PM Hasina
Join our journey of becoming a trillion-dollar economy: PM Hasina tells South African businesses
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday (August 23, 2023) invited South African entrepreneurs to make investments in Bangladesh that seeks to become a trillion-dollar economy and a fully developed smart nation by 2041.“Bangladesh progresses toward prosperity. We want you to join our journey of development. Do invest in Bangladesh; we are confident that your investment will be primed for success, and we are fully prepared for a sustainable partnership,” she said.The prime minister was speaking at the Bangladesh Trade & Business Summit in South Africa jointly organised by Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) and Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) at the Radisson Blu Hotel and Convention Center.“I have a dream; the 170 million people of Bangladesh have a dream. And that is to become a trillion-dollar economy and a fully developed smart nation by 2041,” she added.
Read: PM Hasina reaches Johannesburg to attend BRICS summitHasina assured that investment in Bangladesh is secure due to consistently high returns.“Moreover, our government ensures a business-friendly and stable atmosphere that guarantees your investment’s success," said the PM.She confidently stated that Bangladesh promises a secure and prosperous future for global investors.Currently, she mentioned, Bangladesh has the most open Foreign Direct Investment policies in South Asia which include a liberalised industrial policy, one-stop service, an allowance for 100 per cent foreign ownership, an easy exit policy, a 15-year tax exemption, a VAT exemption for imported machinery, streamlined services, and more.
Read: Bangladesh progressing well overcoming natural, manmade disasters: PM“We welcome investors worldwide, particularly from South Africa, to explore the numerous investment prospects within Bangladesh. This is the perfect time to acquaint yourselves with what Bangladesh offers. This is the time to know Bangladesh better and to invest in its future,” she said.The prime minister said that over the last five decades, Bangladesh and South Africa have built a strong and friendly relationship based on mutual respect, shared values, cultural ties, and common beliefs.She said that this bond has been strengthened by growing trade connections. Both countries have similar paths of development, making collaboration and growth feasible.But, she mentioned that despite the significant potentials, the bilateral trade between Bangladesh and South Africa was only USD 316.83 million last year, falling short of its full potentials.“This presents a promising opportunity for collaboration, given the export and import potential of both nations,” she said.PM Hasina said that she is confident that ample collaboration opportunities exist for both nations, involving business communities and trade organisations.
Read: I want to make everyone’s life meaningful, declares PM Hasina after launching Universal Pension Scheme“Beyond existing bilateral mechanisms, we're enthusiastic about establishing a 'Joint Committee on Trade and Investment' and negotiating a 'Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement with South Africa'.”She said that Bangladesh offers opportunities across sectors like ICT, electronics, infrastructure, textiles, tourism, heavy industry, and small industries.“Our government is committed to facilitating smooth business operations. Bangladesh is ready to welcome prospective South African investors," she told the conference.She said that organisations like the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority, Bangladesh Economic Zone Authority, Bangladesh Export Processing Zone Authority, Bangladesh High Tech Park Authority, and Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission, all support foreign investors for optimal returns.She said that as the growing economy, Bangladesh is poised for substantial long-term financing. Amid the 4th Industrial Revolution, AI, and Venture Capital, Bangladesh is pursuing "Financial Connectivity" globally, prioritizing "Investment Banking" over traditional Consumer Banking.
Read: Some foreign powers are taking interest in Bangladesh's election to hinder progress: PM HasinaIn this connection, she said that the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) is elevating the capital market for essential long-term financing. In 2020, the stock markets outperformed regional peers, with USD 61 billion in market capitalisation, or 16.8 per cent of GDP.For financial progress, Sheikh Hasina said, we have expanded our bond market, introducing Sukuk, Green Bonds, ETFs, Venture Capital, Private Equity, and Impact Funds, diversifying investment opportunities. Soon, we are going to include derivative products in our capital markets, which will help minimize investment risks through hedging.Portfolio investments have also been made flawless through enhanced facilities for repatriation of the principal and returns without any kind of approval, she added.
Read: PM Hasina places wreaths, offers prayers to pay homage to Bangabandhu in TungiparaShe said that the significant Bangladeshi population in South Africa forms a strong base.“Thanks to expatriates for contributing to our economy. We urge you to invest more in our growth," she said.She also said that a joint business forum between the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) and the South African Chamber is also planned.The prime minister said that the robust private sector of Bangladesh will keep providing a great range of opportunities for those who invest in country’s economy.“We are confident that we are heading full speed forward on the path of the 4th industrial revolution.”Terming people of the country as the heart of strength, she said that about 55 million youth with the requisite skills are committed to accomplishing the task ahead.
