DHAKA, Feb 19, 2026 (BSS) - The government has issued a gazette notification forming a 15-member 'Cabinet Committee for Family Card Distribution', aimed at providing protection to marginalized and low-income families.

The Cabinet Division issued the notification today, naming the Finance Minister as chairman of the committee.

Other members include the Women and Children Affairs Minister, Social Welfare Minister, Adviser Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir, State Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives, State Minister for Women and Children Affairs and Ministry of Social Welfare, Advisers Mahdi Amin and Rehan Asif Asad, Cabinet Secretary, Women and Children Affairs Secretary, Election Commission Secretariat Secretary, Finance Division Secretary, Information and Communication Technology Division Secretary, Local Government Division Secretary, Planning Ministry Secretary, and Social Welfare Secretary.

The notification clarified that 'Secretary' also includes Senior Secretary.

It said the committee will formulate a framework for implementing the Family Card programme and develop a method for selecting beneficiaries. Initially, the Family Card will be introduced in one upazila in each of the country's eight divisions. The committee will also review whether any existing programs for women can be used as a basis, recommend creating a digital MIS by linking the National ID and National Household Database to prepare the beneficiary list, and submit a preliminary report by February 24, 2026, to distribute Family Cards before the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr.

The notification added that committee meetings will be held as required. The Ministry of Women and Children Affairs will provide secretarial support, and the committee may co-opt members if necessary.

The notification will take effect immediately.