Dhaka: Prime Minister's Defence Adviser Brig Gen (retd) Dr AKM Shamsul Islam has directed the implementation of the "One Rank One Pay" policy for retired personnel of the armed forces division and instructed concerned authorities to initiate the establishment of 'Defence Colonies' to ensure their welfare and rehabilitation.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the defence adviser issued these directives during a visit to the Bangladesh Armed Forces Board (BAFB) headquarters at Kakrail earlier today, as stated in a press release from the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) Directorate. He emphasized the government's commitment to implementing the One Rank One Pay (OROP) policy, which aims to ensure equal pay for retired personnel holding the same rank, irrespective of their retirement date, and stressed the urgency of expediting its implementation.
Moreover, Dr Shamsul Islam urged the strengthening of Armed Forces Board offices across all districts to transform them into effective service centers for retired personnel. He also emphasized the importance of integrated administrative and logistical planning to enhance their operational capacity.
Referring to the enhancement of healthcare services, the adviser directed the expansion of medical store facilities in 61 districts, ensuring better access to medicines, including life-saving drugs, for retired servicemen and their families.
In his address, Dr Shamsul Islam announced plans to establish Defence Colonies for retired military personnel, highlighting the importance of sustainable rehabilitation. He noted that land has already been earmarked for the project in Thakurgaon, Gaibandha, and Dinajpur districts, instructing officials to initiate implementation in these areas.
Additionally, the defence adviser stressed the necessity of dignified funeral arrangements for retired servicemen in recognition of their contributions to the nation. He directed the Armed Forces Board to enhance its role in providing administrative and logistical support for funerals and last rites.
Upon his arrival, the adviser was welcomed by Defence Secretary Md Ashraf Uddin and Director General of the Bangladesh Armed Forces Board Brig Gen Mashrur Hossain Bhuiyan. During the visit, Dr Shamsul Islam outlined a series of measures aimed at improving the welfare of retired armed forces personnel and their families, with BAFB officials and employees in attendance.