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Prime Minister's Defence Adviser Brig Gen (retd) Dr AKM Shamsul Islam today directed the implementation of the "One Rank One Pay" policy for retired personnel of the armed forces division and instructed authorities concerned to initiate the establishment of “Defence Colonies” to ensure their welfare and rehabilitation.
The defence adviser issued the directives while visiting the Bangladesh Armed Forces Board (BAFB) headquarters at Kakrail here this morning, said a press release of the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) Directorate this afternoon.
He said the government would implement the One Rank One Pay (OROP) policy to ensure equal pay for retired personnel holding the same rank, regardless of their retirement date, and stressed expediting its implementation.
The defence adviser also instructed authorities to strengthen Armed Forces Board offices in all districts so they can serve as effective centres for retired personnel.
He also put emphasis for integrated administrative and logistical planning to enhance their operational capacity as well.
Referring to the improvement of healthcare services, the adviser directed the expansion of medical store facilities in 61 districts to ensure the better access for retired servicemen and their families to medicines, including life-saving drugs.
Highlighting the importance of sustainable rehabilitation, Dr Shamsul Islam announced plans to establish Defence Colonies for retired military personnel.
He said land has already been earmarked for the project in Thakurgaon, Gaibandha and Dinajpur districts and instructed officials to begin implementation there.
The defence adviser also underscored the need for ensuring dignified funeral arrangements for retired servicemen in recognition of their contributions to the nation, directing the Armed Forces Board to enhance its role in providing administrative and logistical support for funeral and last rites.
Earlier, on his arrival, the adviser was received by Defence Secretary Md Ashraf Uddin and Director General of the Bangladesh Armed Forces Board Brig Gen Mashrur Hossain Bhuiyan.
During the visit, Dr Shamsul Islam outlined a series of measures aimed at improving the welfare of retired armed forces personnel and their families. BAFB Officials and employees were also present there.
