At the closing ceremony of the Hill Fruit Festival held on Saturday (July 5) at the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) Complex in Bailey Road, Dhaka, Supradeep Chakma, Advisor to the Ministry of Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs, emphasized that the festival is not merely a commercial event but a soulful bridge between urban residents and the lives of indigenous communities. He stated that the people of the hills are accustomed to a natural, organic diet, and the fruits showcased are an integral part of their cultural heritage.

The five-day festival, aimed at promoting sustainable development and strengthening the rural economy under the current interim government, was presided over by Ministry President Md. Abdul Khaleq, with Advisor Supradeep Chakma attending as the chief guest. He highlighted the interim government’s commitment—particularly under Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus—to rural empowerment and women’s participation in the economy. The dedication and labor of hill women in cultivating organic fruits were praised as exemplary.

The Advisor assured continued government support for women entrepreneurs in the CHT through training, incentives, and market integration. He also reiterated the government’s broader goals for the region, including quality education, livelihood development, women’s empowerment, and environmental sustainability.

Notably, Dr. Yunus recently announced that at least 100 schools in the CHT would receive Starlink connectivity by the end of the year, ushering in e-learning as a transformative force for the region’s educational landscape—enhancing not just academic standards but also ensuring social justice, digital inclusion, and sustainable growth.

Supradeep Chakma further remarked that the festival serves as more than just a consumer-farmer link; it is a platform for education, environmental awareness, and cultural exchange. He urged city dwellers not only to observe but to truly engage with hill culture, calling the event a symbol of collective progress toward a sustainable future.

Organizers noted that the festival raised public awareness about indigenous fruits while also opening new market avenues for local farmers. Each stall told a unique story—one that went beyond taste to reveal the colors, aromas, and spirit of hill life.

The evening featured a vibrant cultural performance by Khagrachhari Hill District Council artists, showcasing traditional music and dance that resonated deeply with attendees. Among other distinguished guests were Sudatta Chakma, Chairman of the Refugee Rehabilitation Taskforce; Kajol Talukdar, Chairman of Rangamati Hill District Council; Jiruna Tripura, Chairman of Khagrachhari Hill District Council; Additional Secretary Dr. Rashida Ferdous; and various officials, media personnel, and representatives of affiliated organizations.