Strategic Steps for Systemic IT Reform in Bangladesh
Since August 2024, the word most frequently used has been “reform.” One of the three core objectives declared by this government—justice, reform, and elections—is reform. But is this reform limited only to serious constitutional matters? No. The interim government is committed to introducing necessary and urgent reforms across all areas, including citizen services, legal systems, policing, business, and commerce. Citizens’ expectations are high, as in the past 15 years, many institutions have deteriorated due to a lack of accountability, and without reforms, we cannot ensure an effective state, society, or economy for the current or future generations.
The information technology sector is no longer just a commercial domain; it now permeates all aspects of life. Various citizen services, education, healthcare, agriculture, business operations, tax management, and banking all rely on IT.
For those of us connected to this sector, the greatest barrier to effective IT usage over recent years has been the digital divide. While urban upper- and middle-class populations benefit from IT services, rural populations often do not, largely due to poor connectivity. Despite billions spent, broadband access has not reached many areas. Mobile data costs remain high in some areas and speeds are inconsistent. This problem largely stems from previous governments granting unnecessary licenses through BTRC to benefit their associates. Two major companies were allowed to build nationwide fiber optic networks and were effectively required to dominate service provision. This stifled competition and increased costs for ordinary users. Reforming the licensing system has been a major demand.
Although it took time, in September 2025, the government introduced the new “Telecommunication Networking and Licensing Policy 2025,” which will eliminate certain artificial barriers, enhance competition, and benefit ordinary consumers. Additional reforms by BTRC and the Ministry of Telecommunications have already started affecting internet prices. Broadband costs have decreased slightly, but mobile data prices remain relatively high. Until mobile data becomes more affordable, marginalized populations will remain excluded from tech-based education, agriculture, and healthcare services—particularly from opportunities created by AI.
The initiation of Starlink in Bangladesh is a major achievement of the interim government. While currently expensive for most, it is hoped that small-scale entrepreneurs (such as local cable providers) will soon provide low-cost broadband services to rural areas.
Connectivity aside, another major barrier to widespread IT adoption is the absence of a robust Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). Neighboring countries like India and Pakistan have made significant progress. The foundation of DPI is a digital national ID (NID). India uses the Aadhaar card for online verification. Interestingly, Bangladesh introduced its NID earlier in 2007. Yet, its use remains limited mainly to SIM registration, bank accounts, or MFS accounts.
One reason for limited use was the privatized “Porichoy” project under the previous government, which restricted NID verification services. After the current government assumed office, Porichoy was discontinued due to corruption and data misuse allegations. No replacement service has yet been introduced. Another problem is that the NID database is still managed by the Election Commission, which lacks technical or strategic vision for making it the central hub for citizen services. Furthermore, there is no data on citizens under 18, necessitating birth certificates or other documents for many services. Establishing a “National NID Authority” was a major reform demand, but no initiative has yet been undertaken.
However, in the past six months, the Ministry of ICT has implemented several positive legal reforms. One is the “Cybersecurity Ordinance 2025,” replacing the controversial Digital Security Act. This ordinance strengthens citizens’ fundamental rights while clearly defining new digital crimes (online gambling, cyberbullying, hacking, etc.) and establishing strict punishments and fines without jeopardizing the accused’s rights, including bail.
Another landmark draft approved in October is the Personal Data Protection Ordinance 2025 (PDPO). Once passed, citizens will own their personal data (identity, transactions, etc.) and can commercially use or share it. This will enable IT companies to develop new services across fintech, digital lending, digital insurance, e-health, e-learning, and more, benefiting customers nationwide.
Implementing these reforms alone will not automatically increase citizen IT adoption. The most critical requirement is a change in mindset among government policymakers. Over the past 10–15 years, billions spent on digitization were largely wasted on expensive computers, labs, and servers. Significant reform is needed in digitalization and government expenditure management. Globally, cloud-based SaaS (Software as a Service) models are now popular. These allow service providers to charge based on users and usage rather than investing heavily in servers and software, reducing waste, lowering upfront costs, and ensuring transparency and accountability. Public-private partnerships using this model will be crucial for future government-led digitization initiatives and represent a vital reform agenda for the next elected government.
Author: Fahim Mashrur, Technologist and Commentator
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely the author’s and do not represent the Digital Bangla Media authority. The article is published without editorial modifications to reflect public opinion accurately. Any offense taken is purely a personal matter.
