The government is committed to implementing a special plan for balanced and coordinated development to integrate the northern region with the mainstream economy, according to Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood. Speaking at a seminar in Bogura, Mahmood highlighted the government's efforts to address historical inequalities and accelerate development in the northern districts. He emphasized the need to generate an additional 10,000 megawatts of electricity over the next five years to overcome the country's power shortage.
Historical Context and Current Efforts
Mahmood noted that the northern region had lagged behind during previous regimes, particularly under the fascist regime and the Awami League era. He criticized the Awami League for monopolizing wealth and creating greater inequality after independence. The minister stressed that the current government is dedicated to correcting these imbalances and ensuring equitable development across the country.
Key Development Initiatives
The seminar, titled 'Development Perspective of Five Northern Districts: Problems, Prospects and the Way Forward,' was organized by the Bogura History Study and Research Welfare Organization. State Minister for LGRD and Cooperatives Mir Shahe Alam and State Minister for Public Administration Abdul Bari also spoke at the event, reinforcing the government's commitment to planned development in the northern districts. They highlighted the importance of eliminating regional deprivation and ensuring balanced growth.
Majedur Rahman, Member of Parliament from Gaibandha-1, called for the immediate establishment of Bogura Division to promote administrative decentralization and improve public service delivery. The event was attended by various MPs, local administrators, and distinguished personalities, including Dr. CM Idris, who chaired the session, and Dr. Matiur Rahman, who presented the keynote paper.
