SANGSAD BHABAN, April 6, 2026 (BSS) - Lawmakers today said that the government's initiative to distribute family cards nationwide would contribute significantly to the country's economic prosperity, particularly by empowering women.

Taking part in the discussion on the motion of thanks on the President's speech, members of parliament noted that distributing family cards among women reflects a strong commitment to women's empowerment. They expressed optimism that this initiative would help strengthen Bangladesh's economic position within South Asia.

During the discussion, lawmakers also raised various concerns, including the need for infrastructure development in their constituencies and the implementation of election manifesto commitments.

The first session of the 13th Parliament began on March 12, with President Mohammed Shahabuddin delivering his address. The Business Advisory Committee later allocated 50 hours for debate on the speech. Chief Whip Md Nurul Islam moved the motion of thanks, which was seconded by Whip Mia Nuruddin Ahmed Apu.

Referring to the family card programme as a major step in women's development, BNP lawmaker Sarwar Jamal Nizam from Chattogram-13 said the phased distribution among the country's 180 million people would bring meaningful economic progress.

He also recalled former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, stating that her government in 1996 emphasized women's development. He added that since women make up around 53 percent of the population, the current initiative aligns with that long-standing vision.

Another BNP lawmaker, M Selim Reza of Sirajganj-1, expressed gratitude to voters for electing him. He noted that people from all communities supported his victory. He also praised the Prime Minister for introducing family cards, farmer cards, and farm credit exemptions in line with the government's electoral promises, and for discouraging lawmakers from accepting tax-free vehicles.

Commending the President, he said the speech acknowledged past governance shortcomings and deserved appreciation.

Discussing the 2024 July Uprising, BNP lawmaker Rafiqul Islam Helali of Netrokona-3 said that 17 people from his district were martyred, including 14 BNP members. He emphasized that the uprising was a collective effort, not attributable to any single group.

Opposition lawmaker Abu Taleb Mondol of Pabna-4 urged the government to implement the July Charter, warning that failure to do so would go against the people's mandate expressed in the referendum.

Lawmakers also paid tribute to former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and honored those who sacrificed their lives during the 1971 Liberation War and the 2024 July Uprising.

BNP lawmakers Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah and opposition lawmaker Sheikh Monjurul Haque Rahad also participated in the discussion.