urs of Hazrat Shahjalal (RA) begins Sunday in Sylhet, as devotees from across Bangladesh and abroad arrive for the two-day spiritual gathering. The event, traditionally held on the 19th and 20th of the Islamic month of Zilqad, includes floral offerings at the shrine, Qur’an recitation, zikr sessions, special prayers, and communal meals. The Sylhet Metropolitan Police and the organizing committee have urged attendees to avoid any immoral, indecent, or religiously inappropriate behavior during the event.

At least seven people were injured during a cultural event organized by Udichi Shilpigoshthi in Bogura, where they were singing the national anthem in unison. The event was disrupted by members of the “Anti-Fascist Forum,” who allegedly vandalized the office and clashed with participants. Additional Superintendent of Police Ataur Rahman said tensions flared between the two groups over competing programs. Police intervention helped contain the violence and prevent further damage or casualties.

In a rapid response to the launch of ‘Operation Sindoor,’ Bollywood production houses scrambled to cash in, with at least 15 film titles registered using the same name by Thursday. Just two days after the operation began, one production company even released a poster promoting its upcoming film.

Facing backlash, director Uttam Maheshwari publicly apologized. “We had announced a movie based on ‘Operation Sindoor,’ but I sincerely regret the decision. I had no intention of hurting sentiments or inciting controversy. The film announcement was meant as a tribute to the nation, not for fame or profit,” he said.

The mass registration of film titles around such a sensitive and ongoing operation has sparked debate over ethics and opportunism in the entertainment industry.