Commerce and Industries Minister Tofail Ahmed yesterday laid stress on a skilled and neutral administration to ensure overall welfare of the people. reports UNB.

"A strong bridge between the political government and civil servants is needed for fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of the people," Tofail said while addressing the annual conference of 15th BCS Forum at NEC auditorium in the city on Friday morning.

He said Bangladesh earned independence under the leadership of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman for establishing a society free from hunger, poverty and exploitation.

But even after more than a 3uarter century of the indepen-ence. the goal has not yet been achieved, he said.

The minister said the civil servants are the key to implement the government's policies and programmes. He said political governments may change, but it is imperative for the government officials to acquire expertise and skill to draw plan and implement the plans and

programmes for the welfare of the people.

Referring to recent flooding, the minister said the government has successfully faced the aftermath of the devastating floods with the help of the offi-

Expressing optimism about the country's future, Tofail said Bangladesh would definitely emerge as a self-reliant nation in near future if we could tap the vast natural resources and keep up the inflow of foreign invest-

Turning to the anomalies and salary structure of various BCS cadres, the minister said the government is considering the matters seriously and hoping to solve these very soon.

He urged the junior civil servants to dedicate themselves for the welfare of the society and be prepared to face the challenges of the 21st century.

State Minister for Planning. Science and Technology Dr Mohiuddin Khan Alamgir, BCS officers of the 15th batch Maskawath Hasan and A K M Sohel also spoke on the occasion.