DHAKA: Economists and women rights campaigners suggested the government to place a gender-responsive budget and ensure its effective implementation for the development of country’s womenfolk.  

They also demanded bringing women into the mainstream giving special privileges and recognizing their domestic works as economic activity.   

The proposals came from a roundtable at the Bangladesh Economic Association Auditorium in the city Friday, as the new national budget is now in the making.

Unnayan Katha, a non-governmental organization that works for establishing women’s rights in the country, organized the meet on “Gender Equity: Pre-budget Evaluation and Recommendations”.

Former Vice-chancellor of Jahangirnagar University Dr. Amirul Islam Chowdhury chaired the programme while Unnayan Katha Chairman Dr. Prof Hannana Begum presented the keynote paper.  

Dr. Kazi Kholiquzzaman Ahmad, speaking as chief guest, suggested a comprehensive plan under the constitution and sufficient budget allocation for the uplift of the womenfolk.

He also urged immediate restoration and implementation of National Women Policy 1997.

The programme was also addressed, among others, by president of Women Chamber of Commerce Selima Ahmed, Executive Director of Step Towards Development Ranjan Karmaker and member of the National Information Commission Professor Sadeka Halim.

BDST: 1827HRS. May 28, 2010
TSA/LY/MUA