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A staggering majority of Afghans returning from Iran, Pakistan and other neighbouring countries are struggling to find livelihoods, shelter and basic services as they attempt to rebuild lives in a country beset by economic collapse, climate shocks and deteriorating humanitarian conditions, the United Nations and International Organization for Migration (IOM) warn.

With mobile subscriber numbers near saturation and data consumption climbing, Bangladesh’s telecom industry has been viewed as a cornerstone of the government’s digital ambitions – but the current operating environment, he argues, undermines that potential.

What started as an informal attempt to ease congestion and reduce the physical toll on pedal rickshaw pullers has now evolved into a dominant transport mode across Dhaka’s North and South city corporations.

The EPA, which enforces federal environmental laws, said it would stop estimating the economic value of health benefits from reducing ozone and fine particulate matter, even though it acknowledges that they contribute to pulmonary disease, heart attacks, and premature deaths. 

With 2026 designated the Year of Water, Blue Davos seeks to shift perceptions – elevating water from a peripheral issue to a core developmental and economic priority.

The NCCEBL survey found that over 80 per cent of rescued workers did not have a First Information Report (FIR) registered, a prerequisite to hold exploiters legally accountable. Moreover, 63 per cent did not receive interim financial assistance.

Experts warn that slowing global growth and elevated price levels could combine in a scenario akin to stagflation, while debt vulnerabilities across public, corporate and household sectors could amplify financial instability.

Over 30 exporters, nine importers and around 50 Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) from Assam participated in the conclave, reflecting growing interest in the region’s export potential.