The government has launched a new social protection initiative in Ward 41 of Chattogram city, distributing ‘Family Cards’ to 5,575 families. Under this programme, beneficiaries will receive Tk2,500 per installment directly into their bank accounts.
The programme was inaugurated on Tuesday at Patenga Airport High School grounds. The ceremony was chaired by Chattogram City Corporation Mayor Shahadat Hossain. Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury attended as the chief guest, while Mir Helaluddin, state minister for the Ministry of Chattogram Hill Tracts Affairs, was present as a special guest.
Finance Minister Amir Khosru said that the family card has been launched to strengthen social protection programs for low- and middle-income households. By transferring money directly to bank accounts, the programme aims to eliminate opportunities for middlemen or irregularities.
He added that with political will and sound economic planning, even large-scale social programmes can be implemented within limited resources.
The initiative prioritises women as the head of households. The finance minister highlighted that although women play a vital role in family management, their labour often goes unrecognised. The family card aims to acknowledge this contribution and empower women financially.
He emphasised that direct financial support to women will positively impact household management, savings, and small income-generating activities.
According to city corporation sources, the assistance will be transferred digitally through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. Initially, 5,575 families in Ward 41 have been listed, with each receiving Tk2,500 per installment.
The cards are built using smart card technology and are expected to serve as a database for various government services and social protection programmes in the future.
Shahadat Hossain, mayor of Chattogram City Corporation, said that the initiative is part of fulfilling election-time promises regarding social protection. He noted that the programme was implemented within a month of assuming office and will gradually expand to other city wards.
The inauguration ceremony also highlighted government initiatives for farmers, including the “Farmer Card,” agricultural loan restructuring, and measures to increase agricultural production. Plans were also discussed to improve the living standards of marginalised communities through various social protection programs.
