ZCZC
BSS-37
COVID19-CPD-RECOMMENDATION
CPD for targeted expansionary measures to deal Corona risks
DHAKA, March 21, 2020 (BSS) – Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) today
suggested government for devising targeted expansionary measures to deal
potential risk of coronavirus in healthcare, trade, supply chain management,
public expenditure and monetary policy.
The think tank body in a virtual media briefing said increased budgetary
allocation will be required for production and distribution of medicine,
improvement of health services and availability of medical instruments and
support to health professionals to stop COVID-19 pandemic.
“Flexibility in next budget (FY21) needs to be considered to cope with
the potential impact of COVID-19,” said CPD. It, however, opined higher
demand for cash incentives for COVID-19 may put additional pressure on the
budget.
CPD Executive Director Dr Fahmida Khatun presented keynote paper at the
briefing titled “Health and Economic Risks of Corona Pandemic and
Recommendations”.
Dr Khatun pointed out that poor budgetary allocation for healthcare
sector has been a longstanding problem for Bangladesh. The government should
consider some temporary incentive package for the sector, she added.
CDP Distinguished Fellow Professor Mustafizur Rahman, Research Director
Dr Khondaker Golam Moazzem and Senior Research Fellow Towfiqul Islam Khan
were also present.
BSS/PR/MAK/IJ/1952 hrs