Dhaka: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Tuesday assured that his government will gradually implement all its election pledges 'at any cost' to change people's fortunes and promote the development of the country.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of fulfilling the promises made to the public during the election campaign. Speaking at the formal launch of the Family Card Pilot Programme at T and T Playground in Banani, Rahman described the day as an emotional milestone, allowing him to honor his pre-election commitments.
Tarique Rahman acknowledged the high expectations of the populace from the elected administration, while also highlighting the challenges posed by the current global situation, including the crisis in the Middle East. He urged the citizens to exercise patience as the government works towards implementing its pledges, albeit with potential delays in certain areas.
The Prime Minister expressed a firm belief in delivering the Family Card to women heads of all four crore families in Bangladesh within the next five years, underscoring the government's commitment to empowering women socially, educationally, and economically. He recalled the efforts of previous BNP governments, particularly the initiatives by former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, to provide free education for women across Bangladesh.
In addition to the Family Card, the Prime Minister highlighted other significant promises, including the introduction of the Farmers' Card, which is set for distribution next month. Rahman assured the public that agricultural loans of up to Tk10,000 had already been waived, fulfilling another election promise aimed at transforming the lives of farmers.
The launch event, marked by religious recitations and the playing of BNP's theme song, saw the Prime Minister hand over the first Family Card to a recipient, with additional cards distributed to 16 other women. The programme, in its pilot phase, is being implemented across 15 wards in 13 city corporations and unions, offering a monthly allowance of Tk 2,500 to selected households through a Government-to-Person digital payment system.
The gathering was attended by several dignitaries, including State Minister for Women and Children Affairs Farzana Sharmin, Dhaka North City Corporation Administrator Shafiqul Islam Milton, and Social Welfare Ministry Secretary Dr Mohammad Abu Yousuf. The initiative reflects the government's dedication to fostering national progress and social justice by empowering women as primary family representatives.