BD 2 PDF

An assessment study of e-Governance in Bangladesh
e- Governance is the
public sectors use of
information and
communication
technologies with the aim
of improving information
and service delivery,
encouraging citizen
participation in the
decision-making process
and making government
more accountable,
transparent and effective.
The horizon scan report of
Access to Information
Programme (A2I) was an
attempt to represent a
comprehensive picture of
the current ICT status to
foster the e-Governance
process in Bangladesh.
Prepared by
Access to Information (A2I) Programme
Chief Advisers Office
Government of the Peoples Republic of Bangladesh
Horizon Scan Report 2007
Copyright Access to Information (A2I) programme

Updated on December, 2007
ii
Summary of Access to Information (A2I)

Programme
e-Governance is a strategic issue that relates to redesigning the national

administrative process at the policy-making level to make the Government more
transparent, efficient, and service-oriented. It requires high level leadership and
participation from all stakeholders.
The Chief Advisers Office (the then Prime Ministers Office), established
an ICT Task Force with representatives from all major ICT stakeholders
including the private sector and industry. The office also undertook a publicly
funded project named Support to ICT Task Force (SICT) to implement Pilot ICT
project. The SICT project deals with implementation of various pilot ICT projects
utilizing public funds, various other government organizations continue to
undertake parallel initiatives mainly utilizing funding from development
partners.
The outcomes of such rather scattered initiatives have resulted in the

creation of many e-governance applications within the government system.
However, absence of coordination meant most of these initiatives are
incompatible with each other and lack complementarities in building a nation
wide e-governance platform. Thus there was a felt need to establish a
coordinating agency to spearhead e-governance efforts and to expedite execution
and improve coordination among initiatives of different organs of the
government. A committee was formed to strategize establishment of an enabling
environment and develop a plan of action to spearhead implementation of e-
governance in the country. Based on a series of national and regional
consultations, the committee made three strategic recommendations in their
report submitted to the PMO in 5 June 2006. One of the strategic
recommendations of the plan was to establishment of an e-Governance Cell or
Entity within PMO to lead and provide coordination support to all e-governance
initiatives taken at various levels of the government.
As a follow up action of this recommendation an e-Governance Cell was

housed within PMO/Chief Advisers Office. It was also recommended in the Plan
of Action to undertake an umbrella programme, with UNDP Bangladesh as the
iii
lead development partner, that will provide technical and knowledge advisory
assistance in the formulation and implementation of e-governance projects
including the facilitation of resource mobilization from both government and
development partners sources.
The Programme A2I was being designed as a follow up of the third

recommendation of the e-Governance Plan of Action. A2I programme aimed at
ensuring the appropriateness of new initiatives and programmes for ICT for
development within the context of national priorities. At the same time, this
programme will support the development of new projects and programmes for
ICT for development within the context of national priorities. At the same time,
this programme will support the development of new projects and programmes
for ICT for development and provide technical assistances for monitoring and
evaluation of these projects. This programme will also
Identify, prioritize and mainstream ICT into the national

development policies and to assist in the development of national
e-Governance vision and strategy that can harness digital
opportunities for development in consultation with the
stakeholders; and
Identify emerging opportunities for ICT for development initiatives

and programmes in support of national priorities in the context of
national e Governance vision.
The journey for establishing e-governance system in Bangladesh faced

challenges that can be summarized by three As: Access, Awareness and
Applications. Being a developing country, it was always a challenge for the
country to finance capital intensive endeavours like access backbones and
communication infrastructure. Also, newer ICT tools remained beyond the
purchasing power of most Bangladeshis.
With the proliferation of mobile, while the communication infrastructure

challenge is somewhat resolved, the issues of awareness among the public
servants and citizen are still low. Such awareness (or lack of it) among middle
and senior public officials remained a particular of concern in the context of
establishing e-governance.
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Finally, there are only a few applications that are available to address
specific application needs of the civil services and other branches of the
government. Lack of software applications as well as lack of relevant digital
content remained one of the major obstacles towards attaining greater buy-ins
form government stakeholders.
Apart form the three major issues that are described above, lack of policy
level coordination and often fragmented mandate of various government
agencies represent another set of challenges in effective use of ICTs in better
public administration and efficient citizen service delivery.
The scope of Access to Information (A2I) programme is the provision of

knowledge advisory services and technical assistance to the e-Governance cell,
which is mandated to provide leadership in developing the national e-
Governance vision, and to spearhead and coordinate the national efforts in
achieving the vision. The programmes scope also includes strengthening the
capacity of key government ICT championships-individuals or organizations- by
enhancing their ICT skills in promoting the transfer of knowledge on
project/programme management best practices.
v
Acknowledgement VIII
Preface XV
Glossary of terms XVI
Executive Summary XVII
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Country profile of Bangladesh 1
1.2 Background 6
1.3 Methodology 9
1.4 Scope 12
1.5 Limitations 13
2. CITIZENS EXPECTATIONS
2.1 An overview of citizens needs, problems and their 15
recommendations
2.2 An overall picture of the status of the ICT infrastructure in 21
surveyed areas
3. SUPPORTING POLICIES
Governing authority in ICT sector 26
4. INFRASTRUCTURE & SERVICE SECTOR
4.1 Infrastructure & Connectivity issue 42
4.1.1 Telecommunication 43
4.1.2 Data connectivity 46
4.1.3 Television network 50
4.1.4 Radio 52
4.1.5 Post 53
4.1.6 Tele center & cyber caf 53
4.1.7 Power sector 55
4.2 Service Sector
4.2.1 Government sector
4.2.1.1 ICT Status of different ministries/divisions 60
4.2.1.2 Support to ICT Task Force (SICT) Programme 62
4.2.1.3 Success & failure samples of Government ICT projects 69
4.2.1.4 ICT initiatives in Annual Development Programme 71
4.2.1.5 Website status of Government 73
4.2.2 Private Sector
4.2.2.1 Banking sector 78
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4.2.2.2 Bangladesh IT & ITES Sector 86

4.3 Recommendations in infrastructure & Service sector
5. HUMAN RESOURCES READINESS FOR ICT ADOPTION
5.1. Access to ICT learning 89
5.2. Research and Development 92
5.3. Content 95
5.4. Free and Open Source Software 97
5.5. Localization 100
5.6. Recommendations 105
6. THE WAY FORWARD 111
ANNEXURE
ANNEXURE 1: The detail report of citizen survey
ANNEXURE 2:Summary of ICT Status in ministries
ANNEXURE 3: Name & Status of SICT project
ANNEXURE 4: ICT Initiatives of the Bangladesh Government in Annual
Development Programme (ADP)
ANNEXURE 5: Scope for ICT initiatives of Bank in Bangladesh
ANNEXURE 6: Questionnaire
ANNEXURE 7: List of Tables
ANNEXURE 8: List of Figures
ANNEXURE 9: Research Team
vii
Acknowledgement
The Horizon Scan Report, an outcome of comprehensive effort of Horizon Scan

team, has been successfully published. The scan of ICT status of Bangladesh
would not have been possible without the cordial support and cooperation of the
various Government and non Government stakeholders. We would like to convey
our gratitude especially to the different ministries and agencies of the
Government as well as to the public and private banks and institutions. Our
appreciation also goes to the survey team who tried to reflect the view of citizens
throughout the country which have enlightened our Report.
At last, we would like to acknowledge the amiable and instrumental

contribution of the following people. Without their support the Report would
have remained incomplete.
Our Stakeholders
(a) Technical Committee Members of A2I Programme

Mr. Ehsanul Hoque, Convener of TC of A2I Programme, DG (Admin),
Mr. Shamsul Alam Khan, Joint Secretary, M/O Science and ICT,
Bangladesh Secretariat, Dhaka.
Mr. ATM Monirul Alam, General Manager, Upazilla Telecom Region,
Mohakhali Transmission Building, BTTB, Dhaka.
Mr. Abdul Khaleque, Director (Admin), Chief Advisers Office.
Mr. Kazi Enamul Hassan, Director-8, Chief Advisers Office.
Mr. Md. Enamul Kabir, Secretary, Bangladesh Computer Council, Dhaka.
Mr. ANM Mustafizur Rahman, System Analyst, CPTU, Planning
Commission, Dhaka.
Mr. Md. Rabiul Islam, Systems Analyst, Chief Advisers Office, Dhaka.
Mr. A A Munir Hasan, Programme Implementation Specialist, A2I, Chief
Advisers Office, Dhaka.
Mr. KAM Morshed, Assistant Country Director, MDGs & e-Development
Cluster, UNDP.
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*** Special Invitee of Technical Committee

Mr. Aftab Ahmed, APS 1 to Chief Adviser Chief Advisers Office.
Mr. Mostafizur Rahman, Director-2, Chief Advisers Office.
Mr. Rafiqul Khan, Director-15, Chief Advisers Office.
Mr. Md Ziaul Hoque, Assignment Officer, A2I Programme, Chief Advisers
Office.
Mr. Md Aminul Islam, Protocol Officer, A2I Programme,Chief Advisers
Office.
(b) e-Gov cell members

Mr. Ehsanul Hoque, convener of TC of A2I Programme, DG (Admin.) Chief
Advisers Office.
Mr. Kazi Enamul Hasan, Director-8, Chief Advisors Office.
Mr. M. Azharul Huq, Director-1, Chief Advisers Office.
Mr. Md. Rabiul Islam, System Analyst, Chief Advisers Office.
Engr. Mahabub Sarwar, National Project Director & Member Secretary,
PIC, A2I Prgramme, Chief Advisers Office.
Mr. Mohammad Ziaul Haque, Assignment Officer, A2I Programme, Chief
Advisers Office.
Mr. Md Aminul Islam, Protocol Officer, A2I Programme,Chief Advisers
Office.
(c) ICT Focal Points

Mr. Md. Shamsul Alam Khan, Joint Secretary, M/O Science and
Information & Communication Technology.
Mr. Abu Reza Khan, Executive Member, Board of Investment.
Mr. Shafiz Uddin Ahmed, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Communications.
Mr. Md. Ali Mostafa Chowdhury, Joint Secreatry, Ministry of Local
Government, Rural Development & Co-Operatives.
Mr. Mainul Hasan, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Social Welfare.
Mr. Kamal Uddin Ahmed, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Information.
Mr. Md. Ibadat Ali, NDC, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Defence.
Mr. Md. Khalilur Rahman Siddiqui, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Fisheries
& Levestock.
Mr. F.M.M Jalal Uddin Al-Quaderi, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Primary &
Mass Education.
Mr. Md. Mostofa, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Industries.
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Mr. Md. Abdur Rashid, Joint Secretary, Presidents Offfice.

Mr. Begum Mushfeka Iqfat, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Women &
Children affairs.
Mr. M. Shahidul Haque, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Law, Justice &
Parliamentary Affairs.
Mr. Md. Mushfiqur Rahman, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Youth & Sports.
Dr. Md Ruhul Amin Sarkar, Joint Secretary, IRD, Ministry of Finance.
Mr. Gazi Mizanur Rahman, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Post &
Telecommunication.
Mr. Chowdhury Md. Ziaul Haque, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Religion.
Ms. Ayesha Begum, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Housing & Public works.
Ms. Rowshan Ara Begum, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Chittagong Hill
Tracks Affairs.
Mr. Abdul Bari Khan, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Food & Disaster
Management.
Mr. Mohammed Jakaria, Additional Secretary, Election Commission
Secretariat.
Mr. Md. Shahabuddin, Joint Secretary, Bangladesh Parliament
Secretariat.
Mr. Miah Abdullah Mamun, Deputy Secretary, Planning Dept, Ministry of
Planning.
Mr. Qamar Muni, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Forest & Environment.
Md. Fazlul Haq, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Textile & Jute.
Mr.Aiyubur Rahman, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Health & Family
Welfare.
Mr.Md. Mazibur Rahman, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs.
Mr. Md. Imdadul Haque, Joint Secretary, Dept of Mineral Resources
Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources.
Mr. Md. Waheed Hossain, Joint Secretary, Dept. of Power, Ministry of
Power, Energy and Mineral Resources.
Mr. Golam Murtaza, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Shipping.
Mr. M.A.K. Mahmud, Director General, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Mr. Mazbaul Alam, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation & Tourism.
Mr. Pius Costa, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Land.
Mr. Md. Mahbubul Alam, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Water Resources.
Ms. Shuraia Begum, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Cultural Affairs.
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Mr. Humayun Kabir Khan, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Liberation War

