Dhaka: Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam today emphasized the importance of transforming Bangladesh’s tourism sector into a more inclusive, people-friendly, safe, sustainable, and internationally competitive industry while upholding the spirit of the July Mass Uprising. “The martyrs and injured fighters of the July Mass Uprising are courageous participants in a unique chapter of our national history,” she remarked during a program at Parjatan Bhaban in Agargaon.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (BPC) organized the event to honor the family members of the July martyrs and injured fighters, marking July Mass Uprising Day 2026. Afroza highlighted the potential of the tourism sector to contribute significantly to the nation’s economy by creating jobs and fostering national unity and cultural harmony. She urged that the sacrifices of the July martyrs and injured fighters be reflected in building a humane, discrimination-free, and dignified Bangladesh, beyond ceremonial observances.
Afroza asserted that respecting the families of the martyrs and supporting the injured fighters are both moral and state responsibilities. She announced several benefits for the July fighters, including a 36 percent discount at Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation-operated hotels and special discounts on Biman Bangladesh Airlines tickets. Additionally, she stated that initiatives would be taken to create employment opportunities for them.
State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M. Rashiduzzaman Millat also addressed the gathering, promising free entry for July fighters to tourism attractions and job opportunities in organizations under the ministry. Reflecting on his involvement in the July movement, Millat recounted his imprisonment by the previous fascist government in an effort to stifle the movement. He expressed his gratitude to the fighters of 2024, emphasizing the broader significance of their sacrifices for the nation.
State Minister for Planning Md Jonaed Abdur Rahim Saki highlighted the historic responsibility bestowed upon the nation by the sacrifices of the July Mass Uprising, stressing the importance of prioritizing people’s aspirations, equal opportunities, and social justice in development planning. BPC Chairman Md Samimuzzaman reiterated the corporation’s commitment to honoring the July martyrs and injured fighters as an expression of gratitude and national consciousness. The event concluded with the presentation of prize bonds and commemorative crests to family members of the July martyrs and injured fighters.
Civil Aviation and Tourism Secretary Fahmida Akhtar, senior government officials, tourism-sector stakeholders, BPC officials and employees, journalists, and invited guests were also present at the event.