Dhaka:Chief Whip of the Jatiya Sangsad (JS) Md Nurul Islam Moni emphasized the importance of addressing social and economic challenges, such as poverty and unemployment, to ensure mental well-being. He pointed out that these issues, along with uncertainty about the future, need to be tackled alongside providing healthcare services.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Moni, speaking as the chief guest at a seminar for World Mental Health Day 2026 at the Dhaka Ahsania Mission auditorium, highlighted initiatives like the prime minister's agricultural loan waiver, Family Card, and Farmer Card as measures to alleviate economic anxiety among disadvantaged people.
Moni addressed the negative impact of poverty, unemployment, family tensions, and social stigma on mental health. He stressed promoting quality education, moral values, employment opportunities, and social empathy to protect mental well-being, as stated in a press release by the parliament secretariat.
Moni also discussed the need for efforts to keep young people away from drug addiction to extend beyond medical treatment and rehabilitation, emphasizing the creation of opportunities for skills development and economic self-reliance. He encouraged young people to develop their capabilities and entrepreneurial mindset for self-reliance and highlighted the importance of strengthening human values and mutual respect.
Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Health Dr SM Ziauddin Hyder spoke as a special guest, while Professor Dr Golam Rahman chaired the event. The seminar was attended by various experts, including Prof Dr Abu Toyeb Abu Ahmed, National Institute of Mental Health chief and director Dr Saifun Nahar Sumi, Director of the Health and Nutrition Sector Dr Iqbal Masud, Dr Naila Parveen, and media professionals.