The Ministry of Religious Affairs in Bangladesh plays a crucial role in regulating and promoting the religious and social life of the country. It oversees various religious institutions, organizes religious events, and works towards fostering religious harmony and peace across different communities.
History and Establishment of the Ministry of Religious Affairs
The Ministry of Religious Affairs was established in 1972, shortly after Bangladesh gained independence. Its primary goal has been to maintain religious harmony, create policies related to religious affairs, and provide support for the development of religious institutions. The ministry works diligently to uphold religious coordination and ensure the peaceful coexistence of diverse religious communities in the country.
Address of the Ministry of Religious Affairs
The Ministry is located at:
- Bangladesh Secretariat, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh.
Number of Officials and Employees
Currently, the Religious ministery employs approximately 400 officials and staff. They are responsible for overseeing religious activities and implementing relevant policies across the country.
Key Objectives of the Ministry of Religious Affairs
- Promoting religious harmony and communal unity among all religious groups.
- Fostering religious education and cultural development in the country.
- Supervising religious institutions to ensure their proper functioning.
- Ensuring smooth implementation of religious events and activities across Bangladesh.
Departments Under the Ministry of Religious Affairs
The Ministry has four key departments, each of which plays a significant role in managing religious activities and implementing policies.
Islamic Foundation Bangladesh
- Established: 1975
- Location: Agargaon, Dhaka
- Members: 500
- Objective: Promoting Islamic education, culture, and research.
- Sub-departments: Islamic Research and Training Division
- Website: www.islamicfoundation.gov.bd
Hindu Religious Welfare Trust
- Established: 2001
- Location: Dhaka
- Members: 300
- Objective: Supporting the welfare and development of Hindu religious institutions.
- Sub-departments: Religious and Social Activities Division
- Website: www.hindutrust.gov.bd
Buddhist Religious Welfare Trust
- Established: 2003
- Location: Dhaka
- Members: 200
- Objective: Overseeing the development and welfare of Buddhist religious activities.
- Sub-departments: Buddhist Culture and Welfare Division
- Website: www.buddhatrust.gov.bd
Christian Religious Welfare Trust
- Established: 2000
- Location: Dhaka
- Members: 150
- Objective: Supporting the development of Christian religious activities and providing welfare for the Christian community.
- Sub-departments: Christian Community Welfare Division
- Website: www.christiantrust.gov.bd