Mymensingh Correspondent 

State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Yasser Khan Choudhury on Tuesday said the Universal Pension Scheme (UPS) is not merely a financial retirement benefit, but rather a long-term social security system aimed at securing the future of the country's citizens.

"Under this system, a citizen will make regular contributions while economically active and receive financial support later in life based on those savings. It is a far-reaching and planned social investment," he said.

The state minister was virtually addressing a discussion and cultural event as the chief guest on the occasion of the Mymensingh Divisional Universal Pension Fair 2026, held at the local Circuit House ground.

Highlighting the scope of the initiative, Yasser noted that the UPS comprises four distinct schemes—Prabash, Pragati, Surakkha, and Samata—allowing eligible individuals to choose a plan tailored to their financial circumstances.

He added that the pension schemes offer an opportunity to safeguard not only the contributors' own futures but also those of their children. He urged citizens to encourage family members, relatives, and colleagues to enrol in the program for their long-term family security.

Chaired by Additional Divisional Commissioner (General) Azad Jahan, the event was also addressed by Mymensingh-4 MP Md Abu Wahab Akanda Wahid, Joint Secretary of the Finance Division Sharif Mohammad Nazrul Islam, and Executive Director of Bangladesh Bank's Mymensingh Branch Arifuzzaman. Executive Chairman of the National Pension Authority Dr Md Suratuzzaman delivered the keynote paper.

Earlier in the day, a colourful rally was brought out from the Divisional Commissioner’s office premises to mark the fair. Parading key city streets, the procession concluded at the Circuit House field venue.

Local administration officials alongside representatives from various political and social organisations attended the program.