Information and Broadcasting Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud on Friday said that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina took a great initiative introducing universal pension system to build a welfare and humanitarian state, but a section of civil society, including BNP, failed to congratulate her.

The minister said this while addressing the inauguration ceremony of Chattogram City Corporation-Red Crescent Physio Orthopedic Rehabilitation Service Center as the chief guest at BRTC intersection in Chattogram.

"The way Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is taking the country forward, it is also being appreciated by the world community. But some parties and some individuals of our country, including BNP, cannot praise her for it,” Hasan Mahmud said.

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Hasan Mahmud said there are four programs in the universal pension system. One of those programs is for very low-income people.

“In the program, the government will give the same amount of money as he gives. If he gives Tk 1,000 a month, the government will give another Tk 1,000,” he added.

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The minister said that the universal pension system is a great initiative in building a welfare state.

“Bangabandhu's daughter Sheikh Hasina introduced old age allowance and widow allowance after forming the government in 1996 to build a humanitarian and social welfare state. Now 22 types of allowances are given through various agencies and ministries of the government,” he added.

President of Bangladesh Red Crescent Society Major General (retd) ATM Abdul Wahab presided over the function while Chattogram City Corporation Mayor Rezaul Karim Chowdhury addressed the function.