Zaima Rahman Accepts Swadhinata Award on behalf of Khaleda Zia

Zaima Rahman has received the posthumous Swadhinata Award on behalf of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia.

She accepted the award from Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at around 4:30 pm on Thursday (April 16).

The award ceremony began at 4 pm at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium. Cabinet members, senior military and civil officials, and invited guests attended the event, along with representatives of award recipients.

Khaleda Zia was honoured for her overall contribution to nation-building, including her role in democracy and women’s education. This year, the government announced the Swadhinata Award for 15 individuals and five organisations.

Other recipients include individuals recognised for contributions to the Liberation War, literature, culture, science and technology, sports, social service, public administration and environmental protection. Several awards were given posthumously.

Among organisations, institutions recognised include Dhaka Medical College Hospital for medicine, Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation for rural development, and Gonoshasthaya Kendra for social service.

The Swadhinata Puraskar is the country’s highest state award, given for outstanding contributions to national life, including the Liberation War and independence.