Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan on Tuesday nominated State Minister Yeaser Khan Chowdhury as the new chairman of Bangladesh Journalist Welfare Trust.
The decision came from the 39th board meeting of the Welfares Trust at the Circuit House Road in the capital.
Presiding over the meeting, Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan directed the trust to develop a comprehensive database of beneficiaries and applicants to ensure that its support programs are better organized and more transparent.
Highlighting future initiatives, Minister Swapan said, “In line with BNP’s election promises, an effective initiative will be launched to provide retirement allowances for journalists. In response to board members’ requests, special arrangements will also be made for journalists’ advanced medical treatment at major government hospitals.”
The trust’s Managing Director, Muhammad Abdullah, appealed to the ministry for support to overcome financial constraints, including tax exemptions on bank deposits, construction of a dedicated building, and recruitment of staff.
Secretary Mahbuba Farzana assured that administrative and financial approvals for monthly allowances for senior journalists would be finalized promptly.
Following the board meeting, a program was held at the Information Ministry auditorium, where Minister Swapan and State Minister Chowdhury handed out scholarships to 402 meritorious children from journalist families.
In his address, Minister Swapan emphasized the role of media in national progress, stating, “The true strength behind all national achievements is the people and the media. During the 1971 Liberation War, the media provided ethical support and strengthened public aspirations. Protecting journalists’ interests remains a top priority for this ministry.”
State Minister Yeaser Khan Chowdhury expressed gratitude to media personnel for their courageous journalism during the 1971 uprising. He also announced plans to establish a modern press club complex in his constituency and to create a dedicated journalists’ welfare fund.