Read: PM to inaugurate Karnaphuli Tunnel on Oct 28: Quader“Our fortunate position is enhanced by connections on both regional and global levels. Additionally, a growing domestic market and an expanding consumer class further strengthen this demographic benefit," she said.She said, with a population exceeding 1.5 billion, South Africa is currently experiencing rapid urbanisation and economic growth.“This provides favorable opportunities for Bangladesh to expand its exports, particularly in sectors like textiles, ready-made garments (RMG), pharmaceuticals, and agricultural products.”She mentioned that in the past decade, Bangladesh has shifted its focus towards untapped markets in Africa. Both government officials and business leaders in Bangladesh recognise the potential of African economies and the benefits of stronger trade relationships.“With a growing middle class, an increasing population, and rising consumer demands, Africa becomes an attractive market for Bangladeshi exports," she stated.Hasina said that to fortify its diplomatic connections and pave the way for future economic openings, Bangladesh has formally adopted the 'Look Africa' policy.
Read: UK keen to boost trade and investment with Bangladesh: Sarah Cooke tells PM Hasina“Simultaneously, Bangladesh is actively exploring avenues to procure essential natural resources and raw materials from African nations," she said.This category includes the requisite raw materials for Bangladesh's growing industries, spanning minerals, petroleum products, cotton, agricultural products, and more, she said.
The Prime Minister said that the government is establishing 100 Special Economic Zones, 109 Hi-Tech and Software Technology Parks, and IT Training and Incubation Centres across the country to facilitate commerce and industrialisation.
Read: PM Hasina writes to US President Biden expressing deep sadness over Maui wildfire devastation
“The recent inauguration of the Padma Bridge and Matarbari Deep Sea port will further amplify both external connectivity and internal trade, thus acting as catalysts for growth.”
Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, South Africa Sihle Zikalala spoke at the event.Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen and Prime Minister's Private Investment and Industries Affairs Adviser Salman Fazlur Rahman were, among others, present at the venue.
BIDA Executive Chairman (Senior Secretary) Lokmn Hossain Miah was also present while Chairman (Senior Secretary) of Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) Professor Shibli Rubayat-Ul-Islam gave brief descriptions about Bangladesh's economy and the government's efforts to expedite foreign direct investment in Bangladesh.
Pragati Universal Pension Scheme: Registration Process for Bangladeshi Non-Government Employees
The Universal Pension Scheme, introduced on August 17, 2023, marked a significant step as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh officially announced its inception. This well-structured pension initiative aims to encompass all working citizens. Notably, a crucial demographic within the country's workforce is individuals employed in the private sector. The Universal Pension Scheme includes the ‘Pragati’ package that accommodates the participation of private organizations and their employees. Let’s take a look into the process of how the private sector employees of Bangladesh can register for the Pragati Universal Pension Scheme.
General Rules of the Universal Pension Scheme 2023
The establishment of the scheme falls under the Universal Pensions Management Act 2023, passed on January 31, 2023. In order to facilitate its seamless execution, specific guidelines have been outlined, which also extend to non-government employees.
- Eligibility for enrollment in the scheme lies within the age bracket of 18 to 50 years, based on the National Identity Card (NID). Individuals beyond the age of 50 can register for the scheme under special circumstances, with a tenure of 10 years. This signifies that after contributing consecutively for 10 years, eligibility for a lifelong pension is attained. - Online registration is mandatory to participate in the scheme. Beneficiaries already availing benefits under the Social Security Program are required to forego their existing privileges if they wish to be part of the scheme.
Read more: Universal Pension Scheme: How will it work? What's in it? - Each contributor will have a dedicated account for the pension scheme.- The pensioner might pass away before reaching the age of 75 years while receiving the pension. In such an event, the remaining pension will be disbursed to their designated nominee or beneficiaries. - The aforementioned scenario might also occur during the subscription phase. In that case, a minimum subscription period of 10 years will be considered as the basis. If a subscriber passes away before completing this duration, their nominee will receive the accumulated contribution amount along with any accrued profits. - Contributions made towards receiving pension benefits will be treated as investments. However, recipients will not be subjected to income tax on their pension disbursements.
Read more: Universal Pension Probash Scheme: Registration Process for Expatriate Bangladeshis - For various government services, the service recipient has to pay a fixed cash-out charge of 0.70 (zero point seven) percent. In the case of this scheme as well, subscribers are required to pay BDT. 7 per thousand while subscribing through mobile. Effective from August 16, the scheme has applied identical service charges for MFS (mobile financial services) as for other government services.
