Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury has said the government will introduce a special welfare card for cultural activists to ensure institutional support and social security coverage.
He said the initiative aims to bring cultural workers under a structured welfare system.
The minister made the remarks while addressing a cultural programme titled “Nrityageeti O Probondho Path” at the Bangladesh National Museum in Dhaka on Thursday. The event marked the birth anniversaries of Rabindranath Tagore and Kazi Nazrul Islam.
He also said the government is taking steps to protect archaeological sites, folk heritage and historical landmarks across the country. He added that safeguarding heritage means protecting the nation’s roots.
Nitai Roy Chowdhury said culture is not only a source of entertainment but also the foundation of national identity, values and civilisation.
Referring to Tagore and Nazrul, he said their literature, music and philosophy promoted humanity, equality and free thinking at the global level.
He added that the government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, is implementing programmes to expand cultural activities nationwide and ensure dignity and welfare for artists and cultural workers.
The programme featured dance performances by artistes of “Nrityanchal”, directed by noted dancers Shibli Mohammad and Shamim Ara Nipa. It also included essay presentations by academics on the literary and humanistic ideals of Tagore and Nazrul.
