Bandarban: Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain today emphasized the government’s commitment to establishing peace in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT), aiming to unlock the region’s potential for development. He spoke at a scheme distribution ceremony held at the Bandarban Hill District Council Auditorium, highlighting the importance of peace for progress and coexistence.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the schemes distributed aim to improve the socio-economic conditions of farmers and women across various upazilas in the district. Hossain stressed that establishing social peace and order is crucial for any society’s progress, noting that diversity can be transformed into real strength only in a peaceful environment. He remarked that Bangladesh’s greatest asset is its people, despite limited natural resources, and highlighted the need for educational reform to move beyond the previous focus on GPA-5.
CHT Affairs Adviser Supradeep Chakma, who attended the event as the chief guest, pointed out the severe poverty conditions in the hill districts. In Bandarban, 112,000 out of 400,000 people live in extreme poverty, while Khagrachari and Rangamati face similar challenges. Chakma noted that the return of unutilised funds has led to reduced budget allocations for these districts.
The event, chaired by Chairman of the Bandarban Hill District Council Professor Thanjama Lusai, also saw the participation of Deputy Commissioner Shamim Ara Rini, Superintendent of Police Md Shahidullah Kawsar, and other local officials. Attendees received various resources, including saplings, livestock, sewing machines, maternity grants, and sports equipment. Organisers indicated that similar initiatives will be implemented in phases across other upazilas to improve socio-economic conditions in the region.