Dhaka: State Minister for Textiles and Jute Md. Shariful Alam announced government efforts to enhance the traditional silk sector, aiming to increase rural employment and alleviate poverty. He emphasized that under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s directives, steps are underway to promote this sector, highlighting its crucial role in poverty reduction, especially among rural women.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the state minister stressed that expanding the silk industry could generate more employment opportunities in rural regions. He highlighted the importance of attracting foreign investment and ensuring coordination among stakeholders to achieve sustainable growth. His comments came during a meeting with a delegation from Japan-based company Onoda Inc. at the Secretariat.
Shariful Alam also mentioned that measures are being implemented to include distressed women in the silk sector under the “family card” facility, following the Prime Minister’s directives. Additionally, efforts are being made to reopen closed factories linked to the silk industry.
The state minister referenced the establishment of the Bangladesh Silk Board in 1977 by an ordinance of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, aimed at promoting and developing the traditional silk industry. Currently, the board’s activities span 52 upazilas across 32 districts in the country.