Dhaka: Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today conferred the Independence Award-2025 on seven luminary individuals in recognition of their glorious and outstanding contributions to the national level. The award ceremony took place at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium, where family members of the six posthumous awardees received the prestigious award on behalf of their loved ones.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the awardees include Professor Jamal Nazrul Islam in science and technology, Mir Abdus Shukur Al Mahmud in literature, Novera Ahmed in culture, Sir Fazle Hasan Abed in social service, Mohammad Mahbubul Haque Khan alias Azam Khan in Liberation War and culture, Badruddin Mohammad Umar in education and research, and Abrar Fahad for his role as a young protester. Badruddin Umar, although honored, expressed his unwillingness to receive any award, prompting the government to place a replica of his award at the National Museum.
During his speech, the chief adviser expressed delight in honoring Badruddin Umar, highlighting the importance of recognizing such distinguished contributions. The event was attended by cabinet secretary Dr. Sheikh Abdur Rashid, advisers, the chief adviser’s special assistants, chiefs of the three services, the principal secretary to the chief adviser, and senior government officials.
Previously, the interim government had announced the names of the seven distinguished individuals for the “Independence Award 2025,” marking it as the highest state honor. Additionally, the government reinstated the posthumous Independence Award previously bestowed on Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, reversing the decision made by former dictator Sheikh Hasina.