By Turjo Rahman
Within just two months of taking office, the BNP government led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has demonstrated visible progress in fulfilling its election promises. A series of initiatives across multiple sectors has generated positive expectations among the public.
A pilot project for the Family Card program aimed at women’s empowerment has been successfully completed. So far, 37,567 families have received the card. At the same time, the government has introduced the Farmer Card, bringing more than 22,000 farmers across 10 districts under the program in its first phase.
The agricultural sector has received major relief through a loan waiver initiative. Loans of up to Tk 10,000, including interest, have been waived for nearly 1.2 million small and marginal farmers, providing significant financial relief.
The government has also made notable progress in parliamentary affairs. During the first session of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad (National Parliament), lawmakers disposed of 133 ordinances. Several key ordinances will be reintroduced as bills for parliamentary approval.
A large-scale river restoration initiative has also been launched. The government plans to dredge 20,000 kilometers of rivers and canals, with work already underway in 54 districts.
In the energy sector, fuel prices have remained stable despite global market volatility. The government has also added 35 megawatts of electricity to the national grid through its rooftop solar energy program.
Officials say the government has succeeded in maintaining market stability and controlling commodity prices, including during the holy month of Ramadan.
Financial allowances for religious leaders continue to be distributed regularly. Imams, priests, monks and other religious leaders from mosques, temples, Buddhist monasteries and churches are receiving monthly honorariums, with plans to expand the program gradually.
To stimulate employment and industrial growth, the government has announced plans to reopen closed factories, activate economic zones and attract new domestic and foreign investment. A recruitment roadmap has also been prepared to fill approximately 468,000 vacant government positions.
To strengthen the economy, the government has set an ambitious target of building a trillion-dollar economy by 2034. It has also introduced measures aimed at making Bangladesh more attractive to foreign investors.
Workers across the country received their salaries and festival bonuses ahead of Eid, with no major labor unrest reported for the first time in many years.
Positive developments have also emerged in the overseas employment sector. The labor market in Malaysia is reopening, while discussions are ongoing with several European countries to create new employment opportunities for Bangladeshi workers.
Major decisions have also been announced in the health and education sectors. The government plans to recruit 100,000 healthcare workers, abolish admission fees in educational institutions, increase scholarship opportunities and introduce a modernized admission system.
Digital services have been expanded across land administration and public services. Online applications have become mandatory for several government services as part of broader efforts to improve transparency and reduce corruption.
To improve law and order, authorities have intensified operations against extortion and announced reforms aimed at building a more people-friendly police force.
The government has also introduced long-term environmental and climate initiatives, including nationwide tree plantation programs, river conservation projects and continued progress on the Padma Barrage Project.
Efforts have also been made to reduce public expenditure. The Prime Minister has chosen to use a personal vehicle instead of an official fleet, while VIP security protocols have been scaled back to minimize government spending.
Overall, within just two months, the BNP government has introduced a wide range of initiatives across multiple sectors, sending a positive message about its commitment to implementing its promises. Observers say that if this momentum continues, it could contribute to stronger economic growth, improved governance and greater national stability.
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