smart Bangladesh
'Smart' service points to be set up in 500 post offices across country: Palak
State Minister for Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Zunaid Ahmed Palak has announced 'Smart' service points will be set up in 500 post offices across the country.
He made the remarks while talking to reporters after a meeting with ambassador of the European Union (EU) to Bangladesh Charles Whiteley at the Secretariat on Tuesday.
“We have 500 post offices in the district and upazila headquarters of the country, which are in very excellent positions. We will set up smart points there alongside the government's post office services. We want to make smart service points there as public and private service providers. This service will be provided at 500 points. Which is a project of only Tk 49 crore,” said the state minister.
Complications with birth registration servers have been going on for a long time. Asked whether a solution is coming to overcome this problem, he said, "We have given all the proposals and suggestions in this regard. Now that the new government has been formed, we will sit with Local Government Minister Tazul Islam. We will follow up on our suggestions and suggestions and try again.”
“One is to provide quick service and the other is to ensure the security of information. Both were interrupted. We will discuss the matter soon," he added.
Asked when the problem will be resolved, he said, "I will tell you in seven days."
Regarding the meeting with the EU representative, the state minister started off by saying the European Union has stood by the government in this sector with all-out support, including technology and knowledge transfer.
"It still is," he insisted, adding: “In the new vision of the new government, we are working in a new way. We will get financial assistance from the European Union to establish a Smart government to implement Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Vision 2041 of Smart Bangladesh. They will invest here, they will also support their technology and knowledge.”
E-commerce business must be sustained to build Smart Bangladesh: DNCRP DG
E-commerce business must be sustained to build Smart Bangladesh, said AHM Safikuzzaman, director general of the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection.
Speaking as the chief guest at a discussion titled "Consumer Rights in E-Commerce and E-Service Sector: Our Action“, Safikuzzaman highlighted the pivotal role of E-Commerce in the national economic landscape.
Bangladesh Mobile Phone Consumers Association organised the event at Nasrul Hamid Auditorium of Dhaka Reporters Unity on Tuesday.
Shoeb Chy made Chairman of FBCCI standing committee on press, media
"Our next business is e-commerce business. „This business must be retained.“ He addressed concerns about customer funds held by e-commerce companies, stating, "To bring back the money of thousands of customers, the companies have to stay in business.“ He explained a measure called VVIT (Verified Vendor Identification and Transaction) aimed at preventing fraud in the sector. Under VVIT, every E-Commerce-Merchant must be registered and supervised by the E-Commerce Association of Bangladesh (E-CAB).
Safikuzzaman revealed that State Minister for Posts, Telecommunications, and Information Technology, Junaid Ahmed Palak, expressed support for these initiatives. "All traders from ECAB will be brought under VVIT, ensuring that registered companies can be tracked if they engage in fraudulent activities."
BGMEA chief seeks collective efforts for community development
Commenting on Consumer Complaint Management, Safikuzzaman outlined two Phases of Consumer Complaint Management (CCMA). The first Phase, applicable to all establishments except e-commerce, is set to roll out nationwide before the next Consumer Day. The second phase involves consumer complaints initially submitted to e-commerce companies. If unresolved, customers can approach the Consumer Rights Office, which will mediate and settle disputes.
Addressing recent media coverage related to the managing director of Evaly, Safikuzzaman criticized what he referred to as "yellow journalism.“ He warned that such reporting could jeopardise the dream of a thriving e-commerce sector in the country.
Islami Bank inaugurates 12 sub-branches
Rassel, the managing director of Evaly, reassured, "Our affected customers will get their money back as soon as Evaly gets the business opportunity."
Gazi Golam Tausif, Director of the Bangladesh Competition Commission, underscored the significance of the e-commerce sector in the government's goal to build a smart Bangladesh.
The meeting, presided over by Bangladesh Mobile Consumer Association President Mohiuddin Ahmed and moderated by Advocate Abubakar Siddiqui, featured discussions with key industry stakeholders, including E-CAB Secretary General Abdul Waheed Tamal, E-Courier CEO Biplab Ghosh Rahul, and others.
Eradicating arson terrorism, ushering in the era of Smart Bangladesh new govt’s priorities: Info Minister
Information and Broadcasting Minister Dr. Hasan Mahmud today (January 10, 2024) outlined the primary challenges for Bangladesh’s new government. Key among these challenges are the eradication of arson terrorism and the advancement of the nation into a technologically sophisticated era.
