Chattogram: Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury declared that the ‘Family Card’ scheme, aimed at female heads of households, is the initial move in Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s plan to establish a welfare-oriented state.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Amir Khasru emphasized the commitment of the BNP to fulfill its promises and not just rely on rhetoric. Speaking as the chief guest at a function in Patenga, he highlighted the swift implementation of the Family Card programme as evidence of effective leadership and a positive attitude in economic planning.
The event, held at Biman Bandar High School Ground, also featured State Minister for CHT Affairs Barrister Mir Md Helal Uddin and Abu Sufian MP as special guests, with Mayor of Chattogram City Corporation, Dr. Shahadat Hossain, presiding. Chattogram Deputy Commissioner Zahidul Islam Meah addressed the gathering, which included senior officials and numerous local women.
Amir Khasru announced that Bangladesh will no longer support an economy benefiting only a privileged few. Under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s leadership, the government aims to establish a more inclusive economy that ensures the welfare of marginalized communities. He stressed the importance of empowering women economically and socially through initiatives like the Family Card programme.
The minister outlined the initial target group for the Family Card programme as the very poor, with plans to expand to low and middle-income groups. In addition to the Family Card, the BNP government is working on other welfare-oriented initiatives, such as the Farmer’s Card, Health Card, and Canal Excavation scheme. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to enhance economic activities for all population segments.
Amir Khasru noted that 5,775 Family Cards are being distributed in Chattogram initially, with plans to extend the programme to eligible women in other regions. He assured that services for the poor would be provided without political bias, aiming for direct assistance to the people.
The finance minister also mentioned the waiver of agriculture loans totaling approximately Tk 12,000 crore for poor farmers to stabilize commodity prices. State Minister Mir Helal praised Prime Minister Tarique Rahman for his commitment to socio-economic programs and recognized the Family Card scheme as a significant step towards integrating women into the economy.
The event concluded with Amir Khasru distributing replicas of the Family Card to five selected women. Other attendees included Chattogram Divisional Commissioner Dr. Mohammad Ziauddin, BNP International Affairs Sub-Committee member Ishrafil Kahsru, city BNP Member Secretary Nazimur Rahman, and Divisional Social Welfare Department Director Minhazur Rahman.