Bangladesh reclaimed democracy at cost of thousands lives: President

President Mohammed Shahabuddin has said that Bangladesh returned to democracy at the cost of thousands of lives.

He made the remarks while addressing at the National Jute Day 2026 ceremony at Osmani Memorial Auditorium on Friday (March 6).

He stressed the need for progress in knowledge, science, and technology to build a self-reliant and economically resilient nation.

During his remark, the president called on farmers to adopt modern, high-yield jute cultivation techniques to boost production.

He also urged entrepreneurs to focus on market-driven, quality health products and promote low-cost jute bag production and marketing.

Addressing the youth, he encouraged using startups and innovation to showcase the “Made in Bangladesh” brand on global e-commerce platforms.

The president has underscored the vital role of jute in Bangladesh’s economy, culture, and heritage, describing it as a key driver of national development.

He highlighted jute’s dual significance as both a commodity and an industrial export product, noting its growing relevance amid global climate change, environmental pollution, and the harmful impact of plastic.

“The world is shifting toward sustainable and eco-friendly products. Jute presents Bangladesh with a unique opportunity that must be fully leveraged,” the President said.

He outlined government initiatives aimed at creating one crore jobs through comprehensive reforms, regional economic growth, and increased domestic and foreign investment in industry and trade. Efforts include reopening closed jute mills and establishing new industrial institutions to generate employment.

President Sahabuddin also emphasised modernising the sector with high-yield jute varieties, expanded product applications, and strengthened research. From next Pohela Boishakh (April 14), farmers will receive cards offering subsidised inputs, affordable machinery, loans, insurance, and access to market and weather information, alongside training programs.

To enhance Bangladesh’s global competitiveness, he called for integrated information systems and modern programmes to boost production, ensure raw jute supply, and expand value-added exports. He urged the citizens to avoid plastic and adopt affordable, eco-friendly jute products.

“With continued support from a people-focused government, the jute sector will experience a revival, creating new employment and contributing to sustainable national growth,” he concluded.