Tech, Telecom and Humanity Take Center Stage at BTRC Fair
The BTRC auditorium at Agargaon in Dhaka transformed into a miniature reflection of a technology-driven future during the first two busy working days of the week. A total of 30 organizations participated in the two-day fair organized on the occasion of World Telecommunication Day on 17 May. From internet service providers, mobile operators, technology innovators, data centers and network solution companies to booths run by young researchers, the entire event turned into a vibrant gathering of technology, connectivity and innovation.
The fair, which continued until Monday afternoon, 18 May, witnessed a notable crowd of visitors. Some explored new technologies, some directly received services, while others discussed the future of technology with exhibitors. Booths remained busy with product sales, service delivery, complaint resolution and awareness presentations on digital lifestyles.
However, two innovative organizations emerged as the main attractions of the entire event — Robolife Technologies and Narsingdi Science and Robotics Lab (NSRL). By combining technology with humanity, they presented visitors with a different reality.
Artificial Hands Bringing Real-Life Hope
The Robolife Technologies booth displayed five types of robotic hands. These were not merely exhibition items; they represented life-changing stories. The organization has developed special robotic hands for people who have lost their hands but still retain active muscles and nerves. Even for those without detectable nerve signals in their hands, the company has created special sandals equipped with sensor transmitters that allow users to control artificial hands.
The organization’s entrepreneur and innovator Joy Barua Lovlu said they have already exported their robotic hands to five countries around the world. Preparations are also underway to launch a branch in India very soon. The company is currently working on robotic legs as well.
Robolife Chief Management Officer Sohel Rana Sourav said, “Technology is not just machinery; it is an opportunity for people to return to normal life. So far, 120 people in the country are using our artificial hands. Among them are several July fighters.”
The prosthetic silicone glove-equipped hands displayed at the booth appeared so realistic that many visitors could not recognize them as artificial without touching them. Some even tried them on personally.
Local Drones Challenging Global Competition
Another major attraction of the fair was the three types of drones displayed at Booth No. 30 by Narsingdi Science and Robotics Lab. One of the drones is designed to deliver emergency medicine, blood bags, dry food and life jackets to flood-affected areas. Another surveillance drone is suitable for border monitoring and preventing smuggling activities in coastal regions.
The organization’s camera drone drew the most attention, with founder and Chief Executive Officer Rafi Hossain directly challenging global brand DJI.
He said, “Our drone can remain airborne for more than 58 minutes, which is longer than DJI drones in the same category. Most importantly, its camera module can be changed according to requirements.”
Rafi Hossain said most parts of the drones, including the body, were manufactured locally. Built with carbon fiber using their own designs, the drones are being researched and developed entirely through self-financing. He also stated that they sold eight agricultural drones over the last six months.
Connecting Technology with Humanity
One corner of the fair featured a special exhibition commemorating July fighters Abu Sayeed and Mugdho. Emerging technologies and stories of sacrifice appeared side by side in the same frame there.
At the same time, leading technology and telecommunications companies of the country showcased their services and innovations at the fair. Participants included Bijoy, BracNet, Grameen Distribution, Symphony, Celextra, Banglalink, Robi Axiata, Grameenphone, Teletalk, Metronet, Tier Three Data Center, edotco and ICC Communications.
ICC Communications Regulatory Affairs Manager Md. Mehedi Hasan Moon said visitors showed the greatest interest in their “Home Internet with Mobile Minutes and Data,” Starlink connectivity, Cloud Home and OTT platform “Ayna.”
Satellite Connectivity and the Digital Future
The Robi Axiata booth featured a special Starlink arrangement. Various satellite dishes, Wi-Fi routers, tripod stands and connectivity equipment were displayed there. Officials demonstrated the capabilities of satellite-based connectivity to visitors.
On the opposite side, Banglalink presented a large digital display. The company’s Head of Regulatory Affairs Officer Rezaul Islam said they received around 30 complaints and suggestions over the two days, and the resolution process would begin within 48 hours after the fair concluded.
He said, “We are now also using satellite internet to reduce call drops.”
Technology Beyond Exhibition
The regulatory authority BTRC also operated six service booths at the venue. The Accounts Division booth drew the largest crowd.
The organization’s accountant Taslima Akter said more than 50 services were provided over the two days. The booth offered information services, document reception and direct consultation.
At the same time, a QR code-based digital system was introduced for visitor registration and feedback collection.
A Glimpse into the Future
The fair was not merely an exhibition of technological products; rather, it represented a living reflection of the possibilities, innovation and humanitarian applications of Bangladesh’s technology sector. From artificial hands to locally developed drones, satellite internet to digital services — everything together demonstrated that technology is no longer only a story of machines; it has become a new language of human life, security, communication and possibility.
DBTech/IH/MUIM/OR
