Development Did Not Extend Beyond Dhaka Under Hasina’s Tenure: Lamia Morshed

Staff Correspondent

Dhaka: Lamia Morshed, Chief Coordinator for SDG Affairs at the Prime Minister’s Office, and Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya, Convener of the Citizen’s Platform for SDGs, recently stated that development during Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s tenure was primarily Dhaka-centric. However, their remarks omitted key rural-focused initiatives such as “Ektee Bari Ektee Khamar” (One House, One Farm), “Ashrayan,” and the “Community Clinic” projects. These initiatives have played a vital role in improving the economic, social, and healthcare aspects of rural lives. Dr. Debapriya criticized the government’s development narratives, calling them “misleading.” He suggested providing additional support to marginalized communities to bring them into the mainstream, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Launched in 2009, Ektee Bari Ektee Khamar aimed to empower rural families through agriculture and small enterprises. Approximately 2.1 million families received financial aid, training, and agricultural supplies under this initiative, boosting local agricultural production and creating jobs in rural areas. Since its inception in 1997, the Ashrayan project has provided free homes and land to over 800,000 landless and homeless families by 2023. Spanning regions from Panchagarh to Cox’s Bazar, this initiative has significantly improved living standards and social security in rural areas.

Started in 1998, the Community Clinics project established around 14,000 clinics nationwide, offering free primary healthcare, medication, and maternal and child health services. These clinics have become a lifeline for millions, especially women and children, disproving claims of solely urban-focused development. Contrary to critiques, mega projects like the Padma Bridge, Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, and economic zones have benefited rural regions. The Padma Bridge has revitalized the southern economy by easing agricultural transport, while economic zones have created employment opportunities for local communities.

Despite criticism, Sheikh Hasina’s government implemented numerous initiatives targeting rural and marginalized populations, demonstrating that development extended beyond Dhaka. Recognizing these contributions is essential for a balanced perspective on her tenure’s achievements.