DHAKA: Monitoring the militant groups topped the agenda of a conference of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina with her administrative representatives in divisional and district headquarters Sunday, as sweeping action against Islamist activities is on steam across the country.

The Prime Minister asked the divisional commissioners and deputy commissioners to bolster watchdog function so that any anarchic bid by the militants can be foiled.

Ahead of the holy month of Ramadan, prices of essentials also came up as a major issue on the first day of the 3-day meet held at the International Conference Centre on the Prime Minister’s Office premises.

Hasina was surprised at price spirals despite having sufficient stocks of commodities. She directed the DCs to remain alert so that unscrupulous traders do not dare to play with the prices of essentials through market manipulation.

She underscored the need for coordinated work between Upazila chairmen and Upazila Nirbahi Officers (UNOs) at upazila level as well as the district administration and law-enforcing agencies in the districts.

“This will bring dynamism in administration,” the PM said.

According to the cabinet division, more than 500 problems are being placed along with government evaluation in the second DC conference under the ruling government for discussion.

Cabinet secretary Abdul Aziz delivered the welcome address at the conference. Members of the cabinet, Prime Minister`s Advisers, Secretaries of different ministries and other senior officials were present.

Chittagong Divisional Commissioner Mohammed Sirajul Haque Khan and Deputy Commissioner of Dhaka Md. Muhibul Haque, among others, spoke at the programme.

President Zillur Rahman is scheduled to attend the concluding function on the third day of the conference.

BDST 1420 HRS, JULY 25, 2010.