Cabinet Secretary Dr. Sheikh Abdur Rashid today spoke at the Cabinet Division's conference room at the secretariat in the capital. Photo: PID

DHAKA, Dec 8, 2025 (BSS) - Cabinet Secretary Dr. Sheikh Abdur Rashid today underscored the urgent need to accelerate multi-sectoral initiatives to reduce the impact of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and prevent premature deaths in the country.

Recognizing the seriousness of the issue, he said a Joint Declaration on the prevention and control of NCDs has already been signed with 35 ministries and departments.

Dr. Rashid made the remarks while addressing the third-phase meeting on formulating an action plan to implement the Joint Declaration on the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases. 

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare organized the meeting with technical support from the World Health Organization (WHO). The discussion took place at the Cabinet Division's conference room at the secretariat, according to an official handout.

Speaking as the chief guest, the Cabinet Secretary highlighted the lack of sufficient playgrounds in the country and stressed the need to increase opportunities for sports and physical activity as part of NCD prevention efforts. He also suggested offering tax exemptions to institutions such as clubs and gymnasiums that contribute to improving public health services.

Dr. Rashid further stressed the importance of focusing on accident-prone areas to reduce accidents and related casualties.

Health Services Division Secretary Md. Saidur Rahman presided over the meeting, which was attended by secretaries from relevant ministries and divisions, the Director General of the Directorate General of Health Services, senior officials from the Health Services Division and representatives from WHO.