6 more Ansars battalions to be raised: PM

Process has started to raise six more Ansars battalions, of which one will be formed this year as part of the development of the force, she said.

"All efforts for modernisation of the force and welfare of its members will continue," the prime minister said, addressing a function marking the Ansar-VDP (Village Defence Party) Day and the 25th National Assembly of Force at the Ansar-VDP Headquarters here in the morning.

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A colourful parade was organised to mark the occasion. Khaleda reviewed the parade and took salute.

Members of the Ansar-VDP also presented a ceremonial display on the occasion.

On arrival at the Ansar-VDP Headquarters, she was received by Home Minister Altaf Hossain Chowdhury, State Minister for Home Affairs Lutfuzzaman Babar and Director General of the Ansar-VDP Major General Monzurul Alam.

Terming the Ansar-VDP as the second line of national defence, she expressed satisfaction that their integration in maintaining law and order, and in socio-economic programmes have injected new momentum in rural development.

"This three-dimensional role has enhanced the prestige and importance of the Force. As a result, your responsibilities have increased," she told the members of the Force.

She also appreciated the role of Ansar-VDP in the countrywide joint operations against crime.

Khaleda mentioned various development programmes for the Force, including building up the Ansar Academy into a full-fledged modern education and training centre, and setting up of Ansar-VDP Bank in every upazila in phases for welfare of its members.

As part of the Force's successes, Khaleda lauded their role in empowering rural women. "Bangladesh has become a world model in micro-credit and we also want to make Ansar-VDP as a role model for socio-economic development and maintaining peace and discipline in the rural areas.

Later, she witnessed a colourful dance drama presented by the members of the force, portraying the activities of the Ansar-VDP and the social messages carried by them for socio-economic uplift.

Khaleda also inaugurated a new 100-bed hospital at Ansar-VDP headquarters.