Dhaka: Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed is set to unveil tomorrow the national budget for the fiscal year 2025-2026, marking a significant moment as this will be the first budget under the interim government led by Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus. This budget also signifies the maiden effort by Dr Ahmed, who holds multiple advisory roles within the government, including the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Commerce.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the history of Bangladesh’s national budget dates back to 1972 when Tajuddin Ahmed, the then-finance minister, presented the first budget of post-independence Bangladesh. Over the years, the budget has seen considerable growth in terms of its overall size and allocation for the Annual Development Programme (ADP).
The initial budget in 1972-73 was set at Tk 786 crore with an ADP of Tk 501 crore. Fast forward to the fiscal year 2024-25, the budget presented by AH Mahmood Ali showcased a total size of Tk 7,97,000 crore, with an ADP allocation of Tk 2,65,000 crore. This trajectory highlights the progressive expansion and increasing financial ambitions of the nation.
Throughout Bangladesh’s history, notable figures have contributed significantly to the budgetary process. Both AMA Muhith and Saifur Rahman each presented the national budget twelve times, the highest number of budgets presented by any individual in different terms of their respective governments. Their contributions have played a pivotal role in shaping the financial landscape of the country.
As the anticipation builds for tomorrow’s announcement, the focus remains on how this new budget will address the current economic challenges and development goals of Bangladesh. The unveiling by Dr Salehuddin Ahmed will not only set the financial framework for the coming year but also reflect the priorities of the interim government under Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus.