Dhaka: Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) Affairs Adviser Supradip Chakma today emphasized the importance of good governance and women’s empowerment as crucial elements for achieving sustainable development in the hilly region.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Supradip Chakma pointed out that empowerment should start at all levels, with a particular focus on women as entrepreneurs. He advocated for allocating 40 percent of the total CHT budget towards livelihood development, aiming to enhance the living standards of local communities. Chakma shared these insights while speaking as the chief guest at a seminar titled ‘Chittagong Hill Tracts Development Ideas,’ held at the CHT Complex auditorium on Baily Road.
He asserted that development efforts would remain incomplete unless women are integrated as equal partners in the process. He added that funds have been allocated to modernize 200 schools in the region. Efforts are also being made to establish multimedia classrooms, create digital content, and enhance network facilities.
The seminar, chaired by CHT Affairs Secretary Md. Abdul Khalek, included group discussions on various topics, including sustainable development, agriculture-based livelihood, quality education, and training. Dr. Md. Mohabbat Ullah, presenting the keynote paper, underscored the need for developing improved crop varieties suitable for hilly terrain, adopting sustainable land use practices, ensuring rainwater harvesting, and promoting integrated agricultural systems.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Mong Raja Saching, Chairman of the Task Force on Tribal Refugees Sudatta Chakma, NTRCA Chairman Aminul Islam, senior officials of the Ministry of CHT Affairs, and others.