Fisheries, Livestock, and Agriculture Minister Mohammed Amin Ur Rashid spoke today as the chief guest at the "Gunijan Sommanona-2026" event in Cumilla. Photo: PID

CUMILLA, June 13, 2026 (BSS) - Fisheries, Livestock and Agriculture Minister 
Mohammed Amin Ur Rashid today said people who work for the welfare of society 
are often truly valued only after their death.
 
"If they are given proper respect and recognition during their lifetime, many 
more people will be inspired to engage in social welfare activities in the 
future," he said.

The minister was speaking as the chief guest at the "Gunijan Sommanona-2026" 
(Distinguished Citizens Reception) ceremony held at the Kazi Nazrul Institute 
Centre in Cumilla.
 
The event was organised by the Cumilla district unit of the Bangladesh 
Journalist Association.

The minister noted that showing proper respect to individuals dedicated to 
the welfare of society and humanity is a moral responsibility. 

"We have inherited a society and a world from past generations. Now, it is 
our responsibility to leave behind a more beautiful, humane and livable world 
for the next generation," he added.

Recalling the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, Rashid said that 
when many were confined to their homes out of fear, some brave and humane 
individuals stood by helpless people despite the risks to themselves.
 
Such humanitarian initiatives serve as an inspiration for positive change in 
society, he continued.

The minister also emphasised the importance of self-rectification before 
advising others. 

"If we set good examples through our behaviour and actions, we will earn the 
right and acceptance to bring social change," he added.

During the ceremony, five prominent personalities from Cumilla were honoured 
with the "Gunijan Sommanona-2026" crests by the chief guest for their long-
standing contributions and special achievements in social service, education, 
medicine, culture, sports and public welfare.

Presided over by Yasmin Rima, president of the Bangladesh Journalist 
Association's Cumilla district unit and conducted by its general secretary 
Shahajada Emran, the event was also addressed by Cumilla City Corporation 
Administrator Yusuf Molla Tipu and Additional Superintendent of Police (Sadar 
Circle) Saiful Malik as special guests.

Leaders from various upazila units of the journalist association, 
representatives of political, social and cultural organisations and local 
dignitaries were present at the event.