State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku spoke as the chief guest at a discussion meeting held at the Department of Livestock Services, marking International Women's Day 2026. Photo: PID

DHAKA, Mar 8, 2026 (BSS) - State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku today said women's rights cannot remain confined to mere recognition, importance must also be given to their implementation.

He made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a discussion meeting organized this afternoon at the conference room of the Department of Livestock Services, marking International Women's Day 2026.

Sultan Salauddin Tuku said that after Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, Deshnetri Begum Khaleda Zia also played a vital role in women's empowerment. He noted that this progress for women would not have been possible without bringing about groundbreaking changes, especially in the education sector.

The state minister mentioned that the opportunity to recruit women for the first time in the police and Ansar forces was also introduced during the time of Begum Khaleda Zia. He added that currently, women's participation and success are significant in various sectors, particularly in the livestock sector. 

Sultan Salauddin Tuku said, “Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has consistently emphasized the role and status of women in his speeches at various times.”

He said that to increase women's respect and self-reliance in the family, the BNP government has considered providing the 'Family Card' in the name of women, so that they can gain more dignity and economic security in the household.

The state minister said that to advance society, everyone must work together. BNP's core philosophy is 'Bangladesh First' and collective effort from everyone is necessary for the country's development and progress. The BNP election manifesto also prominently highlights the issue of enhancing women's dignity and rights, he added. 

The Director General of the Department of Livestock Services, Dr. Md. Abu Sufian, presided over the meeting, while the Secretary (Routine Duty) of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, Md. Imam Uddin Kabir, also spoke. 

Later, the state minister distributed crests to women officials on the occasion of Women's Day.