Pragati: Universal Pension Scheme for Bangladeshi Non-Government Employees
Monthly Pension against Installment Rate
Monthly Subscription Rate
BDT. 2,000
BDT. 3,000
BDT. 5,000
Total Period of Subscription (in years)
Potential Monthly Pension (BDT)
Potential Monthly Pension (BDT)
Potential Monthly Pension (BDT)
42
68,931
1,03,396
1,72,327
40
58,400
87,601
1,46,001
35
38,374
57,561
95,935
30
24,932
37,398
62,330
25
15,910
23,864
39,774
20
9,854
14,780
24,634
15
5,789
8,683
14,472
10
3,060
4,591
7,651
Source: https://upension.gov.bd/Public/Packages
Read more: e-TIN: Online registration process in Bangladesh
Private sector employees or officers can join the Pragati scheme based on their contribution levels as specified above. Companies involved and their owners can also enroll in the Pragati scheme at an institutional level. In this context, the company will equally share the stipulated contribution amount with its employees. This implies that employees won't be solely responsible for the entire installment amount; rather, half will be contributed by the employees and half by the company.
Universal Pension Pragati Scheme Registration Process for Bangladeshi Non-Government Employees
Individuals from all professional backgrounds, including the non-government sector, must register for the scheme via the UPension website. Directly accessing the "Pensioner Registration" link on the site is the initial step.
Agreement to Preliminary Terms
The initial step entails agreeing to the fundamental registration terms by confirming identity. Progressing to subsequent stages necessitates consent to the following terms and conditions:
- No current employment within Government, autonomous, government-related, or semi-governmental organizations. - Exclusion from receiving benefits of any nature from external autonomous or Governmental entities outside of this scheme.
Read more: Smart NID Card in Bangladesh: Online Application Process, Documents Needed, Fees - Ineligibility for receiving any allowance under the social security program. The user is instructed to click on the 'I agree' button located beneath the terms and advance to the subsequent page. Applications containing inaccurate information will face rejection. Should discrepancies in the provided information surface during subscription payment, refunds will not be issued.
Selecting Income Category
At this point, individuals need to specify their scheme designated to their own income category. Private sector employees should opt for the "Pragati" category. Subsequently, a 10, 13, or 17-digit NID number, date of birth, mobile number, and email address should be provided. A one-time password (OTP) will be sent to the candidate's mobile and email for authentication. This OTP should be accurately entered in the designated spaces on the online form. Following this, the captcha should be completed.
Personal Information
The subsequent section necessitates furnishing personal details. The required information includes the NID number, a photograph, full name in Bengali and English, parental names, and current and permanent addresses. Given that the NID number has been entered previously, this section will auto-populate. District, upazila, and division details are to be chosen from the separate dropdown lists.
Read more: How to Get E-Passport in Bangladesh: Things you need to know
Occupation Information
Within this segment, there are some occupations in a provided list. Private employees should choose their profession from this list and input their annual income in numerical form.
Scheme Details
Candidates will determine their monthly contribution and payment frequency on this page. Three options for subscription payments will be presented: monthly, quarterly, and yearly. Candidates should select the preferred payment mode according to their convenience.
Payment Methods
Applicants need to specify the payment method and bank details. The account holder's name and account number (either the candidate's or the one from which subscriptions will be paid) are essential. The bank account type (savings or current) should be chosen, followed by the bank's routing number. This routing number facilitates online interbank transfers. In case the number is not familiar, it can readily be located through a search on the Google search engine.
Furthermore, within the confines of this online form, there exists the option to select the 'Don’t know the routing number' button, positioned alongside. This action prompts the emergence of a small box, requesting details such as the bank's name and branch. Accurate submission of this information results in an automatic update of the routing number at the specified location.
Read more: Universal Pension Scheme- a timely move to inclusive economic change: DCCI President
Nominee Page
This stage necessitates inputting the nominee's details, including NID number and date of birth. Subsequently, additional information can be added via the "Add Nominee" button. This includes the nominee's mobile number, their relationship to the candidate, and the share of the candidate's portion that they will receive. In scenarios involving only one nominee, a single nominee will be allocated the entire portion.
The "Add More Nominees" option serves to include multiple nominees, providing room for additional nominees and their corresponding shares.
Data Verification and Ending Registration
Upon completing the form, personal, scheme, bank, and nominee details will be displayed together. Registration is deemed complete after verifying these details and confirming their accuracy. The completed application form can be downloaded and saved for future reference.
Subscription Payment for Pragati Scheme
The provided mobile number and email address within the application form will be used to communicate subscription rates and monthly payment dates.
The installment contributions should be deposited into the National Pension Authority's bank account within the stipulated time frame.