Speaking after paying homage to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on his historic Homecoming Day, Dr. Mahmud addressed the objectives of the new administration. “With the formation of the new government, our principal focus will be to root out arson terrorism and pave the way for a Smart Bangladesh,” he stated.
Read more: 'Citizens rejected the call to boycott elections': Hasan Mahmud
The information minister emphasized the pivotal role of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. “Our victory in the Liberation War on December 16 marked a significant milestone, but our independence was incomplete until January 10, 1972. This was the day when Bangabandhu, the Father of the Nation, returned to an independent Bangladesh,” he remarked.
Dr. Mahmud paid deep respect to Bangabandhu, Bangamata Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Mujib, the martyrs, and the four national leaders, acknowledging their sacrifices in shaping the nation.
The minister also commented on the recent national election, noting the positive feedback from international observers. “Observers from the United States, the European Union, and various countries noted the smooth and fair conduct of the elections, marking a notable improvement from previous years,” he said. He also highlighted the international support received, with official statements from the European Union, the United States, and the United Kingdom expressing their willingness to work with the Bangladesh government. He mentioned congratulations extended by over 31 countries, including Japan, and personal well-wishes from leaders like Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Read more: Sheikh Hasina re-elected Awami League Parliamentary Party leader for 4th time in a row
‘Want the entire world to observe our polls and learn from us’: Momen
Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen has said they want to see a "free, fair, non-violent and transparent" election and achieve the goal to build a "Smart Bangladesh" ensuring peace and stability.
"We want all from the entire world to come and see, and learn from us," he said while talking to journalists after his meeting with a team of European Union (EU) experts at his residence on Wednesday (December 27, 2023) night.
Momen, however, said the visiting EU team only listened to him as they wanted to know a few things, but did not make any comment on the election. “They didn't even want to talk to the media.”
He said Bangladesh is a democratic country, and there is a very strong Election Commission in place that is taking all necessary steps to hold a fair election.
Asked about BNP's allegations to the EU team in a separate meeting, the foreign minister said the government has not arrested anyone on political grounds but arrested those who were involved in “terrorist activities.”
Also read: Don’t want to see any proxy war in region; want to show world fair polls: FM
He referred to CCTV footage and statements made by some BNP supporters, mentioning who instructed them to carry out arson attacks and vandalism.
"Not a single person has been arrested for political reasons . Only criminals have been arrested. We cannot tolerate terrorism," Momen said.
The foreign minister said some big countries want Bangladesh to purchase things from them, but Bangladesh does not do so at the cost of sacrificing public interests.
"That's why they are unhappy to some extent. But we follow our principles. If you stand by your principles, your dignity will be enhanced," Momen said.
Also read: EU polls mission holds meeting with FM Momen, BNP leaders in Sylhet
He also talked about Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s desire to build a “Sonar Bangla” and a “Smart Bangladesh.”
"We want peace. We want stability. We don't want terrorism. We want freedom of media and freedom of speech. We want the continuation of democracy. We want more job opportunities," Momen told the reporters, referring to Awami League's election manifesto.
Before going to Sylhet, Momen also talked to reporters in Dhaka on Wednesday afternoon.
Highlighting the importance of peace and stability for greater development, he said they do not want to see any “proxy war” in the region.
“Our main goal is that we do not want to see any proxy war here. Problems remain there where we see proxy war despite having resources. Europe has fallen into proxy war and is facing challenges,” he told reporters, noting that there might be efforts to make the countries in the region weaker.
Momen said Bangladesh has taken a leadership role in the region and other countries acknowledge this.
Read more Cumilla presiding officer show-caused for campaigning in favour of AL candidate Mustafa Kamal
AL Pledges to Expand Modern Urban Facilities to Every Village in Smart Bangladesh
Ahead of the upcoming 12th National Parliamentary Election, the ruling Awami League has announced its election manifesto, committing to extend modern urban amenities to every village.
The manifesto, with the slogan “Smart Bangladesh: Visible Development, Increased Employment,” was announced by Awami League President and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today (December 27, 2023) at the Pan Pacific Hotel Sonargaon in Dhaka.
