[Extract] তথ্য প্রযুক্তি বাজেটের ষোলো আনা - NEWS24 - 28 May 2025

Описание: In a recent programme discussing the upcoming National #Budget on News24, I highlighted the following points:

(1) It is essential to allocate a separate portion in the budgets of every government ministry, department, and agency specifically for software and IT services. Currently, the majority of the ICT budget is spent on hardware purchases, most of which have to be imported from abroad.

(2) Incentives should be provided for the use of locally developed software. Tax exemptions or special rebates could be considered for organizations that spend a certain percentage of their IT budget in buying or using domestic software.

(3) Digital transactions must be encouraged. A designated budget of BDT 300–500 crore per year could be allocated for the next five years, from which cashback or other financial incentives could be offered to buyers and sellers who engage in digital transactions.

(4) Special training, skill development programs, and effective collaboration between industry and academia are essential for equipping the country's youth with relevant technological skills. A separate allocation in the budget is necessary for extensive programmes in this area.

(5) Technology companies with at least 25% or more female employees should be provided with tax rebates, incentives, or special rewards. This will help increase female employment.