President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday received a new smart national identity (NID) card inscribed with the words "valiant freedom fighter or Bir Muktijoddha".

Election Commission (EC) Secretary Md Jahangir Alam officially handed over the new smart NID card to the President at Bangabhaban in the capital.

The president's Press Secretary Md Joynal Abedin told BSS that the Jahangir explained to the president about the EC’s overall activities on the occasion.

He said that from now on, all freedom fighters will be given new smart NID cards having the writing "Bir Muktijoddha” or “valiant freedom fighter” inscribed on it.

The head of state cordially welcomed the EC’s initiative to issue the new smart NID cards in honour of the valiant freedom fighters.

This is a unique recognition of the contributions made by the freedom fighters during the great struggle for freedom and consequent liberation in December 1971, the President Shahabuddin added.

The president also mentioned that the nation would always remember with due respect the contribution of the freedom fighters.

Referring to the various initiatives taken by the government, including improving the quality of life for freedom fighters and increasing the allowances for their welfare, the president said, "the trend will continue in the days to come as well. . . And the government will always stand by them in any need.”

President's Office Secretary Md Wahidul Islam Khan and senior EC officials were also present on the occasion.