Tourist travel to St. Martin’s Island in Teknaf upazila of Cox’s Bazar will be suspended for nine months starting Sunday, February 1, under a decision by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. The current tourism season will end on Saturday, January 31. Normally, visitors are allowed from October 1 to March 31 each year, but this season has been shortened due to environmental risks. According to Additional District Magistrate Imran Hossain, ships carrying tourists will make their final trip to the island today, and no tourist vessels will be permitted from Sunday onward.

The decision has caused concern among local business owners and residents who depend on tourism. M.A. Abdur Rahman, president of the St. Martin Hotel-Motel-Resort Owners Association, said many investors have failed to recover their investments and are facing losses. Union Parishad Chairman Foyezul Islam stated that most islanders rely on tourism and are disheartened by the long closure.

Authorities indicated that the government may revise the decision later, depending on future considerations.

The 12th Dhaka International Mobile Film Festival (DIMFF) 2026 began today under the outreach program of the Media Studies and Journalism Department of the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB). The two-day event, presented by Infinix Mobile Bangladesh and supported by Star Cineplex, will conclude tomorrow. From 131 film submissions across 24 countries, 25 films have been selected for screening in six categories.

Details of the festival were announced at a press conference held at ULAB’s permanent campus. The categories this year include Short Film, One Minute, Vertical Film, Open Door, Citizen Journalism, and Outstanding Talent Award. The first day’s screenings will take place at the ULAB campus, while the second day’s events will be held at Star Cineplex (Shimanto Shambhar).

For the first time, the Citizen Journalism category will feature films highlighting social justice, climate change, real-life issues, and stories of marginalized communities. The Outstanding Talent Award will recognize a skilled crew member behind the scenes. The jury board includes filmmakers and writers from Nepal, Bangladesh, France, and the UK.

Professor Dr. M. Zubaidur Rahman, Chairman of Islami Bank Bangladesh PLC, called on officials to strengthen public trust in the bank by ensuring customer satisfaction through dedicated service. Speaking as chief guest at an officers’ conference held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at the Sena Prangon in Dhaka Cantonment, he emphasized that customers are the lifeblood of the bank and that all complaints should be addressed promptly and seriously. He urged employees to treat the institution as their own to enhance service quality and operational efficiency.

The event was presided over by Managing Director Md. Omar Faruk Khan, with senior executives including Executive Committee Chairman Mohammad Khurshid Wahab, Audit Committee Chairman Md. Abdus Salam, Risk Management Committee Chairman Professor Dr. M. Masud Rahman, and Independent Director Md. Abdul Jalil attending as special guests. Additional Managing Director Md. Altaf Hossain delivered the welcome speech, while Deputy Managing Director Md. Mahbub Alam gave the vote of thanks.

In his remarks, Managing Director Khan highlighted the importance of expanding investment in the SME sector to strengthen the national economy and make banking services more accessible through improved customer care.

The four-day 25th Dhaka International Yarn and Fabric Show (DIFS) 2026 – Winter Edition and the 8th Dhaka International Denim Show 2026 concluded successfully at the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB) in Dhaka. Organized jointly by Conference and Exhibition Management Services (CEMS-Global USA) and the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT-TEX China), the exhibitions ran from January 28 to 31, 2026.

More than 325 companies from over 15 countries participated, displaying modern technologies and innovations in yarn, fabric, denim, and related textile products across over 650 booths. The first day featured a seminar titled “Why Invest in Bangladesh?” organized with the support of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), while the second day hosted “Importance of MICE Tourism in Bangladesh” in collaboration with the Bangladesh Tourism Board (BTB).

Organizers stated that the international exhibitions would strengthen Bangladesh’s global position in the textile and apparel sector and open new opportunities for investment and event-based tourism.

At least 47 people were killed in a series of militant attacks in Pakistan’s Balochistan province, according to a Geo News report on Saturday citing security sources. The report said that Indian-backed militants carried out separate assaults at 12 locations, killing at least 10 police officers. Security forces responded with counterattacks that left 37 militants dead. Operations against the attackers were still ongoing in several areas.

A security source identified the assailants as members of the India-backed group ‘Fitna al Hindustan,’ which attempted coordinated strikes across Balochistan. The source said timely and effective action by security forces prevented the attacks from succeeding. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the security personnel, commending their bravery in thwarting what he described as the terrorists’ malicious objectives.

The violence occurred a day after two separate operations in Balochistan killed 41 India-supported militants, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). Those operations took place on January 29 near Harnai district and in Panjgur district.

Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) seized Indian Sun Max luxury fabrics and Benarasi saris smuggled through the Matifata border area of Sreebardi upazila in Sherpur. Acting on a tip-off, members of the Mymensingh Battalion (39 BGB) from the Kornjhora Border Outpost conducted an overnight operation on Saturday and recovered the goods. The seized items, including an easy bike used for transport, have an estimated market value of about Tk 13,62,800. The BGB confirmed the seizure in a press release issued on Saturday afternoon.

According to the report, smugglers attempted to bring Indian goods through the Kornjhora BOP area using innovative methods. When they realized the presence of BGB personnel, the smugglers fled, leaving behind the contraband and the vehicle. Lieutenant Colonel Md. Nurul Azim Baizid, commander of the 39 BGB Battalion, stated that BGB members remain vigilant around the clock to protect the international border and prevent illegal activities.

He added that BGB maintains a strict policy against smuggling, drug trafficking, and illegal crossings, and this vigilance will continue in the future.

A distinctive bird fair was held on January 31, 2026, at Rajshahi University’s Buddhijibi Chattar, featuring preserved bird specimens displayed through taxidermy. Organized by the university’s Bird Conservation Club with support from the Zoology Department and partners, the daylong event aimed to promote awareness under the theme “See birds, love birds, protect birds.” Visitors observed rare and extinct species, while school students participated in a drawing competition to engage with wildlife conservation themes.

The exhibition included various species such as pigeons, parrots, herons, and owls, along with detailed explanations of preservation methods. Former zoology student and taxidermist Md. Delowar Hossain shared insights into the scientific process of taxidermy and noted that such fairs are regularly held at Rajshahi and Jahangirnagar universities. Professor A.M. Saleh Reza, convener of the Bird Conservation Club, emphasized the importance of familiarizing students with native birds and fostering empathy toward wildlife.

Organizers highlighted that the fair serves as an educational platform to inspire responsible behavior toward migratory and local birds and to encourage scientific conservation practices.

Two people were killed in a head-on collision between a motorcycle and an engine-run vehicle in Bogura district on Saturday morning. The accident occurred around 7:30 a.m. on a road in Dariapur Palpara village under Thaltamajhgram Union of Nandigram upazila. According to eyewitnesses, Sweet, 55, from Dariapur Uttar Mondolpara, was heading to irrigate his potato field on a motorcycle and picked up his neighbor Azizar, 55, along the way. When they reached Dariapur Palpara, a speeding engine-run vehicle from the opposite direction hit their motorcycle, throwing both riders onto the road. Azizar died on the spot, while Sweet was taken to Nandigram Upazila Health Complex, where doctors declared him dead.

Nandigram Police Station Officer-in-Charge Mizanur Rahman said police were dispatched to the scene after receiving reports of the fatal accident. He added that legal procedures regarding the incident are underway.

The police investigation and legal process are continuing to determine the circumstances of the collision.

A woman and her five-year-old child were killed in a road accident on the Dhaka-Chattogram highway in Chandina, Cumilla, on Saturday morning, January 31, 2026. The incident occurred around 8:30 a.m. near the Iliotganj-Muradnagar road junction at the border of Daudkandi and Chandina upazilas. According to local and police sources, the unidentified woman had just stepped off a local bus named 'Papia Service' with her child when a speeding bus named 'Nilachal' ran them over. The Nilachal bus then collided with a parked mini covered van, severely damaging its rear section.

Police confirmed that the woman died at the scene, while the injured child was first taken to a local hospital and later transferred to Daudkandi’s Gauripur Health Complex, where doctors declared the child dead. Iliotganj Highway Police Station Officer-in-Charge Ruhul Amin said the involved buses and the damaged van were seized and taken to the station. Efforts are underway to identify the victims, and legal procedures are in progress.

Workers and employees at Chattogram Port began a work stoppage on Saturday, defying official warnings from the port authority. Although cargo unloading at the jetty continued, delivery and other internal operations came to a standstill. The strike was called by the Chattogram Port unit of the Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal to protest the government’s decision to lease the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) to foreign company DP World. The program, announced earlier in the week, was supported by the Sramik Karmachari Oikya Parishad (SKOP).

The port authority had issued a notice on Friday warning of strict administrative and legal action against those involved in anti-institutional activities, stating that the process of engaging the foreign company was based on a court ruling. Despite this, workers continued their planned program. According to labor leader Humayun Kabir, workers reported to duty but refrained from work as a peaceful protest, keeping vessel unloading ongoing to avoid congestion.

Port officials said discussions were ongoing and that an official statement would be released later. The strike is scheduled to end at 4 p.m., with workers warning of tougher actions if the government does not reconsider the lease decision.

The 14th Zakat Fair 2026 began in Dhaka on Saturday under the theme “Establishing Justice through Zakat.” The event was inaugurated by Dr. A F M Khalid Hossain, religious adviser to the interim government, at the Officers’ Club on Bailey Road. Organized by the Center for Zakat Management (CZM), the fair aims to promote a just, equitable, and poverty-free society through institutional zakat management.

