Inside Thought

NUCLEAR POWER: Decimation or Development?


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Lets think about an ethereal world; where the ozone hole is not increasing in size anymore, where you don’t have the ethical conundrum of using electricity with the cost of air pollution, where you don’t have to squander money on electricity, where you don’t see countries hitting the highest temperatures ever recorded, where you don’t see wild fires destroying whole areas and people not only dying to these fires but also from the heat of the temperature rise. Instead, let’s imagine a world free of all of these. A world where we are sustaining our environment rather than destroying it. This imaginary world can only be brought into reality when usage of fossil fuels is completely brought to a standstill. In a world where our dependency on electricity is proliferating each day, the carbon emission and air pollution is also multiplying equivalently. Today, fossil fuels are supplying 84 percent of the world energy, whereas renewable energy sources are only supplying a measly 16 percent of it. To explain further, nonrenewable energy comes from sources that will be depleted within our lifetime, examples include fossil fuels like coal, natural gas and petroleum. Whereas, renewable energy comes from sources which cannot run out for instance; sunlight, wind, water. What if I told you there is a trump card above all these energy sources, which is much more efficient and eco-friendly. “Nuclear power”; which was previously seen as a weapon and a mode of destruction by mankind has come out to be the exact opposite. Before beginning to judge nuclear power on the premise of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki tragedy or a nuclear energy crisis like Chernobyl or Fukushima, let’s dive into it without any previous dubious assumptions because you might be surprised to learn that nuclear energy is actually considered one of the most environmentally friendly forms of energy production in the world. The applications of nuclear technology far exceed the provision of low-carbon energy. It fuels our most ambitious space exploration projects and helps stop the spread of diseases. It also helps doctors diagnose and cure patients. These manifold applications put nuclear technology at the center of the global movement toward sustainable development.

Bangladesh plans to build the Rooppur nuclear power plant, the most ambitious project ever attempted in the history of the nation’s development, in an effort to join the exclusive “nuclear club” of 31 other countries. Being a part of Least Developed Countries (LEDC), Bangladesh had already begun the construction of its first nuclear power plant back in November 2017 and a year later another unit of the power plant had also commenced construction. With growth in demand and grid capacity Bangladesh is aiming to reduce its dependence on natural gas. In an effort to combat climate change, Bangladesh has set an idealistic aim of reducing carbon emissions by 21.85% by 2030. Power facilities using fossil fuels are primarily responsible for these emissions. Being one of the most climate-vulnerable nations in the world, nuclear power is an essential answer to the climate emergency. In addition, by agreeing to transport spent fuel abroad to reduce hazards, Bangladesh has wisely tackled the issue of nuclear waste disposal. Now let’s come to a more pressing question. Being a LEDC, why should Bangladesh stump up such a huge amount of money on nuclear power when there are much cheaper alternatives. This is because nuclear power is the most reliable energy source and it is not even close. An average nuclear reactor can generate 1 GW of electricity. This does not imply that a 1 GW coal or renewable facility may be installed in its stead. Two coal plants or three to four renewable plants (each of 1 GW size) would be required to provide the same amount of power for the system. Although the initial cost of establishing a nuclear power station is high, the cost of producing electricity from them is comparatively low, and they have low running expenses. Additionally, nuclear energy is less susceptible to price fluctuations than conventional fossil fuel energy sources like coal and natural gas are. This makes it possible to anticipate the cost of nuclear energy long into the future. As technology develops, that price is expected to stay low or even decrease. Moreover, one of the most significant advantages of nuclear energy is its reliability as a source of power generation. Nuclear energy may be produced at any time of day, unlike solar and wind energy, which require the sun to be out or the wind to be blowing. This implies that there won’t be any pauses in the generation of electricity at a nuclear power plant because it can produce energy continuously.




Nuclear energy might be one of the most controversial energy sources we have. For some people, the potential risk associated with nuclear power is too great. For others, nuclear looks like the answer for a zero-carbon future. Strict safety regulations have been put in place for nuclear power facilities. Nevertheless, no matter how careful you are, accidents might still occur. We know from incidents like the Fukushima accident, Chernobyl, and Three Mile Island in Pennsylvania that a nuclear plant meltdown may have disastrous effects on the neighbourhood. It is important to keep in mind, however, that these types of accidents are rare. Plus, many studies show that the fossil fuel industry is substantially more deadly than the nuclear industry, even when you include catastrophes like Chernobyl.

