United News of Bangladesh

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan on Friday said family cards must be distributed transparently and without nepotism to ensure that genuine beneficiaries receive government support. Speaking at a meeting with district-level officials at the Barishal Circuit House, Minister Swapan said a team would be formed in every union to select beneficiaries. According to the minister, each team will include the union chairman and two social workers and will operate under the leadership of the Upazila Nirbahi Officer. He said the teams must properly verify beneficiaries and distribute family cards fairly, free from political influence. The minister also highlighted the importance of maintaining accuracy in the work of the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics. He said a country’s level of development and institutional strength depends on correct statistics. Accurate data collection, proper storage and swift delivery of data are essential, he added. “Modern decision-making depends heavily on a strong database system, and without it, correct decisions are not possible,” the minister said. Turning to healthcare, Swapan said advanced medical services remain inadequate in Barishal, despite it being regarded as the capital of southern Bangladesh. He pointed out that transferring critically ill patients to Dhaka is both difficult and costly for ordinary people. No action to be allowed beyond established rules: Information Minister To address the situation, he said Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital should be upgraded with modern facilities. He also said establishing a specialised trauma centre in Barishal has become urgent. Senior officials from various government departments and journalists were also present.