Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina handed over the Joyeeta Award to five outstanding women on the occasion of the International Women's Day. The awardees were given a medal, a cheque for Taka one lakh, a crest and a certificate. The award giving ceremony held at Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the capital on Friday (March 8). Anarkali, a successful entrepreneur and businessman from Mymensingh received the award.  Pakhi Dutta (Hijra) of Khulna district received the award in the category of 'Women who have contributed in social development'. Besides, Kallyani Minji (education and employment) of Rajshahi district, and  Komoli Rabi Dash (successful mother) of Moulvibazar district of Sylhet division Jahanara Begum (repression prevention) of Barguna district received the award. The theme of this year's International Women's Day is 'Women's equal rights, equal opportunities'.  

Prominent Bangladeshi singer Rezwana Chowdhury Bannya has been named as one of the recipients of prestigious Padma Shri Award by the Indian government. The government of India made the announcement recently. Padma Awards - one of the highest civilian Awards of India, are conferred in three categories, namely, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri. The Awards are given in various disciplines / fields of activities, viz.- art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, civil service, etc. ‘Padma Vibhushan’ is awarded for exceptional and distinguished service; ‘Padma Bhushan’ for distinguished service of high order and ‘Padma Shri’ for distinguished service in any field. The awards are announced on the occasion of Republic Day every year. These Awards are conferred by the President of India at ceremonial functions which are held at Rashtrapati Bhawan usually around March / April every year. For the year 2024, the President has approved conferment of 132 Padma Awards including 2 duo cases (in a duo case, the Award is counted as one) as per list below. The list comprises 5 Padma Vibhushan, 17 Padma Bhushan and 110 Padma Shri Awards. 30 of the awardees are women and the list also includes 8 persons from the category of Foreigners / NRI / PIO / OCI and 9 Posthumous awardees.  

Bangla Academy has announced the names of 16 winners of its 2023 literature awards on Wednesday (Jan 24).     They include Shamim Azad for poetry, and Nuruddin Jahangir and Salma Bani for fiction. Zulfiker Matin has won the award for essay or research, and Saleha Chowdhury in translation. For screenplay, Mrittika Chakma and Masud Pathik have shared the award.     The award for children’s literature goes to Tapankar Chakraborty. Afroza Parvin and Asaduzzaman Asad have won the award for research on the Liberation War. The academy has named Saifullah Mahmud Dulal and Md Mojibur Rahman as the winners of the award for research on the Father of the Nation Bangaandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Enam Al Haque has been named for science writing, science fiction or works on environmental science.   For autobiography, memoirs or travelogue, Ishaque Khan has won the award. Tapan Bagchi and Sumankumar Dash are the winners of the award under the folklore category.     Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will distribute the awards at the inauguration of the Amar Ekushey Book Fair in Dhaka in the beginning of February.

