Women’s empowerment needs implementation, not only recognition: State Minister
State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock, Agriculture and Food Sultan Salahuddin Tuku has said women's rights should not remain confined to recognition alone, but must also be ensured in practice.
He made the remarks as chief guest at a discussion meeting held at the conference room of the Department of Livestock on Saturday, 8 March 2026, marking International Women's Day under the theme "Today's action, tomorrow's justice – protect the rights of women and girls".
The state minister said former president Ziaur Rahman took important steps on women's rights and empowerment in Bangladesh, including creating a dedicated ministry for women's development and opening new employment opportunities for women. He said women were first recruited to the police and Ansar forces during that period.
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He added that women are now making notable contributions across different sectors, particularly in livestock, and in many cases are ahead in terms of work quality and results.
Referring to BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman, Tuku said he has repeatedly highlighted the role and dignity of women in his speeches. He also said women have had a significant influence on the prime minister's life, mentioning Begum Khaleda Zia, Dr Jobaida Rahman and Barrister Zaima Rahman.
The state minister said the government plans to issue "family cards" in women's names to strengthen their dignity and economic security within the family. He added that the government has taken various initiatives for women's safety and welfare, including plans for a separate transport system for women.
"To move society forward, everyone has to work together. BNP's core philosophy is 'Bangladesh first'. The country's development and progress require the collective effort of all," he said, adding that the party's election manifesto also emphasises women's rights and dignity.
He said women are now playing an increasingly important role in the rural economy and in the livestock sector, with many succeeding in large, medium and small farms. He also noted that the number of women entrepreneurs is rising, with many becoming economically stronger through production and small businesses.
Tuku said a previous government had created discrimination in society by giving importance to political identity over merit in many cases. He said the current BNP government is working to ensure merit is valued over political considerations.
Director General of the Department of Livestock Dr Md Abu Sufian presided over the programme. Md Imam Uddin Kabir, secretary (routine responsibilities) of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, along with senior officials of the ministry and the Department of Livestock, attended as special guests.
Later, the state minister distributed crests among women officials on the occasion of Women's Day.
The programme stressed the need to protect the rights of women and girls, establish equality, and ensure women's empowerment at all levels of society.
