TheIndependence Award,[a] formally known as theIndependence Day Award or theIndependence Medal,[1][b] is the highest state award given by thegovernment of Bangladesh.[2] Introduced in 1977, this award is bestowed uponBangladeshi citizens or organizations in recognition of substantial contributions to one of many fields, including theWar of Liberation, theLanguage Movement, education, literature, journalism, public service, science and technology, medical science, social science, song, games and sports, fine arts,rural development, and other areas.[3]
Each awardee receives a gold medal, a certificate of honour, and 500,000Bangladeshi takas (US$4109).[2][4] A cabinet committee on national awards prepares the list of each year's nominees and forwards the list to the head of the government for final approval.[5] The award is traditionally presented on the eve ofIndependence Day in Bangladesh at a much publicized ceremony attended by several cabinet and parliament members and distinguished society guests.
In 2006, the award generated some controversy as the initial list was not accepted by the Prime Minister, some government ministers had expressed concern over the nomination of three fellow ministers.[5] Furthermore, the award to theRapid Action Battalion was criticized by many[6] because of RAB's alleged involvement inextrajudicial killings.
Government of Bangladesh
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