Panchagarh: Noting that industries which remain operational generate employments and keep local economy active, Commerce, Industries, Textiles and Jute Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir today said every industrial establishment is not merely an institution for local people, but an integral part of their emotions and livelihoods.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister emphasized the multifaceted benefits of operational mills, highlighting that they create employment, boost government revenue, invigorate the local economy, and provide pathways for repaying existing debts of the establishment. “Therefore, we want these establishments to return to production,” he stated during a discussion with journalists after visiting the Panchagarh Sugar Mills Limited and exchanging views with sugarcane farmers in the Panchagarh district.
The minister revealed the government’s plans to not only reopen the Panchagarh Sugar Mill but also all closed industrial factories across the country, as per a press release. Currently, six out of the country’s 15 sugar mills remain shut, and efforts are underway to revive several other state-owned industrial enterprises.
Addressing the condition of the Panchagarh Sugar Mills, Muktadir pointed out the need for extensive renovation of the factory’s infrastructure and machinery due to its prolonged closure. “We are reviewing all possible aspects with opinions from experts regarding the mill’s rehabilitation,” he added.
The event witnessed the presence of local lawmaker Barrister Muhammad Nowshad Zamir, Industries Secretary Md Obaidur Rahman, BSCIC Chairman Md Saiful Islam, Deputy Commissioner Mst Shukria Parvin, Additional Superintendent of Police Md Farhad Hossain, along with mill officials, representatives of sugarcane farmers, and labor leaders.