Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday asked members of the Bangladesh Army to gain more trust of people. She also  hoped  that the army  would always remain ready to resist evil forces to protect the country's independence and sovereignty. "I'm sure Bangladesh Army is fully ready to strongly resist any kind of evil force to safeguard the country's unity...watching your efficiency in training, I can say you're truly a force built with the spirit of the War of Liberation," she said while addressing the Darbar of the 66 Infantry Division, marking the closing ceremony of the Winter Exercise 2015-2016. Earlier, the PM witnessed a demonstration of a brigade group attack in Khaleya, Rangpur. The 66th Infantry Division of the Bangladesh Army organised the 21-day exercise. Addressing the  Darbar, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said that the Bangladesh Army should be placed under three separate commands for better mobility and improved administration, in keeping with the defence policy prepared by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
“Implementation of the Forces Goal 2030 has started and will be completed in phases,” At least 3,000 troops, drawn from the Bangladesh Army, Air Force, Border Guard Bangaldesh (BGB) and Ansar, took part in the exercise that ended yesterday (Thursday). The Prime Minister said her government is pledge-bound to build a modern and smart armed forces, and because of this the Forces Goal 2030 has been prepared in light of the defence policy formulated by the Father of the Nation.
Sheikh Hasina said people are the main strength of the country. The Bangladesh Army is an integral part of the people. So, it is the responsibility of all to work for changing the lot of the people. Earning public confidence is very important, she said.
The Prime Minister expressed her determination to turn the Army into a modern and smart force to protect the nation’s sovereignty and integrity. Sheikh Hasina said the Army is discharging duties in the interest of the nation, and side by side doing its professional job. The Army has earned appreciation at home and abroad, and always stood by the people during any natural disaster. She said the exercise reflected the professionalism of the Army. “I’m sure our Army is fully ready to resist any evil forces and protect the integrity of the country.”
The Prime Minister said the world knows the Bangladesh Army as a modern and disciplined force. Contribution of the Army in UN peacekeeping missions has been praised by the global community. Bangladesh is on top of UN peacekeeping missions now, she said. Sheikh Hasina said Bangabandhu firmly believed that the country needed well-trained and strong armed forces to protect its independence and sovereignty. And that is why he had taken the initiative to modernise the armed forces after independence, despite many constraints.
She said a composite brigade, an infantry brigade, artillery regiments, including the Special Works Organisation, riverine engineering battalion, infantry support battalion, field ambulance and Ordinance Company have been formed. Besides, the National Defence College, Bangladesh Institute of Peace Support Operation Training, Armed Forces Medical College and the Military Institute of Science and Technology have been set up, she said.
Sheikh Hasina said the 17th Infantry Division in Sylhet and the 10th Infantry Division in Ramu were formed and projects were taken up for establishing cantonments in Rajbari and Lebukhali of Barisal-Patuakhali. A composite brigade has been formed for construction and security of the Padma Bridge.