No prosperous Bangladesh possible without developed rural areas: PM

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Sunday said a prosperous Bangladesh cannot be built without developed rural areas, stressing that villages and rural communities are the foundation of national development.

“The government is working to bring every citizen into the mainstream of development as part of its commitment to establishing a just, participatory and people-oriented state system,” the premier said in a message issued on the eve of the first-ever “National Rural Development Day-2026” to be observed on Monday.

Referring to this year’s theme, “Developed Villages, Prosperous Nation, Bangladesh First”, he said it reflects the government’s development vision and the aspirations of the people.

The PM said nearly 68% of the country’s population lives in rural areas and contributes significantly to national development through agriculture, small enterprises, cottage industries and other local economic activities.

“Rural development, therefore, is one of the key pillars for building an inclusive, sustainable and prosperous Bangladesh,” he added.

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The prime minister recalled that Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman introduced his 19-point programme in 1977, outlining a far-reaching development strategy.

It focused on agricultural growth, decentralisation of administration, strengthening local government, achieving food self-sufficiency and boosting the rural economy.

He also highlighted initiatives taken during the tenure of former prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia, including rural infrastructure development, increased agricultural production, expansion of irrigation facilities, agricultural loan waivers and support for microcredit programmes to strengthen the rural economy.

Tarique said the present government has already launched various programmes under its electoral commitments, including farmer cards, family cards, canal re-excavation, agricultural loan waivers, rural infrastructure development and skills enhancement initiatives for women and youth.

The head of the government called upon the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives (LGRD) and all stakeholders involved in rural development to work with dedication and sincerity.

“Active public participation, innovation and coordinated efforts will help build modern, productive and prosperous rural communities,” Tarique said in the message.

Extending greetings and congratulations to rural people across the country, the prime minister wished all programmes of the day a success.