Govt starts work on introducing 'unique' national ID card: Zabihullah

Prime Minister's Adviser on Public Administration Md Ismail Zabihullah today said the government has started working to introduce a single 'unique' national identity card instead of separate identity cards for different services to make it easier for citizens to access public services.

He said this while speaking as the chief guest at the inaugural ceremony of the 'One Card' initiative of the University of Asia Pacific (UAP) in the city, said a press release.

Zabihullah, also BNP Standing Committee member, said that the UAP's 'One Card' initiative would provide important guidance on introducing an integrated identity card system at the national level.

He said it is essential to assess the effectiveness of any major project through a pilot project before implementing it on a large scale.

"Through a pilot project, the practical application, limitations and shortcomings of an initiative can be identified. Necessary modifications can then be made before introducing it on a larger scale," the adviser said.

He appreciated UAP for launching the 'One Card' initiative and suggested that it could initially be implemented in one division and gradually expanded to other divisions after assessing its effectiveness.

Zabihullah further said the government is planning to provide all services to citizens through a single unique ID instead of issuing separate cards for each service.

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"The experience gained from UAP's pilot project will be useful in implementing this plan," he said.

Appreciating the contribution of private universities to the expansion of higher education, the adviser said there are currently more than 100 private universities in the country.

"They are playing a major role as partners in expanding education and assisting the government in fulfilling its responsibilities," he added.

The BNP standing committee member said the incumbent government has a clear commitment in its election manifesto to encourage private universities, and the initiative is continuing under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

As part of the initiative, he said, the tax on the income of private universities had been reduced to 5% from 10% in the latest budget.

Chairman of the UAP Board of Trustees KM Mozibul Hoque spoke at the function as the special guest with UAP Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Mohiuddin Ahmed Bhuiyan in the chair.

A video presentation on the 'One Card' initiative was screened at the event, followed by a question-and-answer session with the participation of students.

DG Infotech Limited Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Rashed Mahmud highlighted various technological aspects of 'One Card', including One ID, DG Pay, One Card Vault and the integrated payment system.