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Prime Minister Tareque Rahman has stated that ‘every village in the country will transform into a hub of socio-economic development through Ansar-VDP.’ He expressed hope that the nation would further prosper through the courage and dedication of the force’s 60 lakh members in building a discrimination-free, justice-based, and safe society.
The Prime Minister conveyed these expectations in a statement sent to the media on Tuesday (May 19). The Prime Minister issued this statement on Wednesday (May 20) on the occasion of the 46th National Assembly-2026 of the Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defence Party.
He said, ‘The timely role of Ansar force members in any national necessity is noteworthy. In February, the Ansar and Village Defence Party played a commendable role in the 13th national parliamentary election, which was held freely, fairly, and impartially across the country.’
The Prime Minister stated, ‘On this auspicious occasion, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and warm wishes to all officers, employees, and the courageous grassroots Ansar-VDP members of this force. I pay humble tribute to the 670 martyrs of this force who sacrificed their lives in the Great War of Liberation.’
He mentioned, ‘After more than a decade and a half of fascist rule, Bangladesh has embarked on a journey towards democracy. The current democratic government is working to institutionalize democracy by establishing equality, human dignity, and social justice in the country. The importance of the Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defence Party is immense on this path towards building a self-reliant, humane, and safe Bangladesh.’
He further added, ‘Inspired by the proud declaration of Ziaur Rahman, the Proclaimer of Independence, ‘Our hands are millions of weapons, our pledge is to build the nation,’ and founded on the concept of public defense and social development, this force has a strong bridge extending to the grassroots level of the country. Ansar-VDP is working as an integral part of the government in forming secure social structures in villages and cities, ensuring the fundamental rights of common people, and implementing various service activities.’
Highlighting the potential to effectively utilize the nationwide network’s capability in activities like tree plantation through the involvement of dedicated Ansar-VDP volunteer members, he stated, ‘Ansar and VDP can also play an immense role in implementing unique activities such as canal digging for science-based environmental protection and agricultural economic development, flood protection in disaster-prone remote areas, water resource planning, and ensuring food security and rehabilitation for common people during disasters.’
He said, ‘Over 52,000 integrated Ansar members are working tirelessly to ensure security at vital state establishments, including industries, hospitals, and financial institutions, which are at the heart of our economy.’
The Prime Minister stated, ‘The current government believes that youth is the source of strength. The specific demand-based training and inclusive measures adopted by Ansar and VDP to develop the youth not merely as manpower but as skilled entrepreneurs are commendable. It is expected that Ansar-VDP will play an effective role as a supportive force in building a productive nation and society by involving common people in this new model of self-reliance and employment.’