Dipan Nandy

On most evenings, the grounds of the Amar Ekushey Boi Mela still reflect the familiar spirit of Bangladesh’s literary season -- students browsing poetry collections, families posing for photographs beneath colourful banners, and writers signing newly released books.

Bangladesh’s publishing sector is navigating one of its most difficult periods in recent memory, as declining sales, reduced book production, and limited institutional support continue to weigh on it.

After weeks of delays, disputes, and shifting schedules, the Amar Ekushey Book Fair 2026 has finally begun -- though in a shorter format that breaks from long-standing tradition.

The Amar Ekushey Book Fair begins today, marking the shortest edition in its history. Organisers, however, say it is not the length but the breadth of ideas that will define this year’s fair, themed “Multidimensional Bangladesh”.

The Amar Ekushey Book Fair will be held with the participation of all publishers, following a decision taken on Sunday night and officially announced yesterday.

A day after assuming charge as minister for local government, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir announced that the government was considering holding local government elections at the earliest possible time.

With the 13th parliamentary election now over, the Election Commission (EC) has begun preparations for elections to three major metropolitan local government bodies.

Twelve young lawmakers are set to join the national parliament formed in the wake of the July mass uprising, with their oath-taking scheduled for this morning at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban.