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Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said that sustainable development in Bangladesh cannot be achieved without the overall development of rural areas.
Speaking at a discussion marking National Rural Development Day 2026 at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in Dhaka on Monday (July 6), the minister said the government is implementing integrated initiatives to increase rural incomes, create employment and strengthen economic capacity alongside infrastructure development.
He said building roads, bridges and communication networks alone is not enough to ensure sustainable development unless people’s incomes increase and self-reliance is achieved. The government has therefore prioritised strengthening the rural economy.
The minister said the government is transforming the Bangladesh Rural Development Board into a modern, efficient and people-oriented institution to enhance its role in rural development, employment generation and poverty reduction. He also called for greater public responsibility in national development and stressed the need to build social resistance against corruption.
Special guest Mir Shahe Alam said the government has identified rural development as a key priority for achieving the United Nations‘s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He said plans are underway to make rural areas a major driver of economic growth through the use of modern technology, skilled human resources and productive investment. He also pledged to restore BRDB’s past reputation and make it more dynamic and people-focused.
Earlier in the day, a discussion was held at the CIRDAP Auditorium to mark the 47th founding anniversary of Centre on Integrated Rural Development for Asia and the Pacific and the Second World Rural Development Day. The National Rural Development Day programme was formally inaugurated with the release of balloons and doves at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium premises.
The minister and state minister later visited exhibition stalls set up by different government departments and organisations and joined a colourful rally. A commemorative publication marking the occasion was also unveiled, while successful entrepreneurs shared their experiences at the event. Senior government officials, development partners and BRDB representatives attended the programme.