Women and Children Affairs Minister Prof Dr A Z M Zahid Hossain addressed the inaugural ceremony of the newly built "Project Rise Ward for Child Health Care". Photo: PID

DHAKA, July 30, 2026 (BSS) - Women and Children Affairs Minister Prof Dr A Z M Zahid Hossain today said the government stands by all people regardless of race, religion and political identity.

"There are currently more than 40 lakh registered persons with special needs in the country, and the government is committed to supporting all citizens irrespective of their race, religion and political identity," he said.

He made the remarks while addressing the inaugural ceremony of the newly built "Project Rise Ward for Child Health Care".

The programme, organised by The Dawoodi Bohras of Bangladesh, was held at the Bangladesh Shishu Kallyan Parishad in the capital.

The minister said children with special needs can recover and become integrated into the mainstream of society if they receive appropriate therapy and medical treatment.

In this regard, he urged affluent members of society to come forward and support government efforts.

He said tax rebates are available for donations made to social welfare organisations and called upon citizens to make use of the opportunity.

Prof Zahid said the government aims to build an inclusive, compassionate and humane Bangladesh where no one feels neglected, deprived or helpless.

He also thanked the Bangladesh Shishu Kallyan Parishad and The Dawoodi Bohras of Bangladesh for their humanitarian initiative.

Bangladesh Shishu Kallyan Parishad, established in 1957, currently operates an 80-bed physiotherapy centre. With the addition of 70 new beds, the facility will now be able to provide services to a total of 150 children with special needs.

Bir Muktijoddha Dr Makhduma Nargis Ratna chaired the programme. Representatives of The Dawoodi Bohras of Bangladesh from Dhaka and Chattogram, along with members of various organisations working with children with special needs, were present.