Dhaka: CHT Affairs Minister Dipen Dewan has announced that the government is actively focusing on balanced development, enhancing climate resilience, and empowering local communities. Speaking at the inaugural workshop of the "Integrated Climate Adaptation Solutions in the Hindu Kush Himalaya Region (HI-CAS)" project, the minister emphasized the necessity of protecting nature and biodiversity alongside development initiatives.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the workshop was held at a hotel in the capital and organized under a project funded by the Government of Canada through Global Affairs Canada (GAC). The initiative, which is being implemented in Bandarban and Khagrachhari districts, aims to address the increasing challenges posed by climate change. Dewan highlighted the need to assist vulnerable communities, particularly in the Himalayan region, in adapting to adverse climate impacts.
The minister urged non-governmental organizations and development partners to support government efforts, noting that the pilot project in Sualok (Bandarban) and Matiranga (Khagrachhari) will be expanded across the entire Chittagong Hill Tracts if successful. State Minister for CHT Affairs Mir Mohammed Helal Uddin also addressed the event, reiterating the government's commitment to enhancing livelihoods and public health in the hill regions.
He stated that the government is dedicated to promoting climate-resilient agriculture and environmental protection. The state minister added that the Prime Minister's vision is to build a "Rainbow Nation"-an inclusive and united Bangladesh free from discrimination based on religion or ethnicity. He assured full government support for welfare-oriented initiatives and emphasized the significance of renewable energy and agricultural biodiversity in climate change adaptation.
The workshop was attended by Additional Secretary of the ministry Md. Monirul Islam, senior officials, and representatives from Arannayk Foundation and ICIMOD.