Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has said the government will not raise fuel prices despite increases in the global market, prioritising stable agricultural production during the ongoing Boro season.
He made the remarks on Saturday night following a meeting of the ruling party’s parliamentary committee at Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban.
The minister said the government is absorbing the impact of rising international fuel costs through substantial subsidies to ensure price stability at home. He described the decision as a major achievement, noting that maintaining affordable fuel is essential for uninterrupted irrigation, electricity supply and fertiliser production - key components of the country’s agricultural sector.
“Our priority is to ensure smooth agricultural production,” he said, adding that the government is committed to supporting farmers during the critical Boro cultivation period.
Salahuddin also pointed out that, unlike several countries that have resorted to shutting down educational institutions to conserve energy, Bangladesh has managed to avoid such measures through careful planning and resource management.
The meeting also reviewed 133 previously issued ordinances. A special committee formed for the purpose has already held two sessions, with its next meeting scheduled for Sunday night. The committee aims to submit its final report to parliament by 2 April.
The home minister further said that, as the government completes its first 40 days in office, the Prime Minister has directed MPs to actively communicate progress on election pledges to the public and participate more effectively in parliamentary discussions, including debates on the President’s address.
He added that lawmakers were also advised to use parliamentary mechanisms to respond to opposition challenges and highlight the government’s development achievements.
