CPD Fellow Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya stated that while subsidies in the energy sector are necessary, the method of providing them remains unclear. He made the remarks on Monday morning in Dhaka during a discussion titled “National Budget 2026–27: What Is There for the Disadvantaged?” organized by the Citizen Platform.

He emphasized that GDP growth alone cannot be the sole indicator of economic success. Instead, development should be measured by improvements in people’s living standards and the extent to which economic benefits reach the population. Bhattacharya warned that without sufficient job creation in agriculture, small and medium enterprises, the ready-made garment industry, and modern service sectors, the benefits of growth will not reach ordinary citizens.

He also noted that real incomes are declining while living costs are rising. The marginal tax rate will increase by 5 percent for monthly incomes between 31,250 and 37,500 taka, potentially raising the tax burden for some within this income range.