Affairs.
(d) IT experts in Govt. ministries/divisions/agencies

Mr. Mohammad Asadul Haque, Programmer, CPTU, IMED, Ministry of
Planning.
Mr. Md. Abdur Rob, Assistant Chief, Ministry of Textile and Jute.
Ms. Sharmin Afroz, System Analyst, Dhaka Metropolitan Police.
Mr. Md. Zulfiqur Rahman, Progammer, Ministry of Health and Family
welfare.
Mr. Md. Salahuddin Sarker, Programmer, Cabinet Division.
Mr. Md. Rabiul Islam, System Analyst, Chief Advisers Office.
Mr. Anuj Kumar Roy, Progammer, Directorate of Primary Education.
Mr. Md. Siddiqur Rahman, Programmer, Supreme Court.
Ms. Kazi Sayeda Momtaz, Progrmmer, MIS, RHD, Dhaka.
Mr. Md. Olid Bin-Asad, Programmer, Ministry of Food and Disaster
Management.
Mr. Md. Nashir Uddin, System Analyst, Office of the Controller General of
Accounts.
Mr. Md. Abu Baten Talukder, System Analyst, Finance Division, Ministry
of Information.
Mr. Eng, Md. Atiar Rahman, Office of the Controller General of Accounts.
Mr. Md. Mosharraf Hossain, Programmer, Office of the Controller General
of Accounts.
Mr. Mohammad Nurus Samad, System Anlyst/Administrator, CID.
Mr. Md. Nazrul Islam, System Analyst, BBS.
Mr. Eng. Md. Golam Sarwar, Programmer, BCC.
Mr. Mohammad Abdus Sobhan, Programmer, ERD, Ministry pf Finance.
Mr. Geias Uddin Ahmed Bhuyen, Programmer, Chief Advisers Office.
Mr. Md. Akter Ali, Senior System Analyst, Police Head Quarters.
Mr. Md. Mofakkharul Islam, System Analyst, Ministry of Education.
Mr. Md. Shafiqul Alam, Programmer, Local Government Division,
Ministry of Local Government, Rural development & Co-operatives.
Mr. Khan Md. Elias, Senior System Analyst, Bangladesh Parliament
Secretariat.
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Mr. S. M. Shahid, Programmer, Compulsory Primary Education,

Implementation and Monitoring unit, Ministry of Primary & Mass
Education.
Mr. Md. Mizanur Rahman, Special Branch, Bangladesh Police.
Mr. Md. Shakhawat Hossain Bhuiyan, Assistant Programmer, ERD,
Ministry of Finance.
Mr. Mohammad Shafiqur Rahman, Senior System Analyst, NBR.
Mr. Md. Siddiqur Rahman, Programmer, Supreme Court.
Mr. M. M. Nuruzzaman, System Analyst, Dept. of Narcotics Control.
Mr. Mahbubur Rahman, Ministry of Water Resources.
Mr. Mohammad Asadul Haque, Programmer, CPTU, IMED, Ministry of
Planning.
Mr. Md. Mosharraf Hossain, Programmer, Office of the Controller General
of Accounts.
Mr. Md. Abu Baten Talukder, System Analyst, Finance Division, Ministry
of Information.
Mr. S. M. Shahid, Programmer, Compulsory Primary Education,
Implementation and Monitoring Unit, Minsitry of Primary & Mass
Education.
Mr. Md. Mofazzal Hossain, System Manager, BANBEIS, Ministry of
Education.
Mr. Anuj Kumar Roy, Progammer, Directorate of Primary Education.
Mr. Md. Shamsur Rahman, Computer System Analyst, Roads and
Highways Dept.
Mr. Md. Musleh Uddin, Senior System Analyst, Ministry of
Establishment.
Mr. Khan Md. Elias, Senior System Analyst, Bangladesh Parliament
Secretariat.
Ms. Kazi Sayeda Momtaz, Progrmmer, MIS, RHD, Dhaka.
Mr. Md. Mizanur Rahman, Special Branch, Bangladesh Police.
Mr. Alamgir Kabir, AP, Chief Advisers Office
Mr. Eng. Md. Golam Sarwar, Programmer, BCC.
Mr. Md. Rabiul Islam, System Analyst , Chief Advisers Office
Mr. Md. Olid Bin-Asad, Programmer, Ministry of Food and Disaster
Management.
Ms Sharmin Afroz, System Analyst, Dhaka Metropolitan Police.
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Mr. Md. Shakhawat Hossain Bhuiyan, Assistant Programmer, ERD,

Ministry of Finance.
(e) Experts from BTTB

Mr. Asadul Islam, Secretary, Bangladesh Telegraph and Telephone Board
(BTTB).
Mr. Md. Shahidul Alam, Director, Maintanance & Operation, BTTB.
Mr. Biddut Chandra Roy, Director, Planning. BTTB.
Engr. A.K.M. Habibur Rahman, Divisional Engineer, BTTB.
(f) University Grants Commision

Prof. Dr. Ehsanul Haque, Member, Bangladesh University Grants
Commision.
Mr. Anil Chandra Paul, Director (Acting), TID, Bangladesh University
Grants Commision.
Mr. Ziaul Haque, Associate Professor, TID, Bangladesh University Grants
Commision.
Mr. Khondokar Hamidur Rahman, Assistant Professor, Bangladesh
University Grants Commision.
(g) Experts in Banking Sector

Ms Nazneen Sultana, System Manager, Bangladesh Bank.
Mr. Md. Nurul Haque, DGM (IT), Agrani Bank, Head Office, Dhaka.
Mr. Jashed Atique, Manager IT, HSBC.
M.A. Zubair, General Manager, IT division, Pubali Bank Ltd.
Mr. Reazul Islam, Senior Vice President and Head of IT, AB Bank.
Mr. Abedur Rahman Sikder, Head of ADC, BRAC Bank.
Mr. Mamun Seraji, Senior Manager, IT, BRAC Bank.
Mr. Mohammad H. Kafi, Executive Vice President and Head of IT, Dhaka
Bank.
Mr. MD. Shameemul Haque, Assistant General Manager, Sonali Bank.
(g) Internet service Providers Association of Bangladesh and Cable TV

operators Association in Bangladesh
Mr. Russel T. Ahmeed, Secretary General, ISP Association Bangladesh.
Mr. S. M. Anwar, President, Cable Operator Association Bangladesh.
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Mr. Nizam Uddin Masud, Secretary General, Cable Operator Association

Bangladesh.
(h) Professionals in Mobile Content development
Mr. Asif Kahn, Managing Director, Marketing and Sales, I-Infomedia
Limited.
Mr. Fasial Alim, Managing Director, Wintel Limited.
Mr. Fafiur Rahman Khan Yusufazai, Managing Director, E.B. Solutions
Limited.
Mr. S. M. Arafat Ashfaq, Chief Executive Officer, Bangla Infoway.
Mr. Hasan Emon, Manager Marketing and Sales, Bangla Infoway.
Mr. Md. Aminul Haq, Director, Next Net Limited.
Mr. Md. Shafiul Islam, Sr. Executive Marketing, MMSL.
Mr. Kaymun Amin, Managing Director, V U mobile.
Mr. Rana, Admin and Project Team Leader, Amader Mobile.com.
(i) Policy Experts

Dr. Ananya Raihan, Executive Director, D.Net.
Mr. Reza Salim, Project Director, Amader Gram.
Mr. T.I.M Nurul kabir, Chairman, Digital Knowledge Foundation (DKF).
Mr. AHM. Bazlur Rahman, Chief Executive Officer, BNNRC.
Mr. Pallab Mohaimen, In-charge IT page, The Daily Prothom Alo.
(j) Technical Editor

Mr. ATM Monirul Alam, General Manager, Upazilla Telecom Region,
Mohakhali Transmission Building, BTTB, Dhaka.
(K) Style Editor
Ms. Rafat Binte Rashid, Editor, Lifestyle & Rising star, The Daily Star.
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Preface
In todays world Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has

tremendous impact on socio-economic livelihood of people of the country.
Government functions are the most profound areas where ICT can play a pivotal
role in fostering and ameliorating the citizen centric services.
Adaptation of e-governance is a key for smart governance and making

information technology (IT) relevant to ordinary citizens in Bangladesh where a
large proportion of the population suffers from digital divide. e-governance will
allow ordinary people to interact with the government at various levels and
matters of governance to provide inputs for decision makers.
To achieve these desired objectives a critical assessment of ICT status at

various levels of government and society is needed. The horizon scan report
probably the first attempt to exert the countrys complete ICT status, which will
be of ample help for future documentation and planning. We hope the
participation and endeavor of various stakeholders will accelerate further to
enrich the e-readiness for the emerging interest in e-Governance.
Engr. Mahabub Sarwar

National Project Director & Member Secretary PIC
Access to Information (A2I) Programme
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Glossary of Terms
A2I Access to Information

ADSL Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line
ATM Automatic Teller Machine
BANSDOC Bangladesh National Scientific and Technical Documentation
Center
BdOSN Bangladeshi Open Source Network
BDT Bangladeshi Taka (Currency).
BERNET Bangladesh Education and Research Network
BOU Bangladesh Open University
BTN Bangladesh Telecentre Network
BTRC Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission
BTTB Bangladesh Telegraph and Telephone Board
BUET Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology
CCNA Cisco Certified Network Associate
CDMA Code Division Multiple Access
CIDA Canadian International Development Agency
CRBLP The Center for Research on Bangla Language Processing
CSO Civil Society Organization
DCE Directorate of Continuing Education
DDN Digital Data Network
DSL Digital Subscriber Line
DL Distance Learning
EDGE Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution
FOSS Free and Open Source Software
GB Giga Bytes
GDP Gross Domestic Product
GNI Gross National Income
GoB Government of Bangladesh
GPO General Post Office
GPRS General Packet Radio Service
GSM Global System for Mobile
HDI Human Development Index
HPO Head Post Office
HSD High Speed Diesel
ICT Information and Communication Technology
IDRC International Development Research Corporation
IP Internet Protocol
IPLC International Private Leased Circuit
IRU Indefeasible Rights of Use
ISP Internet Service Provider
KB Kilo Bytes
LAN Local Area Network
LC Local Centers
MAN Metropolitan Area Network
MB Mega Bytes
Mbps Mega bits per second
MCP Microsoft Certified Professional
MCSE Microsoft Certified Software Engineer
MDG Millennium Development Goals
MMS Multimedia Messaging Service
MW Mega Watts
NGO Non Government Organization
NLP Bangla Natural Language Processing
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NRI Networked Readiness Index

PD Professional Development
PRS Poverty Reduction Strategy
PSTN Public Switched Telephone Network
RDCD Rural Development & Cooperative Division
RRC Regional Resource Center
SEA- ME- South East Asia Middle East Western Europe 4

WE4
SMS Short Message Service
STM Synchronous Transport Module
TC Tutorial Centers
UGC University Grants Commission
UNDP United Nations Development Program
URC University Resource Center
UUCP Unix to Unix CoPy
VSAT Very Small Aperture Terminal
VPN Virtual Private Network
WAN Wide Area Network
WAP Wireless Application Protocol
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Executive Summary
Information and communication technologies (ICTs) have brought major

transformations across the globe. ICTs have ushered an era of unprecedented
productivity, effectiveness and transparency. Mobile phones have shrunk
distances. The Internet has allowed real-time participation of the masses in the
policy decision process.TV and radio capture and disseminates the updates of
the social and political portrait to millions in the blink of an eye. Just as
businesses are harnessing the power of ICT to deliver better, faster and cheaper
services to their customers, it is also causing a paradigm shift in governance
processes. Electronic Governance or e-Governance is the delivery of government
services and information to the public using electronic means and/or ICTs to
support good governance. Policy makers of developed countries like the US, the
UK and Singapore have fully recognized the power of e-Governance to make a
significant contribution in achieving the objectives of good governance. Along
with Governments of many developing nations, Bangladesh is also coming to a
fast realization that ICT is not only necessary for promoting economic growth
but also can be a great engine for driving good governance.
In the past decade, the Government of Bangladesh had taken various

innovative steps towards e-Governance. It is clear that Bangladesh is positioning
itself to be seriously moving towards e-Governance in a comprehensive way.
However, to realize the vision for e-Governance in Bangladesh it is imperative
to understand the current readiness of the country. This horizon scan report
analyzes the previous significant developments and presents the primary and
secondary research findings in the following categories:
Citizens Expectations, Supporting Policies, Infrastructure and
Connectivity issue and ICT and Human Resources.
Rationale behind previous e-Governance initiatives and future plans.
The Primary focus of e-Governance is not ICT itself, but leveraging ICT to
improve service delivery. Consequently, it is important to know the services that
are essential to citizens and then deliver those services efficiently and effectively
through electronic or non-electronic means. The Citizen Survey is therefore the
most important component of the Horizon Scan report. It tried to identify the
needs of citizens, challenges they face and find ways to overcome those using
xviii
ICTs. Initially, the survey covered around 700 citizens from 11 districts
including Dhaka, Chittagong, Barisal, Sylhet, Rajshahi, Khulna, Rangamati,
Kurigram, Sunamganj, Sirajganj, and Narayanganj. These randomly selected
citizens represented important stakeholders of all key sectors including agro-
farmers, poultry farmers, fishermen, labors, professionals, housewives,
students, self-employed, job seekers, senior citizens (above 60), disabled
citizens, daily laborers, the very poor (under the $1 income margin), teachers
and Government employees.
The survey seeks to:
1. Assess status of the existing ICT infrastructure
2. Identify services that citizens seek the most
3. Identify obstacles in service delivery
4. Identify existing service delivery channels
5. Identify most preferred ICT channels
Researchers found that the pace, extent, and effectiveness of ICT diffusion
can be directly shaped by having four generic types of balanced government
policiesprivate and public, domestic and foreign, monopoly and competition
and central and distributed.The ICT policy adopted in 2002 prioritizes improving
many areas which needs more followup to be more successful about the growth
of ICT path. As evidenced in the past, good policies (like the successful
Bangladesh Drug Policy, RMG Back-to-Back LC, etc) can truly accelerate the
pace of economic development in Bangladesh. A follow-up report (half-yearly
review) will potentially make policy recommendations to support e-Governance
Vision and Strategies.
Although quite behind in the global race, Bangladesh is slowly improving in

the arena of Information and Communications Technologies; particularly in
infrastructure and human resource development. In the telecommunication
sector, Government owned BTTB, on which the masses still rely for connection
has the largest market share (89%) in the PSTN market. Other PSTN operators
are strategically trying to penetrate in the market through the introduction of
additional quality products and services.
Cellular Phone has revolutionized the telecommunication industry in

