Dhaka: Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed announced today that the government is contemplating the introduction of dearness allowances for public servants in the upcoming national budget for the fiscal year 2025-2026. Despite confirming the ongoing deliberations, Dr Salehuddin refrained from disclosing the potential percentage for the allowance.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr Salehuddin addressed reporters' questions after presiding over meetings of the Advisers Council Committee on Economic Affairs and the Advisers Council Committee on Government Purchase. When pressed for details regarding the allowance, he maintained that while the government is considering the proposal, specifics are yet to be finalized. He emphasized that a dedicated committee is tasked with evaluating the feasibility and extent of the allowance, and their recommendations will be forthcoming.
Dr Salehuddin reassured that there is no cause for confusion regarding the dearness allowance, as the government is committed to considering it. He also addressed concerns about recent import restrictions imposed by India on certain Bangladeshi goods, stating that discussions with the Ministry of Commerce are anticipated to address these developments.
The Indian government recently enacted new import restrictions on specific goods from Bangladesh, effective immediately, as per a notification from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. In response to questions about the revenue board's stance following the ordinance to split the National Board of Revenue into two divisions, Dr Salehuddin indicated that the government might issue a press note but has no new statements at present.