Minister for Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) Affairs Dipen Dewan has said the government is committed to ensuring there is no disparity between the country’s plains and hill regions, stressing that balanced development remains a top priority.

He made the remarks while inaugurating a five-day traditional fair and discussion programme in Rangamati as the chief guest, marking the Bengali New Year and indigenous cultural festivals including Biju, Boisabi, Sangrai, Bihu, Changkran, Bisu and Sanglan.

Dewan said the overall development of Bangladesh depends on the progress of the Chittagong Hill Tracts, warning that if the region lags behind, it would impact national growth. He emphasized that inclusive development in both the hills and plains is essential for sustainable progress.

According to BSS, the minister also stressed the need for unity among different communities, noting that under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, both hill people and Bengali settlers must work together to advance the region.

Highlighting growing cultural harmony, Dewan said festivals that were once observed separately, such as Biju, are now increasingly celebrated collectively by various communities in the hills, strengthening social cohesion.

The program was organized by the Rangamati Small Ethnic Groups Cultural Institute with support from the Rangamati Hill District Council and the Ministry of Cultural Affairs. The meeting was chaired by council chairman Kajal Talukder and attended by CHT Development Board Chairman Major General (retd) Anup Kumar Chakma, Rangamati Region Commander Brigadier General Mohammad Nazmul Haque, Deputy Commissioner Nazma Ashrafi and Superintendent of Police Muhammad Abdur Rakib, among others.

The minister described the Biju festival as a strong platform for interaction among communities and praised the region’s natural beauty and cultural diversity, urging all to preserve its heritage.

Earlier, a colorful procession began at Rangamati Government College ground and ended at the institute premises.

The five-day celebration, running from April 6 to April 10, features cultural programmes, sports events, product exhibitions, drama performances, and various stalls.

Meanwhile, traditional festivities are underway across the three hill districts, with ethnic communities celebrating Biju, Boisabi and Sangrai during Chaitra Sankranti and the Bengali New Year. The main celebrations will be held from April 12 to April 14, concluding with the Marma community’s traditional water festival.

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