Industries, Textiles and Jute Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir visited Panchagarh Sugar Mills Limited today. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, May 9, 2026 (BSS) - Noting that industries which remain operational generate employments and keep local economy active, Commerce, Industries, Textiles and Jute Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir today said every industrial establishment is not merely an institution for local people, but an integral part of their emotions and livelihoods.

"An operational mill creates employment, increases government revenue, keeps the local economy vibrant and opens up opportunities for repaying existing debts of the institution. Therefore, we want these establishments to return to production," he said.

The minister made the remarks while talking to journalists after visiting the Panchagarh Sugar Mills Limited and exchanging views with sugarcane farmers in Panchagarh district today.

Muktadir said the government aims to reopen not only this sugar mill but also all closed industrial factories across the country, said a press release.

He noted that six out of the country's 15 sugar mills are currently shut, while initiatives have also been taken to revive several other state-owned industrial enterprises.

Referring to the condition of the Panchagarh Sugar Mills, the minister said the factory's infrastructure and machinery require extensive renovation due to prolonged closure.

"We are reviewing all possible aspects with opinions from experts regarding the mill's rehabilitation," he added.

Local lawmaker Barrister Muhammad Nowshad Zamir, Industries Secretary Md Obaidur Rahman, BSCIC Chairman Md Saiful Islam, Deputy Commissioner Mst Shukria Parvin, Additional Superintendent of Police Md Farhad Hossain, mill officials, representatives of sugarcane farmers and labour leaders, among others, were present.