Dhaka: Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Adviser Sharmin S Murshid emphasized the urgent need for unity between the younger generation and the elderly to transform Bangladesh into a welfare state. She highlighted the potential for both groups to contribute to the country's economic advancement through their combined efforts.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Sharmin made these remarks during a program organized by the Nabin-Prabin Anto:Projonmo Milan Mela-2025 at the Pallima Sangsad Conference Hall in Khilgaon, Dhaka. The event featured prominent speakers, including educationist and economist Professor Anu Muhammad, Director General of the Department of Social Services Md. Saidur Rahman Khan, Additional Director M M Mahmudullah, and General Secretary of the Bangladesh Senior Citizen Forum Saiduzzaman Chapal.
Sharmin S Murshid stressed the importance of understanding and addressing the challenges faced by the elderly within homes, families, and society. She noted that the two generations are interconnected, as today's youth will inevitably become tomorrow's elderly.
She further explained that the Ministry of Social Welfare's work is extensive, with a focus on serving the marginalized communities in Bangladesh. She outlined recent initiatives, such as increasing the old age allowance to 61 lakh, the widow's allowance to 35 lakh, and raising the amount of all allowances. Additionally, she announced plans to establish 600 more clubs for the elderly, supplementing the existing 400 clubs funded by foreign sources.