Responsible journalism accelerates national development: LGRD State Minister

State Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Mir Shahe Alam has underscored the importance of responsible, objective and constructive journalism in advancing the country's development, saying that constructive criticism by the media helps make national development more dynamic and effective.

He made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a BSRF Dialogue organized by the Bangladesh Secretariat Reporters Forum (BSRF) at the Secretariat Media Centre on Thursday (July 9).

The state minister said that, alongside accurately presenting the government's development initiatives to the public, the media must remain vigilant in countering propaganda, rumors and misinformation.

Welcoming constructive criticism from the press, he said no one is above mistakes. "If journalists highlight the government's shortcomings and limitations, those can be addressed, enabling us to serve the people more effectively," he added.

Speaking about development in Bogura, Mir Shahe Alam said the district had long lagged behind in terms of development. However, he noted that the government is now working tirelessly to bridge that gap under the directives of Prime Minister Tarek Rahman.

He also described himself as fortunate to have BNP Secretary General and Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir as a mentor.

Reflecting on his political and professional journey, the state minister said he had overcome numerous challenges and obstacles to reach his current position. He added that his experience as a public representative and his work with different levels of the administration have strengthened his ability to formulate policies and implement public welfare initiatives.

Mir Shahe Alam further said that before entering national politics, he served as the founder and chairman of Ruposhi BD Group, where he worked in sectors including agriculture, nutrition and human resource management. After assuming public office, however, he transferred the company's day-to-day management and business responsibilities to his family members in order to avoid any conflict of interest.

The event was chaired by BSRF President Md. Masudul Haque and attended by the organization's General Secretary Ubaidullah Badal and journalists from various media outlets.