Jobs, returns, environment to decide project approvals

The government will approve development projects only if they meet three key conditions -- job creation, return on investment (ROI) and environmental protection, Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury said yesterday.

He said economic democratisation should go beyond politics, ensuring that ordinary citizens have equal participation in the national economy.

Unprofitable projects taken up without planning in the past are being reviewed, with some already cancelled, the minister said at the “Stepping Forward: Inauguration of RAISE-2,” a programme organised by the Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF), according to a press release.

Praising PKSF’s work, he said the government’s economic philosophy is aligned with the organisation’s activities. He called for expanding PKSF’s role further, especially in universal healthcare, education and social security, where it could work as a key delivery partner.

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On women’s empowerment, Khosru said the government plans to transfer cash directly to women as household budget managers, aiming to increase domestic demand and savings. He added that direct support for farmers and assistance in the health sector are also being prioritised.

He also highlighted the “One Village One Product” concept, citing Barishal’s “Shital Pati” as an example of a local product that could reach global markets such as Amazon or Alibaba with better design and skill development support.

The minister further said that theatre, sports and music are being recognised as industries, with the aim of increasing their contribution to GDP.

The event was chaired by PKSF Chairman Zakir Ahmed Khan. Special guests included Najma Mobarek, secretary of the Financial Institutions Division, and Gayle H Martin, acting division director for Bangladesh and Bhutan at the World Bank.