Bangladesh. Since 1989, cell phones have brought more than thirty million
people under the shade of telecommunication service. Currently six mobile
phone operators are operating with extreme competition through rendering
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customized services. This reaches out to the masses and creates an alternative
delivery channel for better service delivery. Although the call charge requires
further adjustment, it is now affordable for most people.
Bangladesh Post Office introduced Electronic Mail Service (e-Post) through

16 general post offices, which enable a user to send and receive email messages
without possessing an email id. There are around 1000 telecentres (year: 2007),
owned by local entrepreneurs, operating mainly in the rural areas of
Bangladesh. The business of cyber caf has been growing in Dhaka since the
late 90s which are used to browse, using e-mail facilties, video conferencing etc.
Energy is the prerequisite for a strong ICT infrastructure of any country. At

present, three state-owned organizations; Bangladesh Power Development Board
(BPDB), Dhaka Electric Supply Authority (DESA) and Rural Electrification Board
(REB), under the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources are
responsible for electricity of the country. Currently, there are 18 government
owned power plants with 45 units and 6 privately owned power plants with 37
units. PDB has initiated a pre-paid meter system. Solar panel can be a good
alternative for electricity where government took some projects to identify and
implement other sources for electricity like solar electricity for rural
electrification.
Bangladesh was connected to the information super highway through sub

marine cable in 2006. A project by BTTB is going on to establish the national
high-speed data-backbone. This project will setup Layer-3 Switches (ADSL Site)
in 12 districts with Fiber Optic Connections to the main data-backbone. After
this high-speed national data backbone is completed, a flurry of IT-enabled
services and related business activities will happen all over Bangladesh.
The Government with its organs is gradually moving towards the

computerized systems from the old manual systems. More than 50% ministries
now have their own Local Area Network (LAN). They are connected to the
internet via dial up connections or broadband connections. Some of the
ministries use customized software for their internal purposes and service
delivery. Some ministries have their own application servers and mailing
systems. Among various initiatives SICT was the largest initiative in the
Government Sector so far. 55 projects were taken through SICT (Support to
ICT Task Force) programme in different ministries and agencies, from which
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14 are already completed and remaining 41 are going. It can be noted that
these projects have created a favorable impact in rendering better services
to the Citizens.
Private sector is the driving force for our national economy. Integration
of ICT in private sector is increasing. Particularly, most of the banks are
getting automated in their various services like ATM (Automated Teller
Machine) booth, different types of cards (VISA, Master Card, Debit, Credit card),
point of sales (POS), online banking, SMS banking, Tele banking, etc. In terms of
trade, the local and global revenues of both the ITS and ITES are growing. ITS
and ITES supplying firms are becoming competitive day by day.
This report also takes a look at the ICT HR readiness of Bangladesh.

About 23 Public Universities offer Computer Science and ICT related
courses. Nearly all 54 Private Universities are offering ICT related courses.
ICT education is getting emphasis in secondary and higher secondary levels
also. The ICT Training Centers were surveyed to assess their status and
quality. The findings are not very encouraging. But the good news is that
the Government, academia, and industry are realizing the high-quality ICT
HR crisis, and they are coming up with some coordinated and concrete
plans to produce better ICT HR in the coming days.
Currently, 23 organizations are involved in producing ICT based

materials for Non Formal Education (NFE) sector. Among the 23
organizations: 9 are NGOs, 9 are commercial firms and the rest are
educational and research organizations.
e-Governance, which essentially aims at enhancing good governance and

strengthening the democratic process, can also be seen as a way of providing
access to information, freedom of expression, greater equity, efficiency,
productivity growth and social inclusion. It is evident that successful e-
governance initiatives have demonstrable and tangible impact on increasing
government efficiency, improving citizen participation and quality of life as a
result of effective multi-stakeholder partnerships. With that said, the
Government of Bangladesh should consider focusing on enabling environment
for the development and implementation of e-governance systems, including
undertaking institutional and organizational system reforms, promoting change
of attitude to work, enacting e-Governance enabler laws and legislation,
xxi
promoting the development of requisite human resources and ICT infrastructure

and putting in place mechanisms to mobilize financial and other technological
resources.
xxii
The advent of information and
communication technology (ICT)
together with the diffusion of the
technological advances has resulted
in the digital revolution and the
emergence of the Information age.
The revolution has created an
enormous impact on social, political,
and cultural livelihood of mass people
which took the whole world into a
different era. Bangladesh is one of
the developing countries driving
strongly for building the nation by INTRODUCTION
entering into global frontier through
ICT. This creates a platform for
interaction amongst the Government,
businesses and citizens and ensures
easy accessibility of information to all
levels of the society.
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
1.1 Country Profile of Bangladesh
Bangladesh, a sovereign state in the Table: 1.1 Bangladesh Data Sheet 1
South Asian belt encompasses a mass Administrative Unit As per 2006

population of 150 million people in a Division 6
geographical land of 147,570 sq. km. Zilla 64
Bangladesh has emerged as a sovereign Upazilla 481
Thana 596
nation after a protracted bloody War of
Municipality 308
Independence in December 1971. Union 4498
Bangladesh takes great pride in its hard
earned political independence and also care for its long fought struggle &
movements from 1952 to establish Bangla as the National Language", respected
widely among the locals as Mother Tongue.
Looking at the history on formation of Bangladesh, it is recorded that

dating back to several thousand years this country was formed from the alluvial
soil of the river Ganges while free-flowing from the Himalayas Mountain to the
sea. The new land is the largest Delta of its kind in the world. Being ideally
located in the southern footsteps of the Himalayas, this independent country is
surrounded by Indian states of West Bengal at west and north borders whilst
Assam & Meghalaya states shares the eastern borders. A south-east tip of the
land is bordered with Myanmar. The circumference of Bangladesh is between
20034 and 26038 North Latitudes and between 88001 and 92041 East
Longitude.
In regard to its geographical location, the country is environmentally

guided by tropical climates and therefore Mother Nature awards the country
with long hot summer, heavy monsoon, dry autumn, short-stayed cool winter
and festive spring round the calendar year. The average temperature is around
260 C and the average rainfall is 2540mm. The Bay of Bengal, rich in natural
wealth, directly lies at the south of the country where the country has two sea
ports to carry forth the international trade & commerce.
1 Bangladesh data sheet, 11 July, 2007 (http://www.bbs.gov.bd/index.php)
1
Along this Bay, the country proudly possesses the longest sea beach in the
world ranging in excess of 100 miles in length and also offers endless tourism
beauty therein. The country also wonders for the largest Mangrove forest in the
world named Sundarban a safe-haven of wild animals including fierce some
tigers and spotted deer as well resourceful plants & trees, namely Mahgoni,
Segun etc.
Over 98% of the people communicate in Bangla here in Bangladesh;

English however, is also spoken & understood in many of the urban areas. The
country succumbs to a mix of religion with 88% majority of the mass following
Islam and balance minority maintaining Hinduism, Buddhism & Christianity,
respectively in order of followers; yet the country takes pride to have an equal
opportunity to freedom of religious sanctity and practices and too enjoys
communal harmony, peaceful tolerance & co-existence.
Elaborating on the achievements & benchmarks acquired in the

international arena, the country acclaims to be the pioneer and vanguard in
micro-credit concept and operation for poverty reduction which has gloriously
brought the Nobel Prize in Peace for the country in 2006 by Grameen Bank and
its distinguished founder fore figure Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus.
Furthermore, Bangladesh is one of the largest participants in United

Nations Peace Keeping Missions, contributing majority of the UN Armed Forces
for the continuation of peace and harmony in the many war-torn countries
across the globe. The professional strength of Bangladeshi soldiers played in
reconstructing and peace keeping across Africa, Europe & Asian continent has
indeed earned her with worldwide praise, respect & recognition.
Bangladesh has been achieving more than 6% economic growth over the
last 5 years. The country has attained tremendous success in several areas
particularly at primary school enrollment, reducing gender disparity, child
mortality rate and achievement of immunization.
Still the country has vast economic potentials with 68 million people of
unused workforce and vast amount of unexplored natural resources like gas,
coal. It is pertinent, while forging the natural and human resources, the country
can augment better economic output and ensure better standard of living to its
citizens.
2
The following table represents the economic and social indicators of Bangladesh
at a glance.
Table : 1.2 Bangladesh at a glance2
Poverty and Social: As per 2006
Population(million) 150.4 (July 2007 est.)
Literacy Rate 51.6
GNI per capita (US$) 490 2
GNI (US$ billions) 70.7
GDP(PPP) billions 336.1
Poverty (% population below poverty line) 50
Life expectancy at Birth (years) 64
Infant mortality (per 1000 live births) 54
HDI Ranking 137
Teledensity 23.3
Growth of cellular phone Industry 135%
Unemployment Rate 2.5%
Household with electricity (%) 44.23
Household Access to computer (%) 1.36
Household Access to e-mail (%) 0.20
Annual Population growth % (2000-06) 1.9
Annual Labor force growth % (2000-06) 2.2
GDP growth rate (annual) 6.6
The next table represents the countrys economic structure and long term trend.
Table: 1.3 Key economic ratios and long term trends 3
Particulars 1986 1996 2006

GDP (US$ billions) 21.2 40.7 61.9
Gross Capital formation/GDP 16.7 20.0 24.7
Export of goods and services/GDP 5.4 11.1 19.0
Gross domestic savings/GDP 9.8 12.4 18.4
Gross national savings/GDP 14.6 19.8 33.7
2 MDG in Bangladesh, BBS report

(http://www.bbs.gov.bd/dataindex/MDGs%20in%20Bangladesh.doc)
The World Bank Report (http://devdata.worldbank.org/AAG/bgd_aag.pdf)
BTRC (www.btrc.gov.bd)
HD Report, UNDP 2006-2007(http://devdata.worldbank.org/AAG/bgd_aag.pdf)
Central intelligence Agency- The world Fact book
(https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/bg.html)
3. The World Bank Report (http://devdata.worldbank.org/AAG/bgd_aag.pdf)
3
Table: 1.4 Structure of the Economy 4
Percentage of GDP 1986 1996 2006

Agriculture 31.9 25.7 19.6
Industry 21.5 24.9 27.9
Manufacturing 14.0 15.4 17.2
Services 46.5 49.5 52.5
Household final consumption 85.8 83.2 76.1
expenditure
General govt. final consumption 4.3 4.4 5.5
expenditure
Import of goods and services 12.2 18.7 25.2
Export of goods and services 25.8
In this modern era ICT is playing a significant role in the economic

growth specially in poverty reduction. In that context ICT is yet to form a strong
foundation in Bangladesh. Each year Brown University and World Economic
Forum (WEF) conducts survey with some indicators to review the e-Governance
status around the world. Brown University's seventh annual analysis (which
was published on July 24, 2007) of Table: 1.5 Rank Status 5
international e-Governance reflects Brown Year 2005 2006

University
that Bangladesh ranked 155 out of Ranking Rank 86 155
status
198 countries from 86 (last year
NRI ranking Year 2005 2006
ranking). The 'Network Readiness
Rank 100 118
Index (NRI) measures the
status
propensity for countries to exploit
the opportunities offered by information and communications technology. The
NRI shows that Bangladesh ranked 118 out of 140 countries which is mainly
based on three components: the environment for ICT offered by a given country
or community, the readiness of the communitys key stakeholders (individuals,
businesses, and governments) to use ICT and finally the usage of ICT amongst
these stakeholders.
4. The World Bank Report (http://devdata.worldbank.org/AAG/bgd_aag.pdf)

