The Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief has announced a new initiative to support 75,000 disaster-affected families with monthly allowances.
Adviser Farooq-e- Azam on Wednesday said that each family will receive Tk1,000 for food and Tk2,000 for livelihood support under the “Food and Livelihood Support Program.” The program will run for three years, ending in 2027, with a total budget of Tk819 crore.
Speaking at a multi-stakeholder meeting on post-flood rehabilitation and recovery at Brac Inn Centre, Azam said the initiative aims to combat malnutrition and livelihood challenges in disaster-prone areas. The program will cover 75 upazilas, where approximately 50% of the population lives below the poverty line.
While infrastructure recovery efforts such as road repairs and embankment construction are common after floods, Azam said that the long-term issues of unemployment and malnutrition, particularly among women, are often neglected.
He said that these areas face significant health risks during and after disasters. The program is expected to play a vital role in sustainable development by addressing these challenges.
Azam also invited local and international development partners to participate in the program. Additionally, he proposed offering low-interest loans to farmers and residents in affected areas, emphasizing the need for a coordinated effort among government agencies, NGOs, and other organizations for the program's success.
Brac Executive Director Asif Saleh delivered the welcome speech, where speakers underscored the importance of preparedness and collective action in combating climate change-induced disasters.
