Dhaka: Patients suffering from six major non-communicable diseases, including cancer and kidney issues, are receiving substantial financial grants from the Ministry of Social Welfare directly within hospital settings.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the ministry allocated nearly Tk 300 crore in the previous year to support these patients, with each individual receiving a one-time grant of Tk 50,000.
In the fiscal year 2024-25, the Ministry of Social Welfare extended financial assistance to patients afflicted by cancer, kidney, liver cirrhosis, paralysis due to brain stroke, congenital heart disease, and Thalassemia. Through the Department of Social Services, 45,000 patients across 64 districts received Tk 225 crore in funding. Additionally, direct assistance was provided to 15,000 patients, totaling Tk 75 crore. Overall, 60,000 people benefited from financial support through the Support Services for Vulnerable Groups (SSVG) project.
The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, established post-independence in 1972, evolved into a separate entity known as the Ministry of Social Welfare in 1989. Following the political upheaval in July last year, an interim government led by Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus took charge, with Sharmeen Soneya Murshid serving as an advisor to the Ministry of Social Welfare since August 9, 2024. According to ministry sources, the interim government implemented several welfare-oriented programs benefiting the populace.
The Ministry of Social Welfare also initiated various programs, such as allowances for tea workers and housing allocations for homeless families in tea garden districts. Financial support was extended to elderly, widowed, and husband-deserted women, while efforts to aid people with disabilities included distribution of Tk 3,321.77 crore among 32.34 lakh disabled individuals. The ministry also focused on improving the quality of life for the Hijra community and the Bede (Gypsy) community through financial assistance and training programs.
Programs were launched to rehabilitate beggars, with Tk 12 crore allocated for 3,000 individuals, and to support national institutions, voluntary organizations, and social welfare committees. Additional efforts included constructing housing for landless people affected by river erosion and providing disaster rehabilitation funds.
The ministry introduced integrated policies to enhance the quality of life for backward communities and merged initiatives related to disability allowances and education stipends. Financial assistance was directly provided to patients suffering from severe ailments, ensuring timely aid through government and private hospitals.
Supportive materials, such as wheelchairs and tricycles, were distributed to students involved in anti-discrimination movements, while financial aid was given to injured students from the July mass uprising. A significant monthly grant supported orphans across private orphanages, and infrastructure improvements benefited children’s families and senior citizens.
Training programs were conducted for parents, guardians, and special school teachers, along with caregiver skill training in collaboration with the World Health Organization. These initiatives aimed to raise awareness about the rights and care of individuals with autism and neurodevelopmental disabilities.
The Ministry of Social Welfare has actively engaged in diverse activities, ensuring financial support and rehabilitation opportunities for vulnerable populations across Bangladesh.