DHAKA: Finance Minister AMA Muhith proposed to allocate Tk 16,462 crore for the Ministry of Defense, including Armed Forces Division for FY2014-2015.

In the budget speech on Thursday, AMA Muhith said, they are committed to build a strong and efficient defense force capable of meeting the challenges of the 21st century. 

He added: “We have already added modern war equipment to the armoury of our army, navy and air force and extended their training facilities.” 

‘This process of modernising armed forces will continue. I am delighted to inform this august House that for the first time we have added a home-grown battle ship to our naval fleet.’ 

He also said, ‘Our armed forces, apart from serving the country, are serving as members of the UN peace keeping force with distinction. In terms of numbers, Bangladesh holds the first position in sending soldiers to the UN peace keeping missions.’

The amount in the previous budget was Tk 15,180 crore. 

BDST: 1725 HRS, JUN 05, 2014