A delegation from the World Bank, led by its Divisional Director, met with the Minister of Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs, Abu Zafar Md. Zahid Hossain, today at his secretariat office. Photo: PID

DHAKA, March 29, 2026(BSS) - Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Minister Abu Zafar Md. Zahid Hossain today announced that a Universal Family Card will be issued within the next four years. 

“The card will be issued in the name of the female head of each family, providing a dignified recognition of her status as a citizen,” he made the statement during a meeting with a three-member World Bank delegation led by its Divisional Director at his secretariat office here. State Minister for Social Welfare Farzana Sharmin was also present at the meeting.

Highlighting the government’s commitment, the minister said the Family Card initiative is one of the key electoral promises of BNP. So far, 37,567 Family Cards have been issued in the names of female heads of households. Beneficiary families are currently receiving financial assistance of Taka 2,500 per month.

The World Bank delegation congratulated the minister and described the initiative as a positive step toward strengthening social protection. They also assured their support in implementing the programme.

Both the sides agreed to work jointly to ensure the sustainable implementation of the Family Card programme.

Senior officials of the ministry including Social Welfare Secretary Dr. Mohammad Abu Yousuf were present at the meeting.