The manifesto promises to enhance the quality of life in villages by providing improved roadways, communication, clean drinking water, modern healthcare and medical treatment, quality education, advanced sanitation and waste management, increased electricity and fuel supply, computer and high-speed internet facilities, and expanded markets. These initiatives aim to bring all the comforts of modern cities to every village.
In Smart Bangladesh Awami League seeks more safeguards for minorities, end of intolerance
To ensure a reliable fuel supply, the party plans to continue encouraging and supporting the installation of biogas plants and solar panels on a group basis. The establishment of agricultural machinery service centers and workshops in villages will expand rural mechanization services, including machinery repair. This initiative will also provide training for rural youth and agricultural entrepreneurs, promoting productive employment.
The manifesto includes plans for private sector investment and loan support for small and marginal entrepreneurs manufacturing and marketing light machinery. In line with the economic development of villages, cultural, sports, and entertainment programs will be expanded. This approach is expected to reduce the urban migration trend among rural youth by creating self-employment opportunities within villages. The government will fully support young people's involvement in agriculture, industry, and business.
AL Manifesto on Significant Steps to Foster Women Entrepreneurs
Awami League says that during its previous tenure, roads in every upazila were improved and expanded, connecting each village to upazila headquarters and linking upazilas to district headquarters and national highways. Every village has been ensured electricity supply. Drinking water and sanitation facilities have been enhanced and will be further improved. The government has taken over the expenses of primary and secondary schools, and financial support is being provided for teachers' salaries in private schools. Hospitals with 50 beds in upazilas are being upgraded to 100-bed facilities. Community clinics are bringing healthcare services to the doorstep of rural residents. Every union now has computer and internet service centers, providing employment opportunities to rural youth and facilitating communication nationally and internationally.
Awami League’s Manifesto: Mega Projects for Accelerating Economic Momentum
The expansion of communication, electricity, and internet services has accelerated rural production and market systems. Agricultural inputs have become more accessible, and the market for agricultural products has expanded. The extension of agricultural technology and the development of cottage and small industries are being expedited. Activities in both agricultural and non-agricultural sectors have multiplied significantly in rural areas.
In Smart Bangladesh Awami League pledges more safeguards for minorities, end of intolerance
With the determination to make the nation smart, defined as free from dogmatism and anchored in harmony, Awami League has announced its manifesto for the upcoming 12th National Parliamentary Election.
The manifesto, with the slogan “Smart Bangladesh: Visible Development, Increased Employment,” was announced by Awami League President and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today (December 27, 2023) at the Pan Pacific Hotel Sonargaon in Dhaka.
The manifesto focuses on the plans and commitments for ethnic and religious minorities. It outlines the steps the party will take for the communities if it returns to power.
The manifesto not only addresses the next five years but also the vision of developing a prosperous Bangladesh by 2041. In this long-term vision, the lives, traditions, culture, history, and aspirations of ethnic and religious minorities are integrally linked with the development of Bangladesh. The manifesto outlines a clear path for these communities during this extended period, including specific steps to be taken.
The President of the Awami League stated that discriminatory behavior against ethnic and religious minority communities will be eliminated. Prioritized efforts will continue to improve their living standards.
Currently, Bangladesh is home to over 30 lakh people from approximately 45 ethnic minority groups. Their lives, traditions, culture, and history are deeply intertwined with Bangladesh. The Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, recognized equal rights and dignity of all communities, including ethnic and religious minorities, in the Constitution of Bangladesh. In line with this, Awami League continues to eradicate discriminatory behavior against these communities and prioritizes various initiatives to protect their lives, properties, places of worship, autonomy, and improve their living standards.
Read: Bangladesh’s strong position in int’l arena due to AL’s successful foreign policy: PM
In Bangladesh, Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and others can freely practice their religions, as affirmed by the leader of the Awami League.
Development and Progress
Measures have been taken to protect the land, homes, places of worship and other assets of religious and ethnic minorities.
Various programs, including social safety schemes, are being implemented to integrate the people of ethnic minority communities into mainstream development.
Special provisions and opportunities continue for the education and employment of children of underprivileged ethnic minorities and tea garden workers.
Educational and health services for ethnic minorities have been expanded to remote areas, and other infrastructural facilities, including roads and electricity, have been improved.
The government encourages the preservation of the diverse customs and traditions of ethnic minority communities.
