(BSS) - Chattogram Hill Tracts (CHT) Adviser Supradip Chakma today said affirmative action and mainstream integration process in the hilly areas should be expedited.

“Return of the additional budget allocation of the government without accepting it hinders the development of the hill tracts areas,” he said while addressing a discussion at Parbotto Chattogram Complex auditorium here.

The discussion was held marking the 27th founding anniversary of the ministry with its Secretary Md Abdul Khalek in the chair.

Speaking on the occasion, the adviser informed about the plan to launch e-learning in 100 schools through Starlink satellite internet connection by this year under the guidance of Chief Advisor Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus.

In addition, he said, the construction of 40 hostels is nearing completion and the school attendance and dropout rate of students has decreased due to the establishment of schools, colleges and hostels in remote areas of CHT region.

He also highlighted the provision of special training for teachers in English, mathematics and science.

Task Force Chairman Sudatta Chakma, Rangamati Zilla Parishad Chairman Kajal Talukder, Bandarban Zilla Parishad Chairman Thanjama Lusai, Khagrachhari Zilla Parishad Acting Chairman Shefalika Tripura, Additional Secretary Dr Rashida Ferdous and Regional Council Member Gautam Kumar Chakma, among others, also spoke at the discussion.