29,000 families become self-reliant through Bashundhara Foundation’s interest-free loan

Over 29,000 underprivileged families in Brahmanbaria’s Bancharampur and Nabinagar upazilas, as well as Cumilla’s Homna upazila, have become self-reliant through the interest- and service charge-free loan scheme run by Bashundhara Foundation — a humanitarian initiative of the country’s leading business conglomerate, Bashundhara Group.

Under this unique programme, beneficiaries receive loans without any interest, service charge, or collateral. For nearly two decades, the initiative has been transforming the lives of thousands of marginalised people across the country.

Continuing this effort, Bashundhara Foundation distributed Tk60 lakh among 332 underprivileged women at a programme held at Jagannathpur Modern Auditorium in Bancharampur on Wednesday. Bashundhara Group advisers Imdadul Haq Milan and Moynal Hossain Chowdhury handed over the loans to the women, each of whom supports a family.

For many of these women, poverty had long been an obstacle to their dreams of a better future. The interest-free loans have helped them break free from the cycle of high-interest debts and build sustainable livelihoods.

Moynal Hossain Chowdhury said Bashundhara Group has set a rare example by running such an interest- and service charge-free loan project. “Today, 204 women have come to take loans for the third time. Over the past four to five years, most have become self-reliant by utilising the funds properly. We urge all borrowers to use the money wisely and build themselves so that they no longer need loans in the future. Our loan recovery rate has been 100%, which reflects their honesty and determination,” he added.

Imdadul Haq Milan said, “With the support of the Bashundhara Group Chairman, this initiative started 20 years ago and has become a model programme for empowering underprivileged people. We want you to succeed in your goals and inspire others to follow your path towards self-reliance.”

Local residents said Bashundhara Group has also been extending support to people through education scholarships, free medical services, training, distribution of sewing machines, and various social welfare activities.

Bashundhara Foundation’s interest-free microloan programme is not only ensuring financial stability but also empowering rural women by restoring their dignity and confidence. Many of them, once trapped in the cycle of exploitative loans, are now standing on their own feet, contributing to the transformation of the rural economy.

Parul Begum, a beneficiary, said, “These loans have helped me a lot. With the previous one, I bought a sewing machine, earned money, and educated my daughters. This time, I will use the money to make my son’s passport and send him abroad. I can’t express how much Bashundhara’s support has changed my life.”

SOURCE : Daily Sun