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Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday conferred the Independence Award 2025 upon seven individuals, recognising their glorious and outstanding contributions to the nation.
The chief adviser handed over the award at Osmani Memorial Auditorium.
The seven distinguished individuals are Prof Jamal Nazrul Islam (posthumously) in science and technology, Mir Abdus Shukur Al Mahmud (posthumously) in literature, Novera Ahmed (posthumously) in culture, Sir Fazle Hasan Abed (posthumously) in social service, Mohammad Mahbubul Haque Khan alias Azam Khan (posthumously) in the Liberation War and culture, Badruddin Mohammad Umar in education and research, and Abrar Fahad (posthumously) for his role as a young protester.
Family members of the awardees received the awards.
Advisers, the Chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, and senior government officials were present at the ceremony conducted by Cabinet Secretary Dr Sheikh Abdur Rashid.
Speaking at the function, Dr Yunus said the nation is proud today, but it is very painful that these people were not given this recognition when they were alive, UNB reports.
"We remember them today with gratitude," he said.
Dr Yunus said the people of the country are delighted to honour them with this award, despite it being late.
He said their works would inspire all.
The Independence Day Award, or Swadhinata Padak, is the highest state award given by the government of Bangladesh.
Introduced in 1977, this award is bestowed upon Bangladeshi citizens or organisations in recognition of their substantial contributions to various fields, including the War of Liberation, the Language Movement, education, literature, journalism, public service, science and technology, and medical science.