The government is prioritising the strengthening of the rural economy through new development projects and infrastructure expansion, Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury told parliament on Monday.
“If we want to strengthen the rural economy and improve the living standards of rural people, then the first priority must be the development of rural infrastructure,” the minister said while responding to a supplementary question from ruling party MP Md Akhtaruzzaman Miah.
The finance minister said projects under the current government’s development plans are placing special importance on energising rural economic activities and improving living standards.
He also revealed that the implementation progress of over 500 projects initiated by the previous government is less than 10 percent. Approximately 1,300 projects are currently under review, involving waste and corruption, he added.
“This information has been presented based on government documents, and since the projects were taken during the previous government’s time, there is limited scope to comment on the matter,” Amir Khosru said.
The minister said the government is working to adopt realistic and people-friendly projects that will directly benefit the rural population and ensure sustainable economic growth for the country.
He noted that MPs can raise development proposals with relevant ministries, and any project suitable for improving local living standards and enhancing livelihoods will be considered for future implementation.
The finance minister expressed hope that more positive and promising news would be possible in the coming days through effective project implementation and rural development initiatives.
