"Family Card Distribution to Begin in Lama Upazila of Bandarban"

The new BNP-led government’s much-discussed Family Card program is set to begin on a pilot basis in eight upazilas, starting with Lama upazila in Bandarban. This was confirmed by Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Minister Dipen Dewan during a press briefing at the Secretariat on Sunday (22 February).

The minister stated that the program aims to ensure transparent and effective delivery of social safety net benefits. He emphasized that the entire process will be completely transparent with no room for corruption or irregularities. “Our goal is to eliminate all limitations and bring the corruption rate down to zero percent,” he added.

When asked about the exact start date, Minister Dewan replied: “Very soon you will see the implementation of the Family Card program.”

Meanwhile, Minister for Children and Women Affairs and Social Welfare A.Z.M. Zahid Hossain said the pilot will begin in Lama upazila experimentally. It will then be expanded gradually to other upazilas across the country. He explained that the Family Card initiative is being introduced to give a more organized and institutional shape to social protection programs. Through this card, beneficiary information-based services will become easier and transparency in assistance programs will be ensured.

Key Features of the Program

• Distribution will be conducted in phases with strict verification in three stages to prevent corruption.
• Priority will be given to the most deserving and vulnerable families.
• The program is part of the government’s broader commitment to transparent social safety net delivery.

The Family Card is expected to play a major role in reducing leakages and ensuring benefits reach genuine beneficiaries across Bangladesh.