United News of Bangladesh

Greeting people in Bangladesh and other Bengali-speaking communities worldwide on Pahela Baishakh, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Monday expressed hope that cultural values of tolerance, generosity and harmony will strengthen democracy and promote peaceful coexistence. “Farewell 1432. Welcome Bengali New Year 1433. Pahela Baishakh, the first day of the Bengali New Year. On this occasion, I extend my heartfelt greetings and congratulations to the people of the country and Bengali-speaking communities around the world,” he said in a message posted on his verified Facebook account. MP demands ‘Child FF’ recognition for PM Tarique Rahman The Prime Minister said Pahela Baishakh is a unique symbol of the nation’s history, culture and identity. “For centuries, this day has returned to our lives each year with a call for renewal. The arrival of the New Year inspires us to leave behind old decay and disrepair and move forward,” he said. Tarique Rahman said Pahela Baishakh is closely linked with agriculture, nature and the region’s farm-based economy. “Even in this golden age of information technology, farmers still plan their cultivation in harmony with nature.” He said the thousand-year-old traditions, folk culture and values of Bengali-speaking people are revived through Pahela Baishakh. The Prime Minister said traditional events such as Baishakhi fairs, rallies and processions and Halkhata highlight the rich diversity of the culture and strengthen a sense of unity among people. He also said the Bengali New Year brings new hopes and possibilities, where the renewal of nature and human optimism together create a vibrant festive atmosphere. Referring to his party’s election pledges, Tarique Rahman said after the end of what he called a decade and a half of fascist rule, a new democratic government began its journey following victory in the national election held on 12 February. Taking office, the government has begun implementing various programmes aimed at improving the living standards of people from all walks of life in society, he said. As part of its electoral commitments, the Prime Minister said the government has already launched initiatives such as family cards, sports cards, canal excavation programme, and financial support for imams, muezzins, khatibs and religious leaders of other faiths. He also mentioned that a farmer card programme linked to agriculture and the rural economy will be introduced from the first day of the Bengali New Year, expressing hope that it will play a transformative role in strengthening the country’s agricultural sector. “I hope that the practice of tolerance, generosity and harmony rooted in the religious and social values and culture of the people of Bangladesh will further strengthen democracy and reinforce the coexistence of diverse opinions,” Tarique Rahman said. He said the world is facing various crises and conflicts, making the practice of peace, compassion and mutual respect more important than ever. “On this auspicious moment of the New Year, let us rise above narrowness and selfishness and follow the path of human welfare – this be our pledge. At the first dawn of the New Year, we express our commitment to overcoming all past frustrations and limitations and move forward with renewed energy.” Concluding his message, the Prime Minister wished peace, happiness and prosperity for all. “I once again extend heartfelt greetings to the people of the country. Happy New Year 1433.”