Seminar Explores Development and Potential of Bangladesh's Char Areas

Entrepreneurial ecosystems
22.05.2023
A seminar titled "The Development and Potential of the Chars: In the Context of National Budget" was recently held at the CIRDAP Auditorium in the capital city. Organized by Swisscontact, the Rural Development Academy Bogura, and the National Char Alliance, the event aimed to address the challenges faced by impoverished residents living in the char areas of Bangladesh.

The seminar emphasized the need to allocate special funds within the national budget and implement effective initiatives to improve the lives of char dwellers. Collaboration between the public and private sectors was deemed essential for transforming the fate of these communities. Dr. Shamsul Alam, the Honourable State Minister of the Ministry of Planning graced the event as chief guest. Mr. Swapan Bhattacharjee, MP, the Honourable State Minister of the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives was present as the chair. Representatives from various organizations, subject matter experts, and entrepreneurs also participated in the discussions. Presentations were given on the "Making Market Work for the Chars (M4C) - 2nd phase" project, while a keynote paper titled "The Development and Potential of the Chars: In the Context of National Budget" was delivered by Dr. Atiur Rahman, the Founder Chairperson of the National Char Alliance.

Dr. Shamsul Alam highlighted the government's commitment to sustainable development and stressed the importance of ensuring that char area residents receive government benefits. Mr. Swapan Bhattacharjee mentioned the achievements in economic liberation and hunger eradication, thanks to initiatives like the CLP, M4C, and One House One Farm Equity Development Scheme. The seminar provided a platform for dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders, fostering efforts to uplift the char area communities.

Bangladesh
Entrepreneurial ecosystems
Making Markets Work for the Jamuna, Padma and Teesta Chars (M4C)
To reduce vulnerability and increase wellbeing of vulnerable and marginalised char dwellers living in the northern char region of Bangladesh. Chars are riverine land, susceptible to erosion and soil deposition, which remain disconnected from mainland either seasonally or throughout the year. Due to this unique geographical positioning,...