The government's ICU services had been formally launched in 10 district hospitals under a World Bank-funded project -- aimed at improving critical care facilities outside the major cities, said Dr Zahed Ur Rahman, Information Adviser to the Prime Minister.
Addressing journalists at the weekly press briefing at the Secretariat in the capital on Tuesday, he also announced a pilot programme, under which healthcare workers would provide primary healthcare services at people's doorsteps and refer patients to hospitals when necessary.
Besides, plans are underway to establish two specialised hospitals with Chinese assistance and introduce helicopter-based emergency medical transport services.
The adviser also said significant progress across a wide range of sectors, including power and energy, education, infrastructure, food security, border management, environment, and digital development, have been accomplished.
The government launched a state-of-the-art automation laboratory under the national grid system to strengthen grid security, fault analysis and operational reliability.
The facility would play a vital role in ensuring safe operation of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, whose first unit is set to begin operation in this November.
To support the growing share of renewable energy, Power Grid Bangladesh has also established a Grid Studies and Innovation Facility (GSIF), enabling advanced technical analysis and simulation studies.
The adviser further said the government is organising a nationwide "Startup, Science Project and Innovation Idea Showcasing" programme for the students from grades six to twelve to promote innovation, entrepreneurship and scientific creativity.
Simultaneously, the Primary Education Medal Competition has been launched, involving millions of students in sports, cultural events, quizzes, and debate competitions.
On the other hand, Bangladesh and China signed an implementation agreement for the construction of the 9th Bangladesh-China Friendship Bridge over the Lohalia River in Patuakhali. The bridge is expected to improve connectivity and stimulate economic activities in the country's southern region.
The briefing informed that Bangladesh strongly raised concerns over border killings and push-ins during the 57th BGB-BSF director general-level conference, held in New Delhi earlier this month.
Public food stocks stood at more than 2.0 million tonnes, substantially exceeding the country's safety stock requirement. The government also announced the launch of a nationwide Family Card programme from July 1.
The government inaugurated a five-year programme to plant 250 million trees nationwide, while new marine-protected areas near Salimpur and Kuakata expanded protected marine territory beyond the internationally recommended conservation targets.
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