DHAKA, Jan 15, 2024 (BSS) - Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has directed all concerned to take steps to check the price hike of essential commodities, Cabinet Secretary Md Mahbub Hossain said today.

"The premier made some directives, while she put emphasis on inflation and checking price hike of commodities," he told a press briefing at the Secretariat here after the maiden cabinet meeting of the new government formed through the 12th general elections.

Mahbub Hossain said the prime minister asked the ministries concerned to undertake effective measures to check the price hike of essential goods and inflation.

"The premier said prices of essential commodities, which are needed most during the holy month of Ramadan, should be kept at tolerable level and the supply of these goods should be remained smooth in markets," he said.

The cabinet secretary said the maiden cabinet meeting of the new government was held today with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in the chair.

During the meeting, he said, the draft of the President's speech, which will be delivered in the first session of the new parliament, was presented at the meeting and it approved the draft one.

In addition to the approval of the President's speech, many other issues were discussed at the meeting, he said.

Mahbub said before the 12th general elections, the Awami League announced an election manifesto and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina directed all ministries to take working plans in line with the manifesto and implement those.

"The prime minister also directed the authorities concerned to take necessary steps to boost agricultural production and pay attention so that agricultural production is not hindered. Also, she stressed the need for increasing storage capacity for agricultural products," he said.

He said the premier also directed the authorities concerned to appoint manpower in vacated posts in public services.

The cabinet secretary said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina stressed export diversification of goods and exploring new markets abroad.

In addition, he said, she directed to put emphasis on ICT education, suggesting taking initiatives to increase freelancing opportunities for students.

The premier directed the ministries concerned to take integrated measures to prevent arson terrorism and sabotage in the country, Mahbub said.