|| Khaled Ahmed, pabna: Member of Parliament for Pabna-5, Advocate Shamsur Rahman Shimul Biswas, on Sunday said the country's younger generation would lead the way in building a discrimination-free, democratic and livable Bangladesh by upholding the spirit and sacrifices of the July Uprising.He made the remarks while addressing a scholarship distribution ceremony organized by the Pabna Zila Parishad at Rashid Hall on Sunday afternoon.The district administration, with funding from the Zila Parishad, awarded one-time educational scholarships worth Tk 1.37 million to 120 meritorious students from financially disadvantaged families. Scholarships were distributed under four categories, with recipients receiving Tk 10,000, Tk 15,000, Tk 18,000 and Tk 20,000 respectively.Speaking as the chief guest, Shimul Biswas said students from schools and colleges had played a significant role during the country's most recent period of national crisis by standing up with patriotism and a vision for a better Bangladesh."The younger generation has shown the nation a new ray of hope. It is now their responsibility to lead the country towards a prosperous, democratic and developed future," he said.Referring to Bangladesh's rich history and natural resources, the lawmaker said the country was once among the world's most prosperous regions, attracting traders and rulers from different parts of the world due to its economic strength and abundant wealth.He lamented that despite the country's immense potential, nearly 20 million Bangladeshis are now compelled to seek employment abroad.Highlighting the need for inclusive development, Shimul Biswas said Bangladesh must be transformed into a nation where every citizen enjoys dignity, equal opportunities and an improved quality of life.Recalling the sacrifices of those who lost their lives during the July Uprising, he said their memories should inspire the nation to eliminate injustice, discrimination and inequality and build a safe, humane and livable Bangladesh."The foundation laid through the struggles and sacrifices of the past has opened the path for today's youth to build a new Bangladesh. They will also provide the leadership needed for the country's future progress," he added.The event was chaired by Zila Parishad Administrator and war-wounded freedom fighter Zahurul Islam Bishu.Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Zila Parishad Mahfuza Sultana delivered the welcome address.Among the special guests were President of Pabna District Truck Owners Group Mozammel Haque Kabir, President of Pabna Press Club Akhtaruzzaman Akhtar, Member Secretary of Pabna District BNP Advocate Maksudur Rahman Masud Khandaker, President of Sadar Graveyard and Eidgah Committee Alhaj Golam Rabbani Kamna, and Australia-based former student leader and social worker Firoz Khan Ranju.Others who addressed the function included BNP Central Committee member Zahurul Islam Babu, Secretary General of the Bangladesh Petroleum Pump Owners Association Abul Ahsan Khan Rayon, Joint Convener of the District Jubo Dal Nur Md. Masum Baga, and former General Secretary of Sadar Upazila BNP Rehanul Islam Bulal.On behalf of the scholarship recipients, first-year Government Edward College student Maysa Islam and Jagannath University freshman Md. Shanto Khan expressed gratitude for the financial assistance.The programme was attended by more than 150 students, political leaders, government officials, journalists and distinguished guests. The event was conducted by Zila Parishad Chief Assistant Matiar Rahman. It began with recitation from the Holy Quran by Nur Md. Masum Baga and a reading from the Bhagavad Gita by student Mou Porna Saha Prema.