Latest news with #Bangladesh-India
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First Post
14-07-2025
- Politics
- First Post
Mango diplomacy after Eid letter: Is Yunus seeking to reset ties with Modi?
Bangladesh's interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, has sent 1,000 kg of Haribhanga mangoes to PM Narendra Modi, days after exchanging Eid greetings through letters. Amid strained ties since Sheikh Hasina's exit, this sweet gesture follows a long tradition of mango diplomacy in Asia, signalling a possible shift in Dhaka's approach toward New Delhi read more Bangladesh's interim Chief Adviser, Professor Muhammad Yunus, has initiated what many are referring to as 'mango diplomacy' with India. According to Dhaka Tribune, a consignment of 1,000 kilogrammes of Haribhanga mangoes, a highly prized variety cultivated in northern Bangladesh, was dispatched to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and key political leaders in New Delhi over the weekend. The gesture, coordinated by Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is being seen as part of a broader diplomatic effort by the current caretaker administration in Dhaka to re-engage New Delhi. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Alongside Modi, mango consignments are also being delivered to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha. According to officials at the Bangladesh High Commission in India, the gifts are intended for distribution among dignitaries in the Indian Prime Minister's Office and the diplomatic corps. This consignment is part of a longstanding tradition in the subcontinent, where seasonal fruits — especially mangoes — are used as tokens of goodwill. Bangladesh, in particular, has often engaged in such symbolic exchanges with Indian states and leaders. Does Yunus want to mend ties with Modi? The mangoes followed a diplomatic exchange earlier in June when Modi sent Eid-ul-Adha greetings to the people of Bangladesh and Yunus. In a return letter dated June 6, Yunus noted PM Modi's message that 'reflects the shared values' and the connect between the two nations. He continued, 'I am confident that the spirit of mutual respect and understanding will continue to guide our nations to work together for the wellbeing of our peoples.' Describing the religious festival as 'a time of reflection, which brings communities together in the spirit of festivity, sacrifice, generosity and unity,' Yunus used the opportunity to highlight the importance of working collaboratively across borders for the broader good. In his own letter dated June 4, Modi had described Eid-ul-Adha as 'an integral part of the rich and diverse cultural heritage of India' and stated the values of 'sacrifice, compassion and brotherhood' as central to building inclusive and peaceful societies. Though diplomatic courtesies such as these are customary during religious festivals, this particular sequence signals a more deliberate attempt to re-engage at a time when formal diplomatic ties have been significantly stressed. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Strained Bangladesh-India relations India's relationship with Bangladesh has undergone a considerable shift since the dramatic fall of Sheikh Hasina's government in August 2024, following months of youth-led protests. The unrest, marked by widespread violence and a reported death toll exceeding 1,000, culminated in Hasina's abrupt departure from Dhaka. Since August 5 last year, the former prime minister has been living in India, where she remains in self-imposed exile. India's discomfort with the new dispensation has been evident. The administration under Yunus — appointed as head of the interim government — has drawn criticism from New Delhi over a range of issues, including its perceived mishandling of communal violence targeting minorities and a noticeable diplomatic tilt towards China and Pakistan. Bangladesh, on its part, has accused India of meddling in its domestic affairs and expressed strong resentment over what it called 'unwanted Indian interference.' Meanwhile, the domestic political environment in Bangladesh remains unsettled. Several opposition parties have been pressing for early national elections and a return to full-fledged democratic rule. While Yunus has indicated that elections could be held by the end of 2025, he has publicly stated that he does not intend to contest them himself. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The political vacuum and the broader strategic uncertainty have prompted Dhaka to recalibrate its foreign policy. In the last year, Bangladesh has notably deepened its engagement with China. With over $7 billion in investments and a debt burden exceeding $6 billion, China plays a significant role in Dhaka's economic and infrastructural development. Bangladesh is also part of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Chinese President Xi Jinping's flagship transcontinental infrastructure project. Why Bangladesh still needs India Despite its outreach to Beijing, Bangladesh remains deeply interlinked with India, both geographically and economically. Nearly 94 per cent of Bangladesh's 4,367-kilometre border is shared with India, and the country's geo-position makes its economy heavily reliant on Indian access points for trade and transportation. This proximity not only creates logistical dependency but also grants Dhaka considerable leverage as a vital corridor for India's northeastern states. From food staples like rice, wheat, onions, and sugar, to raw materials such as cotton and iron, Bangladesh imports a wide range of essentials from its western neighbour. India also supplies refined petroleum, electronic equipment and construction materials vital to Bangladesh's urbanisation and industrial growth. Any prolonged downturn in relations with India would significantly impair Bangladesh's economy. A reduction in cross-border trade or delays in supply chains could lead to inflation, job losses and a drop in GDP. