Dhaka: Prime Minister's Adviser and Spokesperson Mahdi Amin today lauded the incumbent government's efforts, stating that it has set a unique example of humane and people-centric politics in its first 100 days. This comes after a long period of political instability, marked by the 2024 July uprising and 16 years of democratic struggle, which has now culminated in overcoming a deep national crisis under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Mahdi Amin emphasized that the current government, elected by the people, has been proactive in returning looted state property to the populace and is committed to reinforcing the institutional framework of democracy. Since assuming office, the government has taken swift steps to fulfill priority-based election promises, formulating a 180-day action plan for each ministry to address various sectors such as social security, agriculture, education, health, and more.
Mahdi Amin highlighted several key initiatives, including the launch of the 'Family Card' to enhance women-centric social security programs and the introduction of honorariums for religious leaders. He also mentioned the withdrawal of additional charges for prepaid electricity meters and the waiver of agricultural loans for small farmers, demonstrating the government's dedication to economic relief and support.
The spokesperson also discussed ongoing efforts in agriculture, such as the digitalization of agricultural management through the 'Farmer Card' and the implementation of the Padma Barrage Project aimed at improving water management in the southwestern region. Additionally, Amin underscored the government's commitment to media freedom, while cautioning against the misuse of freedom of speech for spreading propaganda or hatred.
The government has held 10 cabinet meetings since February 17, resulting in 60 important decisions, with 37 already implemented. In preparation for Eid, initiatives to ensure timely payment of salaries and bonuses to workers, alongside measures to facilitate smooth travel and waste management, have been put in place.
Moreover, the government is advancing infrastructure projects, such as the economic corridor from Teknaf to Tentulia and the expansion of facilities at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. Efforts to support education, technology, and youth programs are also underway.
In the health sector, significant strides have been made, including nearly universal measles vaccine coverage for children and increased maternity leave. Plans to allocate 5 percent of GDP to healthcare in stages have been announced.
On judicial matters, Mahdi Amin pointed to the swift justice served in the case of a child murder, as an example of the government's dedication to ensuring justice. He also mentioned ongoing initiatives to recover laundered funds and the introduction of measures to boost remittances, which reached a historic high last month.
In conclusion, Mahdi Amin conveyed the Prime Minister's vision of leadership as grounded in direct engagement with the people and emphasized the government's commitment to national progress and economic development, aiming for a trillion-dollar economy by 2034. The press conference concluded with greetings for Eid-ul-Azha and acknowledgments to the Prime Minister's press team.