The Cabinet Division has finalised the list of personalities and institutions to be honoured with the Independence Award 2026, naming former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia among 15 eminent individuals selected for the country’s highest civilian recognition.
According to an official press release signed by Additional Secretary Md Humayun Kabir (Committee and Economic), the decision was approved in recognition of outstanding contributions at the national level across different sectors.
The government will confer the award on 15 individuals and five institutions for their roles in independence, public service, education, research, culture and social development.
Former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia has been selected posthumously for her contributions to national development, democracy, women’s advancement and institutional strengthening.
Other posthumous recognitions include Major Mohammad Abdul Jalil for his role in the Liberation War and Dr Ashraf Siddiqui in literature.
In science and technology, Professor Dr Johurul Karim will receive the honour, while cultural figures such as AKM Hanif (Hanif Sanket) and the late Bashir Ahmed have been recognised for their contributions to media and arts. Jobera Rahman Linu has been selected under the sports category.
Under social and public service, awards will go to Dr Zafrullah Chowdhury (posthumous), Md Saidul Huq and Maherin Chowdhury (posthumous). Kazi Fazlur Rahman has been named posthumously for public administration contributions.
In research and training, recipients include Dr Mohammad Abdul Baqi, Professor Dr M A Rahim and Professor Dr Sukomal Barua. Abdul Mukit Majumdar (Mukit Majumdar Babu) has been recognised for environmental conservation efforts.
Five institutions have also been selected. These are Faujdarhat Cadet College, Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF), SOS Children’s Village International in Bangladesh and Gonoshasthaya Kendra.
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