Mohini Barman - The Purbottar

09 Sep

Federal Reserve Holds Rates Steady Amid Economic Slowdown

Mohini BarmanInternational

The latest economic data from the United States shows inflation slowing to its lowest level in two years, bringing some relief to households. The Consumer Price Index rose just 2.8% in July compared to last year, easing pressure on the Federal Reserve. Officials at the Fed announced that interest rates will remain unchanged, signaling cautious optimism that the economy is stabilizing. However, economists warned that the job market is showing early signs of weakness, with hiring slowing across several sectors. President Joe Biden said the figures prove his administration’s policies are working, while critics argue that many families still face…

08 Sep

Canada Wildfires Force Thousands to Evacuate

Mohini BarmanInternational

Massive wildfires have forced over 30,000 residents in British Columbia, Canada, to evacuate their homes. Strong winds and dry conditions have fueled the flames, with firefighters struggling to contain the blaze. Provincial authorities have declared a state of emergency, while the federal government has sent military assistance to aid in rescue and relief efforts. Environmental scientists warn that climate change is contributing to more frequent and intense wildfires in Canada. Communities in western provinces remain on high alert as weather forecasts predict little rainfall in the coming days.

08 Sep

US Congress Approves Major Healthcare Bill

Mohini BarmanInternational

The US Congress has passed a sweeping healthcare reform bill that expands Medicare coverage and lowers prescription drug prices for millions of Americans. The law allows the government to negotiate directly with pharmaceutical companies, a move expected to reduce medicine costs significantly. President Joe Biden called the bill “a historic victory for working families,” while critics argued that it could impact drug innovation. The bill also increases subsidies for health insurance under the Affordable Care Act. Healthcare experts say this reform could reshape the American medical system and ease financial burdens on senior citizens.

06 Sep

Bangladesh Expands Garment Export to Europe

Mohini BarmanInternational

Bangladesh has signed new trade agreements with the European Union to expand its garment exports. The deal, which ensures duty-free access for several textile products, is expected to create thousands of jobs and strengthen Dhaka’s economy. Industry leaders say Bangladesh is now the second-largest garment exporter in the world, after China. The EU remains a key market, with over 60% of Bangladesh’s clothing exports going to European buyers. For Bangladesh-based readers, this represents a significant economic opportunity; for India and regional outlets, it highlights South Asia’s growing role in the global textile trade.

06 Sep

Hurricane Fiona Hits Florida Coast

Mohini BarmanInternational

The US state of Florida is reeling after Hurricane Fiona made landfall, bringing heavy rainfall and winds exceeding 120 km/h. Authorities confirmed that nearly half a million residents lost electricity, with emergency crews working around the clock to restore power. The National Weather Service has warned of flash floods and issued evacuation orders in low-lying areas. Schools and businesses in coastal cities such as Miami and Tampa remain closed. President Joe Biden has pledged federal assistance, saying the government will prioritize rescue and relief operations. Environmentalists argue that worsening storms like Fiona underscore the urgent need to address climate change.

05 Sep

Mobile Money Growth Boosts Financial Inclusion

Mohini BarmanInternational

The Central Bank of Nigeria has announced a major expansion of mobile banking and digital payment systems to improve financial inclusion across the country. Over 40 percent of Nigeria’s population currently lacks access to traditional banking. Officials say mobile platforms can help rural communities access savings, loans, and payments more efficiently. The move is part of a broader plan to digitize Africa’s largest economy. Global financial institutions, including some from India and Bangladesh, are exploring partnerships in Nigeria’s growing fintech sector. Analysts believe this could create opportunities for cross-border innovation in digital finance.

05 Sep

US Economy Adds 250,000 Jobs in July

Mohini BarmanInternational

The United States labor market continues to show strength as 250,000 new jobs were added in July, surpassing economists’ expectations. The unemployment rate remained steady at 3.9 percent, close to a historic low. The health, technology, and construction sectors drove most of the gains, while retail saw slower growth. Economists say the strong numbers suggest the US economy is resilient despite global uncertainties, including inflation and supply chain disruptions. President Joe Biden welcomed the report, calling it proof of “sustained economic recovery.” However, critics argue that wage growth is still lagging behind inflation, leaving many Americans struggling with high living…

04 Sep

Kingdom Expands E-Visa Program to Boost Economy

Mohini BarmanInternational

Saudi Arabia has announced the expansion of its electronic visa program to include 30 more countries, part of its Vision 2030 plan to diversify the economy beyond oil. The move allows easier access for tourists to historic sites like AlUla, Riyadh, and Jeddah. Officials said the initiative aims to attract 100 million visitors annually by the end of the decade. Already, investments are flowing into hospitality, entertainment, and cultural heritage projects. For South Asian travelers, particularly from India, Bangladesh, and Nepal, this could mean better opportunities for business, work, and religious tourism beyond the Hajj and Umrah framework.

04 Sep

US Senate Passes Landmark AI Regulation Bill

Mohini BarmanInternational

The United States Senate has passed a groundbreaking bill aimed at regulating artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. The legislation requires companies to ensure transparency in AI algorithms, protect consumer privacy, and prevent misuse in areas like surveillance and deepfakes. Supporters say the move positions the U.S. as a leader in AI governance, setting standards that could influence global markets. Critics, however, argue that excessive regulation may slow innovation and give an edge to competitors like China. Tech giants including Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI expressed conditional support, stressing the need for balanced policies. Analysts believe this bill could reshape the way AI…

03 Sep

Bangladesh Launches Satellite-Based Flood Monitoring

Mohini BarmanBangladesh

Bangladesh has rolled out a satellite-based flood monitoring system, designed to give rural communities more accurate early warnings during monsoon season. The system, developed in collaboration with Japan, provides real-time rainfall and river-level data, which is shared through mobile alerts and community radio stations. Officials said the project could save thousands of lives and prevent large-scale crop losses, particularly in flood-prone districts like Kurigram, Jamalpur, and Sylhet. Experts believe the initiative can also be adapted in neighboring India and Nepal, where river systems are interconnected. Regional disaster management groups welcomed the move, calling it a model for South Asia.