Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has expressed concern over the country’s economic performance, stating that per capita income and GDP have not yet reached the desired levels.
He also highlighted that nearly 42 percent of the population is living below the poverty line and a significant portion is still deprived of education.
Fakhrul made these remarks on Friday at a discussion session held at the JCI Carnival in the Natun Bazar area of Dhaka. The event was organised by the Junior Chamber International (JCI), where Fakhrul was the chief guest.
During his address, Fakhrul discussed the ongoing struggles in the nation’s economic growth, stating that despite gaining recognition as a nation after independence, the country’s development goals remain unfulfilled.
“We have not yet achieved the level of economic growth that we aspired to,” he said. “Per capita income and GDP are still far from our target, and a large part of the population is still struggling with poverty.”
According to Fakhrul, around 42 percent of the population lives below the poverty line, and a significant portion remains without access to quality education. This, he emphasised, indicates that the expected development in key areas is still far from reality.
While expressing concern over the economic challenges, Fakhrul acknowledged the positive contributions of young people in the country’s development.
He highlighted that a growing number of youth are taking the initiative to establish businesses and agriculture-based farms, contributing positively to the nation’s progress.
“A significant number of young people are becoming entrepreneurs, owning businesses, and starting agricultural farms, which is a positive change,” Fakhrul remarked.
“The efforts of JCI in supporting and empowering young people deserve recognition and praise.”
The minister also made a call for collective action in achieving the country’s economic aspirations.
“To achieve something big, one must dream, just as Ziaur Rahman once dreamed,” he said. “I, too, dream that we will succeed. I am optimistic. This country belongs to us, and no one will improve it for us. We must all contribute to the economic development of our nation.”
The event was attended by several young leaders and activists, all of whom pledged to continue working toward the country’s growth and prosperity.
