Disaster Management and Relief Minister Asadul Habib Dulu speaks at Lalmonirhat Zilla Parishad tree plantation programme, urging child and environmental care. Photo : BSS

LALMONIRHAT, August 1, 2026 (BSS) - Disaster Management and Relief Minister Asadul Habib Dulu today said nurturing children with proper education and moral values is as important as caring for trees.

Speaking as the chief guest at a tree plantation and sapling distribution programme organised by the Lalmonirhat Zilla Parishad, Dulu said planting trees alone is not enough. 

"Just as a tree requires regular care to grow, children need proper education, moral values and a healthy social environment to become responsible citizens," he said.

He urged voluntary organisations to actively support the nationwide tree plantation campaign announced by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, noting that trees help preserve ecological balance and contribute to the long-term well-being of both individuals and society. He also stressed the importance of maintaining planted saplings to ensure their survival.

The minister expressed concern over the social challenges faced by children and adolescents, including exposure to injustice, harmful cultural influences and other social ills, which he said hinder the development of an ethical and capable future generation.

He said quality education and strong moral values are essential to reducing social crime and preventing moral decline.

Highlighting the role of young people, Dulu said the country's youth have consistently contributed during times of national crisis. He added that the government is implementing various initiatives to engage them in constructive activities, while calling on parents, educational institutions and voluntary organisations to play a more proactive role.

The minister also observed that law enforcement alone cannot resolve every social problem, stressing that public awareness, family values and personal responsibility are equally important.

Lalmonirhat Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Rashedul Haque Prodhan, District Council Executive Officer Md Aminul Islam and Civil Surgeon Dr Md Abdul Hakim attended the programme as special guests. The event was chaired by Lalmonirhat District Council Administrator AKM Mominul Haque. Representatives of voluntary organisations, including Jamal Hossain and Aisha Siddika, also addressed the gathering.

At the end of the programme, 1,500 tree saplings were distributed among representatives of 23 voluntary organisations, and the tree plantation campaign was formally inaugurated.