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Rural Development
Programs/Projects/Activities in Bangladesh

Introduction
Rural development is the process of improving the quality of life and economic wellbeing of
people living in relatively isolated areas. According to the World Bank “Rural development is a
strategy designed to improve the economic and social life of a specific group of people – the
rural people”.

 Purpose of Rural Development: Explain why rural development is essential in a

country like Bangladesh, where a significant percentage of the population lives in rural
areas. Discuss how rural development impacts economic growth, poverty reduction, and
social equity.
 Scope of Rural Development: Briefly overview various areas of focus, including
agriculture, infrastructure, health, education, and women's empowerment.

Background
Rural developments policies are been taken from long ago. An overview of the historical context
of rural development in Bangladesh are given bellow:

 Post-independence (1971): After gaining independence in 1971, Bangladesh faced

the daunting task of rebuilding a war-torn economy. The new government recognized the
need for rural development to uplift the impoverished rural population and stabilize the
economy.
 Rural Development Programs in the 1970s and 1980s: The government
initiated several rural development programs aimed at poverty alleviation, infrastructure
development, and agricultural productivity. Notable initiatives included the Integrated
Rural Development Program (IRDP), which aimed to provide assets and skills to the rural
poor.
 1980s - 1990s: The government began to recognize the importance of grassroots
participation in rural development. This led to the establishment of organizations like the
Bangladesh Rural Development Board (BRDB), which focused on cooperative-based
development and microcredit initiatives, laying the groundwork for future programs.
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 1990s - 2000s: The emergence of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) like BRAC

and Grameen Bank transformed rural development through innovative microfinance
models and community-driven approaches, significantly impact poverty reduction and
women's empowerment.

Key Rural Development Programs in Bangladesh

Outline some of the most notable government and non-governmental programs aimed at rural
development. Describe their objectives, target groups, and key areas they address.

1. Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF)

Established: 1990
Objectives: PKSF is a government initiative focused on alleviating rural poverty by providing
microcredit and microfinance services. It funds partner organizations to offer loans for rural
entrepreneurship, agricultural improvement, and small-scale business development.
Programs: Over time, PKSF has expanded to include health, education, skills development, and
environmental protection initiatives.

2. Rural Electrification Board (REB)

Established: 1977
Objectives: Aimed at providing electricity access to rural households, the REB has played a vital
role in improving the living standards of rural communities by facilitating economic activities
and improving healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
Achievements: It has enabled better productivity, created jobs, and improved education and
healthcare delivery by providing consistent electricity access.

3. One House One Farm Project (Ektee Bari Ektee Khamar)

Started: 2009
Objectives: This initiative aims to reduce poverty by supporting small family-owned farms and
promoting income generation. The project provides training and financing to households to set
up small farms, which help in household food security and provide a source of income.
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Activities: Households receive microloans, technical training, and support in crop and livestock
production.

4. Ashrayan Project
Started: 1997
Objectives: This rehabilitation project aims to provide homes for homeless and landless
families. It seeks to alleviate poverty and improve the living standards of disadvantaged
populations through housing, income generation, and skill development programs.
Achievements: Thousands of families have received homes and support for income-generating
activities through this project.

5. Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee (BRAC) Programs

Founded: 1972
Objectives: BRAC is one of the world's largest NGOs and focuses heavily on rural development
in Bangladesh. Its initiatives cover a range of areas, including microfinance, healthcare,
education, and agriculture.
Achievements: BRAC’s microfinance programs have helped millions of families establish small
businesses, and its educational programs have significantly increased literacy and school
attendance in rural areas.

6. Union Digital Centers (UDC)

Established: 2010
Objectives: UDCs are government-established digital service centers in rural areas that offer
citizens access to online government services, information, and various digital resources. This
helps bridge the digital divide and promotes e-governance.
Services: UDCs provide services like birth registration, land records, utility bill payment, and
even online applications for job opportunities.

7. Social Safety Net Programs

Objectives: Bangladesh has numerous safety net programs to protect the rural poor, including
the Vulnerable Group Feeding (VGF) program, Food for Work (FFW), and Test Relief (TR).
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These programs help rural households manage during hard times, such as natural disasters or
economic hardship.
Impact: These programs play a critical role in ensuring food security and reducing the
vulnerability of rural communities during crises.

8. National Agricultural Technology Program (NATP)

Objectives: NATP is aimed at increasing agricultural productivity through the adoption of
improved technologies and techniques. It focuses on building the capacities of farmers and
providing them with access to updated agricultural practices.
Impact: It has contributed to increasing yields and incomes for rural farmers by modernizing
farming practices.