Read more: BNP failed to congratulate universal pension system: Hasan Mahmud
If any unforeseen circumstance prevent timely payment, the contribution can be made within one month without incurring penalties.
If this one-month timeframe be exceeded, a penalty of 1 percent per day will be levied.
Failure to comply will result in the scheme account to be inactive.
Final Remarks
The private institutions within the nation are substantial contributors to the overall socio-economic landscape. These entities include a significant segment of the active, productive workforce each year. The increasing demographic of the aging population poses a threat of financial instability for this workforce. The Pragati Scheme holds the potential to provide a much-needed solution. The participation of non-government employees in the Universal Pension Scheme can empower them to ensure financial independence in their later years. Consequently, over-reliance on these employees during their retirement can be mitigated.
Read more: Cashback with profit on universal pension’s instalment payout through Nagad
No doubt Khaleda, Tarique and their men were completely involved in Aug 21 grenade attack: PM Hasina
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday stressed the need for expediting the implementation of the trial court’s verdict in the August 21, 2004 grenade attack case.
“Our leaders and activists, including Ivy Rahman, were brutally killed in broad daylight on August 21. The trial has been held. Its (trial court) judgment has been handed out. This verdict should be implemented soon,” she said.
The premier was addressing a discussion arranged by Bangladesh Awami League (AL) at Dhaka’s Bangabandhu Avenue, marking 19th anniversary of the August 21 grenade attack.
The grenade attack was carried out on an anti-terrorism rally organised by the then opposition AL on August 21, 2004 in front of its central office on Bangabandhu Avenue.
The gruesome attack left 24 people killed and nearly 1,000 injured. AL president and then opposition leader Sheikh Hasina luckily survived, but her hearing was impaired by the repeated grenade blasts. Among the dead was Awami League’s women affairs secretary and late president Zillur Rahman’s wife, Ivy Rahman.
A Dhaka court had already convicted and sentenced 49 people, including 19 to death and 19 to life imprisonment. Eleven were sentenced to different prison terms.
Read: 19th anniversary of Aug 21 grenade attack today
Eighteen of the convicted, including BNP leader Tarique Rahman, remain fugitives.
Appeals against the judgment are now being heard in the High Court.
Sheikh Hasina, while presiding over today’s discussion, said some of those convicted in the grenade attack case are now in jail but the main mastermind remains outside the country.
Without mentioning Tarique Rahman, she said that he went abroad signing a bond. “If he has courage, why doesn’t he come back? We’ve transformed the country into Digital Bangladesh. He is now talking big, taking its advantages… He should come back, if he has courage. People of Bangladesh will not spare that killer,” she said.
Recalling the grisly grenade attack, the premier said Khaleda Zia was the prime minister at the time, and the question remains what role she played at that time.
Read: It was a state-sponsored conspiracy to kill Hasina: Witness and injured Nazib recalls horror of Aug 21 carnage
She questioned why Khaleda obstructed police (from taking appropriate measures) and didn’t take any initiative to protect evidence of the attack.
“What does it prove? There is no doubt that Khaleda, Tarique and their men were completely involved in the grenade attack. It was also revealed in the investigation,” said the AL president.
Developed countries should be happy that BRICS would like to help developing nations: Momen
Bangladesh thinks the group of major emerging economies — Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) — should not be considered “platform of geopolitics”, but a supportive platform for emerging economies to help developing countries.
“The developed countries should be happy that the BRICS emerging countries, who have resources, would like to help developing countries,” Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen told journalists at a media briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday, ahead of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s visit to Johannesburg, South Africa to attend the BRICS Summit 2023.
The briefing was arranged to highlight PM Hasina’s engagements at the BRICS Summit.
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md Shahriar Alam, Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen and Ministry Spokesperson Seheli Sabrin, among others, were present.
Read: India is a mature govt, they can say something for regional interest: Momen
Momen said it should be win-win for all the countries though some people speak more about the geopolitical tension for some reason.
The BRICS will hold its 15th heads of state and government summit in Johannesburg from August 22 to 24.
Momen, however, said the countries of the Global South are facing difficulties as many banks were expelled from the SWIFT, a bank messaging system for transacting dollars.
“Many speak about de-dollarisation, but it is not easy. We don’t have much to comment on this,” he said.
Read: BRICS Summit: Hasina, Modi likely to hold meeting on the sidelines
“So, if the emerging countries support us with funding, the developed countries should be happy. In that case, their responsibilities will be shared. None is their enemy,” Momen added.
Indian Prime Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping are among the global leaders who are traveling to South Africa this week for the BRICS Summit.
India and China are two core members of the BRICS nations, which also include Brazil, Russia and South Africa.
