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Science and Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam
Science and Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam stated that the government is actively undertaking strategic initiatives to position nuclear science and advanced technology as foundational drivers of economic and developmental progress in modern Bangladesh.
Speaking as the chief guest at a seminar titled "Determining Ways to Strengthen the Institutional and Practical Capacity of BAEC," organized by the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Scientists Association (BAESA) at the Dr. Anwar Hossain Auditorium of the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission (BAEC) in Agargaon, the minister highlighted the extensive pool of PhD researchers and skilled scientists working within the commission. He affirmed that the administration will take prioritized steps to resolve professional grievances and logistical obstacles faced by researchers to maximize their contributions toward nation-building.
The minister, who also holds the portfolio for Posts, Telecommunications, and Information Technology, underscored that nuclear applications extend far beyond conventional electricity generation. He outlined its critical role across agricultural yield enhancement, food irradiation and preservation, specialized oncology and cancer treatment, industrial radiography, and advanced human resource development. To nurture future expertise, he affirmed that state support will be extended to startups, grassroots innovators, and research fellowships through targeted capital allocations such as a dedicated "Fund for Funds."
Addressing the operational timeline of the flagship Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP), Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam reassured that the mega-project will be commissioned only after rigorous safety protocols, technical evaluations, and international non-proliferation standards are completely fulfilled. He confirmed that nuclear fuel loading at the plant has been accomplished, with engineers currently reviewing minor technical aspects with precision. "No hasty decisions will be made regarding national nuclear assets," he maintained.
Turning to emerging atomic technologies, the minister remarked that Bangladesh is actively assessing the feasibility of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), noting that any future policy adoption will strictly depend on comprehensive appraisals of safety, economic viability, and engineering readiness. He called on science journalists to practice rigorous fact-checking with technical authorities before reporting on complex atomic projects.
In his remarks as the special guest, Rehan Asif Asad, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Posts, Telecommunications, Information Technology, and Science and Technology, highlighted the transformative role of nuclear medicine. While nuclear diagnostic and therapeutic centers currently operate in several regions, he stressed the urgency of widening public healthcare access and expanding BAEC's institutional reach. The adviser noted that building sovereign nuclear capabilities requires safeguarding professional incentives, scaling up advanced research grants, and fostering inter-agency coordination to bolster national energy security, healthcare infrastructure, and heavy industry.
Science and Technology Secretary Md. Anwar Hossain urged optimal utilization of the commission's talent pool to widen public service delivery. The event was chaired by Dr. A. S. M. Saifullah, Director General of the Atomic Energy Research Establishment (AERE) and President of BAESA, who presented the keynote paper titled "Strengthening the Institutional and Practical Capacity of Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission: Current Status, Challenges and Ways Forward."
BAEC Chairman Dr. M. Moinul Islam and Bangladesh Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (BAERA) Chairman Mahmudul Hasan also addressed the gathering. During the event, the minister formally unveiled the cover of 'Anwesha', the official science publication of the scientists' association.
https://thedailyexpress.news/news/national/1f199945-9cd1-6ca0-864d-8c9abe0b91c8