In an increasingly visual world, photography has evolved far beyond a hobby—it has become a powerful tool of connection, identity, and even resistance. From the alleyways of Marrakech to the streets of Tokyo, people around the globe are using photography to capture their realities, share their truths, and reimagine how we see the world. In 2025, the art of photography is no longer limited to professionals or those with expensive equipment. With powerful cameras embedded in nearly every smartphone and editing apps accessible to all, the global population has become a generation of storytellers. A New Language of Expression Photography has become the most universal visual language—transcending borders, politics, and even spoken words. A single image can spark movements, ignite conversations, and bring attention to marginalised voices. From the war-torn zones of Gaza and Ukraine to peaceful protests in Europe and climate marches in South America, everyday citizens are documenting history in real time. These raw, unfiltered images often make their way to global audiences faster than traditional news media. "The smartphone is the new pen," says French photojournalist Camille Laurent. "People don’t just take photos—they share their worldviews." The Rise of Visual Identity In cities like New York, Seoul, and Berlin, photography has become deeply intertwined with personal branding. On platforms like Instagram and Threads, visuals are the currency of influence. Whether it’s fashion, travel, activism, or mental health, photography is the lens through which individuals craft and project their identity. This has also sparked a global aesthetic—where minimalist cafes in Istanbul resemble those in Paris, and sunlit "golden hour" selfies are universal. Yet within this visual sameness, cultural uniqueness is also being celebrated. Photographers are reclaiming their heritage—using traditional attire, rural landscapes, and local rituals to tell stories that challenge stereotypes and global homogenisation. AI, Ethics & The Future As artificial intelligence blends with photography, questions of ethics and authenticity are surfacing. AI-generated portraits and edited realities raise concerns about truth, body image, and media manipulation. Yet, at the same time, AI tools are empowering more people to create stunning visuals without formal training—democratising creativity in ways never imagined. "We're entering an era where the line between photography and digital art is blurring," notes Japanese visual artist Rei Nakamura. "But the emotion behind the image still matters most." A Global Bond In refugee camps in Jordan, schoolchildren are given disposable cameras to capture their lives. In Scandinavian forests, nature photographers use drones to document wildlife. On African coastlines, photographers are preserving indigenous stories that were never written down. Despite the diversity of context, one thing is clear: photography connects humanity. It offers empathy. It builds bridges. In the words of American photographer Dorothea Lange, "Photography takes an instant out of time, altering life by holding it still." And today, more than ever, the world is watching—frame by frame.

The United States has long been known as a nation of immigrants and diversity. Over the last century, significant demographic changes have occurred due to immigration patterns, birth rates, cultural shifts, and changing social values. This report outlines how the racial, regional, religious, and national origin composition of the U.S. population has evolved — and where it’s heading.   Table 1: U.S. Population by Race/Ethnicity (1960–2024) Year White (Non-Hispanic) Black Hispanic/Latino Asian Native American Multiracial Other 1960 85% 10.5% 3.5% 0.5% 0.3% — 0.2% 1980 80% 11.5% 6.4% 1.5% 0.6% — 0.3% 2000 69% 12.3% 12.5% 3.6% 0.9% 2.4% 0.3% 2020 59.3% 13.4% 18.5% 5.9% 1.3% 2.8% 0.1% 2024* 57.1% 13.2% 19.1% 6.5% 1.4% 3.1% 0.2%   Over the last six decades, the regional distribution of the U.S. population has undergone a substantial transformation. Economic shifts, climate preferences, and immigration patterns have contributed to the steady rise of the South and West as the primary hubs of growth, while the Northeast and Midwest have seen their shares of the national population gradually decline.   The United States Census Bureau divides the country into four main regions: Northeast, Midwest, South, and West. Over the past several decades, regional population distribution has shifted significantly due to migration trends, job availability, climate preferences, and immigration.   Table 2: Regional Population Distribution (by U.S. Census Regions)   Region 1960 1980 2000 2020 2024 (Est.) Northeast 25% 22% 19% 17% 16.5% Midwest 29% 27% 23% 20% 19.7% South 31% 34% 36% 38% 39.2% West 15% 17% 22% 25% 24.6%   Key Takeaway: The South and West have seen consistent growth due to warmer climates, job markets, and immigration hubs (e.g., Texas, Florida, California).   The religious landscape of the United States has undergone a dramatic transformation over the past 70 years. While the country once identified overwhelmingly as Christian — particularly Protestant — more Americans today are choosing no religious affiliation, a trend that reflects shifting cultural norms, generational change, and growing diversity.   Demography by religion Religion 1950 1980 2000 2020 2024 (Est.) Protestant 69% 56% 51% 40% 39% Catholic 25% 27% 24% 21% 20% Jewish 3% 2.5% 2% 1.8% 1.8% Muslim <0.1% 0.5% 1% 1.3% 1.5% Hindu/Buddhist <0.1% 0.5% 1.5% 2% 2.2% Unaffiliated 2% 7% 15% 27% 29%   Key Shift: The rise of the “nones” (religiously unaffiliated) is among the most dramatic religious shifts in recent history.   Immigration has always been a cornerstone of the American story. But over the past 60 years, the origins of the U.S. foreign-born population have changed dramatically — shifting from a Europe-dominated pattern to one led by Latin America, Asia, and more recently, Africa. These demographic transformations reflect both global trends and U.S. immigration policy reforms.   Summary Insights Racial Diversity Growing Rapidly: Non-Hispanic Whites are no longer a supermajority. By 2045, the U.S. is projected to be “minority-majority.” Regional Power Shift: The South and West are economic and population growth engines. Religious Landscape is Secularizing: Protestants and Catholics are declining; the religiously unaffiliated are growing fastest. Immigration Patterns Have Shifted: From European-dominated to Latin American and Asian-majority since 1965’s Immigration and Nationality Act.