A regular flight (EK 583) of the Emirates Airlines is scheduled to depart from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) with Prime Minister Hasina and her entourage members at 10:15 am on August 22.
The flight will arrive at the O.R. Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg, South Africa at 20:50 hrs after a short stopover at the Dubai International Airport.
Read: US being profoundly vocal on human rights should hand over Bangabandhu’s self-confessed killer: Shahriar Alam
The Prime Minister will be received by a minister-in-waiting of the South Africa government and High Commissioner of Bangladesh to South Africa at the airport from where Sheikh Hasina will be escorted to the Place of Residence, Radisson Blu Hotel Sandton Johannesburg.
On her first day of engagement in Johannesburg, the Prime Minister will attend the Bangladesh Trade and Business Summit at 10 am at the Radisson Hotel and Convention Center on August 23.
On the same day, she will attend and speak at the Bangladesh Envoys Conference in South Africa at the Palace of Residence at 12:30 pm.
The Premier is likely to hold a bilateral meeting with Chinese President XI Jinping at Hotel Hilton, Sandton at 3:30 pm.
Read: Busy schedule awaits PM Hasina during her BRICS visit to South Africa
She will later attend a banquet and cultural show at the Gallagher Estate, Johannesburg.
On August 24, the Prime Minister will attend the Friends of BRICS Leaders Dialogue (BRICS-Africa Outreach and the BRICS Plus Dialogues) to begin from 9 am at the Sandton Convention Centre.
She is scheduled to deliver a speech at the summit for five minutes.
On the sideline of the summit, the Prime Minister is expected to hold several bilateral meetings with President of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa, President of Brazil Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, President of Mozambique Filipe Jacinto Nyusi and President of the New Development Bank Dilma Vana Rousseff at the Sandton Convention Centre.
She will attend a luncheon hosted by President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa.
The Premier will attend a meeting of the community leaders on August 25.
Sheikh Hasina will depart the O.R. Tambo International Airport by a flight (EK 762) of the Emirates Airlines at 13:40 pm (local time) and will arrive at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 8:40 pm on August 27 following a brief stopover at the Dubai International Airport.
Read more: Bangladesh's inclusion in BRICS depends on members: Foreign Minister
PM to inaugurate Agargaon-Motijheel section of Dhaka Metro Rail on Oct 20
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will inaugurate the Agargaon-Motijheel section of Dhaka Metro Rail on October 20, Road, Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader said today (August 20, 2023).
A rally will be held at Suhrawardy Udyan in the capital at 3pm on October 20, marking the inauguration, the minister said while exchanging views with journalists at the conference room of the Road, Transport and Bridges Ministry in the Secretariat.
Also read: First phase of Metro Rail test run from Agargaon to Motijheel underway
Meanwhile, the 11.5 km stretch of Dhaka Elevated Expressway, from Kawla to Farmgate, will be opened on September 2. On this occasion, a rally will be held at the old trade fair ground in Dhaka’s Agargaon.
The construction work of the northern route of MRT Line 5 will be inaugurated on September 16, Quader also said.
Also read: Metro rail service resumes after two hours of suspension
On October 28, a rally will be held in Chattogram’s Anwara upazila to mark the inauguration of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Tunnel.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will virtually inaugurate 140 bridges, 12 overpasses across the country from the newly-constructed Sarak Bhaban in Dhaka on October 22. A vehicle inspection centre will also be inaugurated at the same time.
Also read: PM to inaugurate Agargaon-Motijheel section of Dhaka Metro Rail in Oct: Quader
I want to make everyone’s life meaningful, declares PM Hasina after launching Universal Pension Scheme
Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday (August 17, 2023) urged the people to keep their trust and confidence in her government as she wants to make the life of the country’s every citizen meaningful.
“I want to make the life of everyone meaningful and thus improve their living standard by completing the unfinished tasks of my father,” she said while rolling out the much-anticipated Universal Pension Scheme.
The premier opened the pension scheme, joining a virtual function from her official residence Ganabhaban. The participants and beneficiaries were connected from three districts –Gopalganj, Bagerhat and Rangpur-- and the Bangladesh Consulate in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
The universal pension scheme was introduced aiming to bring the country's all citizens aged above 18 under the pension coverage.
Also read: PM Hasina rolls out long-awaited Universal Pension Scheme
Hasina said Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman made Bangladesh as a least developed country by building a war-ravaged country and now Bangladesh gained the status of a developing country following the footsteps of Bangabandhu.
“Inshallah, Bangladesh will be transformed from a developing to a developed country,” she said.
The PM said the people’s trust, confidence and affection are the sources of her strength. “So, keep this trust and confidence. I want it from you,” she said.