9. Employment Generation Program for the Poorest (EGPP)

Established: 2008
Objectives: EGPP is a safety net program that provides employment to the poorest people during
the lean agricultural seasons by involving them in infrastructure projects like road building and
maintenance.
Impact: It not only provides income support to the vulnerable but also develops rural
infrastructure, which benefits the whole community.

10. Infrastructure Development Programs

Objectives: Programs focused on improving rural roads, bridges, and market infrastructure have
been instrumental in connecting remote areas with larger towns and cities. This has improved
access to markets, healthcare, and educational institutions, enhancing rural residents' overall
quality of life.
Examples: The Local Government Engineering Department (LGED) has implemented various
projects to improve rural infrastructure across Bangladesh.

These programs, supported by both national and international funding, have significantly
improved Bangladesh's rural areas' economic and social conditions. Although challenges remain,
these initiatives have collectively improved education, healthcare, infrastructure, and income
generation in rural communities.
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Major Rural Development Project and Their Impact

One of the most notable Rural Development Projects in Bangladesh is the Comprehensive Rural
Development Program (CRDP), implemented with a wide-ranging focus on empowering rural
communities, reducing poverty, and enhancing sustainable development. The CRDP has inspired
many similar projects over time, creating a foundation for extensive rural development in
Bangladesh. Here’s an in-depth look into the CRDP and some key similar projects:

1. Comprehensive Rural Development Program (CRDP)

Objective: The CRDP was initiated to create integrated and sustainable rural development by
improving living standards, creating employment, and enhancing agricultural productivity.
Key Components:
 Agricultural Improvement: Providing advanced agricultural inputs, such as high-
quality seeds, modern equipment, and training on improved techniques.
 Health and Sanitation: Educating rural communities about health, nutrition, and
hygiene while providing basic health facilities.
 Education and Training: Offering vocational training to enhance the skills of rural
populations, especially in areas like handicrafts, sewing, and farming.
 Infrastructure Development: Building roads, bridges, schools, and healthcare centers to
improve accessibility and connectivity in rural areas.
Impact: CRDP has greatly improved rural productivity, employment, and income, contributing
to poverty reduction in rural areas. This model has been replicated with adjustments in various
regions across Bangladesh.

2. Palli Daridro Bimochon Foundation (PDBF)

Objective: The PDBF focuses on poverty reduction through rural microcredit programs,
supporting small enterprises and rural development activities.
Activities:
 Microloans to support small businesses, especially for women in rural areas.
 Skill-building initiatives in livestock farming, poultry, handicrafts, and fisheries.
Impact: PDBF has empowered many marginalized families, especially women, by creating self-
employment opportunities and promoting financial independence.
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3. Participatory Rural Development Project (PRDP)

Objective: Supported by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), PRDP was
designed to strengthen rural communities by promoting local leadership and participation in
development.
Key Components:
 Establishment of local governance bodies to oversee and guide community development.
 Infrastructure development to improve access to water, sanitation, and healthcare
facilities.
 Capacity-building programs for farmers and small entrepreneurs.
Achievements: PRDP has empowered communities by involving them in the decision-making
process, fostering a sense of ownership and sustainability in rural development projects.

4. Char Development and Settlement Project (CDSP)

Objective: Focused on the development of char (riverine island) areas, CDSP aims to settle and
support landless families in these vulnerable and often isolated regions.
Activities:
 Construction of embankments, irrigation systems, and roads to protect against floods and
improve agricultural productivity.
 Providing tenure security by allotting land to landless families.
 Training in sustainable agriculture, fisheries, and livestock.
Impact: CDSP has successfully provided secure living conditions and improved livelihoods for
thousands of families in char areas, which are prone to frequent flooding.

5. Smallholder Agricultural Competitiveness Project (SACP)

Objective: SACP focuses on enhancing smallholder farmers’ access to markets by improving
agricultural productivity and competitiveness.
Activities:
 Training farmers on climate-resilient and profitable crop varieties.
 Providing access to financial resources and facilitating linkages with local markets.
 Encouraging contract farming models to stabilize prices and incomes.
Impact: SACP has increased income for smallholder farmers by linking them directly to buyers
and reducing intermediaries in the value chain.
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6. Rural Employment and Road Maintenance Program (RERMP)

Objective: RERMP focuses on creating jobs in rural communities while maintaining vital
infrastructure.
Activities:
 Rural employment through road maintenance work, primarily targeting women.
 Regular maintenance of rural roads, ensuring connectivity and reducing isolation.
Impact: The project has provided steady income to rural workers, especially marginalized
women, and has contributed to better infrastructure in rural areas.

