AI, energy, science and digital services advance

The government has outlined a broad range of technology-driven initiatives spanning digital public services, artificial intelligence, semiconductor development, energy security, scientific research, entrepreneurship and smart infrastructure during its weekly media briefing on Tuesday, July 28.

The Department of Posts reported that 428,557 registered letters, Guaranteed Express Post (GEP) items and parcels were processed through the Domestic Mail Monitoring System between July 15 and 21. Free Wi-Fi services have been introduced at six airports and five railway stations, while 1,195 public internet hotspots have been established in remote regions. Mobile operators have also shared 667 kilometers of fiber infrastructure to improve nationwide connectivity.

The ICT Division added 33 government agencies to the National Information Portal. The D-Toll platform registered 337 new vehicles and processed transactions worth Tk 3.532 million.

Bangladesh also advanced its semiconductor ambitions through the National Semiconductor Symposium and BEAR Summit 2026, where 35 organizations showcased innovations in semiconductor technologies and advanced electronics.

The Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission reported that 87,424 patients received nuclear medicine services during June. It also screened 1,808 imported food samples for radiation, extended the shelf life of 19,806 kilograms of food through irradiation technology and sterilized 342 CFT of medical equipment.

The government has initiated the expansion of the National Forensic DNA Profiling Laboratory by allocating an additional 8,000 square feet within the National Science and Technology Complex.

Food Safety Enforcement
The Bangladesh Food Safety Authority (BFSA) has withdrawn three processed food products from the market after detecting excessive preservatives, reinforcing food safety oversight.

AI for Road Safety
In line with the Global Plan for the Decade of Action for Road Safety (2021–2030), Bangladesh is expanding AI-based speed monitoring, technology-enabled emergency response systems and targeted highway safety measures to better protect pedestrians and reduce traffic fatalities.

Strengthening Energy Security
A technical fault at a floating LNG terminal has reduced gas supply to the national grid by approximately 450 MMCFD per day.

To address the shortfall, the government is evaluating LNG imports via ISO tanks from Malaysia, planning a fourth FSRU, reviewing pipeline options to transport Bhola gas to the mainland and implementing a long-term strategy to drill 100 domestic gas wells. A project worth Tk 729 crore to drill three new wells in Begumganj and Sunamganj has already received ECNEC approval.

Railway Revenue Growth
Bangladesh Railway generated Tk 20.6638 billion in revenue during FY2025-26, an increase of Tk 2.21 billion over the previous fiscal year, reflecting improved operational efficiency and digital management initiatives.

Startup Financing
The government has approved collateral-free loans of up to Tk 1 million for cottage industries, ICT startups, green technology ventures, climate-resilient entrepreneurs and other innovation-driven businesses.

Infrastructure and Smart Agriculture
LGED Acting Chief Engineer Md. Belal Hossain has been promoted to Chief Engineer (Grade-I). Meanwhile, the newly launched Aquaculture Centre of Excellence, established jointly by Bangladesh and the Netherlands, is expected to modernize fish farming through technology transfer, skills development and sustainable production practices.

Following the briefing, the Prime Minister's Adviser on Information and Broadcasting answered questions from journalists on a range of policy and governance issues.

When asked if former President Md. Shahabuddin had been granted immunity, the Prime Minister's advisor stated that no legal action can be initiated against a Bangladeshi president while they are in office. However, this protection applies only during their tenure. After leaving office, or concerning allegations or legal matters that occurred before or after their term, legal action can be taken against them if necessary.

Regarding various petitions or complaints against the President in trial courts, the High Court, and the International Criminal Tribunal, the advisor said, "The courts are working independently. If a case goes to court, the court will determine how its judicial process will proceed."

When questioned about a study that found microplastics in 26 out of 34 toothpaste samples tested in the domestic market, the information advisor responded, "The matter has come to the government's attention."

He added, "Microplastics are no longer confined to toothpaste. They are spreading into food, water, and the environment from various sources. Therefore, taking action against just one product or one sector will not solve the problem."

Regarding the inauguration of a museum commemorating the July mass uprising, the information advisor announced that it would be inaugurated on August 5. Concerning the schedule for local government elections, the advisor stated, "The government's decision is to begin the elections within the current year."

Chief Information Officer Syed Abdal Ahmad, Joint Secretary Dr. Md. Alam Mostafa, and officials from the relevant ministries were present at the press conference.
//DBtech/UKFI/MIS//