Deputy Commissioner (DC) Mohammad Zahidul Islam Mia has stated that tea workers are the country’s valuable assets and the soul of the tea gardens.
He made these remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a ceremony held on Friday at the ‘Notun Cha-Bagan’ (New Tea Garden) in Fatikchhari Upazila. During the event, the DC handed over keys to newly constructed houses, distributed gift items, and provided educational materials to students.
The Deputy Commissioner highlighted that the contribution of tea workers to the foreign exchange earned through tea exports is undeniable, standing alongside the contributions of the ready-made garment (RMG) sector and expatriate remittances. He further noted that the government is providing permanent housing for tea workers in recognition of their importance.
Several welfare initiatives were implemented during the ceremony. Keys to eight newly built houses were handed over to worker families, and educational materials were distributed among 30 meritorious students. Additionally, 100 tea workers received new clothing, and various families were provided with gift items.
The DC also announced a new ‘Family Card’ programme, under which each family will receive 2,500 Taka per month to improve their living standards and support their children’s education.
To improve infrastructure for the workers, the DC inaugurated the construction of a 700-foot-long new road. He also launched a tree-planting initiative by planting a Krishnachura and a Radhachura sapling to help protect the environment.
In his concluding remarks, the Deputy Commissioner urged the tea workers to contact the administration directly regarding any problems or issues they may encounter.
The event was attended by Fatikchhari Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Md Sayeed Mohammed Ibrahim, Neptune Tea Garden Manager Reaz Uddin, and other officials from the local administration.
