Taiwan’s air force apologized to the public as it announced that it would conduct late-night flight training to counter the increasing threat level posed by the Chinese military in Taiwan’s air and sea space. In a press release issued yesterday evening, March 5, Air Force Command said that it would comply with instructions from the Ministry of National Defense (MND) to increase nighttime combat skills and tactical execution experience for pilots of various types of aircraft to enhance preparedness and safeguard airspace security. The late-night missions will span over midnight, and the air force apologized for any impact it may have on the general public. Air Force Command asked for public understanding, saying the missions are necessary for rigorous training to prepare for potential threats and challenges. The announcement comes after an increase in harassments by the Chinese Communist Party via gray zone warfare tactics employed by the Chinese military, and more recently by the Chinese Coast Guard. For decades, military aircraft abided by a tacit understanding that there was a median line in the Taiwan Strait which neither side’s military crossed over. In March 2019, two People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) fighter jets crossed the mid-strait and flew 43 nautical miles into the Taiwan side, forcing intercepts by Taiwan’s Republic of China Air Force (ROCAF). This was the beginning of an increasing number of incursions, and a declaration by CCP officials that there is no center-line in the Taiwan Strait. Incursions and encirclements by China’s military aircraft have become a daily occurrence, constituting a “new normal” since 2020. Yesterday, March 5, Taiwan’s MND announced that in the 24 hours to 6:00 am, a total of 12 PLAAF aircraft and 6 People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) ships were tracked in Taiwan’s air and sea identification zones, including two aircraft and one balloon that crossed the median line. Also yesterday, March 5, China’s finance ministry announced a 7.2% increase in its military budget while calling for “reunification” with Taiwan. Previous announcements had always used the term “peaceful reunification,” but the word “peaceful” appears to have dropped out of the CCPs political parlance. Among military officials who spoke to the Taiwan Legislative Yuan’s Foreign Affairs and National Defense Committee this morning, Minister of the Veterans Affairs Council, Feng Shih-kuan, a retired air force general, spoke to public concerns raised by the media about the impact of late night flights taking off and landing at airbases around the island. Feng said that when he was a commander at Tainan Air Base, members of the public had complained about aircraft taking off and landing after 9:00 pm, but the situation has changed now. Shih said that when people hear planes taking off late at night now, they understand that the planes are on an intercept mission, and their thoughts are with the pilots, hoping for a safe return.

South Africa has recorded a significant increase in the killing of rhinos by poachers. The uptick comes despite government efforts to crack down on the illegal trade in horns. The South African Environment Ministry said on Tuesday that the number of rhinos poached in the country had risen by more than 10% in 2023 compared with the previous year. International trade of rhino horn is prohibited but rhino horn continues to be smuggled to Asia, where it is highly valued, especially in Vietnam and China. The ministry said 499 rhinos were killed in 2023, mostly in state-run parks, compared with 448 the previous year.

The government has fixed the new price of gas and electricity. The Energy and Mineral Resources Division fixed the new price of gas by issuing a notification on Tuesday afternoon (Feb 27). The State Minister of the Ministry of Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources, Nasrul Hamid confirmed the matter at the secretariat. Although the new price has been fixed, the price of gas will remain the same at the customer level. It has been increased only for power generation. However, the newly fixed price of electricity is going to be effective to the consumers from March 1.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina emphasized the necessity to expand trade between Bangladesh and India through their own currencies. "Bangladesh and India have excellent bilateral relations. The bilateral relationship between the two countries is getting stronger day by day. We have to expand our business through exchanges of Bangladeshi Taka and Indian Rupee in order to increase our businesses," she added.   PM  said this while a meeting was held with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference (MSC) 2024 in Germany on Saturday(Feb 17) at Hotel Bayerischer Hof.  

