Information Adviser Dr Zahed Ur Rahman announced that the government will construct new food godowns in three hill districts to ensure a consistent food supply in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) region. This initiative aims to address the challenges posed by natural disasters, communication system limitations, and emergency situations in the hilly areas.
Ensuring Food Security
Dr Zahed emphasized that the government is working on a long-term plan to ensure food security for the people in the CHT region. The construction of new food warehouses is a crucial part of this initiative. The hilly areas often face unfavorable communication systems, especially during the monsoon season when landslides and other natural disasters can disrupt food transportation.
The new food godowns will facilitate the storage and quick distribution of food in emergency situations, ensuring that people in remote areas receive assistance promptly. Dr Zahed also mentioned that under the government's food-friendly programme, 30 kg of rice is being distributed to 55 lakh rural poor and extremely poor families at a price of Taka 15 per kg, a programme that will continue to support low-income people.
Government Initiatives and Priorities
In addition to food security, Dr Zahed highlighted several other government initiatives. He noted a decrease in the pass rate and the number of students obtaining GPA-5 in SSC, Dakhil, and Vocational examinations, which the government views as a step towards improving the quality of education. The education minister echoed this sentiment.
Regarding the health sector, Dr Zahed stated that ensuring the presence of doctors in public hospitals is a priority. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is strictly monitoring this issue, and recently dismissed a doctor for negligence. He also addressed the challenges faced by passengers on a recent international flight due to a missing spare part and immigration issues, promising measures to prevent such situations in the future.
Dr Zahed further discussed the Mass Uprising Museum, noting initial management problems due to high visitor numbers, which were quickly resolved. He also mentioned the activities of the Ministry of Science and Technology, including providing modern medical services to 82,376 patients and conducting 2,041 tests on imported food products for radioactivity. Additionally, initiatives to preserve and build new sports grounds in 13 city corporations were highlighted, emphasizing the importance of sports for the healthy development of children and adolescents.
