Lalmonirhat: Disaster Management and Relief Minister Asadul Habib Dulu today emphasized that nurturing children with proper education and moral values is as crucial as caring for trees. Speaking as the chief guest at a tree plantation and sapling distribution programme organized by the Lalmonirhat Zilla Parishad, Dulu highlighted that planting trees alone is insufficient.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dulu remarked that just as trees require regular care to thrive, children need proper education, moral values, and a supportive social environment to develop into responsible citizens. He called on voluntary organizations to actively support the nationwide tree plantation campaign announced by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, noting that trees play a vital role in preserving ecological balance and contributing to the long-term well-being of both individuals and society. He also underscored the importance of maintaining planted saplings to ensure their survival.
The minister expressed concern over the social challenges faced by children and adolescents, including exposure to injustice, harmful cultural influences, and other social issues, which he said impede the development of an ethical and capable future generation. He stated that quality education and strong moral values are essential for reducing social crime and preventing moral decline.
Highlighting the role of young people, Dulu noted that the country's youth have consistently contributed during times of national crisis. He mentioned that the government is implementing various initiatives to engage them in constructive activities and called on parents, educational institutions, and voluntary organizations to play a more proactive role.
The minister also observed that law enforcement alone cannot solve every social problem, stressing that public awareness, family values, and personal responsibility are equally important.
Lalmonirhat Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Rashedul Haque Prodhan, District Council Executive Officer Md Aminul Islam, and Civil Surgeon Dr Md Abdul Hakim attended the programme as special guests. The event was chaired by Lalmonirhat District Council Administrator AKM Mominul Haque. Representatives of voluntary organizations, including Jamal Hossain and Aisha Siddika, also addressed the gathering.
At the conclusion of the programme, 1,500 tree saplings were distributed among representatives of 23 voluntary organizations, and the tree plantation campaign was formally inaugurated.