She said Bangladesh had to face many blows --Covid-19 pandemic, the brunt of Ukraine war, economic sanctions and counter-sanctions and worldwide high inflation, as well as arson violence.
“Since the people are with us, Bangladesh is moving forward facing everything –natural calamities, pandemic and manmade disasters,” she said.
Also read: Universal Pension Scheme: How will it work? What's in it?
Describing the universal pension scheme as an inclusive programme, she said her government has been able to bring even the grassroots and disadvantaged people under their development plans.
The PM said the inaugural day of universal day is really a very significant day for Bangladesh. “The day will remain written in the golden letters in the history of Bangladesh,” she said.
Under the universal pension scheme, four different packages– Pragati, Surokkha, Samata and Prabashi– out of a total of six planned ones were initially introduced under the universal pension scheme to ensure the lifetime pension facility for the participant citizens.
The Pragati package will cover private job holders, while the Surokkha is designed for self-employed persons, the Samata for the low-income people and the Prabashi package for the expatriate Bangladeshis. The two remaining packages will be launched later.
Also read: All citizens aged 18-50 can join universal pension scheme: Cabinet clears a draft law
Any citizen aged above 18 can participate in the universal pension scheme to get the pension facility during the retirement life, by paying installments till the person reaches the age of 60.
An individual aged even above 50 can join the scheme but the person will need to pay installments for 10 consecutive years.
Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal and Bangladesh Bank Governor Abdur Rouf Talukder, also spoke on the occasion.
PM’s Principal Secretary M Tofazzel Hossain Miah moderated the function, while Senior Secretary of the Finance Division Fatima Yasmin delivered the welcome speech.
In the event, a video documentary on the Universal Pension Scheme was screened.
Read more: Some foreign powers are taking interest in Bangladesh's election to hinder progress: PM Hasina
PM Hasina rolls out long-awaited Universal Pension Scheme
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday ( August 17, 2023) rolled out the much anticipated Universal Pension Scheme aiming to bring Bangladesh's all citizens aged above 18 under the pension coverage.
She opened the pension scheme joining a virtual function from her official residence Ganabhaban. The participants and beneficiaries were connected from three districts –Gopalganj, Bagerhat and Rangpur-- and the Bangladesh Consulate in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Four different packages– Pragati, Surokkha, Samata and Prabashi– out of a total of six planned ones were initially introduced under the universal pension scheme to ensure the lifetime pension facility for the participant citizens.
Universal pension system to be rolled out from FY 2023-24
The Pragati package will cover private job holders, while the Surokkha is designed for self-employed persons, the Samata for the low-income people and the Prabashi package for the expatriate Bangladeshis. The two remaining packages will be launched later.
Any citizen aged above 18 can participate in the universal pension scheme to get the pension facility during the retirement life, by paying installments till the person reaches the age of 60.
An individual aged even above 50 can join the scheme but the person will need to pay installments for 10 consecutive years.
Bill on the universal pension returns to the House after scrutiny
Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal and Bangladesh Bank Governor Abdur Rouf Talukder, also spoke on the occasion.
PM’s Principal Secretary M Tofazzel Hossain Miah moderated the function, while Senior Secretary of the Finance Division Fatima Yasmin delivered the welcome speech.
In the event, a video documentary on the Universal Pension Scheme was screened.
JS passes bill to introduce Universal Pension Scheme
PM declares 12 districts, 123 upazilas free of homeless people
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today (Wednesday, August 09, 2023) declared another 12 districts and 123 upazilas free of homeless and landless people as 22,101 more families were provided with abodes under Ashrayan-2 project.
She made the announcement and opened the distribution of the semi-pucca houses to the homeless and landless families through a videoconference from her official residence Ganabhaban.
With the 12 districts and 123 upazilas, a total of 21 districts and 334 upazilas throughout the country have so far become homeless and landless family-free ones.
The keys of 22,101 houses and the ownership documents of a two-decimal of house lands were handed over to the families in different districts of the country. Some 115,000 people are being rehabilitated in the houses.
The premier was connected virtually with the beneficiaries and local people of three places while distributing the houses to the landless and homeless families on the sixth occasion since Mujib Year.
Read: Go all out for the victory of AL-nominated candidates in upcoming national election: PM Hasina asks party members
The three places are Barasat Sonar Bangla Palli Ashrayan Project site in Terokhada Upazila under Khulna, Chakla Ashrayan-2 project site in Bera Upazila under Pabna, and Amanullahpur Ashrayan project site in Begumganj Upazila under Noakhali district.