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Bangladesh's ready-made garments (RMG) industry — the backbone of its export economy — depends heavily on Indian textile inputs. Disruptions to this supply would directly affect foreign revenue and employment in the sector. These realities make it evident that Dhaka cannot afford to alienate New Delhi entirely, even as it cultivates strategic ties with other powers. India, for its part, sees Bangladesh as a crucial partner in regional connectivity, security cooperation and counterterrorism efforts. What is mango diplomacy? Using mangoes as a soft diplomatic tool is not new in South Asian politics. The gifting of mangoes, particularly high-quality regional varieties, has long been a symbol of hospitality and friendship in the region. In 2023, then-Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina sent mangoes to President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a friendly gesture during stalled negotiations over the Teesta water-sharing agreement. The practice has also been observed in other regional contexts. In 2008, Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari gifted mangoes to then-Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, seeking to open the door for bilateral dialogue. Going further back, Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi presented mangoes to Philippine President Corazon Aquino during a state visit in 1986. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD West Bengal and Tripura have often received seasonal mango gifts from Dhaka, reciprocated in kind by the Indian states. This year, Tripura received 300 kilogrammes of Haribhanga mangoes, packed in 60 cartons and delivered through the Akhaura land port. Tripura's signature offering in return has traditionally been the Queen variety of pineapples, renowned for their flavour. While these fruit exchanges are largely symbolic, they serve a purpose in maintaining a working relationship even during periods of political discord. Also Watch: With inputs from agencies
Time of India
29-06-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Yunus unlikely to hold B'desh polls soon, says Hasina aide
Kolkata: Sheikh Hasina aide Obaidul Quader said it was unlikely the interim govt in Bangladesh, led by Muhammed Yunus, would hold a general election anytime soon. The general secretary of Awami League in exile in India further said that Awami League workers were holding political programmes in Bangladesh despite the interim govt's restrictive orders against the party. Speaking in Kolkata, Quader said, "We have command politics in Bangladesh, and it will fail as the command economy has failed. We don't think Yunus is interested in holding an election anytime soon. His associates and allied fundamentalist groups like Jamaat-e-Islami and NCP (National Citizen Party) do not want an election. If Awami League can take part in a free and fair poll, it will make a big impact." "People are disillusioned with the breakdown of the administrative machinery in Bangladesh. There is an upsurge in the support base of Sheikh Hasina. Prices of essentials are rising, the law and order situation has deteriorated and money laundering has increased in Bangladesh. Bank deposits have gone down significantly, while deposits in Swiss banks have increased to a large extent," Quader added. You Can Also Check: Kolkata AQI | Weather in Kolkata | Bank Holidays in Kolkata | Public Holidays in Kolkata He said every political force in Bangladesh had united against Awami League, pointing to a meeting between Yunus and Tarique Rehman, acting chairman of BNP and son of former PM Khaleda Zia, in London. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like One of the Most Successful Investors of All Time, Warren Buffett, Recommends: 5 Books for Turning... Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Click Here Undo "They had a closed-door meeting for over 40 minutes. All of them are against Awami League now. Everywhere he (Yunus) has been blaming Awami League and India for his failures. He is trying to hyphenate India and Awami League. Bangladesh-India bilateral relations are suffering," he said further. Talking about the students' upsurge in Bangladesh which led to Hasina's ouster, Quader said it wasn't a "mass upsurge" but a "mob upsurge" where "radicals, terrorists, militants and religious extremists joined hands to overthrow an elected regime." On the interim govt banning Awami League's political activities following amendments to the country's anti-terrorism law, Quader said, "Awami League was banned before 1971 too. The ban on the party's programme has given renewed strength to workers. Our activists are organising meetings and protests in violation of govt orders. They cannot be repressed anymore." He added that Hasina had been talking to activists at the grassroots-level and had so far spoken to nearly 60 organisational districts. "Since June 23, our party workers in Bangladesh have taken up a month-long programme to celebrate the party's foundation day," he said.
