Prime Minister Tarique Rahman inaugurated a new pay structure and sports card program for national athletes at an event held at the Shapla Hall of the Prime Minister’s Office on Monday. The initiative aims to transform sports from a hobby into a recognized profession. During the ceremony, 129 athletes who achieved international success received a total of Tk 24.4 million in special honors and cash awards. The Prime Minister announced that from April 30, a nationwide talent hunt titled “Nobo Kuri Sports” will begin, and from 2027, sports will become mandatory in the national curriculum from grade four.

The Youth and Sports State Minister highlighted that the sports card will ensure athletes’ social and financial security. Recruitment of sports officers and teachers at the upazila level is progressing rapidly, and seven regional BKSP branches are being upgraded to full centers to decentralize training. The government also introduced monthly stipends of Tk 100,000 for athletes, including those with special needs, promoting inclusivity in sports.

The Prime Minister expressed optimism that with modern training, financial support, and a growing sports industry, Bangladesh will soon achieve new global milestones in major international competitions.