Barishal: Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan today announced the government’s commitment to creating an environment free from fear and intimidation for practicing journalism. He made this statement while addressing journalists at the Barishal District Shilpakala Academy auditorium, during a discussion marking Martyrs’ Day and International Mother Language Day.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister emphasized that his ministry is dedicated to implementing the election manifesto of the ruling BNP. He highlighted the government’s focus on ensuring women’s rights, distributing family cards to households, creating employment opportunities for the unemployed, waiving loans for farmers, and issuing farmer cards. Additionally, Swapan revealed plans to excavate around 20,000 kilometers of canals nationwide to channel tidal river water to farmland, ensuring sufficient irrigation for agricultural production.
Swapan noted that if gas from Bhola is fully extracted, it could satisfy not only the southern region’s needs but also the entire country’s energy demand. He also mentioned the potential connection of Payra Port to the capital, with plans to restart the construction of a four-lane road to facilitate this connection.
The minister further discussed the potential of developing Kuakata into a modern tourist destination. By introducing direct flight operations, the region could attract international tourists, boosting the local economy and increasing Bangladesh’s foreign currency earnings. Swapan stated that the government has adopted a 180-day plan to ensure the completion of these initiatives within the specified timeframe.
Following the event, Swapan participated in a views-exchange meeting with journalists at the Barishal Press Club, where he observed that the media in Bangladesh has maintained traditional trends despite advancements in technology. The president, general secretary, and senior members of the Barishal Press Club were present during the occasion. Later, Swapan engaged in various programs in his constituency, Gournadi and Agailjhara.