Govt begins new social welfare schemes, says PM Tarique Rahman

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said the present government has begun implementing a series of welfare-oriented programmes aimed at improving living standards across all sections of society.

In a message issued on the eve of Pahela Baishakh, the Bengali New Year, the Prime Minister said the administration has already started initiatives focused on “quality development” for people from all walks of life.

He said that since assuming office, the government has taken steps to translate its election pledges into action, following what he described as a “new democratic journey” after the national polls held on 12 February.

According to the message, several social protection and development schemes are now being implemented, including the distribution of family cards, sports cards, canal excavation programmes, and financial assistance for imams, muazzins, khatibs and other religious leaders.

The Prime Minister also announced that a farmers’ card programme which will be launched from the first day of the Bengali New Year, describing it as a step that will play an important role in supporting agricultural communities and strengthening the rural economy.

He said these initiatives are part of the ruling BNP’s broader electoral commitments to ensure wider access to state support and development opportunities.

In his message, the Prime Minister also extended greetings to Bengali-speaking people at home and abroad ahead of Pahela Baishakh, describing the festival as a symbol of cultural identity, heritage and unity.

He noted that the Bengali New Year carries deep historical and agricultural significance, marking a time of renewal for both rural livelihoods and cultural traditions. Events such as Baishakhi melas, processions, and traditional account-settling practices were highlighted as key elements of the celebration.

The Prime Minister added that the spirit of Pahela Baishakh encourages people to move forward with renewed hope, leaving behind hardship and division.

He also expressed optimism that cultural harmony, mutual respect and tolerance among different communities would further strengthen democracy and social cohesion in the country.