5. e-Government Study, Brown University
(http://www.brown.edu/Administration/News_Bureau/2006-07/06-007.html), Network Readiness
Index http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Networked_Readiness_Index
4
MDG and Bangladesh:
In the attainment of MDG Bangladesh has achieved noteworthy success. The

poverty reduction gap ratio has been decreased to 9% with a poverty reduction
rate of 1.23%. Progressing at this rate of the MDG goal #1, of halving the
number of people living on a daily income of less than a US$1 and the
proportion of people who suffer from hunger, will be meet on projected time.
Against the required target of 3.1% and 10.3% in primary and secondary
enrolment the country has already achieved 3.4% and 13.2% respectively. The
gender gap in primary and secondary level education has already been
eliminated. The current rates of progress in achieving Infant Mortality Rate (IMR)
and Child Mortality Rate (CMR) are -2.8% and -2.3% respectively which will
decrease the under-five mortality rate by at least two-thirds by 2015. The effort
in improving maternal health is not adequate. The spread and fatality of malaria
and tuberculosis have been decreased. Spread of HIV AIDS remains low.
Remarkable progress has been attained in ensuring safe drinking water and
sanitary latrines in urban areas. Among the indicators of goal# 8 access to
telephone, computer and internet is significant one. Telephone penetration
especially by way of cellular phone has increased substantially. But access to
computer and the internet still remain low especially in the rural areas.
5
1.2 Background:
The advent of information and communication technology (ICT) together with the
diffusion of the technological advances has resulted in the digital revolution and
the emergence of the Information age. The revolution has created an enormous
impact on social, political, and cultural livelihood of mass people which took the
whole world into a different era. Bangladesh is one of the developing countries
driving strongly for building the nation by entering into global frontier through
ICT. This creates a platform for interaction amongst the Government,
businesses and citizens and ensures easy accessibility of information to all
levels of the society.
The government of Bangladesh already realizes the priority of this sector

and had declared ICT a thrust sector in 1997 and had promised to invest
enough in this sector. It is widely believed that ICT carries enormous potential in
establishing technical and organizational innovations, to reduce costs and
change the quality and types of capital equipment, labor and products. If we
want to portray a picture of entrance in digital era of Bangladesh, the journey
started in the late 1990s. Gradually mobile phone captured the market
tremendously as well as brought drastic changes in socio-economic livelihood of
people. In the same way Bangladesh Government have also taken some
initiatives in ICT field and are successfully operating them. The Government has
already initiated e-Governance activities from a holistic perspective, more
comprehensive than before. Setting a citizen centric service delivery vision for all
the significant stakeholders is an important step towards that process. Horizon
scan is an integral part of the e-Governance vision setting and Governments
initiatives of preparing citizen charter for all agencies. This document is initiated
as a part of scrutinizing the ICT effectiveness and status as well as act as
baseline for vision setting with regard to e-Governance of the country.
To understand the ICT status of a country World Bank also explains that:
To put ICT to effective use, a country must be e-ready in terms of infrastructure,
the accessibility of ICT to the population at large, and the effect of the legal and
regulatory framework on ICT use. If the digital divide is to be narrowed, all of
these issues must be addressed in a coherent, achievable strategy that is tailored
to meet the local needs of particular countries6.
6 bridges.org, http://www.bridges.org/ereadiness
6
Horizon scan for e-readiness is generally defined as the degree to which a

society is prepared to participate in the digital economy with the underlying
concept that the digital economy can help to build a better society.
Regardless of a countrys level of development, readiness is assessed by

determining the relative standing of its society and its economy in the areas that
are most critical for its participation to the networked world. However, e-
Readiness can be a relative concept and it could be defined differently depending
on each countrys priorities and perspective 7.
Thus, it is evident that generally horizon scan assessment is absolutely

critical to help a countrys leaders measure and plan for ICT integration, focus
their efforts and identify areas where further attention is required. The
assessment is also expected to indicate pointers where future efforts are
challenged by both public and private initiatives. In this regard, the report
categorizes its thematic area into four contents. These are:
Citizens
Citizens expectations expectations
Infrastructure & Service Sector
Supporting policies
Human e- Infrastructure
ICT and human resources Governance & Service
Sector
resources
Supporting
policies
The purpose of the horizon scan report comprises the following area:
A. To assess the current state of development of a specific ICT and e-

governance, its present and potential use in the Government systems.
B. To assess the citizens expectation regarding e-governance which reflects

a participation approach in this report. This part of the report mainly
highlights the common problems of citizens and their recommendations
how ICT can help in this regard.
7. GeoSINC International, e-Readiness Guide, p.5
7
C. To build a coordination & network in the Government infrastructure to

strengthen the capacity of public sectors. Bangladesh as a country
already introduced the e-governance process or initiatives both in public
or private sector. In the public sector Government ministries have already
initiated ICT activities. But it is observed that there is no reflection of
coordination or networking among the activities of ministries. So, this
report will enable leveraging on the knowledge created and resources
available from completed/ongoing/planned e-governance initiatives of
various stakeholders.
D. To promote awareness of the need for action to increase e-readiness

throughout the country. This report is focused on to create attention on
where action is needed most to foster the e-governance system in
Bangladesh.
E. To identify and review the backlogs and problems that inhibits the e-
readiness and proposes solutions and recommendations to eliminate
obstacles and improve readiness.
F. To map out the interests and capabilities of the stakeholders to capture

the interests of various development partners with regard to e-governance
initiatives.
8
1.3 Methodology
The methodological approach focused on the collection of data from primary and
secondary sources, together with survey of different groups, interviews with key
informants and informal focus group sessions. The collection of data has been
focused in the following ways:
Research on the past and ongoing projects
Surveys to find the stake holders perspective
Focus Group Discussions (FGDs)
Key Informant Interviews (KII)
Consultations and workshops
Draft Reports on all the surveys
Final Consultation
The surveys have been conducted in the following areas:
1. Literature survey
2. Citizen e-readiness survey
3. Government employee e-readiness survey
4. NGOs/CSOs Survey regarding e-governance
5. Business community survey regarding e-governance
The surveys alluded to above a combination of methods. The citizens

expectations utilize a combination of cluster or area sampling with significant
elements of randomness. Citizen survey, the most important part has been
conducted to know the citizens perspective of e-governance in different area.
The questionnaire for citizen survey is designed to get the idea about how ready
the citizens are for e-governance and what are the citizens wants and needs in
terms of e-governance from the government. As the citizens reflection is one of
the prominent areas in this report the survey has conducted in two areas as
pilot study. After successful conduct of pilot survey the questionnaire has
reviewed for main survey. And finally the citizen survey has been conducted
9
prioritizing the areas Hill Tracks, Monga, Hawor, Char, coastal areas. The study
overall covered 11 Districts, namely, Dhaka, Chittagong, Barisal, Sylhet,
Rajshahi, Khulna, Rangamati, Kurigram, Sunamganj, Sirajganj, and
Narayanganj. The districts included around 700 citizens representing almost all
levels of the society, 44 small and medium scale business organizations, 10 local
business chambers from 10 Districts, 44 NGOs established mainly in the rural
part of the country, 22 Upazilla Nirbahi Officers, 11 Union Parishod (UNOs)
Chairman and 22 Members (including female members) from the same Union
Parishod as the Chairmen. The upazilla level has been identified so that people
interact more with the government officers. The 700 citizens included
stakeholders namely agro-farmers, poultry farmers, fishermen, labors,
Professionals, housewives, students, self-employed, job seekers, senior citizens
(above 60), disabled citizens, daily labours, the very poor (under the $1 income
margin), Teachers and Government employees.
In addition, a survey on ministries and divisions has been conducted with a

view to analyze the ICT infrastructure and connectivity status of that institution.
Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and Key Informant Interviews (KII) are the most
important parts of the methodologies. A number of FGD has been planned to be
held through out the whole period of horizon scan with all the stakeholders. At
the initial phase FGDs with some of the stakeholders have been conducted and
the recommendations provided by the different stakeholders added inputs to
this report.
Assessment Methodology:
The assessment of e-readiness, based on the review of information collected, is

undertaken through the brainstorming analysis which describes the
determinants of a communitys readiness for the networked world. Harvard
University Guide (HUG) prepared by the centre for International Development at
Harvard University, a diagnostic tool that is widely used around the world to
assess a communitys e-readiness is also reviewed in this report. The Harvard
University Guide follows the indicators for e-readiness: network society, network
access, networked learning, networked economy and networked government.
This Horizon scan report mainly postulates categories:Citizens expectations,
supporting policies, infrastructure and connectivity, Human resources
and a set of indicators which suggest the communitys actual state of readiness
10
specifically information structure, internet availability, internet affordability,

digital content, network speed and quality, hardware and software, service and
support, workforce access, e-commerce and e-learning.
The assessment methodology has to be modified from the Harvard

University Guide to the assessment goals and purposes in our contextual
perspectives. Our purpose is to examine the countrys status and the capacity
for e-readiness as it relates to the development goals and priorities. This report
enables different stakeholders to analyze the status of Bangladesh in terms of
present situation regarding ICT implications, its hindrance and exploration in
the near future. The data analysis and presentation were organized to reflect the
urban and rural situation as well as the influence of economic, social and
demographic factors on e-readiness.
The horizon scan report will act as a catalyst in the terms of e-governance
to all stakeholders as for example research institutions, government sector,
private sector, international or national level institutions. As the report will be
defined as a guideline for reaching the goal of e-governance the report will be
updated at a regular interval of its publication. In fact, the information
assembled in the horizon scan report would be important for the design of any
development gateway.
11
1.4 Scope
The horizon scan report of Access to Information Programme (A2I) was an

attempt to represent a comprehensive picture of the current ICT status of
Bangladesh. In doing so, horizontal width of this report got broaden. The scope
of this report basically was determined within the arena of citizens expectations,
infrastructure, human resource and existing policies related to information and
communication technology of the country.
To collect the primary data the conducted survey covered up to the root
level of countrys administrative structure as well as to the last level of
elected representatives meaning Union Parishad. In midst the district
level wasnt being included, although six divisional cities have been
covered up.
To represent the infrastructure, attempts were enlarged to cover up all

the stake holders related to ICT, through various focal group discussions,
bilateral meetings and key person interviews with the various govt.
ministries, Banks, Financial institutions, several non govt. institutions
and service providers associations.
To show the policies and regulations periphery the report extended its
outlook up to the ICT, MDG PRS etc. policies and also related acts and
regulations that are reflections regarding ICT.
The report also looked upon the stakeholders of ICT in the country. As
ICT is a cross cutting issue, the list of stakeholders seemed to be endless.
The report covered some important stakeholders like Banks, Mobile
content developers, ISP associations, connectivity providers etc. The
report also tried to look upon the opportunities for human resource
development through academy, government and other institutional
training capacity buildup.
12
1.5 Limitations
The horizon scan report of Access to Information (A2I) Programme was an effort
to let the policy makers to have a comprehensive understanding and
visualization of current ICT status of the country. But the Report has various
constrains to produce its best output. The limitations of this report have shown
below.
To represent the citizens expectations in this report, a citizen survey was

conducted around 800 people of 11 districts. In a country of one fifty
million people he sample size might not reflect the authentic picture but
as a pilot study it was a balanced survey with prior consideration of all
exceptions.
Many of the analysis and presentations of this report were based on

secondary data which might not reflect same outcome as like based on
primary data. Most important thing is data are unavailable and not
updated time to time which limits our level of reliance. Besides that, in
some cases data vary from source to source.
Lack of adequate response is one of the limitations which in some extent

limit the real status of any topic.
The Human Resource part of this report suffers slightly greater

limitations than other parts as there is no organized documents available
on HR issues particularly IT academics. No accurate facts and figures of
IT graduates, post graduates, diplomas and certified professionals from
various training institutes has been showed in this report.
One of the basic philosophies behind preparing this report was that it
would be a reflection of intentions and showed ways of all stakeholders.
Although most of the issues on this report have been concluded on the
basis of Focal Group Discussion (FGD), some parts remain out of which
renders the report under limitations in some arena.
13
Citizens are
an important element of governance
and they form the primary
stakeholder in designing an e-
Governance model. Reflection of
common peoples thoughts in
Governance is the main demand of a
true democracy. To make e-
Governance sustainable and
effective it is the best to conceive the
idea and thought of the marginal
and general people in the rural and
CITIZENS EXPECTATIONS
urban areas.
14
CHAPTER 2: CITIZENS EXPECTATIONS
The term e-Governance is mainly concerned with governance rather than the
electronic mode of providing it. Therefore it is of great importance to understand
the essential services to citizens and later select ways of providing with better
electronic means. This survey also focused on the same arena and accordingly
relevant questionnaires were prepared. The survey was designed to cover
different classes of society & citizens and the technicality was least emphasized.
Citizens are an important element of governance and they form the

primary stakeholder in designing an e-Governance model. Reflection of common
peoples thoughts in Governance is the main demand of a true democracy. To
make e-Governance sustainable and effective it is the best to conceive the idea
and thought of the marginal and general people in the rural and urban areas.
The citizen survey is the most important component of the horizon scan
report. Decisions were reached to cover the stakeholders from every available
level of the society using first hand data collection and determine the state to
implement e-Governance in Bangladesh. Though initially planned, however due
to time limits not all stakeholders could be questioned upon.
The study overall covered 11 Districts, namely, Dhaka, Chittagong,