To ensure greater political representation and social inclusion, the government has taken positive steps to increase the participation of ethnic minorities in decision-making processes.
Various clauses of the Chittagong Hill Tracts Peace Accord have been delegated to the Regional Council and District Councils, allowing development activities to be planned and implemented, considering local, geographical, and socio-economic contexts.
Special measures have been taken for the development of tourism, food processing, small and medium industries, and traditional cottage industries in the three hill districts. High-value spice cultivation, coffee and cashew nut farming, cotton cultivation, and solar energy initiatives are being implemented for the public's benefit.
Grants for the development of temples, crematoriums, pagodas, and churches continue, along with ongoing programs for the overall welfare of Hindu, Buddhist, and Christian communities through respective religious welfare trusts.
Awami League’s Commitment
Article 23A of the Constitution stipulates that the state will adopt measures to preserve and develop the unique local culture and tradition of the ethnic sects and communities. Initiatives to uphold this constitutional provision will continue.
During the tenure of the Awami League government, the Vested Property Act was amended, and measures were taken to resolve issues related to vested properties. Obstacles in the implementation of the law will be removed.
A National Minority Commission will be formed, and a special protection law for minorities will be enacted to safeguard the interests of minority communities. Awami League will continue to take necessary steps to ensure the safety and livelihood of religious and ethnic minorities, and underprivileged communities.
Read: Rangpur abuzz with excitement in anticipation of PM's electioneering
During the BNP-Jamaat alliance government, religious and ethnic minorities faced brutal attacks and discrimination. Many from these communities were killed, numerous women were raped, and their homes, lands, and businesses were occupied and looted. Awami League will complete the judicial process for these inhumane incidents and prevent their recurrence.
Awami League will maintain its policy of ending terrorism, discriminatory behavior, and human rights violations against religious and ethnic minorities. It will ensure the protection of their lives, properties, dignity, and equal rights in all spheres of state and social life.
Priority will be given to the balanced development of underdeveloped areas, including slums, chars, haors, and coastal regions, and to improving the quality of life of their inhabitants.
Neglected Communities
A portion of Bangladesh's population consists of Dalits, Harijans, and Bede communities. These communities are neglected, isolated, and overlooked in society. Awami League is committed to implementing programs to improve their living standards and integrate them into the mainstream.
Social safety programs for the development of the living standards of the Bede and other underprivileged communities will continue. Vocational training will be provided to enhance their skills, enabling them to engage in income-generating activities and integrate into mainstream society. Cash assistance and housing programs for underprivileged communities will be expanded nationwide.
Hijra Community
The Hijra community forms a small part of Bangladesh’s total population. Throughout history, this community has been isolated and neglected. Awami League government has taken various programs to ensure the fundamental rights of the Hijra community and integrate them into mainstream society.
The manifesto states that Hijras will be included in mainstream society, and their fundamental rights will be protected. Social justice will be ensured, along with improvements in education, housing, living standards, and social security.
Awami League’s election manifesto also says that cash assistance and housing programs for the Hijra community will be expanded nationwide.
Read more: Avoid conflict, work peacefully for participation of voters in election: PM Hasina urges candidates
Awami League’s Manifesto: Mega Projects for Accelerating Economic Momentum
Awami League has pledged to undertake new projects to accelerate the pace of the country's economy.
The manifesto with the slogan ““Smart Bangladesh: Visible Development, Increased Employment” was announced by Awami League President and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today at the Pan Pacific Hotel Sonargaon in Dhaka ahead of the 12th National Parliamentary Election slated for January 7, 2024.
The manifesto of Awami League states that mega projects are crucial for achieving high growth rates. The biggest obstacles in the path of the country's development were the lack of necessary infrastructure in various economic sectors, including roads, electricity and energy, and ports. With this goal in mind, under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the Awami League government has undertaken and implemented several major projects (mega projects) in three terms. It is hoped that these projects, including the Padma Bridge – a symbol of national pride and glory – will inject the expected momentum into development.
The manifesto mentions that during the tenure of the Awami League government, many significant projects have been initiated. On June 25, 2022, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the Padma Multipurpose Bridge, the country's largest bridge, funded by own resources. The Padma Bridge has created a safe, reliable, sustainable, and integrated system for unhindered communication across the country. This bridge will be part of the Asian Highway, opening new horizons for communication among South Asian countries.
