Bangladesh Ansar & VDP have claimed the title at the 36th National Women’s Handball Competition, defeating Bangladesh Police in the final at the Shaheed (Captain) M. Mansur Ali National Handball Stadium in Paltan, Dhaka. Panchagarh District secured third place.
The closing and prize-giving ceremony was attended by Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Advisor to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Ministry of Water Resources, who addressed the gathering as Chief Guest.
Hasan said the government is committed to building a women-friendly and environment-friendly nation. “The present government views men and women as equals and is taking necessary steps to ensure equal rights for women,” she noted.
Emphasising the wider significance of sport, she added: “Sports are not just a source of recreation; they are a powerful tool for women’s empowerment, confidence building, and leadership development. Women’s handball is more than just a game, it is a symbol of courage, capability, and self-expression.”
The Advisor also spoke about the importance of social interaction and expressed concern at the lack of playgrounds in Dhaka. “Sports are essential for strengthening women’s position in society, ensuring physical well-being, developing productive citizens, and raising our national flag proudly on the global stage,” she said. She further urged the public to stop using polythene shopping bags in order to protect the environment.
The event was attended by Md Salauddin Ahmed, General Secretary of the Bangladesh Handball Federation; Dr Abu Nasar Mohammad Abdullah, Vice-President and Convener of the National Competition “Organising and Development Management” Committee; Rashida Afjalun Nesa, Member Secretary; alongside sports organisers, federation officials, players, coaches and invited guests.
This year’s competition featured 19 teams. Prizes were distributed among the winning teams, players and referees by Advisor Syeda Rizwana Hasan.