Local Government, Rural Development, and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir called for collective efforts to eradicate poverty and improve the quality of life for the people of Bangladesh during the JCI Carnival-2026 on Friday, April 17, 2026.

Acknowledging that 42% of the population still lives below the poverty line, he urged the youth to stay focused on national development rather than being distracted by social media or political rhetoric.

Highlighting the nation's progress in food security since 1971, the Minister credited the vision of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman for initiating a multi-party democracy and a production-oriented economy.

He emphasized that the sacrifices of students during the recent movement against the previous "fascist regime" have ignited a new dream for a sustainable and equitable Bangladesh.