Naogaon: An awareness seminar on improving the quality of life of marginalized professional groups was held in the district today. Deputy Commissioner Asma Shaheen was present as the chief guest at the seminar organized by the Department of Social Services at the Deputy Commissioner’s conference room at 11.30.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Assistant Director of the Department of Social Services Naogaon District Office, Shamim Reza, presented the main paper at the seminar. He highlighted the plight of traditional professions in rural Bangla, such as pottery, blacksmithing, bamboo-cane product manufacturing, and cobbling, which are on the verge of extinction. Professionals associated with these trades face increasing concerns about the viability of their livelihoods.
The Ministry of Social Welfare has initiated steps to modernize and diversify the products of these traditional marginalized professionals. The government aims to improve the quality of life for these groups by enhancing their skills, product offerings, and service quality.
Deputy Director of the Department of Social Services Md. Mostafizur Rahman reported that there are a total of 5,062 marginalized professional groups in the district, including blacksmiths, potters, barbers, bamboo and cane product manufacturers, brass and copper manufacturers, shoe repair and manufacturers, folk instrument makers, Nakshi Kantha makers, Shital Pati and Shatranji makers, and folk artists. Effective measures are being implemented to improve their quality of life, including providing training and materials.