The U.S. Supreme Court issued a landmark ruling on Monday, declaring that former presidents are entitled to partial immunity from criminal prosecution for actions taken while in office. The 6-3 decision, split along ideological lines, has triggered intense political and legal debate across the country.The ruling stems from charges brought against former President Donald Trump, who has faced multiple indictments related to alleged interference in the 2020 presidential election and events surrounding the January 6 Capitol riot. The Court’s decision now makes it more difficult for prosecutors to pursue charges for actions deemed as part of a president's official duties.     Divided Reactions   President Joe Biden responded to the ruling by calling it a “dangerous precedent” that could place future presidents above the law. “No one in America should be beyond accountability,” he said during a press conference.Republican leaders, however, welcomed the decision. House Speaker Steve Scalise stated, “This ruling upholds the constitutional separation of powers and protects the office of the presidency from political attacks.”The recent Supreme Court ruling on presidential immunity has ignited intense debate across the United States, with sharp divisions emerging among legal experts, lawmakers, and the public. The decision, which sets new boundaries on the legal protections afforded to sitting presidents, has far-reaching implications for the balance of power and accountability in government. Supporters argue that the ruling upholds the integrity of the executive office by protecting it from politically motivated prosecutions, while critics warn that it could open the door to unchecked presidential authority.   What the Ruling Means   The Court ruled that while presidents do not have absolute immunity, they are shielded from criminal prosecution for actions that are “within the outer perimeter of official presidential responsibilities.” However, personal or unofficial actions remain subject to prosecution.Legal experts say the ruling could delay several of Trump’s ongoing legal cases, potentially impacting the 2024 election season, where Trump remains the leading Republican contender. As protests, press conferences, and panel discussions erupt nationwide, the ruling is expected to influence upcoming elections and reshape the legal landscape surrounding executive power for years to come.   Public Response   The recent Supreme Court ruling on presidential immunity has ignited intense debate across the United States, with sharp divisions emerging among legal experts, lawmakers, and the public. The decision, which sets new boundaries on the legal protections afforded to sitting presidents, has far-reaching implications for the balance of power and accountability in government. Supporters argue that the ruling upholds the integrity of the executive office by protecting it from politically motivated prosecutions, while critics warn that it could open the door to unchecked presidential authority. As protests, press conferences, and panel discussions erupt nationwide, the ruling is expected to influence upcoming elections and reshape the legal landscape surrounding executive power for years to come.

Colombo, July 1, 2025 — In a dramatic electoral upset that signals a new era in Sri Lankan politics, the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has swept to power, dethroning the long-dominant ruling coalition in the 2025 General Elections. The victory paves the way for Anura Desilva to assume office as Prime Minister, riding a wave of public discontent over economic turmoil, corruption allegations, and youth frustration.   Election Overview   The UDA’s decisive win marks the first change in central leadership in over 12 years, breaking the stronghold of the United People’s Coalition (UPC), led by outgoing Prime Minister Dilan Jayawardene. According to the Election Commission of Sri Lanka, voter turnout hit a record 78%, with unusually high participation from first-time voters and the 18–30 age demographic. Youth-driven campaigns and social media engagement were central to the UDA's momentum, particularly in urban centers such as Colombo, Kandy, and Galle.   Parliamentary Seat Distribution – 2025 General Election Political Party Seats Won Change from 2020 Vote Share (%) United Democratic Alliance (UDA) 132 +47 46.2% United People’s Coalition (UPC) 87 -52 34.1% National People’s Front (NPF) 18 +5 9.7% Tamil Unity Alliance (TUA) 12 0 6.3% Others / Independents 6 0 3.7% Total Seats 255 — 100%     Key Factors Behind the UDA Victory   Sri Lanka has faced persistent inflation, currency devaluation, and foreign debt pressures in recent years. The UDA campaigned on a bold plan to revitalize the economy, promising foreign investment reforms, reduced import dependency, and job creation for youth. Desilva’s repeated calls for government transparency and clean politics resonated with voters weary of high-profile corruption scandals linked to the outgoing administration. The UDA’s tech-savvy approach—leveraging social media, virtual town halls, and influencer-led content—connected with younger demographics and the urban middle class.     A Peaceful Transition Amid International Applause   Prime Minister Dilan Jayawardene, who had held the post since 2013, gracefully conceded defeat late Tuesday evening. In a televised statement, he said: “The people have spoken clearly and decisively. I urge all parties to support a peaceful transfer of power and wish Prime Minister-designate Anura Desilva all success.” Global leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Priya Mehta, EU President Claudia Sørensen, and U.S. President Mark Gonzalez, issued swift congratulatory messages. The United Nations and Commonwealth Election Monitoring Group both commended the election for being “free, fair, and well-administered.”   What’s Next for the New Government   Forming an Independent Anti-Corruption Task Force Renegotiating foreign debt terms with IMF and China Unveiling a National Employment Stimulus Package Reforming education and digital infrastructure Introducing legislation for media freedom and civil rights protections   Public Sentiment and Expert Views   On the streets of Colombo and in rural towns alike, the mood is one of cautious optimism.“I didn’t expect this result, but I’m happy,” said Kavindi Jayasuriya, a 22-year-old voter in Gampaha. “We need new faces, new thinking. I just hope they follow through.” Political analysts have described the result as a “tectonic shift” that could reshape Sri Lanka’s governance model. Dr. Nalaka Perera, a political science professor at the University of Peradeniya, noted: “This election marks a generational change. Voters demanded accountability, and the system delivered. If Desilva keeps his promises, this could be a pivotal turning point.”    Conclusion: Winds of Change   As Sri Lanka turns the page on an entrenched political chapter, expectations are soaring. The new administration inherits a fragile economy and deep institutional challenges but also carries a powerful mandate from a hopeful electorate.Whether the UDA’s sweeping victory leads to lasting reform or stumbles under the weight of its promises remains to be seen. For now, though, Sri Lanka basks in the glow of democratic renewal, and the world watches closely as a new chapter begins.

Dhaka, July 1, 2025 — In a major political development, Prime Minister Sheikh Amin announced a cabinet reshuffle today, appointing five new ministers and reassigning key portfolios in what officials say is a move to accelerate ongoing economic reforms. The Finance Ministry will now be led by veteran economist Dr. Rezaul Karim, while the Ministry of Commerce goes to rising political figure Nasima Haque, marking a notable generational shift in leadership. The reshuffle comes amid public pressure for stronger governance, job creation, and inflation control. Opposition parties have criticized the move, calling it "cosmetic," while analysts suggest it signals a strategic repositioning ahead of the 2026 general elections. The Prime Minister emphasized that the changes aim to "prioritize accountability, efficiency, and public service delivery." Cabinet members are expected to take oath at the Presidential Palace tomorrow morning.

