Chattogram: 500 families in Patenga are set to receive family cards on Tuesday as part of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s (BNP) election pledge, marking the initial phase of a nationwide “family card” distribution initiative. This program is aimed at providing financial assistance to families in need and is part of a larger effort to support economically disadvantaged communities.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the program will commence in South Patenga, ward number 41, with Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury launching the initiative at Biman Bondor High School in his constituency. The distribution is part of a ‘zero error’ program introduced by Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Zahidul Islam Miah to ensure the ‘Family Card’ initiative is free from mistakes.
The residents of South Patenga are among the 14 wards selected for this pilot project. They are expected to receive their family cards before Eid, bringing relief to many families. Pranoy Chakma, Regional Executive Officer of Chattogram City Corporation, confirmed that around 900 workers are involved in the program, conducting door-to-door surveys to collect data on family size, income, and social status.
In Ward 41 of Dakshin Patenga, 10,124 beneficiaries were initially identified, with 5,575 individuals finalized for the program. A distribution event will be held at Patenga High School grounds for 500 beneficiaries to receive their family cards. Beneficiaries will receive monthly financial assistance ranging from TK 2000 to TK 2500.
Deputy Commissioner Miah personally inspected the beneficiary selection process, emphasizing accuracy and inclusivity. Golam Mainuddin Hasan, Deputy Director of the Local Government Department, noted that the initial screening of financially disadvantaged families is complete, with the program aiming to gradually include all selected families.
The initiative also focuses on empowering women, with successful survey work in Chattogram. Noor Box, a retired sailor, expressed gratitude for the government’s support, while Rokeya Begum shared her hope for assistance in purchasing essential medicines for her respiratory problems.