In a celebration of bilateral trade and mutual prosperity, 27 companies were recognized at the “China-Bangladesh Business Excellence Award 2023” for their remarkable contributions toward fostering economic ties in these two countries. Fifteen winners were Bangladeshi enterprises, while twelve stemmed from China, a testament to the vitality of the business connections that have blossomed under the Belt and Road Initiative’s decade of operation.   The award ceremony, meticulously organized by the Bangladesh-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCCI) and the Chinese Enterprises Association in Bangladesh (CEAB), took place at the Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden on 21 December 2023. The event shed light on the prosperous synergy emerging between the two nations, spotlighting the role of successful companies in this blossoming partnership.   Present at this event were high-ranking officials such as H.E. Yao Wen, the Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh; Lokman Hossain Miah, executive chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) and Anowar Hossain, the Additional Secretary of ERD, amongst others. The Chinese Ambassador emphasised the crucial function of political leaders in steering the course of bilateral relations. He highlighted how recent interactions between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina have breathed fresh life into these ties, setting in motion a new phase of cooperation. It was also marked that China has consistently remained Bangladesh’s most significant trading partner for 13 years running, and the largest source of imports. The ambassador spoke of the decreased trade deficit with China by 16%, pointing towards an effective improvement in dealing with the trade imbalance. Additionally, China has proved to be a predominant source of foreign direct investment for Bangladesh, amounting to a stock of 3.17 billion US dollars as of September.   Mr. Ke Changliang, President of the CEAB, spoke of the burgeoning economic rapport between China and Bangladesh, signifying a foundation for shared benefit and prosperity. He spoke of the CEAB members’ profound impact on the region, providing upwards of a half a million direct jobs to local individuals, therefore, emphasizing the enterprises’ commitment to responsible and positive business practices.   The China-Bangladesh Business Excellence Award 2023 not only celebrates the triumphs of the awarded companies but also marks the decade-long journey of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). This esteemed event serves as recognition of the firm alliances built over this period and the promising growth that lies ahead in the realm of Chinese-Bangladeshi bilateral trade relations. The vibrancy and vigor with which these ties continue to flourish, stand true to the spirit of mutual growth and shared success.   A total of 27 companies, 15 from Bangladesh and 12 from China, have won the “China-Bangladesh Business Excellence Award 2023” for their outstanding performance in boosting the bilateral trade between the two countries during the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative. This is the first ever such type of program happened in Bangladesh.   To strengthen the consistent sustainable development of Bangladesh; Chinese Enterprises Association in Bangladesh (CEAB) and Bangladesh China Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCCI) have formed a bilateral committee to organize China-Bangladesh Business Excellence Award which shall held every year from now on to boost the Bangladesh-China business cooperation.   Chinese Enterprises Association in Bangladesh (CEAB) recently established eight specialized industrial branches under the guidance of H.E. Mr. Yao Wen, Ambassador of China to Bangladesh; which are as follows- Power and Energy, Road and Bridge, Railway and Civil Aviation, Water and Environment, Marine and Harbour, Information and Communication Technology, Textile and Garment, Trade and Services. Every specialized branch underscores the dedication to actively contributing to key sectors essential for the advancement of Bangladesh. Even the above stated branches are the strong monument of bilateral cooperation between both the countries- China and Bangladesh.   In the coming years, apart from the 8 industries mentioned before CEAB will further nourish renewable energy, ICT, smart agriculture, and green Infrastructure sectors in Bangladesh for sustainable development following the vision of Smart Bangladesh.   In the 1st China-Bangladesh Business Excellence Award program 2023, for awards nomination and final selection the committee has prioritized in category aspects as above stated the eight industrial branches where the awarded organizations actively contributing to key sectors essential for the advancement of Bangladesh: Power and Energy, Road and Bridge, Railway and Civil Aviation, Water and Environment, Marine and Harbour, Information and Communication Technology, Textile and Garment, Trade and Services. Besides these, the committee has recognized in four more categories of award for Bilateral Business Excellence Award for Women, SME Rising Star, CSR and Significant Contribution which have great impact in business and civil society eventually in the country’s ultimate development.   Chinese Enterprises Association in Bangladesh (CEAB) always encourages the strong presence of women in the business community. One Chinese and one Bangladeshi female recipient of the Bilateral Business Excellence Award for Women serve as inspirations to countless others, breaking barriers and paving the way for a more equitable and prosperous future. While many Chinese enterprises boast a robust financial foundation, it also will acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of two small and medium enterprises, one from Bangladesh and one from China, to recognize their contribution and to inspire further growth in bilateral trade and economic cooperation.   The bilateral committee which is jointly formed by BCCCI and CEAB is committed to organize “China-Bangladesh Business Excellence Award” annually to boost the Bangladesh-China business cooperation.