The 12 districts that earned the distinction of becoming free of landless and homeless families are Manikganj, Rajbari, Mymensingh, Sherpur, Dinajpur, Naogaon, Natore, Pabna, Kushtia, Pirojpur and Jhalakathi.
The 123 upazilas include Gosairhat in Shariatpur district; Kuliarchar, Nikli, Hossainpur, Bajitpur, Mithamoin and Karimganj in Kishoreganj; Ghatail, Nagarpur, Mirzapur, Kalihati and Basail in Tangail; Shibaloy, Harirampur and Sadar in Manikganj; Sreenagar and Tongibari in Munshiganj; Goalanda in Rajbari; Sonargaon, Rupganj, Araihazar and Sadar in Narayanganj; Boalmari, Charbhadrasan, Bhanga and Sadar in Faridpur; Iswarganj, Haluaghat, Dhobaura, Gafargaon, Muktagacha and Sadar in Mymensingh; Sreebardi and Sadar in Sherpur; Islampur and Sarishabari in Jamalpur; Pekua, Ukhia and Teknaf in Cox’s Bazar; Hathazari and Anwara in Chattogram; Matlab Dakkhin and Kachua in Chandpur; Begumganj, Sonaimuri, Chatkhil, Senbug and Sadar in Noakhali; Nangalkot, Barura, Homna, Titas, Meghna, Meghna and Burichang in Cumilla; Daganbhuiyan in Feni, Palashbari in Gaibandha; Badarganj in Rangpur; Bochaganj, Birganj, Chirirbandar, Parbatipur, Fulbari, Birampur, Hakimpur, Ghoraghat and Sadar in Dinajpur.
Read: Mass people are our only masters, no one else: PM Hasina tells AL special meet
The other upazilas are Pirganj, Ranisankail and Sadar in Thakurgaon; Domar and Jaldhaka in Nilphamari; Atrai, Badalgachi, Manda, Niamatpur, Porsha, Sapahar and Sadar in Naogaon; Tarash, Shahjadpur and Kamarkhanda in Sirajganj; Gabtoli, Adamdighi and Sadar in Bogura; Singra, Naldanga and Sadar in Natore; Chatmohar, Bera, Faridpur, Bhangura and Sujanagar in Pabna; Jhenaidah Sadar; Kaliganj and Sadar in Satkhira; Jashore Sadar in Jashore; Khoksha in Kushtia; Dighalia in Khulna; Kalia in Narail; Pirojpur Sadar in Pirojpur; Jhalakathi Sadar; Kalapara and Galachipa in Patuakhali; Patharghata, Betagi, Taltali in Barguna; Beanibazar, Companiganj,Golapganj, Gowainghat and Zakiganj in Sylhet; Sreemangal, Moulvibazar Sadar, Kulaura, Barlekha and Juri in Moulvibazar; Shayestaganj, Bahubal, Lakhai, Habiganj Sadar and Madhabpur in Habiganj; and Shalla and Dharmapasha in Sunamganj.
PM’s Principal Secretary M Tofazzel Hossain Miah conducted the function.
Earlier, the premier declared nine districts – Panchagarh, Magura, Madaripur, Gazipur, Narsingdi, Joypurhat, Rajshahi, Chapainawabganj and Chuadanga – as landless and homeless people-free districts on two occasions.
Read: PMO for increasing leather export to $5 billion within four years
The premier has so far given houses to a total of 8,29,607 families under Ashrayan projects and other programmes. Some 4,148,035 people have been rehabilitated in the houses.
Of them, 2,778,085 people (of 555,617 families) have rehabilitated only under the Ashrayan project, run by the Prime Minister's Office (since 1997 to July 2023).
Go all out for the victory of AL-nominated candidates in upcoming national election: PM Hasina asks party members
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Sunday (August 06, 2023) asked her Awami League party leaders and activists to prepare for the upcoming national election.
“All have to work unitedly to ensure the win of the Awami League-nominated candidates in the next election,” she said while delivering concluding remarks at the special extended meeting of Bangladesh Awami League at her official residence Ganabhaban.
In reply to the call of their party chief, all the leaders attending the meeting raised their hands and expressed their commitment to do so accordingly.
Read: Mass people are our only masters, no one else: PM Hasina tells AL special meet
Issuing directives to all Awami League leaders and activists to prepare themselves for the upcoming national election, Hasina said “Our only strength is the people.”
Noting that the upcoming national elections are very important, she urged her party members to highlight and present to the people the development works that have been implemented in every area during the last 14 years and a half of the Awami League rule.
“All these developments in Bangladesh have been possible because Awami League has been in power," she said.