7. Haor Infrastructure and Livelihood Improvement Project

Objective: This project targets development in haor (wetland) areas, which are prone to seasonal
flooding.
Key Components:
 Construction of flood protection structures, roads, and market facilities.
 Livelihood support for fishery, agriculture, and livestock, suited to wetland areas.
Impact: It has improved the resilience of haor communities, allowing for safer and more
productive livelihoods even in flood-prone areas.

8. Livelihoods Improvement of Riverbank Erosion Displaced People

(LIREDP)
Objective: LIREDP provides support to families displaced by river erosion, helping them
rebuild their lives and secure livelihoods.
Activities:
 Training in alternative livelihoods like fishing, small-scale business, and skills in
tailoring.
 Financial and social support for displaced families to establish stable homes.
Impact: LIREDP has helped reduce poverty and vulnerability among erosion-affected
communities, providing them with new skills and income sources.
These projects contribute significantly to rural development in Bangladesh by focusing on
income generation, sustainable infrastructure, disaster resilience, and poverty alleviation. They
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reflect Bangladesh's commitment to achieving sustainable development, reducing rural poverty,

and supporting vulnerable communities across the country.

Some Rural Development Activities in Bangladesh

In Bangladesh, rural development activities encompass a variety of efforts aimed at improving
the quality of life, economic opportunities, and sustainability in rural areas. These activities
address critical areas such as agriculture, healthcare, education, infrastructure, and social
empowerment to foster long-term development and reduce rural poverty. Here’s an overview of
some key rural development activities:

1. Agricultural Development and Modernization

 Crop Diversification: Encouraging farmers to grow a variety of crops beyond traditional
rice, such as vegetables, fruits, and cash crops like jute and sugarcane.
 Use of High-Yield and Climate-Resilient Seeds: Distributing seeds that are more
productive and resilient to climate changes, helping farmers increase their yields and
income.
 Irrigation and Water Management: Providing improved irrigation systems and water
management training to enhance productivity, especially in drought-prone areas.
 Training in Modern Farming Techniques: Offering workshops on techniques like
integrated pest management, soil health, and organic farming.
 Promotion of Agro-processing: Encouraging small-scale food processing industries,
which can add value to local produce and create rural jobs.

2. Microfinance and Credit Programs

 Microcredit for Small Businesses: NGOs like Grameen Bank and BRAC, as well as
government institutions, provide small loans to rural entrepreneurs, especially women, to
start small businesses.
 Financial Literacy Programs: Educating rural communities on managing finances,
budgeting, and saving to improve financial independence.
 Group Savings and Loans: Implementing savings and loan groups within communities
to promote self-reliance and reduce reliance on informal moneylenders.

3. Education and Skills Training

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 Adult Literacy Programs: Providing basic literacy and numeracy skills for adults to
improve job opportunities and financial management.
 Vocational and Skills Training: Teaching skills like tailoring, carpentry, poultry
farming, and handicrafts to diversify income sources.
 School Development Programs: Building and renovating schools, providing educational
materials, and training teachers to improve the quality of education in rural areas.
 ICT Training: Offering basic digital literacy and ICT skills training through Union
Digital Centers (UDCs) to improve job readiness and access to information.

4. Healthcare and Sanitation Initiatives

 Rural Health Clinics: Establishing clinics that provide essential medical care, maternal
health services, and immunizations.
 Sanitation and Hygiene Programs: Building latrines, promoting safe drinking water
practices, and educating about hygiene to prevent diseases.
 Nutrition Education: Programs aimed at improving the nutritional status of children and
women, often through community workshops on food choices and nutrition.
 Mobile Health Units: Deploying mobile clinics that bring healthcare services to remote
villages, providing access to basic check-ups, medicines, and health advice.

5. Infrastructure Development
 Road and Bridge Construction: Improving rural connectivity through the construction
and maintenance of roads and bridges to enable easier access to markets, schools, and
healthcare facilities.
 Rural Electrification: Expanding access to electricity to rural households, promoting
productivity, and enabling better living conditions.
 Water Resource Management: Developing water supply systems, such as tube wells
and small dams, to ensure a clean and reliable water supply.
 Market Infrastructure: Building rural markets, storage facilities, and cold storage to
help farmers store and sell their produce, reducing waste and increasing profits.

