Dinajpur: Women and Children Affairs and Social Welfare Minister Prof Dr Abu Zafar Md Zahid Hossain today stressed maintaining unity and harmony among the people for development, saying that development in any area is possible only through unity, not conflicts. "A sound and peaceful environment serves as a key prerequisite for development. If there are divisions, clashes and conflicts among the people, development activities are obstructed. But a cordial and harmonious environment facilitates development," he said.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister made these remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a workers' conference and views exchange meeting organized by the Joypur Union unit of Nawabganj upazila BNP in the district this afternoon. Addressing the local leaders and activists of the BNP, Zahid emphasized that maintaining a good environment in their area would make it easier to carry out development activities at all levels. Conversely, conflicts among them would hinder these activities.
The minister also highlighted the importance of educating children properly and developing them as competent citizens. He urged for collective efforts to build the future generation on the foundation of humanity and moral values. Zahid stressed the necessity of increasing social awareness to guide the younger generation in the right direction, alongside ensuring a favorable environment for education.
"If we fail to do something good for the future generation, we will not be able to protect them from the devastating situation caused by drugs," Zahid added, calling for a united social resistance against drug abuse. He emphasized the need for collective action to resist individuals involved in drug trafficking and stop their unethical activities, noting that waiting for law enforcement agencies alone would not suffice.
Moreover, Zahid mentioned that society has the responsibility to support individuals or families facing economic crises. He advised BNP leaders and activists to identify distressed people in their areas and extend a helping hand, ensuring that patients from poor families receive treatment with government financial assistance if needed.
The minister referenced Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's initiative, stating that the government is actively working to ensure people do not suffer. He mentioned that the prime minister is monitoring the situation even at the grassroots level and taking steps for quick solutions. Zahid sought cooperation from local leaders, activists of BNP, and the general public in implementing development activities. He noted that accurate information and proper advice could lead to more efficient and effective implementation of these activities.
Dinajpur District BNP Vice-President Md Atikur Rahman Raja, Nawabganj Upazila BNP President Md Tarikul Islam, and General Secretary Md Iqbal Hossain were present at the program, among others.