Budget FY26: Tk200 crore allocation proposed to fund research on blue economy

The interim government is planning to allocate Tk200 crore for funding research on the blue economy in the upcoming fiscal year 2025-26 (FY26).

Presenting the budget via a pre-recorded speech today (2 June), the adviser Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed said, "In order to encourage and inspire scientific practice, research and development in science and technology in the country, special research grants of about Tk16.66 crore have been provided in favour of 492 projects in various universities in the fiscal year 2024-25."

"Considering the importance of scientific research for reaching the highest level of development, I propose to allocate Tk200 crore for research activities in the next fiscal year to utilise the potential of the blue economy through basic scientific research and exploitation of marine resources and their proper management," he also said.

The blue economy refers to the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and job creation while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems. It encompasses all economic activities related to the oceans, seas, and coastal regions, including sectors like fisheries, tourism, transport, and renewable energy.