Ansar-VDP delivers modern healthcare to remote communities
Staff Reporter :
Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defence Party (VD) has transformed its defence mandate into humanitarian welfare by delivering modern healthcare right to the doorsteps of marginalised and underprivileged people.
The first phase of the “Free Medical Services” programme, organised under a special initiative by the force, concluded successfully. Held ahead of the national elections, the drive ensured health protection for VD members at the grassroots and ordinary citizens, while reinforcing the force’s people-friendly image.
The closing ceremony took place on Thursday in Maheshkhali, Cox’s Bazar. Ansar and VDP Director General Major General Abdul Motaleb Sajjad Mahmud addressed the event virtually as chief guest from headquarters. “The force has provided healthcare services before, but this initiative focused on enhancing quality and bringing tech-driven modern treatment to remote people,” he said.
In his speech, the DG noted that Ansar and VDP members would perform the bulk of duties during the upcoming polls.
Launched on December 27 last year, the programme saw enthusiastic public participation, drawing the force closer to the people and strengthening public trust. Highlighting the force’s unique ability to reach remote areas, he added: “We will integrate Ansar-VDP Academy Hospital more closely to ensure healthcare for over 60 lakh members and their families nearly three crore people.” He described healthcare as an essential pillar of human security, expressing optimism that such initiatives would bolster the social safety net.
Chittagong Range Commander Dr. Md. Saifur Rahman informed that 15 medical camps were set up across seven districts in areas with limited healthcare access. “Under the DG’s humane administration, the ‘Sanjeevan’ project delivered general treatment, child and maternal health services, and eye care to remote regions, a true reflection of ‘administration for good governance’,” he said.
Dr. Mohammad Elias, assistant professor and neurosurgeon at Bashundhara Ad-Din Medical College, praised the setup: “Portable labs, generators, and cutting-edge tech made this a shining example of Ansar-VDP’s humane administration.” He hoped it would make advanced care more accessible in remote areas.
Mridual Hasan, managing director of coordinator Mridual’s Communication, called it a fulfilling experience in ensuring dignified care especially for women in underserved regions.
The first phase served 8,727 patients across remote areas of Bogura, Jamalpur, Bhola, Lalmonirhat, Khulna, Satkhira, and Cox’s Bazar. Each camp mimicked modern hospitals, providing diagnostic reports in 5-20 minutes-a novel experience for rural folk.
Key successes included free cataract surgery for 219 patients (market value Tk 32.45 lakh), diagnostics worth Tk 53.15 lakh (ECG, CBC, kidney tests), and medicines worth Tk 13 lakh-all distributed free. In total, services valued at Tk 1.41 crore were provided, with camps serving two to three times the target patients, underscoring the dire need for such aid in fringes.
Far from limited to security, Bangladesh Ansar and VDP are emerging as a responsible state partner in improving lives and human security for the marginalised. Expectations are high that expanding such transparent, accountable, and value-driven welfare programmes will fortify social security and elevate state-force relations.