Govt raises Durga Puja grant to Tk 50m

The government has increased its grant for Durga Puja celebrations to Tk 50 million (Tk 5 crore) this year, up by Tk 10 million (Tk 1 crore) from last year’s allocation of Tk 40 million (Tk 4 crore).

Home Adviser Lt Gen (retired) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said this after visiting Ramna Kali Mandir in the city on Wednesday afternoon.

Talking to reporters, he said the government had been providing Tk 20 million (Tk 2 crore) as a grant for the past 15 years, which has now been raised to Tk 50 million (Tk 5 crore). “If any further need arises, the government will provide necessary support,” he added.

The adviser said there is no security threat centering Durga Puja this year, expressing hope that the festival will be celebrated in a more festive and peaceful atmosphere than before.

“Durga Puja is not only for the Hindu community, but people of all faiths join the celebrations. Everyone has to uphold the sanctity of the festival,” he said.

To ensure smooth celebrations, a special mobile application has been launched through which information about any untoward incident will instantly reach the authorities, he noted.

He also said a large number of law enforcement personnel will be deployed, alongside cooperation from local puja celebration committees. “This is a religious festival, and its sanctity must be maintained,” the adviser stressed.

He further mentioned that the number of Puja mandaps has increased this year. “Celebration committees should also remain vigilant to maintain peace and order. All Puja mandaps will be under 24-hour observation,” he said, expressing hope that the festival will be celebrated smoothly and joyfully.