The government has allocated Tk 36,863 crore for Health and Family Welfare sector in the proposed budget for 2022-2023 fiscal year.

Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal said the allocation is meant for the overall development of the sector.

While placing the budget, the finance minister said, "You are aware that since early 2020, the whole world has been passing through an unprecedented global crisis due to several waves of the COVID-19."

The health hazard still existed up until early 2022, he said, adding Bangladesh is continuously putting efforts to protect lives and recover the economy by revamping the health sector.

Considering the impact of the COVID-19 on public health, the COVID protocol is still being strictly observed, precautionary measures are being taken, plans are being formulated and adequate budget is being allocated to overcome the weakness of the health sector, Kamal added.

The purchase of vaccines on time and the mass vaccination of the population in a phased manner are among the key actions that have been taken by the government, he added.

"As a result, the spread of the virus has come under control and we have been able to reduce the death rate to a great extent compared to other countries. At the same time, the government has been able to protect lives and livelihoods by attaching priority to the health and family- welfare sector through adoption of medium and long-term plans," the finance minister added.

BDST: 1827 HRS, JUNE 9, 2022
MSK/SMS