As you can see, there are several justifications for and against nuclear energy. This carbon-free energy source has the potential to progress us toward a clean energy future with additional technological advancements. In the future, new plants could appear. Other sources of energy, such as geothermal, wind, and solar power, are really renewable and may help us move toward a more environmentally friendly future. By adding solar panels, you can now power your house with green energy. You can power your home with solar energy even when the sun isn’t shining if you combine solar panels with energy storage. Plus, installing solar panels can completely eliminate your utility bill!



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Inside Thought

Under the leadership of Sheikh Hasina, BMRC is at the forefront of research


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The Father of the nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman emphasized that healthcare and its improvement were crucial for the development of the country. He believed that without advancements in healthcare and its infrastructure, and without people having the right to good health, building the nation would not be possible. Therefore, Bangabandhu formulated a beautiful policy framework at that time, which was both modern and scientifically sound. Most importantly, her daughter the visionary statesperson Sheikh Hasina has been implementing those policies in the same manner as Bangabandhu initiated, based on his foundational principles.

Bangabandhu's healthcare system was not only centralized in the capital, but it also extended to districts, police stations, unions, and even village levels. What we now call community clinics was Bangabandhu's dream. At that time, Bangabandhu could not implement the community clinic. However, today, his daughter, the Honorable Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has successfully completed this initiative, setting a global example. Recognized by the United Nations as 'The Sheikh Hasina Initiative,' it stands unparalleled in the annals of world history, with no other individual having such a resolution named after them. 

After independence, the healthcare system was completely disorganized and inadequate. At that time, Bangabandhu elevated the status of doctors to first class. There was no higher education or research opportunity for doctors after MBBS. Bangabandhu then established the IPGMR. Today, under the leadership of Sheikh Hasina it is Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, holding a prominent position as an academic institution and its reputation has spread globally as well.

After the assassination of Bangabandhu in 1975, BMRC was a toothless, spineless, dormant institution. When Sheikh Hasina took charge of the state, she handed over the responsibility of BMRC to Professor Dr. Syed Modasser Ali. BMRC is today a pioneer in research under the guidance of the Philosophical Statesperson Sheikh Hasina. But we have no chance of complacency. A few days ago, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina instructed doctors to focus on research work. She is very interested in herself. In all fields of research only doctors seem to be a little weak in this regard. Hon'ble Prime Minister is ready to do whatever is necessary for this. All we have to do is take initiatives.


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Inside Thought

Developing health systems without evidence-based information is a challenging task


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After independence, Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman gave us this instruction that for a state to prosper economically and stand firmly on its feet, the health of its people must be safeguarded. In line with this vision, he initiated the development of Bangladesh's healthcare system, laying down a blueprint for its advancement. This vision is enshrined in the constitution of Bangladesh, emphasizing the centrality of healthcare to the well-being of its citizens. Drawing inspiration from Bangabandhu's philosophy, our esteemed leader, Sheikh Hasina, continues to steer our nation, providing constant guidance and implementing effective measures to further enhance the country's healthcare system. 

Developing the healthcare system in Bangladesh is challenging without evidence-based research. Without understanding our challenges and opportunities, progress in healthcare is hindered. Research is essential for identifying areas for improvement. We categorize this research into three parts: basic research, gathering evidence-based information for healthcare system development, and public health research. Each of these studies plays a crucial role in advancing our healthcare system.

Community Clinics became a gambling den because the BNP government never realized how much necessary it was for the country. We are delighted that today, under the leadership of visionary statesperson Sheikh Hasina, our country has revitalized these Community Clinics, reviving their programs. Now we need research. Therefore, the benchmark of Bangladesh's healthcare system will be these Community Clinics. In this case, BMRC has a vital role to play. If we can't collect research data, then we can't develop. We need to change our current health system but we need to do a thorough research on where the change is needed, why it is needed, and how it is needed. I believe that the current government under the guidance of the Philosophical Statesperson Sheikh Hasina will increase such research work. As a result, the activities of Bangladesh Medical Research Council will increase and become stronger.



