Discounts galore for July warriors

The government has announced a range of special benefits for families of those killed and fighters injured during July uprising, including discounts on Biman airlines tickets, Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (BPC) hotels, free entry to tourist attractions and employment opportunities in agencies under the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism.

The announcements were made at a reception organised by Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation at Tourism Bhaban in Agargaon on Tuesday to honour families of those killed and fighters injured during the uprising.

Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam said the government would provide 36% discounts at BPC hotels to July fighters to commemorate 36 July. Arrangements would also be made to provide them with employment opportunities and special discounts on Biman Bangladesh Airlines tickets, she said.

Parjatan said those who were killed and injured during the July uprising were courageous participants in an important chapter of the country’s history.

Their sacrifices should not be remembered only through formal ceremonies. Their dreams and aspirations must be reflected in efforts to build a humane, non-discriminatory and dignified Bangladesh, she added.

The minister also stressed the need to make the country’s tourism sector more inclusive, people-friendly, safe, sustainable and globally competitive.

State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat said July fighters would be allowed free entry to tourist attractions across the country.

He also said initiatives would be taken to provide employment to July fighters in organisations under the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism.

Planning State Minister Md Zonayed Abdur Rahim Saki said the sacrifices made during the July uprising had placed a historic responsibility on the country to build a new Bangladesh based on equality, social justice and inclusive development.

Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation Chairman Md Shamimuzzaman said honouring the July martyrs and injured fighters was not merely a formal programme but a reflection of the country’s gratitude and responsibility.

He cited the corporation would work to develop a tourism industry that creates jobs, engages local communities and promotes Bangladesh’s history, culture and natural beauty internationally.

At the event, representatives of five families of July uprising martyrs and five injured July fighters received prize bonds and commemorative crests from the minister and other guests.

Senior officials from the ministry, other government agencies, BPC, private-sector tourism organisations and media representatives attended the programme.