Dhaka: Prime Minister's Adviser on Public Administration Md Ismail Zabihullah announced today that the government has embarked on a project to introduce a single 'unique' national identity card, replacing multiple identity cards for different services. This move aims to streamline citizens' access to public services.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Zabihullah made these remarks as the chief guest at the launch event of the 'One Card' initiative by the University of Asia Pacific (UAP). He emphasized that UAP's initiative could serve as a valuable model for developing an integrated national identity card system.
Zabihullah underscored the importance of pilot projects in assessing the practicality and potential challenges of significant initiatives before their large-scale implementation. "Through a pilot project, the practical application, limitations, and shortcomings of an initiative can be identified. Necessary modifications can then be made before introducing it on a larger scale," he stated.
He praised UAP's efforts in launching the 'One Card' initiative and proposed its initial implementation in one division, with the potential to expand to other divisions after evaluating its success. He also highlighted the government's strategy to unify all services under a single unique ID.
"The experience gained from UAP's pilot project will be useful in implementing this plan," Zabihullah added. He further acknowledged the significant role private universities play in expanding higher education, noting that there are over 100 private universities in the country aiding the government's educational responsibilities.
The BNP standing committee member reiterated the government's commitment, as outlined in its election manifesto, to support private universities under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's leadership. He mentioned the reduction of income tax for private universities from 10 percent to 5 percent as a testament to this commitment.
The event also featured remarks from UAP Board of Trustees Chairman KM Mozibul Hoque and UAP Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Mohiuddin Ahmed Bhuiyan. A video presentation on the 'One Card' initiative was screened, followed by a student-led question-and-answer session.
Rashed Mahmud, Managing Director and CEO of DG Infotech Limited, elaborated on the technological features of the 'One Card', including One ID, DG Pay, One Card Vault, and the integrated payment system.