Barisal, Sylhet, Rajshahi, Khulna, Rangamati, Kurigram, Sunamganj,
Sirajganj, and Narayanganj.
The districts included around 700 citizens representing almost all levels
of the society, 44 small and medium scale business organizations, 10
local business chambers from 10 Districts, 44 NGOs established mainly
in the rural part of the country, 22 Upazilla Nirbahi Officers, 11 Union
Parishod (UNOs) Chairman and 22 Members (including female members)
from the same Union Parishod as the Chairmen.
The 700 citizens included stakeholders namely agro-farmers, poultry
farmers, fishermen, labors, professionals, housewives, students, self-
employed, job seekers, Senior Citizens (above 60), disabled citizens, daily
labours, the very poor (under the $1 income margin), teachers and
Government employees. The detail of citizen survey report is attached
Annex-I.
15
The readiness of e-Governance in Bangladesh would not be viable if the needs of

the citizens could not be ascertained. The survey was very covert with regard to
the technicalities of ICT and very conspicuous about identifying the services
required. The survey seeks to:
1. Assess the status of the existing ICT infrastructure
2. Identify the services that citizens seek most
3. Identify the obstacles in availing these services
4. Identify ways by which they could be overcome using the existing ICT
infrastructure or introducing new technology
5. Identify the most preferred channel for e-Governance
The division of the categories and the regions were first selected and was
vetted by a sub-committee. The clustering of the regions was done on the basis
of the homogeneity of the challenges they usually face. The first five districts
were chosen as they are also the major Divisions of the country namely, Dhaka,
Chittagong, Rajshahi, Sylhet and Barisal. Khulna is not enlisted in the category
as it is choosen for Monga area. The other districts were chosen due to their
variation in facing natural disaster and obstacles throughout the year. Kurigram
was selected dut to its Monga every year, Sunamganj was selected due to its
geographical property of being the biggest swamp area, Sirajgonj was chosen for
being a great Char area of the country, Rangamati was chosen as one of the
districts of Chittagong Hill Tracts area, Khulna was chosen as in the coastal
area and battered every year by cyclone. Narayanganj was chosen as one of the
close districts from the capital to observe the, differences in services mere 21
kilometers. As it is a pilot study, the sample size was determined based on
previous experience.
After the questionnaire was prepared, the surveyors were selected and
trained for guiding the collection of data. A pilot survey was then carried out in
Savar and Doha of Greater Dhaka to get the feel how people responded. Some of
the questionnaires were then modified on the basis of problem identification
during pilot survey. The survey was done through statistical analysis for the
closed ended answers and summarizing the open ended answers.
16
The part citizen expectations are divided into two main categories.
(1) An overview of what the different categories of citizens needs are and
what are the problems they are facing in achieving these needs, also the
recommendations provided by the citizens to solve these problems through
ICT.
(2) An overview of ICT infrastructure in surveyed areas.
2.1 An overview of Citizens Needs, problems and their

recommendations
Different needs were identified from the different categories of the citizens that
reflected from the answers during the survey. They have spoken on the
obstacles they face in achieving their needs and have made some
recommendations to avail them.
General Problems and Demands of the Citizens:
a) Inadequate health care: Health care problem is prioritized and crucial in

Bangladesh. Inadequate doctors & nurses and lack of facilities and
infrastructure are common in the rural areas. Sometimes people are deprived of
free medicine from government because of bureaucratic complicacy &
corruption.
b) Wide Spread Corruption: Corruption is the main barrier for the economic
growth of the country. Bribery is the most used form to obtain government
services. Lack of accountability & transparency among the government officials
make them insincere about responsibilities. Lack of transparency also inspires
corruption. All surveyed people depicted it as main hurdle to provide good
governance. They think ensuring accountability and transparency can really
change the scenario.
c) Lack of education: Access to education is still a great problem in

Bangladesh. Though the government has taken numerous steps to increase
literacy rate, the number of high schools, colleges and universities are
comparatively limited. Lack of teachers and their quality of teacher is a prime
17
concern for the guardians. A difference in quality of education between urban

and rural area has been observed. Insufficient teaching materials in rural areas
are one of the reasons of rising of illiteracy in the children.
d) Insufficient Bank Loan: Investment capital is a major concern in economic

growth. Bank loan is a good source for providing capital. Agriculture loan is a
primary need for farmers; though some banks provide loan on other categories
like poultry firm loan and dairy firm loan etc. But it is not sufficient for marginal
people. The service should be expanded and easily allowed to the common
people. Massive people have voiced to make the loan refund process easy
avoiding undesired hassles.
e) Lack of Attention in Complain Centre: There is a complain centre in many

government departments but general people do not get effective and rapid
responses to their respective complains and sometimes the complain remains
unattended.
f) In Adequate Social Safety: Majority of the people of this country are still
beyond reach of the social safety. Government took some initiatives and
introduced old age allowance and widow allowance. This was supposed to have
great impact on the poor and helpless people. But the service are still very much
inadequate and limited.
g) Law and Order: Extortion is still a major problem to establish a new business
or operating a business in the country. Though there is a common perception
that it is city centric problem but the survey has depicted that it is also a major
problem in rural areas. Kidnapping and murdering is frequent in Bangladesh.
Violating law and order in rural areas generally occurs in the case of property &
land.
h) Middleman Ship: Price hike is the hottest topic in Bangladesh. The producer
is exempted from good sale price and the consumer forcibly pays excess value
for the purchased goods. The general people believe middleman-ship is to be
blamed.
i) Hassle In Getting Required Service: Government provides many services to

the citizen. But people are not satisfied with the way the service is provided.
They have to go through huge botheration to access these services. The surveyed
18
people have expressed their deep concern to reduce the hassle to get a loan
service.
j) Lack of Information: Government offers many services to its citizen but

common people are not aware of them. People do not know how to get the help
from government when they face a problem. People are not even aware about
their rights. Access to information is very much limited and they are not even
aware of the availability of information.
k) High Price of Inputs and Raw Materials: High raw material costs are
hampering the social business. Especially the poor and marginal people are
affected by this. Reduced supply of raw materials also plays a role in increasing
the price of finished goods.
l) Lack of National Minimum Wage Policy: Right to receive fair minimum wage
is one of the human right for all working personnel at workplaces. It is
important to note that the Millennium Development Goal or poverty reduction
strategy of Bangladesh would not succeed without implementing minimum wage
standard for the workers. But the reality is that there is no national minimum
wage in Bangladesh yet. In Bangladesh the majority of the women workers are
deprived from this right for various reasons such as the weakness of relevant
rules/acts and lack of enforcement, negative attitude of the employers to violate
the rules/acts, lack of awareness among women workers about this special
right.
m) Insufficient Utility Services & High Cost: Mass people are not happy with
the supply & quality of utility service. People face many difficulties to receive
utility service (i.e. electricity connection, water, gas etc.). High utility price is
also a common problem.
Some Specific Problems:
a) Disability Unfriendly Environment: Physically or mentally challenged

people comprise a significant part of the society. Disable people are significant
part of the society. Government has taken some initiatives to facilitate their
access to all facets of everyday life. But the real scenario is not very pleasant.
19
Organizations like Ministry of Social Welfare and Bangladesh Organization for

Disabled Advancement (BODA) who are working for the disable people are not
fully aware of the infrastructural requirements like separate rooms of the
ground floor, easy movement of the wheelchair etc while implementing any
project.
b) Lack of Information While Deep Sea Fishing: Every year Bangladesh is

struggling with many natural calamities like cyclone, tornado which ultimately
takes lives from the coastal belt. Many fishermen go for deep sea fishing without
any precautionary measures during bad weather and often they are not
concerned about the precautions at all. Improved mechanism is yet to develop
in this area for providing adequate information about the precautionary
measures and of bad weather. The lack of information in deep sea fishing is a
serious concern. Wireless technology for that specific area can be used to help
them in crises moment.
Recommendations of citizens:
The surveyed citizens not only conveyed their problems but also identified their
solutions. Most of the people think their access to information is low due to both
lack of both infrastructure and ability. People could have got better solutions of
various problems if information were available to them. Although departmental
complain and investigation procedures are available but are of no use. For this
reason the people recommended the formation of a national complain center to
properly address those problems. In particular cases, new policies should be
formed and repeatedly reviewed. Still any national minimum wage policy has not
been planned to formulated to reduce the sufferings of labors and farmers. It
should immediately be addressed to redeem marginal people from deprivation of
basic necessities. To reduce the miseries of mass people in getting better
services bribery and irregularities must be removed. This can only be achieved
through a transparent, accountable and efficient administration. It should be
utmost priority of the Government to ensure transparency and to create
accountability in all layers of administration.
20
Recommendations provided by the citizens to solve these

problems through ICT
a) Provide Information Through Village Info Centers: Access to information

is very much limited in our society. The situation in the villages is worse than
that in the city. Village information centres can be a solution to provide
necessary information.
b) Establish Online Mobile Phone Based Complaint Centre: Use of Internet is

no more a dream in Bangladesh it is a reality. In the recent time the usage of
mobile phone is increasing day by day. So mobile phone can be used as a strong
tool to provide service to the mass people.
C) Arrange More TV Programs on Social and Economic Development issues:

Television is the most popular media of transmitting information in Bangladesh.
41% of people watch television. So television should be used to increase
awareness and disseminate information dissemination. Rural people watch BTV
as it is the only terrestrial channel in Bangladesh, so the programs should focus
more on the different development programs like agricultural program, health
care, education, gender issue etc.
d) Provide Weather Forecast Through Mobile Phone: Mobile phone is used

widely among the citizens. It can be used to broadcast weather forecast in times
of national emergency.
e) Promote Labor Policies and Laws in Mass Communication Channels: Most

of the day laborers are not aware about their rights due to illiteracy. Radio and
television can be used to inform and aware them about their rights.
f) Submission of Utility Bills through SMS: Payment of utility bill is a hassle

and time consuming for general people. It wastes important working hours.
Broader ICT delivery channels, like SMS, web etc can be used to pay the utility
bills.
g) Provide Website, E-Mail and Phone Based Government Services: Different

countries around the world provide the services through websites and
telephones. The successful story in SSC and HSC result in Bangladesh are
21
remarkable initiative in this section. Now anyone can get his/her SSC/HSC
result through SMS.
h) Internet which Could Decrease the Educational Expense: Internet can be

used to deliver education to every corner of the country. Distance learning
should be strengthened as our infrastructure for formal education is still lacking
in resources.
i) Make Disability-Friendly software with steps from the Government:

Disability issue is still underestimated in our country. Government should take
some steps so that other organization can be influenced from this. In this
regard, Government can develop read out software to teach the blind people.
2.2 An overview of ICT infrastructure in surveyed areas
Mobile Telephones:
Mobile phone network is spread all

over the country and it has already 9%
reached in every social stratum. The 1%

Personal
40% Prof f esional
survey was run on 700 citizens from 25%
Business
11 districts. It has been found that Education
Others
(81%) people use mobile phone in
25%
various purposes and 55.55% have
their own mobile set. Fig 2 1: usages of Mobile Phone (on the basis of
Expenditure)
Most people use mobile phone in

their personal affairs which is why 9%
21%
survey result shows that 41% of
mobile bills incurred on personal Less than 50 paisa
31% 50 Paisa to 1 Taka

issues. Now people consider mobile 1 Taka
More than 1 Taka
phone as a means to maintain social
relationships with their friends and 39%
family members.
Fig 2.2: Expected Call rate of Mobile Phone
22
But the largest portions of participants are not satisfied with the call rate of
mobile Phone. Only 23% participants think that the call rate is normal but the
majority portion give the opinion to decrease the call rate below 50paisa.
Computer Usage
Computer is not very popular among the citizen. But people at least know about
computer. Among the surveyed people 78% dont use computer. Out of 22%
computer users, only 10% have
personal computers and 12% 5%
6%
Compose
use computers in cyber cafs, 29%
Gaming
17% Entertainment
educational institutions, offices
Accounting
etc. A large number of Education
11% Business
Computers are mainly used in 14%
Others
18%
big cities like Dhaka, and
Chittagong. 75% users use it for
compose or writing purpose. Fig 2.3: Use of Computer in Different Purposes
Beside this they entertain
themselves by listening to song, watching movies, TV etc. Students use
computers to complete different study related paperwork. 37% users play
computers games. Though the use of computer is now increasing all over the
country but people are not satisfied with the price. 69% participants think that,
for locally assembled (clone) Personal Computers (PC) the price should be
between TK 13000/-TK 15000/- range.
Use of the Internet
The scenario of using internet is not very pleasing but the awareness is
increasing among the users. In this survey only 11% people disclosed that they
use the internet. Some of them have own internet connectivity while others use
cyber cafs, offices, business firms for internet connectivity. Many internet users
use internet through mobile phones. But most of the participants say that
internet is not that much available and quite expensive.
23
Television
Survey result shows that among

the mass media channel 5%
11%
Television is the most popular. 25%
News
Drama
86% participants watch TV. Talk Show
18% Song & Dance
Among the private and public Ent ert ainment
Agricult ural
channels Bangladesh television 20% Ot hers
(BTV) is the most popular 14%

7%
channel especially in rural areas.

