In the financial year 2022-23, the government allocated around Tk 1.75 trillion for subsidies, incentives and cash loans, which is 3.9 percent of the GDP. “From what I’ve seen in the draft budget, subsidies for the social safety net might get bigger, but the scope will not be expanded. “We’re providing subsidies for fertiliser, seeds, irrigation and power in agriculture. Yet risks remain as a strong cyclone like Sidr might blow everything away.”“We have to do what we must to achieve self-sufficiency in food. The government is also considering subsidising oil, gas and electricity for consumers in the budget for FY 2023-24.

Source: bd News24 May 31, 2023 02:20 UTC