Dhaka, Apr 16 (V7N) — Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday presented the Independence Award (Swadhinata Padak) 2026, the country’s highest civilian honour, to 15 individuals and five institutions for their outstanding contributions at the national level.

The award ceremony was held at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in Dhaka, where recipients were presented with an 18-carat gold medal weighing 50 grams, a certificate, and an honorarium cheque.

According to a Cabinet Division press release issued on March 5, this year’s list of awardees was finalized in recognition of achievements in fields ranging from the Liberation War to science, culture, public service, and socio-economic development.

Among the posthumous recipients, former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia was honoured for her contributions to nation-building, including independence, democracy, and women’s education. Her granddaughter Jayma Rahman received the award on her behalf.

Other notable recipients include Major Mohammad Abul Jalil (posthumous) and Faujdarhat Cadet College (Liberation War category), Professor Dr. Zahurul Karim (science and technology), Dhaka Medical College Hospital (medicine), and cultural figures AKM Hanif (Hanif Sanket) and Bashir Ahmed (posthumous).

In literature, Dr. Ashraf Siddiqui (posthumous) was recognized, while Jobera Rahman Linu received the award in sports. Dr. Zafrullah Chowdhury (posthumous), Maherin Chowdhury (posthumous), Md. Saidul Haque, SOS Children’s Villages International in Bangladesh, and Gonoshasthaya Kendra were honoured for social service.

In research and training, Mohammad Abdul Baki (PhD), Professor Dr. M. A. Rahim, and Professor Dr. Sukomal Barua were recognized. Kazi Fazlur Rahman (posthumous) was awarded in public administration, while PKSF was honoured for rural development and Abdul Mukit Majumder for environmental conservation.

The Prime Minister said the Independence Award reflects the nation’s gratitude to those who have made lasting contributions to Bangladesh’s progress and identity.

END/SMA/AJ