Read: PMO for increasing leather export to $5 billion within four years
Criticizing the activities of BNP and its leaders, the Awami League President said that the birth of BNP had been an outright sin.
“The birth of the BNP had happened through the illegal seizure of power, through the assassination of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and through terrorism," she asserted.
She mentioned that since the Awami League formed the government in 2009, BNP has carried out arson violence, killed people, staged blockade programmes, and committed many other misdeeds.
“But, no movement can harm the country and the people as Awami League is a strong organisation and we are accepted by the people.”
Read: PM Hasina urges private sector to patronize sports and culture
Rather, they (BNP) are gradually being questioned by people, she added.
Hasina called upon all to be vigilant against rumours and misinformation, saying Awami League never bow to anyone.
Mass people are our only masters, no one else: PM Hasina tells AL special meet
Bangladesh's Prime Minister and Awami League President Sheikh Hasina on Sunday (August 06, 2023) said that the ruling Awami League has no other masters other than the mass people of the country.
“The people are our masters and we are accountable to the people only,” she said in categorical terms while delivering her introductory speech at the special extended meeting of the Awami League at her official residence Ganabhaban.
She also said that her party Awami League works for the welfare of the people.
The president of the Awami League asked leaders and workers of her party to highlight the achievements in the last 14 and half years to the grassroots.
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At the same time, she also directed them to strengthen the organisation as the next general election is approaching, saying they will have to earn the trust and confidence of the common people.
Around 5,000 party leaders and elected public representatives from the AL took part in the meeting.
The prime minister said, the country is witnessing massive development and fate of the people is changing as the Awami League has been in the power since 2009 after receiving mandate of the people.
She said that Bangladesh has attained the status of a "developing nation" as a result of the Awami League being in power.
Read more: Shariatpur ASP's unconditional apology rejected
“Awami League has worked with a long-term plan for it,” she said.
She mentioned that Bangladesh’s journey as a developing nation will begin in 2026.
“I would like to tell the people of the country whether or not you want Bangladesh to move forward with the status of a developing country.”
She also directed the leaders and activities of Awami League to ask the people regarding the journey of the developing nation of Bangladesh, as they (the people) are the owners of their votes.
Read more: Five member AL delegation leaves for India at BJP's invitation
She said that If the people want Bangladesh to move forward with the status of a developing nation and to be established, then they should vote for Awami League’s electoral symbol, boat.
"And it (implementation of a developing nation) will be possible if AL gets votes, and no one else can do it," she asserted.
Hasina said Awami League is working to change the fate of people of all professions, including blacksmiths, potters, weavers, and fishers.
“We promise to work for everyone. Awami League has worked for every person; no one else has ever thought or acted for people before,” she said.
Read more: Go all out for the victory of AL-nominated candidates in upcoming national election: PM Hasina asks party members
PM Hasina asked her party leaders and activists to convey these messages to the people and strengthen the organisation at the same time.
“We will build the Golden Bangla as dreamt by Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman,” she declared.
She requested the party leaders and activists to go to the grassroot people including beneficiaries of Asrayan projects, and other allowances.
The Prime Minister said that opposition BNP leaders Khaleda Zia and Tareque Zia are all murderers and the country and its people are not safe in their hands. She also called BNP’s founding leader Ziaur Rahman a murderer.
Read more: ‘Your leader studied up to class 8, I completed class 7’: Hero Alom on BNP leader Rizvi calling him ‘uneducated’
“Those who are robbers, corrupts, and murderers; actually Khaleda Zia and Tareque Zia are all murderers. So was Ziaur Rahman,” she observed.
She requested the leaders and activists of Awami League and associate organisations to highlight to the people all the development works that have been made by her government after assuming power.
She said that people usually forget past pain and grief while they are in good condition.
“In Rangpur Monga ( a seasonal food shortage) was a common phenomenon in the past. It disappeared after the Awami League came to power. There is no famine. The reason is that AL is an organisation founded by the Father of the Nation.”
Read more: BNP a ‘horrible blister’ in Bangladesh’s politics: Quader
At the outset of the meeting, AL General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader also spoke, while Barrister Biplab Barua placed a condolence motion.
Members of AL central committee, central working committee, advisory council, presidents and general secretaries of district, metropolitan, upazila and municipality units of AL, members of parliament, district and upazila parishad chairmen, city corporation and municipality mayors, presidents and general secretaries of AL associate organisations were present at the meeting.
Before every national election, the AL organises such meetings to give guidelines to the party leaders. Last such meeting was held on June 23, 2017 ahead of the 2018 parliamentary polls.
The next general election in the country is due in next December or first week of January.
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The Awami League has been in power since 2009 after winning three consecutive national elections.