The prevalence of dengue cases in Bangladesh has increased ten times since last year and the deaths has increased almost thrice, according to a health expert.   "Dengue positive cases have increased ten times and death three times between mid September, 2022 and mid-September, 2023," Professor Dr. Md Golam Sharower, Head, Department of Entomology, National Institute of Preventive and Social Medicine (NIPSOM) told a seminar on September 14. BSS Reports Asiatic Society of Bangladesh organized the seminar titled "Challenges in Controlling Aedes Mosquitoes to Prevent Dengue in Bangladesh." Prof. Dr. AKM Abdul Hannan Bhuiyan Chairperson of Dr RA Ghani and Mrs Hosne Ara Ghani Trust Fund, Asiatic Society of Bangladesh also addressed the seminar. While presenting the keynote paper, Sharower explained that with global warming, our country's environmental factors such as temperature, relative humidity and rainfall are increasing, all of which play a key role in increasing the reproductive capacity of the Aedes mosquito. He said there are unplanned urbanization, industrialization and ancillary activities such as construction of multi-storied buildings blocking waterways, dumping old cars and turning cities into mosquito sanctuaries. "So we people of all classes and professions have become helpless today. As we are increasing the breeding area and reproductive capacity of mosquitoes, we never think about its prevention in the same way," Sharower said. The morphological, biological and behavioral changes that have occurred in Aedes mosquitoes as a result of all our unknowing activities in mosquito breeding are highly favorable for Aedes mosquitoes to transmit dengue virus, he elaborated. As a result, the entire medical system is under heavy pressure due to the unexpected increase in the attack of dengue virus all over the country, Sharower said adding it has become very important to check the density of Aedes mosquitoes and the severity of dengue through our nationwide survey. "An integrated vector management or IVM approach is needed instead of a typical single approach. Similarly, we need to work on the idea that have been successful at neighboring countries in controlling dengue and move forward to solve dengue by increasing people's participation with timely decisions," the entomologist highlighted in his presentation.   As of September 15, Bangladesh reported 1,61,964 dengue positive cases and 790 dengue related deaths, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) said.   August witnessed 71,976 dengue positive cases, the highest cases in a single month since dengue outbreak began in 2000 in the country, while 342 dengue-related deaths were reported in the current month, the DGHS statement said. According to the health experts, the vector-borne disease hit Dhaka city in 2000 subsequently the dengue positive cases were detected in Dhaka city only. But the dengue disease is changing its nature and it is gradually spreading across the country, they said, adding: "All 64 districts of the country have witnessed dengue positive cases." July alone recorded 43,854 dengue positive cases with 204 deaths, the DGHS statement read. As of September 14, the authorities recorded 38,156 dengue positive cases while 197 deaths from the mosquito-borne disease during the same period. According to the DGHS, Bangladesh reported 1,01,354 dengue cases, the second highest since dengue cases were detected in 2000, in 2019, 1,405 cases in 2020, 28,429 cases in 2021 and 62,382 cases in 2022. It also added Bangladesh recorded 179 dengue related deaths in 2019, seven deaths in 2020, 105 deaths in 2021 and 281 deaths, the second highest deaths, in 2022.

The number of registered sex workers in Germany at the end of 2022 was 28,280, a rise of 19.1% compared with the year before, according to official figures published by the Federal Statistics Agency (Destatis) on Friday. Experts attribute a large part of the rise to the reopening of businesses after restrictions in place during the worst two years of the coronavirus pandemic, 2020 and 2021. The total number of sex workers registered at the end of 2022 was still far below what it was before the pandemic — 40,370 — in 2019. How the numbers break down Just under a fifth, 5,204, of those registered, had German citizenship, with a large majority of foreign sex workers, 20,969, coming from within Europe. The three most common nationalities were Romanian with 9,870 (35% of the total registered), Bulgarian with 3,140 (11%), and Spanish with 1,760 (6%). The statistics agency reported that there were 2,310 prostitution businesses, compared with 2,290 at the end of 2021 and 1,170 at the end of 2019. The agency recorded 1,202 sex workers as coming from Asia and a further 661 as from the Americas. More than three-quarters of registered sex workers (76%) were aged between 21 and 44, with 1,050 (4%) aged between 18 and 20. Most of the registered businesses were prostitution establishments such as brothels but some 5% were agencies and 3% were logged as vehicles for sex workers or special events. No details on gender The figures were based on figures gathered under Germany's Prostitution Act, which came into force in 2002 with the aim of improving the social and legal position of sex workers. It means that sex workers and businesses are required to register with the authorities and mandates that condoms be used during sex work Statistics are based on the information provided when registering and details of sex or gender are not required. Unofficial estimates in 2019 placed the total number of sex workers in Germany at more than 400,000, meaning that some 90% were unregistered at that time — and technically working illegally. During the lockdown, such unregistered workers were unable to claim compensation. Among the reasons for not registering are privacy concerns, not having an address and a lack of legal residency status in Germany.

