Agriculture Minister Mohammad Aminur Rashid has said nation‑building requires progress not only economically and physically but also in sports. He termed it unfortunate that sports had repeatedly been politicised.
The minister made the remarks Friday while announcing that a sports village will be set up in Cumilla to nurture athletes for national and international competitions.
The event, held at the Cumilla District Shilpakala Academy auditorium, honoured the Cumilla District Cricket Team, champions of the 44th National Cricket Tournament‑2026.
Rashid stressed that true development demands advancement in sports alongside economic and physical growth. He lamented that partisan interests had long hindered the sector, calling politicisation of sports “most unfortunate.”
“This government is a people’s government, and the country’s development is our primary responsibility,” he said, adding that he had requested the sports minister to establish a Sports Village in Cumilla, a proposal now accepted.
He noted that Cumilla’s youth would bring international honour to Bangladesh, underscoring the need for regular training. “Today’s leadership in sports does not ask which party you belong to. Sports is above politics,” he asserted, pledging support for practice and training facilities to prepare players for global competition.
The minister also urged proper maintenance of playing fields in educational institutions to cultivate talent at the grassroots.
The reception was presided over by Cumilla City Corporation Administrator Yusuf Molla Tipu. Special guests included Deputy Commissioner Rosy Akter and District Sports Association member Badrul Huda Jenu. The welcome address was delivered by Member Secretary of the District Sports Association, Emdadul Huq Emdu.