In his inaugural speech, Dr. Hossain emphasized that those who can afford but do not pay zakat lack true faith. He noted that zakat is not charity but the rightful due of the poor, and urged greater public awareness. Former caretaker government adviser Dr. Hossain Zillur Rahman highlighted the global philosophical crisis regarding moral and financial responsibilities, stressing that zakat must be given and monitored responsibly. CZM CEO Dr. Mohammad Aiyub Mia said institutional zakat collection can play a major role in reducing income inequality and poverty.

Speakers expressed hope that proper zakat management could significantly contribute to social justice and economic equity in Bangladesh.

A murder case has been filed following the death of Jamaat-e-Islami leader Rezaul Karim during a clash between BNP and Jamaat supporters in Jhenaigati upazila of Sherpur. The case, lodged late Friday night by Karim’s wife Marzia Begum, names 234 accused and includes 400 to 500 unidentified individuals. Assistant Superintendent of Police Afsan Al Alam said the names of the accused are being withheld for investigative reasons, and police operations to arrest them are ongoing.

The incident occurred on Wednesday during a manifesto reading event organized by the upazila administration, where a dispute over seating escalated into violence between BNP and Jamaat activists. Rezaul Karim, secretary of Sherpur’s Sreebardi upazila Jamaat, was killed, and over a hundred people from both sides were injured. Several remain hospitalized, with two in critical condition.

In protest, Sherpur district Jamaat held a rally and demonstration on Friday, announcing a prayer event for the slain leader at Jhenaigati Upazila Stadium on Saturday.

The Nuclear Power Plant Company Bangladesh Limited (NPCBL) has issued recruitment notices to hire 521 personnel for the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant. The positions span grades 6 to 19 and cover a wide range of roles including engineers, medical officers, psychologists, security staff, fire service members, technical and support staff. Applications for most positions open on January 22, 2026, while applications for positions numbered 12 to 27 begin on February 2, 2026.

The recruitment covers several departments such as on-site fire station, security and physical protection services, medical and psychology units, and technical divisions including electrical, electronics, chemistry, and cyber security. Salaries will range from BDT 17,400 to BDT 84,000 depending on grade, with additional benefits as per government regulations. Interested candidates can apply online through www.rooppurnpp.gov.bd or https://npcbl.gov.bd.

The announcement reflects NPCBL’s effort to strengthen operational and safety capacities at the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant through diverse technical and administrative appointments.

Selim Mia, a farmer from Taghli village in Bahubal upazila of Habiganj, has achieved notable success cultivating squash, a vegetable popular in Thailand and Vietnam. Guided by local agricultural officers, he experimented with squash on 13 decimals of land during the winter season alongside other vegetables. His total cost was around 8,000 taka, and he expects to earn between 50,000 and 60,000 taka from the harvest. The crop began producing fruit about one and a half months after planting.

Assistant agriculture officer Shamimul Haque Shamim confirmed providing technical support and said Selim’s success has encouraged other farmers to try squash cultivation. Upazila agriculture officer Chinmoy Kar Opu described squash as a foreign vegetable still new to local farmers but noted that those who have tried it have been financially successful. He added that the department is also promoting other foreign vegetables such as broccoli, capsicum, and red cabbage.

According to Opu, squash is nutritionally rich, containing vitamins A, C, E, B6, and minerals like magnesium, potassium, and iron. He said regular consumption can strengthen immunity and help protect against diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and heart ailments.

Rear Admiral S.M. Moniruzzaman, Chairman of the Chattogram Port Authority, has emphasized the adoption of Public-Private Partnership (PPP) and Government-to-Government (G2G) concession models to modernize Bangladesh’s port management sustainably. Writing on January 31, 2026, he argued that these models can attract foreign direct investment, enhance operational efficiency, and reduce the government’s debt burden while ensuring long-term financial stability. The approach aligns with the interim government’s economic transformation plan led by Nobel laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus, which prioritizes maritime sector development as a foundation for national growth.

According to Moniruzzaman, over 92 percent of Bangladesh’s international trade passes through Chattogram Port, making its expansion and modernization crucial. He contends that PPP and G2G frameworks outperform traditional open tendering by ensuring compliance with international standards, structured risk-sharing, and transparent financial safeguards such as mandatory feasibility studies and net present value thresholds. The model also supports environmental protection, technology transfer, and skilled workforce development.

He concludes that implementing PPP and G2G concessions will strengthen Bangladesh’s global trade position, attract sustainable foreign investment, and transform Chattogram Port into a world-class logistics hub.