Jamaat-e-Islami ameer Sirajul Haq has announced countrywide protest from Friday against recent unjustified price hike in petroleum products. In a statement from Mansoora on Wednesday, he not only condemned increase in price but also asked caretaker Prime Minister Anwarul Haq Kakar to take the decision back to show sympathy towards the poor already crushed under the heavy burden of IMF dictated price hike. 'There has been no cabinet yet, but the killing decision has been taken at the direction of the IMF,' he said, adding that the nation just celebrated 76th Independence Day and the very next day, when even the cabinet has not yet sworn in, the caretaker government has announced massive hike in all petroleum products prices without any justification.  The Jamaat-e-Islami, he said, was expecting the caretakers would provide some relief to the inflation-hit masses rather they endorsed the policies of the predecessors. He said over half of the country’s population lives below poverty line, having no access to even basis needs of life, he added. The two percent ruling elite on the other side, he added, captured the wealth and resources of the 98 percent population. There was need to undo injustice, cruelty and unfair distribution of resources, he said, adding the only way to achieve these objectives was a peaceful democratic struggle.  'The Jamaat-e-Islami invites the entire nation to come out and join hands with it coming Friday to protest against this decision. The JI would take out protest rallies on all district headquarters in the country against atrocious act by the government,' he warned. He also condemned violence in Jaranwala and demanded transparent inquiry into the incidents. He said no one should be allowed to take law into hands. He said enemies were hatching conspiracies to create law and order situation in the country. Meanwhile, Pakistan Markazi Muslim League (PMML) has strongly condemned the successive surge in petroleum product prices orchestrated by the interim government. PMML General Secretary Azam Ch expressed grave concern over the escalating cost of living, stating that these incessant price hikes are pushing the common man further into the depths of poverty. Source: The News

Small blood cells called platelets aid in blood clotting. They are necessary for stopping excessive bleeding and for the healing of wounds. A low platelet count, also known as thrombocytopenia, can lead to bruising, bleeding gums, and heavy menstrual bleeding. There are a number of foods that can help increase blood platelets. The following are some of the most efficient foods: Green leafy vegetables: These vegetables are a good source of vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting. Some good choices include spinach, kale, collard greens, and broccoli. Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits are a good source of vitamin C, which helps the body absorb iron. Iron is also important for blood clotting. Some good choices include oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes. Pomegranate: Pomegranate is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants. These nutrients can help increase blood platelets and protect against infection. Papaya: Papaya is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. These nutrients can help increase blood platelets and boost the immune system. Salmon: Omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory qualities, are present in salmon in good amounts. These fatty acids can help reduce the risk of blood clots and increase blood platelets. Beef liver: Beef liver is a good source of iron, vitamin K, and folate. These nutrients are essential for blood clotting and can help increase blood platelets.   In addition to these foods, there are a number of other things you can do to increase your blood platelet count. These include: Getting enough sleep Managing stress Exercising regularly Avoiding alcohol and smoking If you have a low platelet count, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. However, making dietary changes and following these other tips can help you increase your blood platelet count and improve your overall health. Here are some additional tips for increasing blood platelets: Eat small, frequently spaced meals throughout the day. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. Avoid processed foods and sugary drinks. Take a vitamin C supplement. Talk to your doctor about taking a medication to increase your blood platelet count. It is important to note that not all of these foods and tips will work for everyone. If you have a low platelet count, it is important to work with your doctor to find the best treatment plan for you.

For the fiscal year 2023-24, Finance Minister Abu Hena Mohammad Mustafa Kamal proposed a budget the national budget of total TK. 7,61,785 crore. Tax added newly in this budget on several products compared to the previous year.  Finance Minister Mr. Mustafa Kamal has proposed the budget imposing value-added tax (VAT) or excise duties on several goods and services, which may lead to an increase the price on this products. As a result, car, construction materials, land and flat registration, cigarettes, basmati rice, cashew nuts, gold, dates, cement, rod, LP gas cylinder, travel expense, plastic household product, refrigerator, fan and air conditioner, tableware, kitchenware, tissue, napkin, soft drinks, oven, pen, and eyeglasses may increase. This is the 52nd budget of Bangladesh. It is the fifth budget for Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal. Finance Minister highlighted the changes in tax on various products in the proposed budget. The proposed budget provides various facilities for essential goods to control inflation, along with discouraging the luxury goods import to safeguard foreign exchange reserves. During the budget session, Finance Minister mentioned, "The overall deficit (excluding grants) in this budget is TK. 2,61,785 crore, which is equivalent to 20% of GDP. In the revised budget of the current fiscal year, the overall deficit was BDT 2,027,507 crore, which is 10% of GDP.