On December 9th, the Children’s Painting Competition Award Giving Ceremony was held at Embassy of Japan in Bangladesh. A total of 15 winners from 5 groups has received their prizes. It is worth mentioning that students from Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan, also attended the prize giving ceremony online.  Along with young students, Mayor of Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan, Mr. Tatsuya ITO and representatives from the city sent a video message encouraging the participants and hoped that more such event will deepen Japan-Bangladesh relations.   Ambassador IWAMA Kiminori congratulated the winners and said “ Today, the prizes are given not only to the children of Bangladesh but also to the Japanese boys and girls in Bangladesh and Japan ”. He further said “I do hope that after today’s competition, many of the participants from Bangladesh show strong interest to Japan.  Embassy will give relevant information about Japan for your future activities. I do also wish that some of you will one day travel to our country and experience our culture directly. ” Honorary Prof. Syed Abul Barq Alvi, Department of Printmaking, University of Dhaka, and Md. Zahirul Hasan, Founder President, Bangladesh-Japan Cultural & Friendship Exchange Forum, and Special guest Engineer, Utpal K Das, attended the prize giving ceremony.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud today handed over the 'Asia Climate Mobility Champion Leader Award' to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. "Information and Broadcasting Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud handed over the Asia Climate Mobility Champion Leader Award to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at her official residence Ganabhaban this morning," Prime Minister's Press Secretary Ihsansul Karim told BSS. Earlier, Information and Broadcasting Minister Dr. Hasan Mahmud and the Head of Bangladesh delegation in the COP28 high level segment, received the Award on behalf of the Prime Minister. The award was conferred on Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, acknowledging her voice of leadership in championing the climate actions and a lead global advocate for vulnerable communities. The Global Centre for Climate Mobility, supported by IOM and the UN system conferred the Award during a high-level panel on the sidelines of the COP28 in Dubai on December 1. President of the UN General Assembly, Ambassador Dennis Francis and Director General of IOM, Amy Pope co-hosted the high-level panel. During the UNGA78 Climate Mobility Summit, the Prime Minister drew the sharp focus of the global leaders to the urgency of climate-forced migration and displacement. The award is a significant international recognition to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the country's continuous advocacy in addressing climate mobility and the challenges derived from it. Botswana, Suriname and Palau also received the award from Africa and the Pacific. The Global Centre for Climate Mobility works for cooperative and comprehensive solutions to addressing climate mobility collaborating with the United Nations system, regional intergovernmental organizations and development finance institutions.  During COP27, the award was given to five African Heads of State and Government as Climate Mobility Champion Leaders. Source: BSS

The Government has announced the ‘National Film Award-2022 on Tuesday (October 31).  Chanchal Chowdhury and Jaya Ahsan got the award as best actor and actress for playing the lead role in the film ‘Hawa’,  and  ‘Beauty Circus’. Rikita Nandini Shimu also got the award ar ‘Shimu’ for ‘Beauty Circus’.  27 artists and crews have been nominated for the National Film Award this year. Muhammad Quayum’s movie ‘Kura Pokkhir Shunne Ura’ and Raihan Rafi’s ‘Poran’ were elected as Best Films jointly. Rubaiyat Hossain won the Best Film Director for the movie ‘Shimu’. Actor Khosru (Valiant Freedom Fighter Kamrul Alam Khan Khosru) and actress Rozina (Rawshan Ara Ranu) are getting lifetime honors.

The founder of "JAAGO Foundation" Korvi Rakshand got the Ramon Magsaysay Award-2023. Unwavering dedication to education and social change, Korvi Rakshand has been honoured with the Ramon Magsaysay Award. Earlier today, the foundation shared a post in JAAGO Foundation's facebook page. "We are thrilled and immensely proud to announce that Korvi Rakshand, the visionary founder of JAAGO Foundation and Volunteer for Bangladesh, has been honoured with the prestigious 2023 Ramon Magsaysay Award in the Emergent Leadership category."  The Award is known as 'The Noble Prize of Asia'. This year, four individuals across different categories were nominated for the awards. They are: Ravi Kannan R from India, Miriam Coronel-Ferrer from Philippines, Eugenio Lemos from Timor-Leste, and Korvi Rakshand from Bangladesh. The official announcement of the award came on the morning of August 31, 2023. The formal conferment of the Ramon Magsaysay Awards will be held at the Metropolitan Theater in Manila, Philippines on Saturday, November 11, 2023.

