Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Monday announced that the government plans to establish agro-processing industries in Dinajpur to make better use of the region’s agricultural resources, strengthen the local economy and create new employment opportunities.
Speaking at a civic reception and iftar gathering held at the Dinajpur Circuit House ground, the Prime Minister said proper preservation and processing of agricultural produce could significantly increase farmers’ income while generating jobs for local people.
“If we can process and preserve agricultural products effectively, the economic base of the region will become stronger and new employment opportunities will emerge,” he said.
Tarique Rahman, who is also the chairman of BNP, said Dinajpur holds special personal significance for him because of his family ties with the district.
Recalling childhood memories linked to his maternal grandparents’ home in Balubari and Ghasipara areas, he said the emotional connection motivates him to work for the district’s development.
The premier said local officials and community leaders had highlighted both the challenges and potential of the region during the programme, adding that the government would carefully consider their suggestions while planning development initiatives.
Referring to the government’s election pledges, Tarique Rahman said the administration has already started implementing several commitments within a short period after assuming office. Among them is the nationwide canal excavation programme launched earlier in the day from Sahapara in Kaharole Upazila.
Under the initiative, the government plans to excavate around 20,000 kilometres of canals across the country over the next five years to improve irrigation facilities and address water shortages during the dry season.
The Prime Minister also expressed concern about the excessive extraction of groundwater, noting that water levels have dropped significantly in many areas.
He said restoring canals and rivers would help retain rainwater, recharge underground reserves and gradually reduce the arsenic problem.
Highlighting social initiatives, Tarique Rahman said the government has begun piloting the ‘Family Card’ programme aimed at supporting women-led households, with plans to gradually expand it across the country.
He also mentioned that the government has already started providing honorariums to imams, muezzins, khatibs and religious leaders of other faiths as promised in the election manifesto.
Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister inaugurated the excavation of 53 canals nationwide by formally launching the digging of the 12-kilometre Sahapara Canal in Kaharole Upazila and planting a sapling on its bank to mark the initiative.
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