Distribution of TCB Smart Card started
Distribution of TCB's smart card started from the PWD Colony Auditorium in the capital's Malibagh area. Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi inaugurated the free distribution of TCB's one crore family cards into smart cards organized by Trading Corporation of Bangladesh-TCB and sale of TCB's products at affordable prices to the card holders.
While speaking as the chief guest at the event, he said that the conversion of one crore family cards of Trading Corporation of Bangladesh-TCB into smart cards will ensure transparency and accountability as well as eliminate inconsistencies.
Stating that these smart cards will be distributed free of cost throughout the country within the next two to three months, the minister advised the card holders to refrain from financial transactions to get the card.
Tipu Munshi said that Sheikh Hasina considered the poor and helpless people who live below the poverty line and decided to give one crore family cards i.e. 5 crore people with daily necessities at a low price. The government is selling essential commodities at subsidized prices to more people than the number of people living below the poverty line in Bangladesh.
The Commerce Minister said that the import of eggs and potatoes has started to have a positive effect on the market. A consignment of eggs is being sold at a lower price than the price fixed by the government after it arrives in the country. He expressed hope that the market of potatoes, onions and other vegetables will be normal by the middle of next month.
In this context, he also said that the price of onion depends on the country's production. Now is the last time for onions. We meet the shortage by importing onions from India. But India initially imposed a 40 percent tariff to discourage exports. Shortly thereafter, the export price of onion set at eight hundred dollars per metric ton. So, the import has almost stopped. That is why the price is high in the market.
Regarding the delay in the arrival of the shipment even after giving permission to import eggs, the minister said, we had given several conditions for the import of eggs, especially the Avian Influenza certificate. Due to some legal complications in fulfilling these conditions, the shipment has been delayed.
Tipu Munshi said that there is no denying that some unscrupulous traders are taking advantage of the prices of eggs, potatoes and onions and people are suffering. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has instructed to provide maximum service to the people of the country and we are trying to do that.
Having to go through a tough time due to global inflation. In the meantime, dishonest circles are taking extra advantage. The commerce minister also warned that no one will be exempted regardless of political identity.
Dhaka South City Corporation Mayor Barrister Sheikh Fazle Noor Taposh and Commerce Ministry Senior Secretary Tapan Kanti Ghosh spoke as special guests on the occasion. TCB Chairman Brigadier General Md. Ariful Hasan PSC and Dhaka South City Corporation Ward No. 12 Councilor Mamun Rashid Shubhra were present among others.