Supporters of BNP leader Ishraque Hossain have announced they will resume their sit-in protest tomorrow (Monday) in front of Nagar Bhaban, demanding what they call an end to political harassment and the immediate withdrawal of "false cases" filed against him. The demonstration is set to begin at 10 AM and comes after a brief pause in protests last week due to heavy rains and mounting police presence around Dhaka South City Corporation headquarters. Organisers say the sit-in will be peaceful but firm in its demands. “We will gather in front of Nagar Bhaban until our leader Ishraque Hossain gets justice,” said Rashedul Alam, a local Jubo Dal leader. “This is not just about one person. This is about the systematic repression of opposition voices in Bangladesh.”   Ishraque, a former mayoral candidate from Dhaka South and a vocal critic of the current government, has recently faced a string of legal troubles. His supporters claim that the charges—ranging from unlawful assembly to incitement—are politically motivated and meant to silence dissent. Over the past several weeks, small-scale protests and human chains have been held across the city by BNP activists, demanding an end to what they describe as "state-sponsored targeting" of opposition leaders. Tomorrow’s sit-in is expected to draw a larger crowd. “We will bring our voices to the heart of the city,” said Nasima Akhter, one of the organisers. “We will not be intimidated.”   Authorities, meanwhile, have warned against any attempt to “disrupt public order”. A senior police official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that security would be “tight but restrained” and that law enforcement would act only if the protest became violent or blocked public services. Nagar Bhaban, the central office of Dhaka South City Corporation, has become a symbolic venue for the protest, with Ishraque’s supporters claiming that the city’s leadership has been complicit in attempts to push opposition figures out of public life. As of Sunday evening, no additional barricades or police deployments were visible around the area, but sources suggest law enforcement is on alert. The BNP has not made any official comment yet regarding the planned sit-in, though several senior leaders have privately expressed concern over possible clashes. For now, the eyes of Dhaka remain on Nagar Bhaban, as another round of political tension unfolds in the heart of the capital.

Key services of the Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) have come to a grinding halt as supporters of BNP leader Ishraque Hossain continue their prolonged sit-in protest in front of Nagar Bhaban for the third consecutive day. From garbage collection to public grievance handling and daily administrative functions—most essential services under the DSCC have been severely disrupted since the protest began early Saturday. Long queues of citizens seeking various services were seen returning home in frustration as access to the main building remains blocked. “This is the third time I’ve come to submit a tax application,” said Mohammad Anwar, a resident of Azimpur. “The gates are locked, and no one is helping us. The protestors say it’s not their fault, but the staff say they can’t enter due to safety concerns.”   Hundreds of Ishraque’s supporters, waving placards and chanting slogans, have surrounded Nagar Bhaban since the weekend. They are demanding the withdrawal of what they call "politically motivated" cases against the former mayoral candidate and calling for an end to harassment of opposition leaders. “We will not move until our leader gets justice,” said Tania Rahman, a member of the BNP-affiliated Mohila Dal. “If that means the city corporation suffers, so be it. This is a fight for democracy.” Inside sources from the DSCC said many staff members have been instructed to work remotely, while others have been unofficially advised to avoid the area due to fear of escalation. DSCC Mayor Sheikh Fazle Noor Taposh has yet to make a public appearance regarding the situation, though a spokesperson said efforts are underway to negotiate with protestors to clear access for city workers. “We understand the right to protest, but public services cannot be hostage to politics,” the spokesperson said.   Meanwhile, the piling garbage in parts of Old Dhaka has sparked health concerns. “The roads are dirty, the bins are overflowing, and no one is coming to clean,” said shopkeeper Shahadat Hossain in Lalbagh. “If this continues for another two days, we will face a sanitation crisis.” Police have remained present but non-interventionist, citing fears of escalation if force is used to disperse the crowd. Senior officers say they are monitoring the situation closely and are in contact with both DSCC officials and protest leaders. As the stand-off enters a critical phase, residents and workers are left to cope with growing frustration. The question now is how long the city can afford this disruption before either side yields—or the situation spirals out of control.

