5% of GDP to be Allocated to Health Sector: Health Secretary

Health Secretary Kamruzzaman Chowdhury announced that the government plans to allocate 5% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to the health sector. Speaking in Pabna, he emphasized that the current administration is prioritizing infrastructure development and modernization to ensure quality healthcare and build a "Healthy Bangladesh."

The Secretary made these remarks on Sunday (April 5) morning while inaugurating a vaccination program at the Charghoshpur Government Primary School field in Pabna Sadar Upazila.

During the event, the Health Secretary highlighted the government's commitment to inclusivity, stating that marginalized populations—including those living in remote char areas—will be integrated into the national health network.

According to the District Civil Surgeon's Office, a phase-based vaccination campaign has been launched to reach 144,941 children across four upazilas in Pabna. The campaign, which began today, will continue until April 18.

Health officials noted that the highest concentration of measles cases has been identified in the Himayetpur and Dogachi areas of the district headquarters. Data from the District Health Department confirms that while two children have tragically died from measles in the region, no fatalities have been recorded at the Pabna General Hospital.

The inauguration was attended by Pabna Civil Surgeon Dr. Abul Kalam Azad, Pabna General Hospital Assistant Director Dr. Rafiqul Hasan, and other senior health officials.