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Inside Thought

Like the economy, we will also advance in research under the guidance of the Prime Minister


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The Honourable Prime Minister has provided a strategic framework for medical research. Henceforth, we can develop a five-year action plan under the guidance of the Bangladesh Medical Research Council (BMRC). It is imperative for doctors to show interest in medical research. Integration of research methodology into medical education curriculum is underway but requires reinforcement. Adequate evaluation mechanisms should be established for physicians committed to medical research. Offering research incentives to those dedicated to medical research instead of private practice is likely to attract numerous young doctors to the field. Incorporating research findings into national-level policy-making will not only incentivize researchers but also enhance systems for the utilization of research outcomes. An initiative should be launched to facilitate collaboration among researchers at all levels, both domestically and internationally. This will afford local researchers the opportunity to work alongside their international counterparts, while also allowing international researchers to recognize Bangladesh's potential in medical research.

Doctors should not only be stuck in pursuing higher degrees or promotions through research. In this regard, health policy makers should also take precedence. It is essential to ensure the participation of doctors in national and international seminars, both domestically and abroad. The more doctors participate in international seminars, the more they will be exposed to various aspects and methodologies of global research, which will stimulate their interest in research. Moreover, such seminars hold immense potential for bilateral research collaborations with researchers from different countries.

Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Mujib Eye Hospital and Training Institute, established in the name of Bangamata in Gopalganj, is the only regional research center of the Bangladesh Medical Research Council till now. I will again call to open a cell of "Bangamata National Cellular and Molecular Research Center" at our regional research center. Then, inspiration in research among the doctors of the southern-western region will be observed, and a new gateway of research will be opened in this region. Bangladesh is now globally recognized for its emerging economic power in the world economy. Under the guidance of the visionary statesperson, the Honorable Prime Minister, we will also advance in medical research. With the assistance of BMRC, we will conduct three internationally acclaimed researches from our regional research center and publish the results of the research in international standard journals. This is my commitment to the Honorable Prime Minister.


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Inside Thought

Prime Minister's Endless Support Fuels Research Endeavors


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The lifelong goal of the Father of the Nation was to bring smiles to the faces of the distressed people of Bangladesh. He prioritized the healthcare sector to achieve this goal. In just over three years, he took several significant steps to improve the country's healthcare system. He formulated robust constitutional policies, practical action plans, and necessary infrastructure.

The history of medical science is as ancient as human history itself. With the integration of global technology, the father of the nation established the Bangladesh Medical Research Council (BMRC) in 1972 to advance the country's medical field through innovative means. He outlined the functions of BMRC, which included improving and organizing scientific research in various branches of health sciences, providing training to public health workers, and publishing research findings. To develop and organize scientific research in the various disciplines of health, reproductive health and nutrition to identify issues and problems related to medical and health care needs. To develop manpower in health research through training programs and workshops and to ensure appropriate application and utilization of medical research results. BMRC, established under the guidance of the father of the nation, is a significant institution in health science research. By conducting demand-driven modern research programs in various branches of medical science, it will assist in establishing smart universal health care for the health sector. This is our expectation from BMRC.

Honorable Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the daughter of the Father of the Nation, repeatedly urges doctors to pay special attention to medical research. She often says, "Excellence cannot be achieved without research. Doctors cannot just provide treatment and expect progress. Researching alongside is also essential." Following in the footsteps of her father's legacy, she has led extensive development and implementation in the health sector over the past 15 years, reaching the doorsteps of the people. Her sincere efforts and interest in medical research are commendable, and we want to utilize them for the benefit of our country. We are extremely fortunate to have such a Prime Minister who is highly enthusiastic about medical research herself. With her guidance, we express hope that research activities in the medical field will commence in Bangladesh.


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Inside Thought

True independence thrives on continuous medical research, guided by the enduring vision of the Father of the Nation and the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina

Publish: 10:00 PM, 24 Mar, 2024


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The word "freedom" is our most cherished and revered term. Just as every individual dreams of freedom, thirsts for it, and holds the desire for freedom in their hearts, so too does a nation achieve its ultimate transformation and embark on the path of development through the means of freedom. Just as individual freedom develops and liberates a person, igniting the stream of their free thoughts, similarly the freedom of a nation takes all its people towards progress and modernity, ensuring the success of nation so that all citizens can enjoy its benefits. Therefore, if we analyze the history of the world, we will see that without freedom, no nation could uphold self-respect, dignity, and prosper. Thus, throughout the world, in every country, we have witnessed the aspiration for freedom, wars fought for freedom, compromises made for freedom, and people of the whole world being mobilized for freedom.

