Adviser Supradip Chakma joined a seminar as the chief guest at the CHT Complex auditorium in Dhaka. Photo: PID

DHAKA, Sept 16, 2025 (BSS) – Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) Affairs Adviser Supradip Chakma today said that good governance and women’s empowerment are vital to achieving sustainable development in the hilly region.

“Empowerment should begin at all levels, with priority given to women as entrepreneurs. A total of 40 percent of the total allocation for the CHT should be spent on livelihood development to improve the standard of living for local communities,” Supradip Chakma said.

The adviser made the remarks while addressing a seminar titled ‘Chittagong Hill Tracts Development Ideas’ as the chief guest at the CHT Complex auditorium in the city’s Baily Road area.

He also noted that development will remain incomplete unless women are made equal partners in the process.

“Funds have been allocated to modernize 200 schools in the region, while initiatives are underway to establish multimedia classrooms, create digital content, and strengthen network facilities,” the adviser said.

CHT Affairs Secretary Md. Abdul Khalek chaired the seminar, which covered group discussions on sustainable development, agriculture-based livelihood, quality education, and training.

Presenting the keynote paper, Dr. Md. Mohabbat Ullah highlighted the importance of developing improved crop varieties suitable for hilly terrain, adopting sustainable land use, ensuring rainwater harvesting, and promoting integrated agricultural systems.

Mong Raja Saching, Chairman of the Task Force on Tribal Refugees Sudatta Chakma, NTRCA Chairman Aminul Islam, senior officials of the Ministry of CHT Affairs, and other dignitaries attended the meeting.