Deputy Commissioners (DCs) have proposed introducing universal military training for Bangladeshi youths to strengthen national defense and enhance civil-military cooperation, reports UNB.
The proposal was discussed on Tuesday at the DCs Conference at Osmani Auditorium in Dhaka during a session with the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces Division. Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser, Lt Gen (retd) Abdul Hafiz, shared details with journalists, highlighting concerns about security challenges and youth engagement.
The DCs inquired whether military training could be expanded to involve young people in national defense efforts. They also discussed counterterrorism operations in remote areas, cooperation with the Navy in protecting river resources, and the impact of the Kuki-Chin National Front’s activities on tourism and local employment.
Regarding universal military training, Abdul Hafiz noted that Ansar VDP already provides training at the union level and that any expansion would require political and financial considerations. He affirmed that the Armed Forces are prepared to implement the plan if the government approves it.
Addressing ongoing security operations, Hafiz reported that nearly 6,000 looted weapons had been recovered, though 250,000 bullets remained unaccounted for. Seven army personnel have been killed in the fight against the Kuki-Chin National Front, and operations will continue until the group is neutralized.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
