Ambassador (retd.) Supradip Chakma, Adviser on Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs, on September 16, 2025 emphasized the urgent need for development in the region, stating, We must develop the Chittagong Hill Tracts. He also stressed the importance of good governance and said that “development remains incomplete without the empowerment of women.
The adviser made these remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a seminar titled “Chittagong Hill Tracts Development Thinking” at the seminar hall of the Chittagong Hill Tracts Complex on Bailey Road in the capital. The seminar featured group discussions on sustainable development, agriculture-based livelihoods, quality education, and various training programs for the region. The event was chaired by Secretary Md. Abdul Khaleque.
In his speech, Adviser Chakma highlighted the need for empowerment to be implemented by everyone in their respective roles. He stressed the active participation of women and stated that female entrepreneurs would be given priority. He also announced that 40% of the total allocation for livelihood development in the Chittagong Hill Tracts would be spent on this sector and underscored the importance of proper utilization of project funds.
Adviser Chakma also mentioned that funds have been allocated to modernize 200 schools in the hilly region. Initiatives have been taken to set up multimedia classrooms, digital content, and a robust network. He expressed a desire to establish campuses of Dhaka University and IBA in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
The keynote paper for the seminar was presented by Dr. Md. Mahabbat Ullah, who highlighted the importance of developing improved crop varieties suitable for the region, sustainable land use, rainwater harvesting, and integrated agricultural systems.
Among others present at the seminar were Mong Raja Sachching, Sudatta Chakma (Chairman, Task Force on Tribal Refugee Affairs, with the status of Senior Secretary), Md. Aminul Islam (Chairman, NTRCA), Md. Monirul Islam (Additional Secretary), Pradip Kumar Mohattom (Additional Secretary), K S Mong (Member, Chittagong Hill Tracts Regional Council), the Chairmen of Rangamati, Khagrachari and Bandarban Hill District Councils, Deputy Commissioners of the three hill districts, press club leaders from the three hill districts, and relevant officials from the Ministry of Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs.