Demand for New Policies to Improve Living Standards of Rural Workers

PNN News Desk, Dhaka
Speakers have said that many microcredit programs aimed at improving the living standards of the rural poor are now instead creating additional pressure on people. They alleged that many agricultural day laborers and field workers are suffering from severe frustration due to debt burdens, and some have even taken their own lives.

These remarks were made at a discussion titled “Budget 2026–27: Problems and Solutions of Rural Laborers” held at Mukti Bhaban in Dhaka. The event was organized by the Bangladesh Agricultural Laborers Association.

Economist M M Akash said that rural people do not seek charity or donations; they want year-round employment, fair wages, and a dignified life. He alleged that loan policies of some NGOs have trapped poor people in long-term debt cycles instead of providing relief.

Mujahidul Islam Selim said that despite various development narratives, the actual living standards of working people have not improved significantly. He demanded land rights for the landless and an end to irregularities and nepotism in government aid distribution.

Mustafizur Rahman, Honorary Fellow of the Centre for Policy Dialogue, expressed concern about the future of labor families. He said children of poor families should not be forced to remain in the same profession and should be provided with education and proper employment opportunities. He also called for the introduction of monthly pensions for elderly workers.

Speakers at the discussion said that rural laborers are currently facing multiple crises. In particular, floods and waterlogging in haor and low-lying areas have damaged rice fields, pushing many families into financial distress. They urged quick compensation for affected farmers and workers.

They also demanded financial assistance of at least 1 million taka for families of workers who die due to lightning strikes and workplace accidents.

The event also featured speeches by researcher Pavel Partha, Socialist Agricultural Workers and Farmers Front president Tarek Islam, and labor representatives from various regions.

Speakers also expressed concern over excessive political influence in local government systems. According to them, the construction of separate “inspection rooms” for Members of Parliament in upazila parishads contradicts the concept of public empowerment.

The meeting was chaired by Bangladesh Agricultural Laborers Association president Dr. Fazlur Rahman. The main paper was presented by general secretary Arnab Sarkar. The welcome speech was given by executive president Anwar Hossain and the session was conducted by joint general secretary Kollol Banik.