At least 883 people were executed worldwide in 2022, says Amnesty International — that's the highest number recorded in five years. Many executions took place in Iran and Saudi Arabia, including of political prisoners. Helge Limburg remembers everything about January 7. For the German parliamentarian from the Green Party, it was a "day of grief and anger" — the day Mohammad Mehdi Karami was executed in Iran. The karate champion was only 22 years old when he was "murdered," as Limburg told, "because there was no due process." Limburg did not know Mohammed Mehdi Karami personally, but the politician declared himself a sponsor of the young Iranian. It was a political act, in solidarity with the democracy movement in Iran — and above all, in the hope that he could prevent Karami's execution. Despite the distance and the fact that he never had the opportunity to speak with Karami by phone, Limburg described how their relationship developed. "I had occasional contact with those near him and I felt very close to him. My family also shared in his excitement and suffering," said Limburg. Excessive use of death penalty in Iran, Saudi Arabia Karami is one of at least 209 people who have been sent to the gallows in Iran this year, according to Volker Turk, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. Iran is among the world's most excessive users of the death penalty. That is reflected in the latest report from the human rights organization Amnesty International, which covers death sentences and executions in 2022. In Iran, at least 576 people were killed in state-sanctioned executions last year — almost twice as many as in 2021. "The Iranian regime fears for its power," analyzed Renata Alt, a German politician with the neoliberal Free Democrat Party (FDP) who chairs the German parliament's Committee on Human Rights and Humanitarian Aid. "That is why it is important that we use these political sponsorships to generate awareness for the many prisoners. Otherwise, it is likely that even more people would be executed," Alt said in a written statement. Many lawmakers in Germany and abroad have taken up similar political sponsorships of prisoners in Iran and other countries. On the other side of the Persian Gulf, the number of people killed has also skyrocketed. In Saudi Arabia, 196 people died by execution in 2021. "Believe it or not, Saudi Arabia executed 81 people in a single day," Agnes Callamard, Amnesty's secretary-general, said during the presentation of the report. That means Iran and Saudi Arabia combined account for more than 80% of registered executions worldwide. Beheaded, hanged, shot, poisoned In total, at least 883 people were beheaded, hanged, shot, or poisoned in government-approved executions in 2022, across 20 countries. That's the highest number of executions in five years, and a drastic increase compared with 2021: more than 300 cases, or over 50%. These statistics do not include the estimated thousands of executions carried out in China — which guards its implementation of the death penalty as a state secret. The same applies to Vietnam. North Korea, where it is suspected that the death penalty is also used excessively, is also not included in the figures. The death penalty is also used in countries that Germany describes as its partners, such as Japan, the United States and Singapore. Whenever Boris Mijatovic, a spokesperson for the German Parliamentary Committee on Human Rights and Humanitarian Aid, expresses criticism of the death penalty to representatives of these countries, he often receives one of two reactions: "Either the person I am talking to is embarrassed, and feels guilty or they come across as very self-confident in the sense of 'what are you Westerners trying to tell me?" the Green Party parliamentarian told. "Especially in the Gulf region or in Asia or in North America, where this is an old topic, one must be very imaginative to make any progress," said Mijatovic, adding that he believes German politicians have a duty. "We are called on to advance this debate. Especially in countries where the death penalty is not only reserved for the most serious crimes but also used for many other crimes. Such as in Iran: 'crimes against God' — that is very, very questionable." Death for dealing drugs violates 'human rights' According to the Amnesty report, well over a third of all identified executions were carried out as punishments for drug trafficking. "The fact that some countries include and use the death penalty as a customary part of their criminal law violates the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and international law," said Alt. That is because these laws expressly forbid the death penalty for offenses that do not meet the threshold of being the "most serious crimes," for example premeditated murder. Alt is furthermore convinced that executing criminals does not have a deterrent effect. "It does not lead to fewer murders, nor does it lead to a reduction in drug-related crimes," she added. In this bleak overall picture, there is, however, somewhat of a glimmer of hope: A further six countries repealed the death penalty in 2022, either fully or in part. The tide is turning especially in African countries; Sierra Leone and the Central African Republic completely abolished the death penalty. Equatorial Guinea and Zambia have removed it to the greatest possible extent without eliminating it completely, and Liberia and Ghana are already in the process of getting rid of capital punishment. By the end of 2022, a total of 112 countries had abolished the death penalty. In December, almost two-thirds of United Nations member countries, 125 nations, voted for a moratorium on its use.