DHAKA, Mar 9, 2026 (V7N) – Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will inaugurate the government’s landmark “Family Card” programme tomorrow, aimed at strengthening women’s empowerment, ensuring their rights, dignity and economic independence.

The launch ceremony will be held at the T&T playground in Banani (adjacent to Korail slum) at 10:00 am. The initiative is part of the government’s pledge to achieve national development and social justice by recognising women as heads of families in social protection programmes.

Social Welfare Minister Abu Zafar Md Zahid Hossain, MP, told a press conference today that the pilot phase is being implemented in 15 wards across 13 districts, covering 67,854 women‑headed households. Using a software‑based Proxy Means Test (PMT), 37,567 households were finally selected for assistance after verification and removal of duplicate or ineligible cases. Each eligible household will receive a modern Family Card equipped with chip, QR code and NFC technology, covering up to five members.

Beneficiaries will receive a monthly allowance of Tk 2,500, transferred directly through the Government‑to‑Person (G2P) digital payment system to women’s mobile wallets or bank accounts. Families with government salaries, pensions, luxury assets or large savings will be excluded. The pilot programme, running until June 2026, has an allocation of Tk 38.07 crore, of which Tk 25.15 crore will be distributed as direct cash support.

Officials stressed that the automated system will minimise corruption and nepotism. Cards will be delivered directly to beneficiaries’ homes, and a complaint management facility has been built into the software. The government will review the programme monthly, with a three‑month “lesson learning” period to assess strengths and weaknesses before expansion.

Zahid Hossain said the Family Card programme will be provided free of cost and expressed hope that with cooperation from the media and stakeholders, the initiative will reach marginalised families transparently. “This programme is a priority for the government. We urge journalists to highlight any irregularities so corrective measures can be taken promptly,” he added.

END/AJ/RH