Interestingly, People ranked the
news as their most favorite TV Fig 2.4: Status of Different TV Programs
program followed by drama

serials.
Radio
From survey it is found that radio is less famous than the TV in Bangladesh.
Only 29% participants listen to radio and most of them hear Bangladesh Betar.
Among other programs broadcasted from Radio, radio news is just as popular as
TV news. Beside this, weather and agricultural programs are also popular. In
Dhaka and Chittagong private radio channels are becoming popular because of
FM radio. Young generations are now highly attracted to FM radio programs. FM
radio is now able to create this fascination among them because of their easy
accessibility through mobile phones. It has been found from the survey that the
high rate of radio listeners in Rangamati due to the lack of other entertainment
channels.
24
The policy and legislative framework

is the most important and highly
weighted assessment category
specially for pushing up the ICT sector
of Bangladesh.
SUPPORTING POLICIES
25
CHAPTER 3: SUPPORTING POLICIES

Policy, Legislation, Regulations, Operations
In Bangladesh the IT has been declared as the thrust sector and the
Government and the private sector have committed themselves to collaborate
actively with a view to improve the quality of life of its people and acquire the
necessary capability to meet the challenges of rapidly growing demands of the
information age.1 Being as a member of United Nations Bangladesh has also
committed to work in the World Summit on Information Society (WSIS)
declarations and plan of action. Based on internationally agreed development
goals, including those in the Millennium Declaration many laws and regulations
have been formulated or modified for guiding the development of information
and communication sector of Bangladesh. Several important pieces of legislation
have been enacted by or tabled in the legislature. However, other very important
legal initiatives have not yet been placed on the legislative agenda nor have they
been the subject of public discourse and debate.
The policy and legislative framework is the most important and highly
weighted assessment category specially for pushing up the ICT sector of
Bangladesh. The following issues for consideration in formulating the legislative
framework are:
Extent of access to information

Competitive framework
Impact of fiscal policy on national economy
Private sector investment
Investment promotion
Human resources development
Implementation strategy
1 e-readiness and Need Assessment Report by Country Gateway, Network Policy, page-26
26
ICT in PRS
In PRS, ICT is seen as an indispensable tool in the fight against poverty and ICT
has the potential to provide the nation with an unprecedented opportunity to
meet vital development goals such as poverty reduction, basic healthcare and
education far more effectively than ever thought humanly possible. It is also said
in the poverty reduction strategy to convert the vast population into human
resources trained in ICT-both in rural and urban areas. The relevance of ICT to
the goal of accelerated poverty reduction has been seen in the following three
folds:
Firstly, ICT as an employment frontier
Secondly, ICT as a facilitator for strengthening the role of the poor in the
market and
Lastly, ICT as a bridge reducing the distance between the citizenship
including the poor and the state.
Some specific strategic goals and agendas have been identified for ICT in PRS.
Strategic Goal 1: First strategic goal is identified as development of ICT. To

achieve the goal two strategies have been identified; one is to develop some ICT
some appropriate policy and other is to expend infrastructure facilities of the
ICT sector.
Present status of goal 1: To achieve the goal at the policy level, a number of
measures have been taken including:
Formulation of a National ICT Policy;
Adoption of e-Governance Initiatives in selected areas;
Formation of a National Task Force on ICT and Biotechnology;
Amendment of the Copyright Act 2000; and
Legislation of the ICT Act.
Strategic Goal 2: To invest in Human resources development for ICT: To

achieve the second goal the most priority sector is identified as the development
of HR as service provider.
Present status of goal 2: With a view to develop an information society and

creating a Hi-Tech park, the Government recognizes that it is essential to
27
develop human resources in ICT. Accordingly, it has initiated a number of

interventions, of which the following interventions have already been taken:
standard computer training courses at the Divisional Headquarters have been
introduced, a programme for providing special allocation of funds to the
universities for conducting a one-year Postgraduate Diploma Course in ICT has
been introduced, registration and ranking of Private ICT Training Institutes has
been initiated, a National ICT Certification Examination following a standardized
course curriculum has been introduced, Computer-aided Learning Packages for
students of different levels have been developed, employment of the youth
through ICT Training and Enabled Service (ITES) has been introduced, an ICT
Business Promotion Council has been established to oversee the development of
IT industries in Bangladesh. An institute called the Bangladesh-Korea Institute
of ICT has been set up; a National ICT Internship Programmes have been
launched, and ICT Training Institutes in 15 of the greater districts will be set
up.
As a step toward setting up a Hi-Tech park and encouraging start-up
companies in software and ITES development and export, the Government has
set up an ICT Incubator at the heart of Dhaka City, which has been in operation
since November 2002. The Incubator Centre has been provided with free
internet connection and enjoys a rent subsidy. At present, many software
related companies have been using these facilities.
The Government has been working for establishing a 232-acre Hi-Tech

park at Kaliakoir, 40 km north of Dhaka City. The land for the project has
already been handed over to MOSICT. This park will 121 be used for software
and ICT-enabled service industries, PCB (electronics and printed circuit-board)-
related equipment and products, telecommunications, hardware assembly/
component/VLSI design and manufacturing, opto-electronic equipment, bio-
technology and related linkage industries. The Park will include a hi-tech
institution to provide technical support and to conduct R&D activities. The Park
is expected to promote and facilitate ICT and other hi-tech industries for
development and business activities and is likely to play a significant role in
Bangladeshs endeavors for poverty alleviation.
Strategic Goal 3: To increase access the disadvantageous groups to ICT.

To meet the goal promotion of e-commerce and awareness and ICT facilities for
the disadvantage groups.
28
Present status of goal 3: The Government believes that development of an

institutional framework for providing the poor with access to computer facilities
is essential for the development of human resources and the creation of an
information society. Accordingly, the Government has initiated a number of
projects to strengthen the Bangladesh Computer Council.
The Ministry of Science and Information & Communication Technology

(MOSICT) has been planning to improve efficiency, productivity, and quality of
education by introducing ICT at various levels. In this context, several initiatives
have already been taken and some are underway, such as:
Assistance to secondary schools for introducing computer courses;

Introduction of computer training and internet facilities for rural secondary
and higher Secondary institutions;
Development of SSC (ICT) and HSC (ICT) curriculum in schools and colleges in
64 Districts;
Establishment of a world class research institute as a Centre of Excellence;
Introduction of Olympiad competitions for primary, secondary and university
levels in Science and ICT; and
Establishment of six IT training institutions, one in each divisional
headquarters.
Recognizing the importance of awareness among the students about

computers and information technology, a public-sector project has been
providing assistance to NGO secondary schools through distribution of
computer hardware, software and peripherals for labs and organizing training
for teachers. The Government has also planned a new project to provide
computer training and internet facilities across the country and to establish a
local cyber centre by providing internet facilities in selected institutions. Another
new programme, as mentioned above, for introducing SSC (ICT) and HSC (ICT)
curriculum in 128 schools and colleges in 64 districts is underway. 1 school and
1 college in each district will be provided with complete lab and internet
facilities. The teachers of those schools and colleges will also be trained.
With a view to making internet facilities available to the poor at a low cost
and to bring about drastic changes in their livelihoods by introducing this
29
modern technology in all sectors of the economy, the Government has initiated a
number of projects and programmes.
The Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) has been made accessible to the
private sector to facilitate internet expansion at a low cost. The Government is
also exploring the possibility of establishing an alternate broadband network for
large-scale data and voice transmission. BTRC has conducted a study in this
respect through independent consultants and their recommendations are being
reviewed.
The Government believes that the expansion of internet facilities to the

rural areas largely depends on the availability of fibre-optic links. Accordingly,
fibre-optic links have already been established in most cities (50 out of 64
districts). Moreover, BTTB has been working to connect Bangladesh by the year
2005 with the Information Superhighway through a submarine fibre-optic cable
project with the landing site at Chittagong. A nationwide internet backbone will
be established based on the fibre-optic submarine cable.
Due to deregulation of the Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) policy by

the Government in February 2000, the number of ISPs has increased, with
individual bandwidths ranging from 128 kilobytes per second to 8 megabytes
per second, offering broadband internet services through DSL/HDSL modems.
All 64 districts have been brought under internet coverage by BTTB through
dial-up connections.
Strategic Goal 4: To promote use of ICT. To achieve the goal ensuring good
governance and disaster management and to increase capacity using of ICT.
Present status of goal 4: Expanding Telecommunication Facilities
Tele-density boosts economic growth and an easy access to telecommunication

facilities has been the key to success for any ICT initiative for the poor. The
telecom sector was liberalized for private investment in the early 1990s,
resulting in appreciable growth in mobile telephone usage in the country.
Among the measures taken and proposed, some important ones are:
Installation and expansion of a digital telephone network in urban and rural
areas;
30
Development of interconnection facilities between the Bangladesh Telephone

and Telegraph Board (BTTB) and other telecom operators;
Expansion of the internet and data network throughout Bangladesh; and
Installation of a mobile telephone service by BTTB.
Appropriate steps have been taken to introduce new services like data
communication and countrywide digital networks connecting all districts. BTTB
is working to bring 64 districts under a digital network and a National Digital
Data Network (DDN) has been implemented, which will integrate the whole
country under a single digital network.
Establishment of the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory

Commission (BTRC) has been encouraging private sector participation in fixed
telecom-services and thereby increasing tele-density and tele-access in the
country. BTRC has authorized fixed-line telephone services (PSTN) in four
regions of the country through the private sector and the aim is to add 1.2
million fixed phones in 2 to 3 years. BTRC has made it mandatory to deploy 5
percent of the telephones in rural areas under PSTN. It will allow wireless local-
loop (WLL) technology in remote areas to provide access at a low cost. Besides
encouraging private participation in the sector, the Government recognizes the
need for further reforms in BTTB and accordingly has been infusing a corporate
culture into the BTTB management through various institutional reforms so that
it can assume greater and expanding roles to meet present and future demand.
These are the main strategic issues of growth of ICT in PRS. Although
some challenges have been mentioned for reaping the potential such as:
incomplete connectivity, weak development of application areas such as
integrating the poor to the market, in hardware trouble shooting in e-governance
etc and finally in the pronounced lack of quality and system perspective in ICT
training. A related challenge is the undertaking of a comprehensive initiative to
enable rapid acquisition of functional proficiency in English language.
Bangladesh Government has been taken many important initiatives or actions to
achieve the goals set in Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS).
31
ICT in MDG
The interaction ICTs-development took a new approach as of the

adoption by the UN of "Millennium Development Goals" (MDGs) in the year
2000, within the framework of the Millennium Summit. One of the recurrent
problems that reverberate on the possibilities of investing in ICTs as
instruments for the fulfillment of MDGs is that which refers to the lack of
financing mechanisms for such investments, either at private, public or private-
public level; or also to the secondary role ICTs are allocated by governments
within public programmes or services.
The relationship ICTs-development is not generally placed in doubt, the

existence of proposals that, from a critical point of view, suggest a revision with
regards to the current relevance of MDGs and their idyllic relationship with
ICTs, cannot be avoided. In these cases, it is mainly claimed that such goals
arise from a hierarchical and paternalist vision of Northern countries towards
the South, which lack the necessary flexibility to face the changes experienced
by Southern societies and fail to adequately address their specific realities.
In MDG under the Goal 8 Develop A Global Partnership For