Nelson Mandela famously stated that Without freedom, no one can survive. Without freedom, a nation perishes. Reflecting on Bangladesh's history, in 1947, the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, recognized that true freedom for the Bengali nation was only possible through independence. He envisioned the construction of a non-communal, progressive state structure for Bengalis, a dream achievable only when the nation gained sovereignty. Hence, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, from the very onset of the country's partition in 1947, wanted independence, nurturing the desire for freedom and initiating a relentless struggle that culminated in 1971. Bangabandhu realized that if we can't achieve independence, the Bengali nation would not stand tall on the world stage. Bangabandhu realized that if we can't achieve independence, the Bengali nation would not stand tall on the world stage. He envisioned for a modern, progressive, and developed state. Even back in 1947, when he was actively involved in the struggle for independence, he had a vision for what Bangladesh would be like. He had a plan for that time as well. He had only attained a scant three and a half years to implement that plan in reality.

We all know that a war-torn country where Pakistani occupying forces wreaked havoc for nine months, it's impossible to get everything back on track within just three and a half years. But Bangabandhu had laid out a blueprint for Bangladesh within that short span. We call it an architectural plan. Plan to build the sonar Bangla. However, even after facing defeat in the Liberation War of 1971, the anti-liberation forces in Bangladesh did not accept their defeat. They initiated rebellions in Bangladesh, and in the course of those rebellions, on August 15, 1975, they mercilessly assassinated the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, along with his family. This assassination was an act of anti-liberation forces. The real reason behind this massacre was to thwart the fruits of Bangladesh's independence. Making Bangladesh a subordinate state again, making it a confederation of Pakistan. Therefore, upon analyzing the individuals in power post-1975, it becomes evident that figures like Mostaq, Ziaur Rahman, and Hussain Muhammad Ershad all exhibited pro-Pakistani inclinations and adopted a Pakistani-style approach. Their objective was to transform Bangladesh into a replica of Pakistan. They manipulated the state apparatus to ensure that the benefits of freedom remained elusive for many. Consequently, their actions were consistently anti-Bangladesh and anti-independence. They managed the state structure so that not all people get the benefits of freedom. Every action they took was against the interests of Bangladesh and its independence. On May 17, 1981 Sheikh Hasina returned to her homeland, aiming to thwart the efforts of those opposing independence. Upon her return, amidst a hostile atmosphere, the visionary leader Sheikh Hasina wholeheartedly embraced and pursued the dreams of Bangabandhu. The significant progress we witness today in Bangladesh, both in infrastructure and in the evolution of mindset, can be attributed to the actualization of Bangabandhu's aspirations.

When considering the advantages of freedom, the correlation with medical research becomes apparent. If we analyze the developed countries of the world, we see that those countries which have prioritized medical science are the ones that have advanced the most. And we have many such examples around us. The United States of America is perhaps the biggest example of how prioritizing medical science has led to advancement.

Bangabandhu understood it in 1971. And it was because of this realization that he identified the areas of priority in his first five-year plan, among which he marked education and healthcare as the most crucial sectors. If we observe the first five-year plan closely, we will see that Bangabandhu particularly emphasized granting priority to medical research. In determining the priorities for the development of the newly formed state of Bangladesh, Bangabandhu identified the health sector as a priority. He envisioned extending healthcare services to the rural population and established the BMRC to emphasize research in healthcare. However, from the late seventies to 1996, we call this period the dark age. During that time, Bangladesh plunged into a dark world. As a result, our modern thinking, liberal thought, and progressive ideas were obstructed. Consequently, scientific and medical research also suffered a setback. From there, today we have embarked on a journey. 

We have seen that the Philosophical Statesperson Sheikh Hasina gives special importance to medical research and ensures that medical research is conducted under proper leadership. Therefore, she has entrusted the responsibility of chairing the BMRC to an expert like Professor Dr. Syed Modasser Ali. I hope that the initiatives taken by the BMRC today are complementary to Bangabandhu's dream. It is closely related to the thinking of Statesperson Sheikh Hasina. That's why we see three levels clearly. Bangabandhu's dream, the guidance of the philosophical statesperson Sheikh Hasina, and the practical implementation plan of the BMRC. If these three can converge at one point, then undoubtedly Bangladesh will stand as a modern developed country in front of the world. Not only infrastructure development, but also through thought, contemplation, and research, Bangladesh will illuminate the world as an advanced state.


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