Social Welfare Minister Professor Dr Zahid Hossain said the government would make no compromise in protecting people’s interests and rights. Speaking on Saturday in Dhaka at the 2nd Dhaka International Knee Summit 2026, organised by the Bangladesh Arthroscopy and Arthroplasty Academy, he said the government is committed to free primary and emergency healthcare for all and affordable specialised treatment.

The minister said effective responses to existing healthcare challenges require a real combination of skills and modern knowledge. He urged relevant departments and specialist teams to play a leading role, saying the country must keep pace with modern health technologies during an era of super-specialisation and artificial intelligence to meet growing healthcare needs.

He said the government has given the health sector the second-highest allocation in the national budget, describing it as a historic first for the sector. He stressed efficient use of the funds for medical education, treatment, disease prevention and quality services. Invited specialists thanked the prime minister for the allocation. Six specialist doctors received fellowships from the Dhaka Arthroplasty Society, and a book titled Save your knees was unveiled.