Dhaka, Mar 05 (V7N) – In recognition of their exceptional contributions at the national level, 15 individuals and five institutions have been selected for the Independence Award 2026, the highest civilian honor of Bangladesh.

Among the recipients, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia has been nominated posthumously for her lifelong contributions to nation-building, including her role in independence, democracy, and women’s education.

Other individual awardees include:

  • Major Mohammad Abdul Jalil – Liberation War (posthumously)

  • Professor Dr. Zahurul Karim – Science and Technology

  • Dr. Ashraf Siddiqui – Literature (posthumously)

  • AKM Hanif (Hanif Sanket) – Media and Culture

  • Bashir Ahmed – Media and Culture (posthumously)

  • Jobera Rahman (Linu) – Sports

  • Dr. Zafrullah Chowdhury – Public Health (posthumously)

  • Md. Saidul Haque – Social Service/Public Service

  • Maherin Chowdhury – Social Service/Public Service (posthumously)

  • Kazi Fazlur Rahman – Public Administration (posthumously)

  • Mohammad Abdul Baki – Research and Training

  • Professor Dr. MA Rahim – Research and Training

  • Professor Dr. Sukomal Barua – Research and Training

  • Abdul Mukit Majumder (Mukit Majumder Babu) – Environmental Conservation

The five institutions honored are:

  • Faujdarhat Cadet College – Liberation War

  • Dhaka Medical College Hospital – Medicine

  • Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF) – Rural Development

  • SOS Children’s Villages International in Bangladesh – Social Service/Public Service

  • Gonoshasthaya – Social Service/Public Service

According to the Cabinet Division press release, each awardee, individual or institution, will receive a 50-gram 18-carat gold medal, a check for the honorarium, and a certificate of honor.

The Independence Award serves as a national tribute to individuals and organizations whose work has significantly contributed to Bangladesh’s independence, development, and society.

END/SMA/AJ