Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Sunday urged members of the armed forces to uphold the Constitution, laws, military regulations and humanitarian values while performing their duties, stressing that discipline, professionalism and public trust are the foundations of a strong military.

Speaking at a National Standard presentation ceremony at Savar Cantonment, the Prime Minister called for continued modernisation of the armed forces, expansion of domestic defence production and the development of technological capabilities to address emerging security challenges.

“The real strength of an armed force lies in discipline, skills, leadership, morality, training and public trust,” Tarique Rahman said, emphasising the importance of maintaining the chain of command.

He noted that modern warfare increasingly involves cyberspace, outer space, drones, artificial intelligence, electronic warfare and information-based capabilities. Bangladesh must therefore ensure that its defence preparedness keeps pace with the changing global security environment, he added.

Congratulating the battalions and regiments receiving the National Standard, the Prime Minister said the honour symbolises their history, tradition, discipline, sacrifice, professionalism and commitment to the country.

He described the National Standard as a renewed pledge to serve the nation with greater dedication, adding that safeguarding the dignity of the national flag is a sacred responsibility for every soldier.

Tarique Rahman said the government was continuing efforts to make the armed forces more modern, skilled, disciplined, professional and technology-driven.

He also underscored the need to establish a domestic defence industry capable of producing essential weapons, ammunition and other military equipment in Bangladesh.

Technology alone, however, cannot replace human capabilities, he said, stressing the importance of building an integrated defence system through which the Army, Navy and Air Force can work together effectively when necessary.

Focus on military welfare

The Prime Minister said the government was prioritising the welfare of military personnel, including housing, healthcare, education, training, career development and post-retirement social security.

According to him, salaries and allowances for armed forces personnel have already been increased by between 100 and 138 per cent under the National Pay Scale.

He added that implementation of the “One Rank, One Pension” system was under process to improve the living standards of military personnel.

Tarique Rahman said protecting national interests, sovereignty and dignity would remain a key commitment for Bangladesh. He also reiterated the country's desire to strengthen friendship and cooperation with all nations on the basis of mutual respect and equality.

Recalls Army's role in Liberation War

Recalling the history of the Bangladesh Army, the Prime Minister said the force's origins were closely linked to the country's independence and the 1971 Liberation War.

He referred to the role of Major Ziaur Rahman, then deputy commander of the Eighth East Bengal Regiment, in Chattogram following the Pakistani military crackdown on the night of March 25, 1971.

Quoting Ziaur Rahman's article The Birth of a Nation, Tarique Rahman said he had assembled Bengali-speaking officers and soldiers of the regiment and directed them to join the armed struggle for independence at 2:15am on March 26.

He also recalled Ziaur Rahman's subsequent declaration of independence from Kalurghat Radio Centre on March 27, describing his contribution to the Liberation War as an inspiring chapter in the history of the armed forces.

The Prime Minister said patriotic citizens regard the success of the Army as a success for Bangladesh.

He further highlighted the armed forces' contributions beyond national defence, including their roles in responding to floods, cyclones, fires and other emergencies, as well as their participation in international peacekeeping missions.

The ceremony was organised by the Bangladesh Army's 9th Infantry Division. Ministers, advisers, the Army chief, members of the diplomatic corps, serving and retired military officers, junior commissioned officers and other armed forces personnel attended the event.

Sun News/ rabbi