India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters. India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters. India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters. India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters. India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters. India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters.    India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters. India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters. India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters. India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters.      India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters. India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters. India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters. India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters.  India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters. India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters. India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters. India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters. India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters.  India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters. India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters. India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters. India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters.  India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters. India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters. India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters. India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters. India has imposed restrictions on the import of garments, agro-processed foods, furniture and other goods from Bangladesh through land ports, a move likely to disrupt trade flows and increase logistical challenges for exporters. 

Across the streets of Dhaka and in the pages of once ad-heavy newspapers, a noticeable silence is growing. Billboard spaces remain vacant, newspapers carry fewer colorful full-page ads, and television commercial slots—once crowded with promotional buzz—now often revert to filler programming. The reason: businesses, from manufacturers of mild steel rods to suppliers of everyday food items and consumer electronics, are cutting back on advertising budgets in an effort to survive the growing pressure of economic strain. This pullback signals a deep unease in Bangladesh’s business landscape, where companies are grappling with a confluence of challenges—persistently high inflation, a rapidly depreciating taka, and prohibitively steep bank interest rates—all contributing to an uncertain investment climate.   Inflation and Devaluation Fuel the Fire   Inflation has been gnawing at consumer purchasing power for months, pushing up the costs of basic goods and eroding profit margins. Even essential items like rice, lentils, cooking oil, and electricity have seen repeated price hikes, forcing families to stretch budgets thinner each month. For businesses, this spells reduced consumer demand, lower sales, and an urgent need to scale back non-essential expenditures—advertising being one of the first casualties.Compounding the problem is the devaluation of the Bangladeshi taka. Over the past year, the local currency has depreciated sharply against the US dollar, making imported raw materials more expensive. For companies dependent on global supply chains, such as electronics retailers or FMCG producers, the cost of production has soared. Rather than absorbing the loss or passing on full costs to customers—who are already reeling from inflation—many businesses are suspending their marketing activities altogether to shore up internal finances.   Bank Interest Rates Hit New Heights   As part of the government’s strategy to control inflation, the central bank has raised policy interest rates, which has led commercial bank lending rates to spike significantly—often exceeding 13–14%. For businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), this has made accessing working capital extremely expensive. Traditional marketing strategies, once considered vital to brand survival and growth, are now seen as luxuries in such a tight credit environment. Instead, businesses are redirecting funds toward managing overheads, servicing debt, or simply staying afloat. As a result, even during major commercial seasons like Eid-ul-Adha and Puja, the volume of advertising—especially print and broadcast—has dropped to levels not seen in over a decade.   The Fall in Traditional Media Revenues   The cutbacks are taking a toll on the country’s already fragile media ecosystem. Major newspapers and television channels, which rely heavily on corporate advertising for revenue, are seeing their income streams dry up. In the past, a single retail giant or steel conglomerate could purchase several pages of print advertising in a week. Today, media houses are seeing only a fraction of that volume. "This Ramadan, we expected a boost in ad bookings—but it never came," lamented a senior executive at a leading national daily. "Our revenue from advertisements has dropped by nearly 40% compared to the same period last year." For television networks, it's even more concerning. Prime-time slots that would once command top prices from brands promoting mobile phones, detergents, and packaged snacks are now filled with reruns and minimal ad placements.   Shifting Focus to Digital, But Slowly   Some companies are pivoting toward more cost-effective digital platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, and Google Ads. These platforms allow brands to target specific demographics with smaller budgets, tracking every impression and click. However, not all businesses are agile enough to make this transition, and many still lack the expertise or confidence in digital ROI. “There is interest in digital advertising, especially among the younger brands,” says Nadia Khan, a digital media consultant based in Dhaka. “But budget constraints are limiting even those moves. Many are just pausing all marketing altogether and waiting for more economic stability.” Moreover, digital campaigns may offer reach but can’t replace the credibility or mass impact that traditional platforms like television and newspapers provide—especially in rural or semi-urban areas where internet penetration remains inconsistent.   Industry Examples and Sectoral Effects   The impact spans across various sectors. In the steel and construction industry, for example, manufacturers of mild steel rods and cement have scaled down promotional activities due to a construction slowdown. Many infrastructure projects are stalled due to lack of funding, and private developers are holding back due to high interest rates on loans. In the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry, companies producing snacks, bottled beverages, personal hygiene products, and household items have shifted focus toward trade promotions—targeting retailers with direct incentives instead of consumers through ads. Retail electronics has been another major casualty. With prices of imported electronics rising sharply and middle-class purchasing power declining, major brands like Walton, Samsung, and Sony have reduced television and newspaper ads in favor of showroom-level discounts and minimal social media announcements. Even telecom operators—once among the top five advertising spenders in the country—are pulling back. An executive from a top telecom company mentioned, "We're being forced to prioritize core network expansion and subscriber retention over flashy marketing campaigns."   Long-Term Implications The ongoing cutbacks in advertising reflect more than just cautious accounting—they signal a broader erosion of business confidence. Prolonged reduction in brand visibility can harm long-term customer loyalty and market share, particularly in competitive sectors. If the current trends continue, industry experts warn of a “brand vacuum,” where even once-dominant names lose relevance due to lack of visibility. For the media industry, the risks are existential. Journalists, production staff, and editors are already facing job insecurity, delayed salaries, and increased workloads. Smaller media houses may be forced to downsize or shut operations altogether if advertising does not recover soon.   Looking Ahead   There are faint glimmers of hope. The government has signaled that it may look into monetary adjustments later in the fiscal year, potentially lowering interest rates if inflation shows consistent signs of easing. Some banks are also starting to offer sector-specific lending packages at slightly reduced rates, particularly for exporters and manufacturers. Meanwhile, the upcoming fiscal budget may include measures aimed at boosting investor confidence, easing import bottlenecks, and expanding support for small businesses—developments that, if executed efficiently, could help restore the advertising ecosystem. However, industry players agree that a full recovery may still be many months away. Until inflation is under control, the currency stabilizes, and banks offer more accessible credit, most businesses are likely to remain cautious about spending on brand-building.   Conclusion:   The current lull in Bangladesh’s advertising scene is not just a reflection of corporate thrift but a mirror to a larger economic narrative. Businesses are in survival mode, consumers are cautious, and the media is gasping for breath. Advertising, long considered the engine of consumer economies, has now become a luxury for many. And unless broader macroeconomic challenges are addressed, this advertising drought could leave a long-lasting imprint on the country’s economic and cultural fabric.

