Natore, May 04 (V7N)- State Minister for Social Welfare Farzana Sharmin Putul has said that the overall development of the country depends on the development of rural areas, adding that the current government is working tirelessly to improve rural infrastructure and livelihoods.

She made the remarks on Monday (May 4) morning while inaugurating two canal excavation projects in Bagatipara upazila of Natore district.

Speaking at the event, the State Minister said the canal excavation initiatives would create significant employment opportunities for local people. “Once these canals are completed, there will be no water shortage in this region in the future,” she said.

She further noted that strengthening agriculture and fish farming is essential for achieving economic self-sufficiency. “If the country becomes self-sufficient in agriculture and fisheries, then we will not have to depend on anyone else,” she added.

Highlighting the government’s initiatives for women’s empowerment, Farzana Sharmin Putul said nearly 100,000 employment opportunities will be created across the country, with 80 percent reserved for women.

“All necessary programs have been undertaken to make women self-reliant and economically empowered,” she said.

Among others present at the inauguration ceremony were Bagatipara Upazila Executive Officer Mohammad Alauddin, Upazila Project Implementation Officer Ziaur Rahman, and local leaders and activists of the upazila BNP and its affiliated organizations.

END/SMA/AJ