Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir spoke as the chief guest at a programme organized by the Local Government Engineering Department (LGED) at its headquarters in Agargaon in the capital today. Photo: PID

DHAKA, March 9, 2026 (BSS) - Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today said the government is working tirelessly to ensure women's empowerment in the country.

He made the remarks as the chief guest at a programme organized by the Local Government Engineering Department (LGED) at its headquarters in Agargaon in the capital to mark the International Women's Day.

The event included the felicitation of selected women for their achievements and self-reliance.

Speaking on the occasion, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia played a pioneering role in expanding women's education in the country. Following the path she demonstrated, the current government is continuing its efforts to strengthen women's empowerment and will carry on such initiatives in the future.

At the programme, Secretary of the Local Government Division Md. Shahidul Hasan said women play a crucial role in building a just and tolerant society. He added that building a developed society is not possible if discrimination between men and women persists.

The programme was chaired by LGED Chief Engineer Md. Belal Hossain.

At the event, a total of nine women from different parts of the country were honored with the 'Best Self-Reliant Woman Honor-2026' in three categories in recognition of their achievements.