It is stated that the inauguration of the railway linked to the Padma Multipurpose Bridge on October 10, 2023, has brought many districts of the southern region under rail connectivity with Dhaka.
PM Hasina unveils AL election manifesto promising dev, peace, prosperity
The manifesto also says that the Dhaka Metro Rail is a step towards building a smart Bangladesh. It will not only free the citizens of Dhaka from unbearable traffic congestion but also reduce air and noise pollution in the capital. The ease of the transportation system will increase economic dynamism, and the metro rail will save working hours for people.
It is mentioned that the construction of a 3.32 km tunnel under the Karnaphuli River in Chattogram, connecting Patenga with Anwara, has transformed the Port City into a “One Way, Two Town” model.
The manifesto notes that the inauguration of the Third Terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka on October 7, 2023, has opened a new horizon in air communication.
On September 2, 2023, with the inauguration of the Kawla-Farmgate section of the Dhaka Elevated Expressway, Bangladesh entered the world of elevated expressways.
On November 11, 2023, the channel of the Matarbari deep-sea port and the foundation stone of the first terminal were inaugurated. Once operational, this port will allow both container and cargo ships to dock simultaneously.
Voter turnout will be satisfactory despite intimidation: Quader
The manifesto states that on November 11, 2023, the much-awaited 102 km railway line from Dohazari in Chattogram to Cox's Bazar was inaugurated. This railway line will connect Bangladesh with the Trans-Asian Railway corridor and transform Cox's Bazar into a smart city.
It was mentioned that on October 10, 2021, and October 18, 2022, the first and second units' nuclear reactor pressure vessels at the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant were inaugurated, earning Bangladesh the honor of becoming the 33rd member of the nuclear club.
The manifesto notes that on September 6, 2022, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi jointly inaugurated the Rampal coal-based power plant, which has a production capacity of 1,320 megawatts.
In August 2018, Bangladesh began supplying gas to the national grid from the country's first LNG terminal, followed by the commencement of the second LNG terminal in April 2019. Each terminal at Maheshkhali's LNG floating storage has a daily regasification capacity of 50 crore cubic feet.
The manifesto states that Payra Seaport, the country's third port, has been established in Patuakhali. Due to infrastructural development, the first container ship anchored at the port on August 13, 2016.
The Awami League's manifesto promises that, considering financial management, some expensive projects have been suspended, which will be reconsidered and implemented as appropriate. The consideration and adoption of economically feasible new projects will continue.
Food for All: AL Manifesto Emphasizes Agricultural Development for a Hunger-Free Bangladesh
No one will lag behind in Smart Bangladesh: Palak
State Minister for ICT Zunaid Ahmed Palak on Sunday said no one will be left out under Smart Bangladesh.
“No one will be left behind, be it the students of madrassas or those living in remote mountains. Through the leadership of all, we will build a progressive and innovative smart Bangladesh,” he said.
The State Minister said this during a view-exchange meeting with the concerned stakeholders regarding the implementation of inclusive, knowledge-based, and innovative Smart Bangladesh.
The interaction was organized by Aspire to Innovate-a2i and the Information and Communication Technology Division at the ICT Tower in the capital on Sunday (November 19, 2023).
1 dead, 3 injured in steel mill fire at Dhaka's Kadamtoli area
Secretary of ICT Division, Shamsul Arefin, Project Director (Joint Secretary) of a2i, Md Mamunur Rashid Bhuiyan, Vice-Chancellor of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Digital University, Prof. Dr. Mohammad Mahfuzul Islam, as well as entrepreneurs, representatives of technology-based business organizations, teachers, freelancers, influencers, women, disabled, and media workers from the country, attended the programme.
At that time, they shared their suggestions, recommendations, and proposals for the implementation of Smart Bangladesh by 2041 in their respective fields.
In his speech, Palak said that when the dream of Digital Bangladesh was seen 14 years ago, everyone used to make fun of it, but today this dream has become a reality. “We are now a developing country. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, we are dreaming of a new Bangladesh. By 2041, this country will be an inclusive, knowledge-based, and innovative Smart Bangladesh,” he added.