6. Social Safety Nets and Welfare Programs

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 Employment Generation Schemes: Programs like the Employment Generation Program

for the Poorest (EGPP), which provides work during lean seasons, particularly for women
and marginalized groups.
 Cash Transfers and Food Aid: Initiatives like Vulnerable Group Feeding (VGF) and
Test Relief (TR) that offer food support and cash to vulnerable rural families during times
of crisis.
 Housing Assistance: Providing housing for landless and homeless families through
projects like the Ashrayan Project, which offers safe and stable homes.
 Support for Disaster-Affected Communities: Relief and rehabilitation efforts for
communities affected by floods, cyclones, and river erosion, including rebuilding homes
and offering financial aid.

7. Environmental and Climate Resilience Initiatives

 Afforestation and Reforestation: Planting trees in rural areas to prevent soil erosion,
promote biodiversity, and provide resources like fuel and timber.
 Climate-Resilient Agriculture: Training farmers in climate-smart agricultural practices
to cope with the impacts of climate change, such as drought-resistant crop varieties and
water-saving techniques.
 Flood and Cyclone Shelters: Building shelters in vulnerable areas to protect rural
populations during natural disasters, with additional provisions for livestock and essential
goods.
 Renewable Energy Solutions: Promoting solar home systems and biogas plants to
provide clean, renewable energy to off-grid rural communities.

8. Women’s Empowerment and Social Inclusion

 Women’s Micro-entrepreneurship Programs: Supporting female entrepreneurs in rural
areas by providing access to credit, training, and markets for their products.
 Self-Help Groups (SHGs): Encouraging women and marginalized groups to form SHGs
for collective savings, loans, and small business ventures, fostering financial
independence.
 Awareness Campaigns: Educating rural communities on issues like child marriage,
gender equality, and domestic violence to improve the social status of women and
marginalized groups.
 Legal Aid Services: Providing legal support to rural populations, especially women, to
help them protect their rights and access justice.
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9. Digital Access and E-Government Services

 Union Digital Centers (UDCs): These centers provide rural citizens access to digital
government services, such as birth registration, land records, and online job applications.
 Mobile Banking and E-commerce: Facilitating mobile banking services to enable
secure money transfers, savings, and bill payments, even in remote areas.
 ICT Training: Offering digital literacy programs that help rural populations become
familiar with technology and access information, improving opportunities for education
and employment.

10. Rural Tourism and Cultural Heritage Programs

 Eco-tourism Initiatives: Promoting sustainable tourism in scenic rural areas to create
jobs, preserve nature, and generate revenue.
 Handicrafts and Cultural Preservation: Supporting rural artisans in producing and
selling handicrafts, preserving traditional skills, and generating income through tourism
and local markets.
 Community-led Homestay Programs: Encouraging rural families to host tourists,
allowing them to earn income and showcase rural life, traditions, and culture.
These activities together aim to improve living standards, reduce poverty, and create a self-
sustaining, resilient rural economy in Bangladesh. Through these combined efforts by the
government, NGOs, and private sectors, rural development is making steady progress across the
country.

Challenges and Barriers in Rural Development

Describe the obstacles that limit the success of rural development programs in Bangladesh:
 Financial Constraints: Insufficient funding for large-scale programs.
 Infrastructural Issues: Poor connectivity and transportation facilities.
 Natural Disasters: Frequent floods and cyclones disrupt rural life and infrastructure.
 Social and Cultural Barriers: Gender inequality, limited education, and traditional
views.

Future Directions and Recommendations

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Offer recommendations for improving the effectiveness of rural development programs.

Suggestions could include:
 Leveraging Technology: Expanding mobile technology and digital services to rural
areas.
 Public-Private Partnerships: Encouraging more private sector involvement in rural
projects.
 Focus on Climate-Resilient Agriculture: Promoting sustainable farming practices that
adapt to climate change.

Conclusion
Rural development programs and projects in Bangladesh have been instrumental in transforming
rural areas by improving livelihoods, infrastructure, and access to essential services. These
initiatives have played a vital role in alleviating poverty, enhancing agricultural productivity, and
empowering marginalized groups, particularly women. The success of these programs
demonstrates the importance of continued investment in rural development to ensure sustainable
progress. Moving forward, further focus on climate-resilient practices, technological innovation
in agriculture, and the inclusion of marginalized groups will be crucial for achieving long-term
development goals in rural Bangladesh.