Development target 18 is related to ICT. The target is expressed in the following
way: In co-operation with the private sector, make available the benefits of new
technologies, especially information and communication. For achieving this target
three indicators have been selected:
Indicator 46: Telephone lines and cellular subscribers per 100 population
Indicator 47: Personal computers in use per 100 population
Indicator 48: Internet users per 100 population.
However, in the context of Bangladesh the indicators which have been set in
MDG may vary from other countries. Some alternative indicators may provide
better picture in terms of accessibility to the ICTs which have to intervene.
32
ICT Policy:
For the development of ICT sector within the framework of overall national
development, the Government has approved the National ICT Policy in October
2002. The Vision of this Policy aims at building an ICT-driven nation comprising
of knowledge-based society by the year 2006. The ICT policy gives prioritization
on ICT infrastructure, capacity building, research and development in ICT, ICT
industry, E-Commerce, e-Governance, data security, software copyright
provisions, telemedicine system network, development of health portal and
online booking and ticketing services for all private and public transport
companies. In order to make best utilization of ICT and exploit its immense
potential in the economic, social, commercial and scientific fields a National ICT
Task Force has formed with Honorable Prime Minister as its Chairman. As its
implementing agency Support to ICT task Force Programme has been
undertaken under the Planning Division. The Ministry of Science and
Information & Communication Technology (MOSICT) and BCC is stated to act as
coping with the present need and future requirement of ICT.
The ICT policy states that,
A country wide ICT infrastructure will be developed to ensure access to

information by every citizen to facilitate empowerment of people and enhance
democratic values and norms for sustainable economic development by using the
infrastructure for human resources development, governance-commerce, banking
public utility services and all sorts of on-line enabled services.2
As the demand for skilled manpower in ICT is growing worldwide, the

country needs to produce a large number of ICT professionals. The ICT policy
gives priotization to strengthen the ICT education and offered many related
courses in educational institutions. To ensure capacity building of the nation
appropriate ICT infrastructure to be established immediately in public and
private sector.
2. National ICT policy (http://www.sd npbd.org/sdi/issues/IT-computer/itpolicy-bd-2002.htm)
33
The policy emphasizes to establish and extend internet facility up to

upazilla levels. Cyber kiosks will be set up in all post offices, union and upazilla
complex and private sector participation will be encouraged to set up these
facilities. Solar power is also encouraged especially in accessible areas where
use of ICT is constrained due to lack of electricity.
Research and development in ICT will focus on need based fundamental

and applied research contributing to the improvement of quality and efficiency
of the application to our ICT industry. Bangladesh Computer Council is
designated to encourage ICT R & D activities carried out by the public and
private sector organizations. A central online databank for scientific and
technological information is underway which can be accessed by educational
institutions and others R & D organizations. Bangla text processing, Bangla
voice recognition, translation and synthesis are stated to intensify R& D efforts.
The Policy also highlighted the local software industry, hardware industry
and service industry and promotes business in electronic form. It is also stated
that the Government will introduce and promote ICT based services like G2G
(Government to Government), G2E (Government to Employee), G2C
(Government to customer) etc.
The ICT policy also incorporates the ICT issues in health care system,
agriculture, social welfare, transportation, tourism, environment, judiciary,
regional and international cooperation to introduce an ICT driven society.
The policy also states that Government expenditure in ICT has to be

allocated to at least 2% of ADP by 2006. It is also briefed that to apply ICT in
production, trade and services in different ministries, divisions departments and
all autonomous sectors will create a new budget provision for ICT. The ministry
of Finance is the central authority to circulate the new initiatives and to take
action to forward this process. Different ministries of Bangladesh Government
needs to be better informed.
Digital Signature:
Digital signature is the move from paper-based systems to e-filing systems. It

substitutes the hand-written signatures with electronic authentication. The legal
34
issues of digital signature have been included in ICT Act which have been
enacted in October, 2006. Steps needs to be taken to implement the act. The law
also emphasizes for electronic documentation which ultimately clear the path of
implementation of e-Governance.
Telecommunication:
After liberalizing the telecommunication sector in 1997, Bangladesh has been

achieving substantial growth in this industry. Subsequently in 1998 the
Telecommunication Policy and in 2001 Telecommunication Act were formulated.
Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) was created to
handle the regulatory issues of this industry. Prior liberalization the state owned
BTTB were dominating the land phone industry. Tele-density of the country
prior to liberalization was about 0.4 telephones for every 100 persons. After
liberalizing telecom industry has experienced a tremendous growth rate.
Currently sixteen national and local PSTN operators along with BTTB are
engaged in expanding land and fixed phone connectivity. Both wire and wireless
technologies are being leverages for these purposes.
As of today there are six cellular operators of which one is owned by state
and others are private. These cellular operators have completely leveraged the
prior market situation. Now the tele density is almost 23.3% which was
considered impossible dream when the Telecommunication act was formulated
in 2001.
The Telecommunication Policy targeted, four percent of people would

become under tele-coverage within 2010 which was achieved in 2006. Policy
also stated that the international gateway will be managed by government till
2010. But tremendous growth rate of this industry exceeded the target in 2006
and has pushed government to issue license of international gateway (IGW) and
interconnection exchange (ICX) to the private sector.
Broadband:
The term Broadband is now commonly used to represent/mean fast data

communication which replaces conventional dial-up technologies. The
introduction of the Submarine cable SEA-ME-WE4 is an important milestone in
promoting the growth of Broadband. A draft Broadband policy have been
35
proposed identifying short, mid and ling term goals which is designed following
the millennium development goals.
Local Content:
Local Content is one of the important ingredients to interplay with e-

Governance. All government websites will have content in both Bangla and
English. Development of local capacity for the creation and distribution of
software in Bangla as well as content that is relevant to different segments of
population, including the non-literate, persons with disabilities, disadvantaged
and vulnerable groups will be encouraged.
Science and Technology:
The need for faster technological development is increasingly felt in Bangladesh.

Development plans of Bangladesh have emphasized science and technological
research to develop technologies through adoption of imported technology as
well as development of indigenous technologies. As the country is heavily
dependent on imported technologies, proper planning is required for its effective
transfer through acquisition, assimilation and adoption. A National Science and
Technology Policy has been formulated and adopted by the Government in 1986.
With a view of ensuring that policy formulation in science and technology and
their cultivation and application in various sectors will proceed in a coordinated
manner, the Government of Bangladesh constituted a centrally institutionalized
mechanism called the National Committee on Science and technology (NCST).
This policy has laid down the directions for Science and technology activities
and research, institutional and manpower development, dissemination and
documentation facilities.
Intellectual Property Rights (Copyright) Law:
To help the ICT sector flourish in the country, there is a need for an effective
legal framework. Timely and suitable legal reforms can create an ICT-friendly
legal environment. Such an environment will help this sector grow by attracting
investment. Bangladesh Government passed the copyright legislation, called
Copyright Law 2000 which is expected to accelerate the development of IT
industries and boost the economic status of the country. The law is intended to
36
help writers, artists, filmmakers, musicians, producers, publishers and

computer software companies to protect their copyrights.
Although the legislation is being heralded as a positive step forward,

computer programmers and software developers in the country believe that the
law does not go far enough. According to them, the law does not prohibit songs,
writing or computer programs from being reproduced without permission for
non-commercial purposes. The Bangladesh government, however, sees this law
as being in line with the conventions of the World Trade Organization.
Recommendations from consultation:
As evidenced in the past, few good policies (like the successful Bangladesh Drug
Policy, RMG Back-to-Back LC, etc) can truly accelerate the pace of economic
development in Bangladesh. The follow up activities of this report (half-yearly
review) will also bring the needed policies to support the e-Governance Vision
and Strategies. Policy experts recommended for reviewing The ICT and
Telecommunication policy. ICT policy had drafted in 1999 and it is approved in
2002. As the same way while drafting the telecommunication policy, the mobile
penetration rate of that period and the present rate have huge difference. So the
statement of that policy needs revision and new directive measures have to be
focused in that act according to the present status of ICT.
Governing authority in ICT sector:
There are governing authorities in ICT sector which deals with the ICT
application, adoption and other relating activities in the country.
Ministry of Science and Information & Communication Technology

(MOSICT):
Ministry of Science and Technology has been renamed on April 2002 as

"Ministry of Science and Information and Communication Technology. The
Ministry of Science and Information & Communication Technology, Government
of Bangladesh is promoting Science and Technology as stewardship of positive
change in society and for balanced socio-economic upliftment and national well-
being and thus to make Science and Technology a part of national culture. The
use of Science and Technology as a means of sustainable use of Environment,
Ecosystem and Resources, and to contribute to world pool of knowledge in
Science and Technology.
37
1. Bangladesh Computer Council (BCC)
BCC is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Science and Information &
Communication Technology, Government of Bangladesh for encouraging and
providing support for ICT related activities in Bangladesh. It is established by
Act No IX of 1990 passed by the Parliament.The main objective of establishing
BCC was to ensure the effective application and expansion of the use of
information technology. In view of this BCC has been formulating appropriate
policies and implementing them since its inception. BCC has taken some
projects to expansion of activities of BCC; to expansion of uses of computer and
IT in the country; development of skilled manpower; expansion of IT-based
export business.
Advisory Services
BCC as the organization of the government entrusted with the responsibility to

deal with matters related to computerization renders advisory services to
different government departments, organizations and autonomous bodies. It has
contributed in computerization of about one hundred and forty organizations
during the period of 1990-91 to 2005-06. The list of organizations includes the
ministries, directorates, projects, autonomous bodies, schools, colleges, and
many other types of organizations.
IT- Based Training Courses
Computer related training is important in developing skilled manpower in

information technology. Training has an important place among the activities of
BCC. During the year 1990-91 to 1996-97 a total of three hundred and sixty one
trainees has been trained under the training program. A large part of this group
is the officials and staffs from government and autonomous bodies. Besides, the
teachers of different schools, colleges and other educational institutions and
private candidates took part in the training program.
38
2. Bangladesh Computer Samity (BCS)
Bangladesh Computer Samity is the voice of ICT industry of Bangladesh. It is

the national association of the ICT companies in Bangladesh. BCS was
established in 1987 with eleven members.
The ICT industries of Bangladesh comprises distributors, dealers, resellers

of computer and allied products, locally assembled computer vendors, software
developers and exporters, internet service providers, ICT based educational
institutions and training houses, ICT embedded services providers etc.The total
number of members stands 590 at present. The body is run by a 7-number
executive council elected every two years. The Aims and Objectives of BCC are
as follows:
To unite and encourage all computer vendors to join in one platform for
achieving their common interest
General Discussion Meeting
To unit and encourage cooperation amongst companies, firms and
industries
To seek cooperation among all the members in the ICT business
To safeguard the interest of its members and their development
To boost/encourage, promote and diversify effective use of Computer in
Bangladesh
To render expert advise to the concerned authorities on computer
technology and its implication of the economy of Bangladesh
Ministry of Post & Telecommunication (MOPT):
The Ministry of Post and Telecommunication (MOPT) is responsible to facilitate

the growth of telecommunication needs and introduction of newer technologies.
1. Bangladesh Telegraph & Telephone Board (BTTB):
Bangladesh Telegraph and Telephone (T&T) Department was created under the
Ministry of Posts & Telecommunications after the independence of Bangladesh
in 1971 to run the telecommunication services on a commercial basis. In 1976
Bangladesh T&T Department was converted into a corporate body. In pursuance
of an Ordinance promulgated by the President on 24 February 1979, the
department was restructured into Bangladesh Telephone and Telegraph Board
39
(BTTB) with a mandate to provide basic telecommunication services throughout

the country. At present 'BTTB' provides land-line telephone services in the
urban areas, domestic long-distance and international services. Though the
Bangladesh government has given out nationwide PSTN licences the lucrative
Dhaka market (which account for majority of the nationwide market) is still
under the monopoly of BTTB. In 2004 BTTB forayed in to the mobile telephony
market of Bangladesh by launching a subsidiary company called Teletalk. BTTB
provides dial-up Internet access in all 64 districts of the country, making it the
most-accessible Internet service provider in the country. It also handles the .bd
domain.
Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) is

an independent Commission established under the Bangladesh
Telecommunication Act, 2001 (Act no. 18 of 2001) published by the Parliament
in the Bangladesh Gazette, extraordinary issue of April 16, 2001. BTRC started
functioning from Januray 31, 2002. The main vision of BTRC is to facilitate
affordable telecommunication services of acceptable quality for all regardless of
their location.
40
ICT infrastructure
is the main component to provide
services electronically. The rationale
is simple: without ready access to
voice and data communication
networks, the population cannot
make use of advanced digital
services. For this reason, connectivity
and technology infrastructure remains
one of the most heavily weighted
components in this horizon scan
report.
INFRASTRUCTURE & SERVICE

SECTOR
41
CHAPTER: 4 INFRASTRUCTURE & SERVICE SECTOR
4.1 Infrastructure & Connectivity issue
ICT infrastructure is the main component to provide services electronically. The

rationale is simple: without ready access to voice and data communication
networks, the population cannot make use of advanced digital services. For this
reason, connectivity and technology infrastructure remains one of the most
heavily weighted components in this horizon scan report.
The demand placed on networks increase; however, as the services

delivered over them grow more sophisticated. Connection to the plain old
telephone servicestill perfectly good for making voice callsis no longer
enough to make efficient use of the internet; for this broadband access is
required, whether through DSL, cable modems, fiber or wireless technologies.
So, people are shifting from narrowband telephone dialup internet connection to
broadband and mobile phone penetration.
The report has highlighted the overall infrastructure into some relevant sub
categories to give a specific and clear idea. These following categories presented
on the basis of mode of service delivery.
1. Telecommunication Network
2. Data Connectivity
3. Television Network
4. Radio Network
5. Post
6. Tele center and Cyber caf
7. Power sector
42
4.1.1 Telecommunication Network:
(a) Public switched Telephone network (PSTN):
Though a revolution already

Ratio of Share in the PSTN Telephone
have taken place in the
BTTB
cellular phone industry, RANKS
people still choose and like to TELEBARTA

