The government has unveiled a plan to build an integrated digital state through the introduction of a ‘One Citizen-One ID-One Digital Wallet’ system, enabling citizens to access a wide range of public and private services through a single digital identity.
The initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to transform the ICT and telecommunications sector into a key driver of the economy and increase its contribution to the country’s GDP to 10 per cent within the next five years.
Unveiling the maiden budget of the present BNP government led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the Jatiya Sangsad this afternoon, Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury said, “the government considers ICT and telecommunications as one of the immense potential sectors that can emerge as a primary driver of the national economy in the coming years.”
Currently contributing only 1-2 percent to the country’s GDP, the sector has been identified as a thrust sector, with plans to develop necessary infrastructure, expand connectivity and introduce the ‘One Citizen-One ID-One Digital Wallet’ system.
He stated, “affordable and reliable internet is the foundation of ICT development, and he has undertaken comprehensive telecommunications reforms to ensure 5G coverage for 90 per cent of the population and guarantee broadband internet speeds of 100 He mentioned that, to expand connectivity in remote and rural areas, the government is establishing a ‘National Fibre Bank.’ Bank’.”
High-speed free internet services have already been introduced at airports and railway stations across the country.
According to Boston Consulting Group (BCG), Bangladesh is projected to become the world’s ninth largest consumer economy by 2030.
To build an integrated digital state system and a digital economy, the government has undertaken initiatives to implement the concept of ‘One Citizen, One ID, One Digital Wallet’.
Through this initiative, each citizen will be able to access various public and private services under a single digital identity.
The digital wallet system will enable secure and convenient financial transactions, including the payment of allowances, fees and other charges.
This initiative will help eliminate existing complexities in data verification and interoperability arising from multiple identity systems.
At the same time, this Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) will further strengthen data exchange and system interoperability.
As a result, this will enhance transparency, accountability, and efficiency in public service delivery. Citizens will find it simpler and faster to access services.