Ban e-cigarettes to protect new generation: e-CAB
Highlighting the four pillars of Smart Bangladesh - Smart Citizens, Smart Economy, Smart Government, and Smart Society, the state minister said the smart ID will be implemented with 20 percent digital skills, 60 percent smart devices, and 30 percent service adoption by 2025 to build smart citizens. Agrotech, Fintech, Healthtech, Smart Grid, and Edutech will be at the forefront of building a smart economy.
He also stressed the importance of building a smart humane world through the humane use of technology.
The stakeholders provided necessary suggestions, recommendations, and proposals for the implementation of Smart Bangladesh. They said that our country is technologically advancing. However, there are still many challenges, which we have to overcome to implement Smart Bangladesh. The payment gateway has now become a big challenge for freelancers in the field of international transactions. Due to this, payment is becoming a hindrance in many big jobs.
Woman hit by van succumbs to injuries at DMCH
Apart from creating a sector-based data-based digital system, it is also necessary to make it an interoperable system. This will create transparency and accountability in the inter-sector decision-making of the public and private sectors and create opportunities for timely decision-making in the creation of citizen-friendly services.
Youths need to get more involved in developing their technical skills, from artificial intelligence to all the new technology that exists out there. Only then the citizens of smart Bangladesh will not be a burden to the country and will be a demographic dividend for the country.
Among others, ISPAB president Emdadul Hoque, e-CAB general secretary Muhammad Abdul Wahed Tomal, BASIS director AKM Ahmedul Haque Babu, BIJF president Naznin Nahar, TMGB president Md. Kawsar Uddin along with the ICT Division, a2i, different educational institutions, business institutions, and media persons were present at the event.
Glimpses of ‘Smart Bangladesh’ in remote Panchagarh areas
The world for people of remote areas in the northern district, Panchagarh, has changed in just 15 years.
They are now enjoying cashless services, which makes life much easier.
People living in remote areas of Panchagarh are utilising the opportunities of ‘Digital Bangladesh’, a campaign initiated by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in 2009.
The success of transforming Bangladesh into ‘Digital Bangladesh’ has created the solid ground to move towards a ‘Smart Bangladesh’, which was announced by the Prime Minister recently.
The government has set four bases — smart citizens, smart economy, smart government and smart society — to make the country 'Smart Bangladesh'.
Read:Daily transaction of MFS crosses Tk3200 crore: BB
The aim: every citizen will be skilled in using technology, economic activities will run through using technology, and the government will be technologically smart.
What was unthinkable before 2009 is now the reality for people in remote Panchagarh, as they are getting over 20 important services at home without any hassle from union parishads.
While visiting the Panchagarh Sadar Union Parishad complex, local businessman Abdullah Al Faruque, who is a beneficiary, said that he has received his required trade license by just providing his NID number.
“This cashless system is facilitating any person to get his/her desired document by just providing the NID number to the system as the officials can easily verify all relevant information,” he said.
The concerned official provided him the trade license within 2-3 minutes after matching the required information from his NID.
Read: MFS transactions record breached again in April; number of accounts now 26.5 crore
“We’ve eliminated waste of time and money which was unavoidable in the past,” Faruque said.
This transformation began more than 14 years back when the Prime Minister envisioned advancing the country into a developed one by 2041.
Taking advantage of the Digital Bangladesh initiative, Panchagarh district administration tookthe measures to make their services technology dependent.
Digital transactions are now being used to provide services, which have reduced time, cost and travel difficulties alongside offering better services.
Due to initiatives of the Awami League government, these necessary services are being availed quickly and MFS (mobile financial service) has also made it easier. As a result, revenues of the government have increased, the hassles have been reduced, and the desired service has become available.
Read more: BFIU suspends cash out from 230 MFS accounts over transactions through hundi
Latifa Banu, another beneficiary, said that she has been receiving maternity allowance over last two years and collecting the allowance from the UP for one-and-a-half years.
“Earlier, I had to go to different shops, but now, I am just providing my fingerprint and receiving my allowance easily from the UP centre,” she said.
Halima Begum, who came to Panchagarh Sadar Union Parishad to collect the citizenship certificate, said that it was not so easy before.
She mentioned that after obtaining a certificate from the Union Parishad, there was the trouble of getting signatures on it. A person had to come to collect his/her certificate.
“Now, if you apply with the number of the NID card, the signed certificate will be issued. I like this system,” she said.
