Govt rolling out ‘one citizen, one card’ initiative: Finance Minister

The government is implementing broad reform programmes aimed at building a welfare-oriented state and a more humane economic system, Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury said.

Speaking at a roundtable titled “Budget in Crisis and Public Expectations” held at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel in Dhaka on Thursday (May 21), he said the core objective is to shift economic control away from vested interests and ensure benefits reach ordinary citizens.

The finance minister said special initiatives are underway to integrate marginalised communities — including blacksmiths, potters and weavers — into the mainstream economy.

He also highlighted plans to promote cultural and creative industries, including theatre, music and the arts, with proposals to establish dedicated “theatre districts” in major cities.

Chowdhury said the government is moving towards full digital automation of administrative and economic systems, targeting completion within the next year. As part of this transition, the “One Citizen, One Card” initiative is being introduced to unify access to public services.

He added that efforts are underway to simplify business procedures and reduce bureaucratic delays, alongside strengthened monitoring to ensure timely project implementation.

Reforms are also planned in the capital market and bond market, including consideration of mandatory stock market listing for large companies. The minister further stressed reforms in tax administration, stricter enforcement against tax evasion, and simplified flat-tax systems for small businesses.

Urging public patience for the next two years, he said the government’s goal is not only growth but ensuring its benefits reach people’s daily lives.