Bangladesh women’s national team forward Ritu Porna Chakma received financial assistance from Tarique Rahman on Tuesday to support the construction of her family home. The Prime Minister handed over the cheque during a budget session break at his office in the National Parliament complex.
The assistance forms part of a government programme aimed at supporting athletes and improving their financial security and welfare. Government officials said the initiative reflects continued support for sportspersons who represent Bangladesh on the international stage.
Ritu Porna thanked the Prime Minister and the government after receiving the cheque.
“I am truly grateful to the Honourable Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman, and to the government. Receiving financial assistance for building my home in such a short period of time has made me sincerely thankful.”
She also recalled previous support received by her family.
“The government has always stood by athletes, and I am a living example of that. Not only have I received this assistance today, but earlier, when my mother was ill, the government also inquired about her treatment and provided financial support.”
Ritu Porna added that the support would motivate her to perform better for Bangladesh.
“This assistance will inspire me to do even better for my country and to represent Bangladesh with more determination on the international stage.”
The forward played a key role in Bangladesh’s triumphs at the SAFF Women’s Championship 2022 and SAFF Women’s Championship 2024. She also contributed to Bangladesh’s historic qualification for the final stage of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup for the first time last year.
The ceremony included Youth and Sports State Minister Aminul Haque, Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs State Minister Mir Mohammad Helal Uddin, Textiles and Jute State Minister Md. Shariful Alam, and Tabith Awal, president of the Bangladesh Football Federation.