Read more: Budget will help to build Smart Bangladesh: Speakers
Panchagarh entered the cashless era when this service was first introduced in the Tirnoihat union of Tetulia. With this, the union parishad of the upazila was on its way to become ‘Smart Bangladesh’.
Cashless services were later introduced to other UPs. The beneficiaries can avail 20 services easily from there. People are now getting the services by visiting the uniontax.gov.bd website from the comfort of their homes.
Deputy Commissioner Md. Jahurul Islam said that over 70,000 people of 43 union parishads and three municipalities in the district have received services from uniontax.gov.bd and pouroseba.gov.bd platforms.
An entrepreneur of Union Digital Center said that online service was launched experimentally in Tetulia upazila in the fiscal year 2019-20, but on January 6 this year, the service started in Tirnoihat UP of Tetulia upazila through the inauguration of cashless service.
Before introducing the platform, any service seeker had to visit the union parishad three times, requiring 7-15 days, on average. But, in the digital and cashless system, he/she doesn’t even need to visit UP.
Read more: Budget is inconsistent with goals of Smart Bangladesh: Speakers
The deputy commissioner said that after the introduction of the Digital Union Cashless Service, revenue is being deposited directly into the UP’s bank account.
He said the local government system is strengthened through cashless services and this is another step towards the making of ‘Smart Bangladesh’.
BNP-Jamaat is an alliance of killers, don't vote for them: PM Hasina at London reception
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has once again urged the people not to vote for BNP-Jamaat nexus in Bangladesh's next general election as they will just ruin the country.
“They (BNP-Jamaat) will just destroy the country, nothing else. So, make it sure that BNP-Jamaat must not come to power again,” she said.
The prime minister made the call on Sunday (May 07, 2023) while addressing a civic reception accorded to her by Bangladeshi expatriates in the UK at London Marriott Hotel.
She said that BNP-Jamaat alliance is just a bunch of killers, thieves and corrupts.
Read More: Khulna city polls: Miscreants attack BNP leader Kaisar’s house, threaten not to join election
“So people should remain cautious and must not cast their votes for them,” she said.
Hasina, the chief of the ruling Awami League, expressed hope that people of the country will give their verdict in favour of Awami League in the next general election.
“Inshallah people will vote for us in the next election to setve them one more time,” she said.
She said that BNP-Jamaat nexus siphoned off money and put the country on the verge of destruction.
Read More: BNP leaders losing their mind over world's praise for Bangladesh: Hasan Mahmud
“How could people cast their votes for them,” she wondered.
She said that Tarique Rahman (BNP vice chairman) has been convicted of corruption and the government has been able to bring back some Tk 40 crore that was smuggled by Koko ( late son of BNP leader Khaleda Zia).
Reiterating her determination to build a developed and prosperous Bangladesh, Hasina said, “Bangladesh will be a smart Bangladesh by 2041. We have formulated Delta 2100 plan. We have to take the country forward.”
She said that there will be no homeless, landless people in the country.
Read More: BNP burning over PM's success on tours: Hasan Mahmud
“Awami League works for the welfare of people. No person in Bangladesh will remain without food," she said.
Criticising BNP leaders including Tarique , the PM said, "Today, where do you get the courage to call us vote thieves?"
She said that Tarique Zia was a vote thief, and his mother ( Khaleda Zia) too.
PM Hasina said that Awami League did not come to power by rigging the votes of the people.
Read More: BNP-Jamaat protesters refuse PM Hasina's invite to meet her in hotel: Official
“Awami League always fights for the rights of the people; Awami League has come to power after being elected by thecpeople. Awami League never grabbed or stole power,” she said.
Hasina asked the BNP leaders to reflect on how many parties participated in the February 15, 1996 election and how many votes were cast.
Awami League president said that the people of the country are now aware enough about their right to vote. "We have made the people aware.”
The prime minister said that no one has anything to say about the fairness of the 2008 election that was won by the Awami League-led alliance.
Read More: BNP, Ganatantra Mancha meeting held on future of anti-govt movement
“What is the result of that election? How many seats did BNP's 20-party alliance get? The 20-party coalition won 29 seats in the election and 1 in a by-election, totaling 30 seats. And the remaining seat is Awami League-led alliance. We got it all. Where is their position among the people that they jump so much?”
She briefly described various development programmes of the government that have been taken in the last 14 years.