Name of Program: Livelihood Development Program for Bede Community
Introduction: The Bede population is a minor portion of Bangladesh's total population. According to a survey conducted by the Department of Social Services, there are around 75,000 Bede people in Bangladesh. The current government has engaged in a number of initiatives to enhance the living conditions of Bede communities and to incorporate them into mainstream society. Between the fiscal years of 2012-2013 and 2018-2019, there were two programs to enhance the living conditions of Bede and underprivileged people. During the 2019-2020 budget year, this initiative is being administered as a separate program known as the "Livelihood Development Program for Bede Communities."
Background of this Program
This program began as a pilot program during the 2012-2013 fiscal year, with seven districts participating. During the 2013-2014 fiscal year, this program was expanded to a total of 21 districts, including 14 new districts. During the 2015-2016 fiscal year, this program was expanded to 43 new districts, in addition to the previous 21 districts, for a total of 64 districts.
Activities implemented:
Special Old Age Allowance is being disbursed at the rate of Taka. 500/- per month to aged 50 years and above.
Monthly 700 Taka for primary level, 800 Taka for secondary level, 1000 Taka for higher secondary level and 1200 Taka for higher level are being paid to students from Bede community.
Through vocational training, people are being brought into the mainstream of society by increasing their skills and engaging them in income generating activities.
Post training financial assistance of Taka 10,000 per head is being provided.
Planning and Implementation: Cabinet Division, A2I, BCC, DoICT and BASIS