ISLAMABAD: A new government cash assistance program is raising hopes among low-income families in several Dhaka slums, with women saying the pilot scheme could ease the burden of buying food, medicine and other essentials, Bangladeshi media reported.

Under the initiative, announced by the new Tarique Rahman-led government, at least 40,000 families will receive “Family Cards” during a four-month pilot phase at a cost of about Tk 390 million.

The program is expected to provide Tk 2,500 per month to selected households, with women heading families prioritized for the support.

Local media also reported on the Korail slum, where elderly resident Hasen Banu, now over 80, said the news has brought her some relief.

Living on rotation between the homes of her three sons and daughter, she said even buying medicine regularly has become difficult at her age.

With the monthly assistance, she hopes to purchase medicines consistently and, at times, buy milk, eggs and fruit.

She also said she looks forward to being able to treat her grandchildren occasionally.

Similar optimism was seen in other settlements, including Sattala, where Shiuli Akter, a 30-year-old single mother of three, said the money would help her buy better food for her children.

Shiuli, who works in several households from morning until night to make ends meet, said the prospect of improved meals alone made her happy.

Residents and local organisers said the registration process stood out for its transparency.

Loudspeaker announcements were made, volunteers and officials went door to door, and applicants received help filling out the six-page forms.

Many said it was rare to see a government process in which no money was demanded and no political influence appeared to play a role.

Teachers, community workers and Social Welfare Department staff spent days helping applicants complete and correct forms, especially women-led households.

The selected pilot areas include Korail, Sattala and Bhashantek under Banani, as well as Oli Miar Tek and Baganbari in Mirpur/Shah Ali.

The program is set to be inaugurated on March 10 by Bangladeshi Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

According to official guidelines, the government ultimately aims to bring twenty million families under monthly cash assistance nationwide.

Governement Aid

Pilot 'Family Card' cash aid brings hope to women in Dhaka slums