DHAKA, Dec 9, 2021 (BSS) - Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today
distributed Begum Rokeya Padak-2021 to five eminent women for their
outstanding contribution to women empowerment and social development.

     The premier distributed the award at a function held at Osmani Memorial
Auditorium in the capital as the chief guest joining virtually from her
official residence Ganabhaban.

     On behalf of the prime minister, State Minister for Women and Children
Affairs Fazilatun Nessa Indira, MP handed over the Padak (award).

     The Ministry of Women and Children Affairs organized the function on the
occasion of the 'Begum Rokeya Day'.

     The awardees are - Professor Hasina Zakaria (Bela) for women education,
Archana Biswas for women rights, Shamsunnahar Rahman Paran (posthumous) for
socio-economic development of women, Professor Dr Zinat Huda for women
revolution through women education literature and culture and Dr Saria
Sultana for rural development.

     Begum Rokeya Day is observed marking the birth and death anniversary of
Begum Rokeya Shakhawat Hossain, the pioneer of women's rights in the
subcontinent.