President urges united efforts for self-reliant rural BD

President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Sunday called for concerted efforts to build a developed, productive and self-reliant rural Bangladesh.

In a message marking the first-ever National Rural Development Day-2026, to be observed tomorrow, the President highlighted the importance of rural development in achieving the country’s overall progress.

Welcoming the observance of the day under the theme, “Developed Villages, Prosperous Nation – Bangladesh First”, he extended his greetings and congratulations to rural residents and all those working for rural development.

The President noted that around 68 percent of Bangladesh’s population lives in villages, saying the socio-economic advancement of this large segment of the population is essential for the nation’s sustainable growth and prosperity.

“Despite significant development efforts, the desired level of rural infrastructure and socio-economic advancement has not yet been fully achieved due to urban-centric development, industrialization, employment concentration and limited decentralization,” the President mentioned.

The Head of the State stressed that the formulation and implementation of an efficient, coordinated and inclusive rural development plan are essential for achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and building a developed and self-reliant Bangladesh.

Referring to the 19-point programme introduced by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, he said it has set an important precedent for involving grassroots people in development activities and remains a significant foundation for the country’s rural development and cooperative movement.

The President said the government is implementing various programmes to ensure people-oriented, participatory and sustainable development in rural areas, including strengthening local government institutions, improving rural infrastructure, developing human resources, creating youth and women entrepreneurs, expanding education and healthcare services, increasing agricultural and non-agricultural production and ensuring fair prices for products.

The observance of the ‘National Rural Development Day’ would further strengthen the nation’s commitment to rural development, he hoped.

The President also wished the overall success of all programmes undertaken marking the day.