Time of India
27-06-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Ties with India at 'readjustment' stage: Bangladesh
DHAKA: Dhaka's relationship with New Delhi is now at a "re-adjustment" stage and there is "no lack of goodwill from our side", Bangladesh foreign affairs adviser Md Touhid Hossain said on Thursday, however, acknowledging that current ties are not as "deep" as they were during the previous Sheikh Hasina govt. Bangladesh-India relations suffered following the ouster of Hasina last year. The Muhammad Yunus-led caretaker govt in Dhaka has sought the former PM's extradition from India. Asked at a press conference about the June 19 Bangladesh-China-Pakistan meeting in the Chinese city of Kunming, he said, "I can assure you it was not done targeting India". "We are not forming any alliance. It was a meeting at the official level, not at the political level," Hossain said
India.com
26-06-2025
- Sport
- India.com
Confirmed! Sanju Samson Set To Join New Franchise On July 5
India's star batter Sanju Samson is set to enter the Kerala Cricket League (KCL) player auction for the first time as the second edition of the T20 league gears up for action. The Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) will hold the KCL 2.0 auction in Thiruvananthapuram on July 5, with Samson expected to be the marquee name available. Samson Registers for KCL Auction After missing the inaugural 2024 season of the KCL due to international commitments, where he only served as the league ambassador, Samson has now thrown his name into the player pool. With a relatively clear international schedule ahead of the Asia Cup 2025, Samson's participation is confirmed. The upcoming KCL season runs from August 22 to September 7, meaning Samson could be available for the playoff stages if the Bangladesh-India series (August 17 – August 31) takes place as planned. Samson's inclusion in the league is expected to be a game-changer, especially for cricket fans in Thiruvananthapuram. The Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain will be looking to gain valuable match practice and reignite his campaign to secure a regular spot in India's T20I side. He had fallen out of favour following a tough five-match T20I series against England earlier this year. The wicketkeeper-batter faced injury setbacks during the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. For much of the campaign, Riyan Parag took over captaincy duties for Rajasthan Royals, with Sanju Samson initially featuring only as an Impact Player before being sidelined due to injury. He scored 257 runs in nine innings at an average of 35.63. KCL 2.0: Tournament Dates, Format, and Franchises The second season of KCL is scheduled from August 22 to September 7. A franchise owners' meeting took place on June 26. The six teams competing this year are: Kollam Sailors Calicut Globstars Alleppey Ripples Kochi Blue Tigers Thrissur Titans Trivandrum Royals In the inaugural season, 114 players were picked from 168 registrations, with franchises spending an average of Rs 40 lakh each. Kollam Sailors, led by Kerala domestic captain Sachin Baby, were crowned champions after defeating the Calicut Globstars in the final.
Time of India
24-06-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
After 9 yrs, Mamata meets B'desh envoy at Nabanna
Kolkata: After a gap of nine years, chief minister met Bangladesh high commissioner to India M Riaz Hamidullah at Nabanna on Monday, for nearly 40 minutes. This marked the first such interaction since 2016, when Syed Muazzem Ali, the then Bangladesh high commissioner, had met the CM. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Despite attempts by subsequent envoys, meetings did not materialise. Chief secretary Manoj Pant attended Monday's meeting along with Bangladesh's acting deputy high commissioner in Kolkata, Sikder Mohammad Ashrafur Rahman. Nabanna officials remained reserved about the meeting's details and Hamidullah was unavailable for comment. Hamidullah posted on X: "Paid a courtesy call on CM of West Bengal in Kolkata. She reflected on deeper Bangladesh-India connects and need to strengthen ties in shared interests in mutually beneficial ways." The Bangladesh deputy high commission released a statement describing it as a courtesy meeting. "Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee expressed her hope to the High Commissioner of Bangladesh to India, Riaz Hamidullah, at her office in Nabanna, to strengthen the traditional ties between the people of Bengal and Bangladesh. During the cordial and warm courtesy meeting, the CM requested the High Commissioner to convey her greetings to Bangladesh's chief advisor Professor Dr Yunus and the people of Bangladesh. This was the first courtesy meeting of the newly appointed High Commissioner of Bangladesh with any chief minister of India. During the meeting, the CM noted that the enduring linguistic, cultural and shared values-based spiritual connection between the people of Bengal and Bangladesh goes beyond economic and commercial relations. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now She expressed her commitment to maintaining her communication with Bangladesh in the future," it said. The meeting took place in the backdrop of recent tensions following the vandalism of 's historic 'Kachhari Bari' at Sirajganj two weeks ago. The Nobel laureate had close links with the Sirajganj house as he used to visit this place frequently. Banerjee sent a strongly worded letter to PM Narendra Modi on June 12, requesting intervention with the Bangladesh govt. In her letter, she said: "I would urge you to kindly take up the matter very strongly with the neighbouring country's govt, so that no stone is left unturned to swiftly bring to justice the perpetrators of this heinous and mindless act. Although untold damage has already been done, a strong international protest would at least deter in future any attack on monuments of cultural legacies that have withstood steadfastly all tests of time. " Diplomatic sources indicated that Hamidullah may have explained the actual circumstances of the vandalism to the CM, as Dhaka had previously said that it was a local law enforcement matter.
