New directives on observing days, government holiday on Nov 7

The government has issued new directives on observing and celebrating national and international days. In a circular issued by the Cabinet Division on Sunday, October 11, emphasis was laid on making the observance of days cost-effective and effective. At the same time, observing November 7 as 'National Revolution and Solidarity Day' and a government holiday on the occasion has also been mentioned.

The new directive stated that except for national-level festivals, grand decorations and large-scale cultural programmes should be avoided as much as possible in observing general days. Discussion programmes on radio and television and seminars or symposia on a limited scale can be organised on the occasion of the days. However, directives have been given not to organise rallies and processions on working days.

The circular further stated that programmes for observing any week should generally be limited to three days. It must be ensured that official work is not disrupted due to government programmes. Efforts should be made to organise discussion meetings and cultural programmes on holidays or after office hours. General programmes that can be organised without spending money or materials can be held on holidays or working days as well.

It has been asked to avoid as much as possible bringing officials and employees to Dhaka from outside the capital or at the district level on the occasion of observing days or weeks. Directives have also been given to observe similar national and international days on the same day to maintain the continuity of reducing government expenditure. In this regard, priority should be given to the relevant international day.

According to the circular, necessary proposals or summaries on observing similar days together must be sent to the Cabinet Division for presentation at the Cabinet meeting by the concerned ministries and divisions. The aim of this government directive is to reduce unnecessary expenditure and maintain the normal pace of government activities.

The Cabinet Division has requested all concerned ministries, divisions and agencies to take necessary measures to properly implement the new directives.