In a major move to ease public hardship ahead of Eid al-Fitr, the new government has decided to roll out the ‘Family Card’ project on a trial basis during Ramadan. The decision was taken at a key inter-ministerial meeting at the Secretariat on Thursday (19 February), chaired by Prime Minister Tarek Rahman.
Following the meeting, Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintu told reporters that the Prime Minister herself wants the pilot project to start before Eid, in line with the pre-election manifesto promise to improve the quality of life and ensure essential commodity supply for the public.
Regarding the scope and beneficiaries of the Family Card, the minister said the program is intended to be universal initially without strict restrictions. A high-level committee has been formed to gradually include destitute, poor, and middle-income families under the scheme. Today’s discussion focused on the mechanism and proper implementation to ensure the program operates smoothly.
Mintu added that the government aims to deliver support to the right people and help stabilize the market through this card. Responding to concerns raised by the leftist CPB, the minister clarified:
“There is no uncertainty regarding the launch of the Family Card. The government is working with the highest priority. Technical arrangements for distribution and supply of products are underway. Experience from the pilot project will help expand the program nationwide in the future.”
The government also expects the Family Card to help control price spikes of essential commodities, such as onions, at the start of Ramadan. The Prime Minister’s Office and relevant ministries are working to increase the supply of goods at fair prices through this initiative.
With this meeting, a new journey has begun to strengthen the country’s economic and social safety net. Beneficiaries of the pilot project are expected to receive their cards before Eid and enjoy the benefit of buying essentials at affordable prices.
