The BNP government’s launch of its “Family Card” program within one month of elections is a commendable step and signals the sort of pro-active approach to tackling poverty that we expect from this administration. At a time when food prices remain high and many struggle to afford essentials, this initiative reflects a government willing to act decisively.
It cannot be stated enough how striking the potential impact could be for this project; a recent study by local think tank Research and Policy Integration for Development suggests that if implemented successfully, the program could reduce poverty from 18.7% to 11.3%, lifting well over one crore people out of poverty while extreme poverty could also fall from 5.6% to 2.2%. These are transformative numbers, and prove the power of targeted social protection making a real difference in people’s lives.
While the government’s ambition is equally bold - expanding to two crore families by 2030 and allocating 3% of GDP to social security by 2028 - ambition must be matched with discipline.
The history of social safety net programs in this country are marked by partisan influence, corruption, and inclusion errors. Already, scams have emerged online, with fake pages exploiting the Family Card’s popularity. The government must remain alert; without transparency and strong oversight, such risks could undermine public trust.
Expansion must therefore be paced and economically viable. Clear eligibility criteria and routine audits are essential to ensure that benefits reach those most in need.
The program is a positive start, piloted with commendable speed and vision. But much like any program or initiative in our country, its success will depend on ensuring transparency, sustainability, and also fiscal responsibility. This has the potential to become a cornerstone of social protection, restoring dignity to millions while strengthening public trust in governance. It is important for the government to recognize its worth and do everything possible to ensure its success.