In a remarkable display of talent and dedication, Tabish Aijaz Khan, an accomplished MBBS doctor from the Iqbal Abad area of Anantnag district, in south Kashmir, has been making waves in the art world. Alongside her medical profession, Tabish has carved a niche for herself as a self-taught artist with a penchant for transforming unconventional materials into breathtaking masterpieces. Tabish's artistic journey began during her childhood, where she found solace and joy in creating art pieces on waste materials such as Chinar leaves, feathers, stones, and discarded items. Her belief that nothing is useless drove her to turn these materials into beautiful artworks, defying conventional norms of painting. Gradually, her hobby evolved into a passion, and in 2016, she decided to share her unique creations on social media during the turbulent Kashmir Unrest. To her surprise, Tabish's art received overwhelming appreciation and support from the community, motivating her to delve deeper into her passion. Despite the challenges posed by communication blockades and limited platforms for artists in the region, she managed to excel in every art competition she participated in, although her ongoing medical education prevented her from taking part in significant events. Tabish's ability to balance her medical profession with her passion for art is a testament to her dedication and perseverance. Painting serves as a stress reliever for her during intense study sessions, reinforcing her belief in the power of art to soothe the mind and soul. Her exceptional talent and creativity have not gone unnoticed. Tabish has been recognized with various prestigious awards, including the Women Empowerment Award presented by DC Anantnag on Women's Day in 2021, the Kashmir Icon Excellence Award, and accolades from India Book of Records, Asia Book of Records, and the IWR Foundation Award. Speaking about her journey, Tabish expressed her determination to continue pursuing her passion under all circumstances. She attributes her success to her unwavering family support, especially from her father, who has been a constant source of motivation. Tabish's story serves as an inspiration to the youth, particularly in Kashmir, encouraging them to pursue their passions and have faith in their abilities. She believes that empowering oneself through meaningful pursuits is more rewarding than wasting time on futile exercises. As she continues her career as a doctor, Tabish Khan's innovative approach to art and her ability to turn waste materials into awe-inspiring artworks stand as a testament to her infinite capacity for creativity. Her achievements and dedication emphasize the importance of hard work and self-confidence in achieving success. Tabish Khan's story echoes the sentiment of Leonardo da Vinci's famous words, "Art is the queen of all sciences, communicating knowledge to all the generations of the world." She has combined her medical expertise with the language of art, breaking barriers and creating an impact that transcends boundaries.

In a remarkable display of talent and dedication, Tabish Aijaz Khan, an accomplished MBBS doctor from the Iqbal Abad area of Anantnag district, in south Kashmir, has been making waves in the art world. Alongside her medical profession, Tabish has carved a niche for herself as a self-taught artist with a penchant for transforming unconventional materials into breathtaking masterpieces. Tabish's artistic journey began during her childhood, where she found solace and joy in creating art pieces on waste materials such as Chinar leaves, feathers, stones, and discarded items. Her belief that nothing is useless drove her to turn these materials into beautiful artworks, defying conventional norms of painting. Gradually, her hobby evolved into a passion, and in 2016, she decided to share her unique creations on social media during the turbulent Kashmir Unrest. To her surprise, Tabish's art received overwhelming appreciation and support from the community, motivating her to delve deeper into her passion. Despite the challenges posed by communication blockades and limited platforms for artists in the region, she managed to excel in every art competition she participated in, although her ongoing medical education prevented her from taking part in significant events. Tabish's ability to balance her medical profession with her passion for art is a testament to her dedication and perseverance. Painting serves as a stress reliever for her during intense study sessions, reinforcing her belief in the power of art to soothe the mind and soul. Her exceptional talent and creativity have not gone unnoticed. Tabish has been recognized with various prestigious awards, including the Women Empowerment Award presented by DC Anantnag on Women's Day in 2021, the Kashmir Icon Excellence Award, and accolades from India Book of Records, Asia Book of Records, and the IWR Foundation Award. Speaking about her journey, Tabish expressed her determination to continue pursuing her passion under all circumstances. She attributes her success to her unwavering family support, especially from her father, who has been a constant source of motivation. Tabish's story serves as an inspiration to the youth, particularly in Kashmir, encouraging them to pursue their passions and have faith in their abilities. She believes that empowering oneself through meaningful pursuits is more rewarding than wasting time on futile exercises. As she continues her career as a doctor, Tabish Khan's innovative approach to art and her ability to turn waste materials into awe-inspiring artworks stand as a testament to her infinite capacity for creativity. Her achievements and dedication emphasize the importance of hard work and self-confidence in achieving success. Tabish Khan's story echoes the sentiment of Leonardo da Vinci's famous words, "Art is the queen of all sciences, communicating knowledge to all the generations of the world." She has combined her medical expertise with the language of art, breaking barriers and creating an impact that transcends boundaries.