Swapan Kumar Singh :

The benefits of the new budget will be taken to people at the grassroots, with priority given to healthcare, employment, social protection and local development, said Prime Minister’s Press Secretary A M Saleh Shibli.

He made the remarks as the chief guest at a views-exchange meeting held at the field of Gobindapur High School in Goalbhaor Bazar area of Gobindapur South Union in Faridganj upazila on Sunday (August 23).

Saleh Shibli said the government’s objective is to improve the quality of life of people from the upazila level to the most remote parts of the country by ensuring access to essential public services and expanding economic opportunities.

He said steps are being taken to strengthen healthcare facilities at the upazila level. As part of the initiative, the capacity of upazila hospitals is being expanded to 151 beds to make medical services more accessible to people.

Speaking about the economy, the press secretary said no additional duty or tax has been imposed on 61 essential products under the new budget, which, he said, would help ease pressure on ordinary consumers.

He also highlighted measures aimed at supporting young people and small entrepreneurs. According to him, government grants ranging from Tk 50,000 to Tk 5 crore will be available for innovative ideas and projects capable of generating employment.

He further said successful entrepreneurs would have access to special tax and VAT exemptions for a period of 10 years as part of efforts to encourage entrepreneurship and self-employment.

On social protection, Saleh Shibli said the government is placing emphasis on programmes such as the Family Card to provide regular support to vulnerable and low-income families and reduce their financial burden.

He also spoke about the government’s canal excavation programme, saying it would help increase agricultural production while addressing waterlogging in different areas. At the same time, initiatives are being taken to improve rural communications, local infrastructure and healthcare facilities.

The press secretary stressed the importance of improving educational opportunities for teachers and students and developing a modern, time-befitting education system.

Regarding the energy sector, he said the government is working to reduce dependence on imports by exploring and utilising domestic sources of gas and fuel, with the aim of finding a sustainable solution to the country’s electricity challenges.

Calling for stronger family and social bonds, Saleh Shibli said greater attention should be given to family values and spending adequate time with children and other family members to build a disciplined and harmonious society.

Referring to the popularity of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman and former prime minister Khaleda Zia, he described BNP as a peace-oriented political party and assured that he would continue to support the overall development of Faridganj.

The meeting was chaired by former joint convener of Faridganj upazila BNP Sharif Mohammad Yunus.