Budget and import policy is in the offing. Views and presentations from the stakeholders as well as the government are gaining momentum. The National Board of Revenue plays the role of catalyst in carrying out these rules as far as revenue collection is concerned.
   There are numerous rules, which appear, ambiguous and contradictory when it comes to the point of execution. The first example is PSI rules and customs valuation. Often customs officials and businesspersons contradict with each another regarding price declaration in the invoice at clearance point. Thousands of crores of taka in revenue is already stuck due to writ petitions in the High Court.
   As per the Import Policy Order, provision of mandatory Import Registration Certificate and letter of credit is not applicable for a certain amount/goods for import. Bankers almost do not pay heed to such rules. They decline to obey the rules showing Bangladesh Bank obligations.
   Another example can be cited which is harmonised system of coding. In absence of proper technical knowledge among bankers and importers, there is often misinterpretation resulting in harassment at the customs.
   Proper implementation of baggage rules is hampering the growth of local industries despite the fact that government imposes higher duties, vat and other taxes on luxurious and unwanted goods in every budget.
   The quality of imported food items is sometimes very poor, which contradicts with the import regulations. Dates (blocked ones) are a good example to cite which general people consume during Ramadan. Some are simply not even fit for human consumption.
   Coordination is required between the finance and commerce ministries to check all these loopholes for increased revenue and the protection of public interest.
   Md Nizamuddin
   Via e-mail

I was admitted to a renowned government school in Rajshahi this year. Last year I was in a private school in the same city run by a businessman. Some basic differences between the two places became painfully obvious almost as soon as I began my classes.
   Most teachers of the private school are less qualified, untrained and inexperienced but they are very much committed towards teaching and try their heart and soul. Most teachers of government school are highly qualified, trained and experienced but they are only focused about their duty not concerned about their responsibility to impart education.
   The toilets of private school are clean all the time and students are using it but the toilets of the government school are filthy and students never really use them despite the urge.
   Israr Ishtiaque Isti
   Upashahar, Rajshahi