RAJSHAHI : Reactions to the proposed national budget in Rajshahi have reflected a blend of optimism and concern, with business leaders praising its emphasis on investment and employment generation while low-income earners calling for stronger measures to curb inflation and ease the burden of rising living costs, reports BSS.

Leaders of the Rajshahi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) described the budget as business-friendly and supportive of economic growth, expressing hope that its implementation would boost investment and create employment opportunities in the region.

RCCI Vice-President Ziauddin Ahmed said the proposed budget has appropriately prioritized trade, investment and employment generation, which are essential for sustaining economic momentum.

“We are pleased that the proposed budget has given importance to trade, investment and employment generation,” he told BSS on Thursday.

He said policy support for industry, agriculture and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) would help stimulate economic activities and strengthen the private sector.

Highlighting the region’s economic potential, Ziauddin stressed the need for greater attention to agro-based industries, export promotion and infrastructure development in Rajshahi and other northern districts.

“Simplifying the tax structure and ensuring a business-friendly environment will encourage investment and accelerate economic development in Rajshahi and the northern region,” he added.

RCCI Director Shah Md Mainul Hossain Shanto Chowdhury also welcomed the budget, saying it reflects an effort by the government to address key concerns of the business community.

He observed that effective implementation of measures aimed at controlling inflation, reducing production costs and maintaining market stability would benefit both entrepreneurs and consumers.

The chamber leader called for adequate allocations and policy support for Rajshahi’s mango industry, agricultural products, cold storage facilities, transport services and small-scale industries.

“Easier access to bank loans and a reduction in tax-related complexities would create new opportunities for business expansion. Overall, the proposed budget appears to be supportive of investment and economic growth,” he said.

Meanwhile, people from lower-income groups voiced optimism that the budget would contribute to improving their daily lives through better price stability, employment opportunities and enhanced social support.

Suman Chowdhury, a street vendor near Batar More, said he hopes the budget will include measures that directly benefit low-income people.

“We expect the government to continue supporting poor and working-class people. Special allocations for disadvantaged groups will help improve our lives,” he said.

Rickshaw-puller Golam Rabbani said ordinary people mainly expect stable prices of essential commodities.

“We want rice, lentils and cooking oil to remain affordable. If the budget helps keep prices stable, it will bring relief to many families like ours,” he said.

Factory worker Ismail Hossain expressed hope that the budget would contribute to reducing living costs and improving access to essential services.

“If healthcare and education become more affordable and the cost of living comes down, it will greatly benefit ordinary families,” he said.

Van driver Khalilur Rahman said he looks forward to seeing positive outcomes from the budget in the form of economic stability and improved purchasing power.

“We hope the budget will help keep everyday expenses manageable and make life easier for working people,” he said.

Day labourer Rafiqul Islam said employment generation should remain a key focus of development efforts.

“If more work opportunities are created, people like us will be able to support our families better and improve our living conditions,” he said.

Farmer Mokhlesur Rahman welcomed the importance given to agriculture and called for continued support to the sector.

“If farmers survive, the country survives. Agriculture should always receive priority because it is directly linked to the nation’s food security and rural economy,” he said.

He also expressed hope that policymakers would continue considering the needs and expectations of grassroots people while implementing development programmes.