Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Hossain Bakul on Tuesday said the government will increase budgetary allocation for the health sector in the next fiscal year to ensure overall development.
He made these remarks while speaking to journalists after inaugurating a traditional fair marking Pohela Boishakh at Monohardi Upazila Parishad premises.
The minister said that government aims to move the nation forward in the new year through a range of welfare initiatives. “Following the introduction of farmer cards, health cards will also be distributed by June,” he said, adding that steps such as agricultural loan waivers, support for underprivileged, TR-Kabikha programmes and canal excavation are being implemented for public welfare.
Referring to public health measures, he said measles vaccination campaigns are currently underway in 30 upazilas and city corporations, under the leadership of the prime minister. A nationwide drive to administer measles vaccines and Vitamin A capsules to children will begin on April 20.
“We have already managed to curb the spread of measles and reduce the mortality rate. I hope, the situation will come fully under control within two weeks,” he added.
Earlier, a colourful Boishakhi procession was brought out from the Upazila Parishad premises, parading major roads before returning to the venue. The procession was attended by the minister, local administrative officials, political leaders and students.
The event was chaired by Monohardi Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) MA Muhaimin Al Jihan and attended by Assistant Commissioner (Land) Sajib Mia and local political leaders, among others.
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