The recent arrest of popular Bangladeshi actress and singer Nusraat Faria has sparked widespread public attention, prompting a high-level response from the cultural sector. A senior adviser to the Ministry of Cultural Affairs has called the arrest “deeply concerning”, citing its potential impact on the country's artistic freedom and global reputation. Faria, known for her roles in both Bangladeshi and Indian films, was reportedly detained late Friday night under circumstances that remain unclear. According to Dhaka Metropolitan Police sources, she was taken into custody following a complaint linked to "public order concerns" at a private event. No formal charges have yet been filed.   In a statement issued Saturday morning, the cultural affairs adviser, speaking on condition of anonymity, said:   “Nusraat Faria is not just an entertainer—she is a cultural ambassador who has represented Bangladesh across borders. Her sudden arrest raises questions and concerns that must be addressed with transparency.”   The adviser further emphasised the need for due process, warning that such incidents could damage the image of Bangladesh’s cultural sector internationally.   “We must be careful not to send the wrong message to artists, especially women, who are working hard to elevate our creative industries,” the adviser added.   Faria’s legal team has remained tight-lipped but confirmed they are preparing to challenge the legality of her detention in court. “We believe this is a gross overreach and intend to pursue all legal remedies,” her lawyer told reporters outside the courthouse. Social media has exploded with reactions, with hashtags like #FreeFaria and #JusticeForNusraat trending across platforms. Many fans and fellow celebrities have expressed outrage and demanded an explanation from the authorities. The Ministry of Cultural Affairs has not released an official statement, but sources suggest a review of the arrest is underway. As the case unfolds, public pressure continues to mount on law enforcement and government officials to clarify the grounds of Faria’s detention and ensure her rights are upheld.

At least four people were killed and four others injured in a head-on collision between a microbus and a truck in Dinajpur's Birganj upazila this morning.

Supporters of BNP leader Ishraque Hossain continued their sit-in for the fifth consecutive day today, demanding his swift swearing-in as the mayor of Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC).