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The minister also noted that, discarding the VIP culture, the lawmakers have decided not to accept tax-free cars and plot facilities. VIP protocols have also been slashed to ensure austerity in government expenditure.

Regarding the health sector, Swapan said initiatives are underway to launch e-health cards and recruit one lakh new health workers, 80 percent of whom will be women.

Meanwhile, to prevent worker unrest, around Tk 2,500 crore was allocated to ensure the payment of arrears and bonuses before Eid-ul-Fitr. Furthermore, an honorarium has been introduced for religious staff of all faiths, including 4,908 imams, 990 priests, 144 Buddhist monks, and 396 church pastors.

He also said the government will introduce ‘pink buses’ for female passengers to make their daily commutes safer and more convenient.

Prime Minister’s Adviser Zahed Ur Rahman expressed concern over the spread of fake news using logos that mimic established media outlets. He stated that the government plans to bring such deceptive practices under a regulatory framework.

State Minister for Information Yaser Khan Choudhury added that initiatives have been taken to modernise Bangladesh Television and Bangladesh Betar.

Regarding the wage board for journalists, he said it is determined by the labour ministry, while the information ministry can only provide recommendations.