Princh Mondal Olif, Bagerhat District  Correspondent

National Rural Development Day-2026 was observed in Chitalmari, Bagerhat, on Monday (6 July 2026) with due enthusiasm under the theme, "Developed Villages, Prosperous Nation – Bangladesh First."

The event was jointly organized by the Chitalmari Upazila Administration and the Bangladesh Rural Development Board (BRDB) at the Upazila Parishad auditorium.

The programme commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran and the Holy Gita. It was presided over by Upazila Rural Development Officer Sohidul Islam, while Upazila Nirbahi Officer Khadija Akter attended as the chief guest.

Among the special guests were Acting President of Chitalmari Upazila BNP Ahsan Habib Thanda, YCCA Chairman M. Elias, Chitalmari Press Club President Ekramul Haque Munshi, Upazila Freedom Fighters' Convener Sheikh Abu Taleb, Nayeb-e-Ameer of Chitalmari Upazila Jamaat-e-Islami Shikdar Abdul Ali, Assistant Election Officer Roman Hossain, and Medical Officer of Chitalmari Upazila Health Complex Dr. M. R. Farazi.

Speakers emphasized the importance of sustainable rural development through coordinated efforts in education, healthcare, agriculture, entrepreneurship, and environmental conservation. They highlighted the need for greater public participation in government development initiatives to strengthen the rural economy.

At the end of the programme, financial grant cheques were distributed among three meritorious students and one local entrepreneur. Prizes were also awarded to children participating in different competitions, followed by the distribution of tree saplings among the attendees.

Government officials, public representatives, journalists, teachers, students, and local residents were present at the programme.