The proposed national budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year has allocated Tk 200 crore for scientific research activities, while a separate allocation of Tk 100 crore has been made to support technology-based start-ups.
Presenting the budget on Monday, Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed said the allocation for scientific research aims to support fundamental research as well as exploration and sustainable management of marine resources, thereby tapping into the potential of the blue economy.
Highlighting the country’s progress in the ICT sector, the finance adviser noted that digital ICT labs have been established in 5,000 educational institutions across the country, along with the setting up of ICT Schools of the Future in 300 institutions.
In the current fiscal year, a total of Tk 16.66 crore has been disbursed as research grants for 492 projects across various universities, he said adding, these initiatives are intended to promote scientific activities and encourage research and development in science and technology.
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The finance adviser said the proposed allocation of Tk 100 crore for start-up funding in the new budget is aimed at encouraging new entrepreneurs in the technology sector.
He said the decision was taken in view of the promising prospects of the ICT industry.