Dinajpur: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today announced that the government would initiate the establishment of agro-processing industries in the Dinajpur region to leverage its agricultural potential, thereby strengthening the local economy and generating employment opportunities.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of preserving and processing agricultural products to bolster the local economy and increase employment prospects. He made these remarks while addressing a civic gathering and iftar mahfil at the Dinajpur Circuit House ground as the chief guest.
Tarique Rahman reminisced about Dinajpur's special emotional significance to him, recalling fond memories associated with his maternal grandparents' home in the district. He expressed that these personal connections have motivated him to contribute to the region's development. He noted, 'Whenever I think of Dinajpur, the first thing that comes to my mind is my grandmother's house.'
The Prime Minister acknowledged the concerns raised by the Deputy Commissioner, Chamber of Commerce president, and local political leaders regarding the district's issues and potential. He assured the public that the government would seriously consider these matters.
As part of the BNP government's election commitments, Tarique Rahman announced the launch of a canal excavation programme across the country from Sahapara in Kaharole upazila of Dinajpur. This initiative aims to excavate approximately 20,000 kilometers of canals nationwide over the next five years to provide irrigation for agriculture and reduce reliance on groundwater.
The Prime Minister expressed concern about the excessive use of groundwater, indicating that water levels have significantly dropped over the years. He highlighted that canal and river excavation would help recharge groundwater and alleviate the arsenic problem.
Tarique Rahman further outlined the government's initiative to economically empower women by introducing the 'Family Card' programme, which targets four crore families led by women across Bangladesh. He stressed the importance of women's participation in the country's progress.
The Prime Minister also mentioned the introduction of an honorarium for religious leaders, fulfilling another of his party's election promises. This program includes imams, muezzins, khatibs, and religious leaders from other faiths.
Reiterating his government's dedication to national development, Prime Minister Rahman assured that the administration would work tirelessly to build the nation that its people desire.
The civic gathering and iftar event were attended by individuals from various professions and social groups of Dinajpur district, including notable figures like LGRD and Cooperative Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Social Welfare Minister Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain, and others.
Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister inaugurated the excavation of 53 canals across the country by initiating the excavation of the 12-kilometer Sahapara Canal in Kaharole upazila, marking the occasion by cutting soil with a spade and planting a tree sapling on the canal bank.