Army must work for welfare of people, country: President

President M Abdul Hamid today called upon members of the armed forces to work for the welfare of mass people and country during emergency side by side with ensuring the national security and sovereignty.

"I hope members of the armed forces will work for the people`s welfare during emergency. You will play an active role in nation building activities side by side with ensuring national security and sovereignty," the President told the 2nd Corps Reunion of Bangladesh Infantry Regiment (BIR) at Rajshahi Cantonment here.

The President, also the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Division (AFD), said the Army is an institution where there is no alternative to make them disciplined and enhance their professional skill.

At the outset of the speech, the President paid tribute to Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, freedom fighters who made their supreme sacrifices during the country`s Liberation War in 1971 and language movement heroes.

He also recalled the sacrifices of the armed force members who had contribution to develop Bangladesh Infantry Regiment (BIR) earlier, in principle, approved by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in 1999.

Referring to different pragmatic steps taken by the present government to build modern, time-befitting and strong armed forces, he said the present government in line with the "Vision 2021" has prepared Bangladesh Armed Forces Goal 2030.

President Hamid observed that Bangladesh army in the meantime has become a modern and time-befitting force through setting up new units in different sections as well as purchasing necessary modern equipment aimed at increasing the capacity building.

The President called for providing training to army personnel saying, "There`s no alternative to training in military life. Training makes people to be disciplined and helps enhance professional knowledge and increase loyalty. The training facilities for the army personnel are ongoing process to build an efficient and professional force."

Recalling the speech of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at Comilla Army Academy on January 11, 1975, the President mentioned that Bangabandhu told the soldiers, "You must restrain offences . . . but Keep in mind that no innocent people are become the victims of any wrongful acts."

The President lauded the contribution of the Armed forces both at home and abroad and said members of the armed forces showed a significant efficiency in world arena that upheld the image of the country.

"Members of the armed forces gained people`s respect and love through providing better services and responsibilities in their activities," he said.

The President highlighted the role of the Bangladesh army in facing national calamities, developing infrastructures, building shelter houses, issuing National Identity (NID) cards and preparing voter list and other services-oriented activities.

He gave thanks to members of the corps for arranging the programme and said it would strengthen the tie and friendship among the all patriotic people in the long run.

The President earlier inspected the parade of Artillery Corps and took salute. He also signed the Visitors` Book kept there.

Several ministers, senior political leaders, Navy Chief, senior military officers, and civil officials concern, among others, were present on the occasion.

Earlier, Chief of Army Staff General Abu Belal Shafiul Huq received the President at the cantonment.

Source : BSS