PM hands over Independence Awards 2026

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday (April 6) presented the prestigious Independence Awards 2026, the country’s highest civilian honour, to recipients in recognition of their outstanding contributions at the national level.

The ceremony was held at Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the capital at 4:00pm, where 15 distinguished individuals and five institutions were honoured, according to a Cabinet Division announcement issued on March 5.

Among the award recipients, former prime minister Khaleda Zia was awarded posthumously for her contributions to independence, democracy, women’s education and nation-building.

In the Liberation War category, Major Mohammad Abul Jalil (posthumous) and Faujdarhat Cadet College were recognised. In science and technology, Professor Dr. Zahurul Karim received the award, while Dhaka Medical College Hospital was honoured in the field of medicine.

Cultural awards went to Hanif Sanket and Bashir Ahmed (posthumous), while Dr. Ashraf Siddiqui (posthumous) was recognised for literature. In sports, Jobera Rahman Linu was honoured.

In social service, posthumous awards were given to Dr. Zafrullah Chowdhury and Maherin Chowdhury, alongside Md Saidul Haque, SOS Children's Villages International and Gonoshasthaya Kendra.

Awards in research and training went to Mohammad Abdul Baki, Professor Dr. MA Rahim and Professor Dr. Sukomal Barua, while Kazi Fazlur Rahman (posthumous) was recognised in public administration.

The Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation received the award for rural development, and Abdul Mukit Majumder was honoured for environmental conservation.

Each recipient received a 18-carat gold medal weighing 50 grams, along with a certificate and a cash award.