Fisheries, Livestock, and Agriculture Minister Mohammed Amin Ur Rashid on Saturday said people who work for the welfare of society are often truly valued only after their death.

"If they are given proper respect and recognition during their lifetime, many more people will be inspired to engage in social welfare activities in the future," he said.

The minister was speaking as the chief guest at the “Gunijan Sommanona-2026 (Distinguished Citizens Reception)” ceremony held on Saturday morning at the Kazi Nazrul Islam Institute Centre in Cumilla, said a press release.

The event was organised by the Cumilla district unit of the Bangladesh Journalist Association.

The minister noted that showing proper respect to individuals dedicated to the welfare of society and humanity is a moral responsibility.

“We have inherited a society and a world from past generations. Now, it is our responsibility to leave behind a more beautiful, humane, and livable world for the next generation,” he added.

Recalling the challenging times of the Covid-19 pandemic, he said that when many were confined to their homes out of fear, some brave and humane individuals stood by helpless people despite the risks to themselves.

Such humanitarian initiatives serve as an inspiration for positive change in society, he added.

The minister also emphasised the importance of self-rectification before advising others. “If we can set positive examples through our own behaviour and actions, we will gain both the right and the acceptability to bring about social change.”

During the ceremony, five prominent personalities from Cumilla were honoured with the “Gunijan Sommanona-2026” crests by the chief guest for their long-standing contributions and special achievements in social service, education, medicine, culture, sports, and public welfare.

Presided over by Yasmin Rima, president of the Bangladesh Journalist Association's Cumilla district unit, and conducted by its General Secretary Shahajada Emran, the event was also addressed by Cumilla City Corporation Administrator Yusuf Molla Tipu and Additional Superintendent of Police (Sadar Circle) Saiful Malik as special guests.

Leaders from various upazila units of the journalist association, representatives of political, social, and cultural organisations, and local dignitaries were present at the event.