Summary:
- Bangladesh government proposes universal military training for youth to bolster national defense, pending political and financial approval.
- 1,400 weapons and 250,000 ammunition rounds remain missing from August 2024 looting; 75% recovered so far.
- Security officials warn of regrouping autocratic forces plotting destabilization activities.
- Authorities prioritize Ramadan preparations: market stability, power supply, and affordable essentials.
The Bangladeshi government is exploring the implementation of universal military training for youth, a proposal discussed during the Deputy Commissioners (DC) Conference in Dhaka on February 18, 2025. Abdul Hafiz, special assistant to Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, confirmed the deliberations, emphasizing that the armed forces are prepared to execute the plan pending government approval.
The initiative, framed as a potential enhancement to national defense, follows heightened security efforts to recover weapons looted during August 2024 unrest. Hafiz disclosed that 1,400 firearms and 250,000 rounds of ammunition remain missing out of 6,000 weapons and 600,000 rounds stolen. “Three-quarters of looted arms have been retrieved, and joint forces are working to recover the rest,” he stated.
Authorities also raised alarms about regrouping “autocratic forces” allegedly planning destabilizing activities. District administrators were directed to bolster vigilance and ensure public safety. Hafiz linked the military training proposal to broader security priorities, noting it requires “political will and financial planning.”
With Ramadan approaching, the conference underscored the need for stable markets and uninterrupted power supplies. Hafiz urged DCs to prioritize affordable essentials and efficient public services, asserting that “those working at the grassroots are the real representatives of the government.”
The discussions reflect ongoing efforts to address security challenges while maintaining economic stability, though no timeline for the military training program was provided.