JALALABAD
rely on PSTN services due to ONETEL
NATIONAL
its low call charge and other PEOPLES
WESTEC
facilitating services. Fig: 4.1 Share in the PSTN Telephone
DHAKAPHONE
ISL
Fig: 4.1 Ratio of share in PSTN Market
Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory commission (BTRC) has divided the

whole country into 6 (North-East, South-East, North-West, South-West, Central
Zone and Rural) regions and issues license on that basis. They have issued 5
licenses for national PSTN operators and 11 for different regions. Government
owns BTTB has the largest market share in the PSTN market. Yet now, in
general, mass people rely on BTTB to get the connection. By widening its
operations it can be augmented in bigger portion of the market. Private
operators have started their journeys recently and able to gain the confidence
and satisfaction of the customers. Figure 4.1shows the ratio of share in the PSTN
Telephone market.1
(b) Mobile Operator:
Cellular Phone: Cellular phone has revolutionized the telecommunication

industry in Bangladesh. The telecommunication growth in the year 2007 was
123%.2 After starting back in 1993 (first license was issued in 1989) it has
brought more than thirty million people under the shade of telecommunication
service. There are 6 mobile operators providing services, among them 5 are GSM
technology based and one is CDMA technology based. The whole country is
under the network coverage of mobile operators.
1 BTRC (Till June-2007)

2. BTTB (www.bttb.gov.bd)
43
Subscriber Growth rate of Mobile Phone:
Mobile phone is the strongest tool to reach the mass people in Bangladesh.
People from almost all economic levels can afford to access mobile phones. The
following figures show the revolution that has happened in telecommunication
sector in Bangladesh.
Total Mobile Phone Subscriber Growth Year wise Teledensity (only mobile phone)
N u m b e r o f S u b s c rib e rs
35,000,000 18.00%
30,000,000 16.00%
14.00%
25,000,000
P e r c e n ta g e
12.00%
20,000,000 10.00%
15,000,000 8.00%
10,000,000 6.00%
5,000,000 4.00%
2.00%
0
0.00%
n -1 8
J a 99 9
J a 00 0
J a 2 00 1
n- 2
J a 19 9 7
n- 3
n- 4
n- 5
n- 6
ly- 7
07
J a 1 99
J a -2 0 0
J a 998
J a 999
J a 000
J a 001
J a 002
J a 20 0
J a 20 0
J a 20 0
J a 20 0
J u 20 0
J a 99 7
J a 00 3
J a 00 4
J a 00 5
J a 00 6
07
20
n -2
20
n-
n-
n -1
n -1
n -2
n -2
n -2
1
2
2
2
2
n
n-
n-
n-
n-
n-
n-
n-
Ja
Ja
Time Period Time Period (Jan-1997 to Jan-2007)
Fig 4.2: Total Mobile Phone Subscriber3 Fig 4.3: Tele density (in Mobile Phone) 4
In July-2007 the total number of mobile phone subscribers have reached to

32,525,414 and tele-density reached to 23.3% (As per population number 140
million).5
Data and Different services provided by Mobile Operators
The mobile web and web based service has started in Bangladesh in recent
times, but not in a large scale. The subscribers have yet treated data service as
a costly and luxurious service. There are two basic subscriber classes in cellular
market: Post-Paid and Pre-Paid.
For post-paid a monthly line rent fee is to be provided by the subscribers.

Pre-paid is real time charging base and is obviously allocates the largest
percentage of subscribers.
,3,4 & 5 BTRC (www.btrc.gov.bd)
44
Based on the general data service tariff plan, there are two packages are
provided by almost all the operators. One is pay per use and another is
unlimited usages. The subscribers have to pay a flat fee for unlimited usages
monthly. The user classes of these packages are generally the corporate. It is
getting popular among the students now. City Cell, one of the operators, having
CDMA network, is providing data service package based on segmented download
size with the brand name myCityCell Zoom. They are providing data services
based on monthly download usage of 100MB, 300MB and 3GB. They are also
providing pay per use data service. CityCell also provides the data card with the
package.
Services:
As the data service is still treated as the costly service by the subscribers so
operators are sluggish to take initiatives on data service. Among the six (6)
operators only two are found to be leading the data service market in
Bangladesh. They are: AKTEL and Grameen Phone. AKTEL having almost 6.5
million subscriber base. Grameen Phone is currently leading the market of
subscriber base of almost 15.5 million. Here the subscribers are enjoying and
experiencing the mobile web through several services like: WAP browsing, MMS,
Peer to Peer, MMS Peer to Email, download service (like game, wallpaper, ring
tone etc.).
So far compared to voice service revenue data revenue is very much lower
and the subscribers as well as the operators are not so much concerned about
the data services. So there is very less promotion in this sector. But there are
huge potentialities in this sector.
A subscriber having a data service (GPRS/EDGE/CDMA 2000) enabled

and having a data service featured (WAP/MMS/Streaming enabled) handset can
be thought of as the Eligible Data User for that network. A handsome number of
the subscriber base is generally using data service enabled handsets.
GPRS/EDGE modem is also available in market and people are using these for
better mobility.
The web service will be popular among the mass people, especially among
the student and young generation if the price falls. A steady growth is observed
in mobile internet connectivity.
45
4.1.2 Data Connectivity:
Bangladesh's entry on 21st May 2006 to the 13-members consortium, SEA-ME-

WE-4 (widely known as Sub marine cable connection) in acronym, has slashed
internet and long-distance telephone call costs and greatly boosted browsing
speed. It has connected Bangladesh to the information super highway.
Bangladesh Telegraph and Telephone Board (BTTB) is the authority to operate
and maintenance this sub marine cable connection. Now (2007) this sub marine
cable has a 1.2-Gigabyte-per-second data transfer capacity. The county will
have a 10-gigabyte data transfer capacity per second, 8 times more than the
current capacity. The capacity is considered adequate for the next 10-15 years.
The consortium South East Asia-Middle East-West Europe-4 (SEA-ME-

WE-4) has started the cable connection from Singapore running through
Malaysia, Thailand, Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, a number of Middle
Eastern countries and ended in France. With a view to minimize cost minimize
the project has been implemented through a consortium. The consortium will
take care of the maintenance at a low cost and Bangladesh will have to make no
additional spending to land its cable in the member countries.
France(Marseille
)
Italy(Palermo
)
Algeria(Annaba
)
Tunisia (Bizerte Egypt(Alexandria
) ) Segment
Cair 3
o Egypt(Suez
)
Pakistan(Karachi Bangladesh(Coxs
Saudi ) Bazar)
Arabia India(Mumba
)
UAE(Fujairah
) India(Chenna
)
Thailand(Satun
)
INDIA Srilanka Malaysia(Melaka

)
Singapore(Tuas
)
Segment Segment Segment

4 2 1
Fig 4.4: SEA-ME-WE-4 Sub Marine Cable 6
6 www.fujitsu.com/img/PR/2005/20051213-01.jpg
46
The establishment of submarine cable link provides the infrastructure for large-
scale software export and scopes for investment to establish IT-enabled value-
added service e.g. call centre, tele-medicine, and distance education at overseas
universities. BTTB believes government earnings from telecommunications
sector will shoot up as it can raise the number of telephone circuits with the
consortium members.
After fulfilling the requirement of the country, excess capacity in the

main stream may be leased out to overseas operators. For the next two years,
capacity can only be sold on lease basis and not as IRU. To make better and
greater utilization of the submarine cable new services like IP VPN, Virtual
telephone network abroad and various kinds of broadband service may be
introduced in the country.
The Utilization Plan for the cable capacity has been prepared to address
the national interest first. It will consider the requirement for voice, data, video,
entertainment and similar other broadband services by BTTB and other service
providers for next 10 years. It will also facilitate overall ICT activity to enhance
the socio-economic growth of the country. Utilization plan has focused on to
meet requirements specified by ICT Task Force and BTRC regarding VoIP and
make effective use of the surplus capacity.
BTTB has already started the following facilities by using sub marine
cable, Post-paid Dialup Internet Service, Leased Internet Access (Broadband
Internet), Nationwide DDN circuit, Multi-exchange area DDN circuit, E1 Access
to PSTN from ISP, IPLC (International Private Leased Line Circuits).
(a) Access Network
At present (2007) most cities and towns are covered by digital telephone
exchanges. All Upazilla exchanges will have digital exchanges by the end of
2008-09. So all telephone subscribers up to Upazilla level will have voice and
Internet connectivity through the submarine cable. Rural growth centers will be
brought under digital exchanges by installing suitable access network to extend
benefits of submarine cable in to the rural areas.
47
The quality of service to private mobile and land phone operators is

improving to allow access for all the existing subscribers and ensure access for
the future growth. Establishment of two more international gateway exchanges
is under way. BTTBs present data access network is based on the existing DDN
which can support only up to 2 Mbps capacity. But to develop IP Access network
the necessary procedure is going on where optical interfaces is deployed in
major cities to connect customers through optical local loop at higher speed. At
present, DDN nodes are available at 41 districts only.
BTTB Data and Internet-related services: BTTB started running internet

services in 1999. Data and internet-related services are now being operated and
maintained by the Telex and Teleprinter Division, under the Overseas
Telecommunication Region. All administrative purposes for the offered services
are served from the Divisional Office at Mogbazar Telephone Bhaban. The overall
features of the BTTBs network infrastructure are as follows:
Optical Fiber/Microwave systems with career-class equipment

Higher International Internet Backbone (8 x STM-1 Duplex through SEA-ME-WE4
Submarine cable System)
Redundancy in IP Backbone (32 Mbps downlink/16 Mbps uplink through BT)
Connected directly to Europe/America
Table : 4.1 Different Data Service Provider by BTTB7

Service Status
.bd domain registration Available
E1 Line Available
Pre Paid Service Available
Post Paid Service Available
Premium Dialup Service Available
Web Hosting Not Available Now
ADSL Service Not Available Now
IPLC Local Loop Available
DDN Service Available
Broad Band Service Available
DNS Parking Not Available Now
7 BTTB (www.bttb.gov.bd)
48
(b) National backbone:
A project is going on to establish the national backbone. Under this project there
will be a setup for Layer 3 Switch (ADSL Site) in 12 districts connected by Fiber
optics to main backbone. These districts are Dhaka, Comilla, Chittagong, Sylhet,
Khulna Bogra, Barishal, Rajshahi, Gazipur, Savar, Mymensigh, and Jessore.
Any organization can lease their connection from these centers. But one
constraint is that if any one wants to take a fiber optic link connection, they
have to take a connection of 3Mbps. This project will hopefully be ended within
June 2008.
(c) Internet Service Provider (ISP):
The internet came late in Bangladesh, with UUCP e-mail beginning in 1993 and
IP connectivity in 1996. In June 1996, the government decided to allow private
entrepreneurs to act as ISPs using VSATs (Very Small Aperture Terminal). In
1999, there were 10 ISPs (8 in Dhaka and 2 in Chittagong) while in 2007, there
are about 203 ISPs in Bangladesh among them 77 are nationwide ISPs. ISPs
cover and provide their service in 18 districts in Bangladesh.
Maximum ISPs are Dhaka based and they lease bandwidth from BTTB
and sell bandwidth among different organizations and also provide single user
connection. ISPs outside Dhaka are mainly connected to international backbone
by their own VSAT.
(d) Digital Telephone Exchange:
Bangladesh Telegraph and Telephone Board (BTTB) has already established

Digital telephone exchange in 41 districts and in prominent upazillas. The rest
of the districts will be under the digital telephone network coverage within 2008.
Digital telephone exchanges will not only facilities the voice call they will provide
high speed internet connectivity.
49
(e) Bandwidth Price:
Though bandwidth price remain the main barrier to increase the internet
penetration in the country but in recent times it is decreasing as the number of
users are increasing. Still it is higher than our neighbor countries. To foster the
IT enabled service there is no other alternative to decrease the bandwidth price.
Here is the list of Core to ISP bandwidth charge for Bangladesh, India and
Pakistan.
Table 4.2 : Monthly Cost for 2Mbps connection in different countries

(Core to ISP)8
Country Monthly Rent (2 Mbps dedicated line) in USD
Bangladesh 2,440
India 1,460
Pakistan 1,000
The following list is for ISP to End user bandwidth charge.

Table 4.3: Monthly cost for 256 kbs data link in different countries (ISP
to End user) 9
Country Monthly Rent (256 Kbps dedicated line) in USD

Bangladesh 430
India 195
Pakistan 200
Philippines 160
USA 15
8 Bangladesh: BTTB (www.bttb.net ),

India; Economic Times, September,2007 issue
(http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/articleshow/2367974.cms)
Pakistan : Pakistan Tlcommunication Company Limited
(http://pakng.wordpress.com/2007/07/07/its-the-network-stupid/)
9 Bangladesh :Agni Systems Limited

India: Tataindicom
(http://www.tataindicombroadband.in/access/postpaid/order/postpaid_b1.html ( Min Speed
256Kbps and Max Speed 2 Mbps; Monthly download volume 30 GB)
Pakistan : Micro net DSL (http://dsl.net.pk/UnlimitedPackages.php)
Philippines : Phil Online
(http://www.philonline.com/?page=serviceFormBusiness&svc=truspeed)
USA: AT&T (http://www.att.com/gen/general?pid=6431 (speed upto 768Kbps)
50
(f) Wireless Internet Connectivity
In developing countries like Bangladesh, reliable wireless network is a quick and

cost-effective way to facilitate communications and bring more citizens into the
Internet infrastructure. In a developed country, cities are facilitated with
internet with the use of wireless technology. To reach the internet connectivity to
the mass people WiMax can play a strong role. BTRC yet to have their rules and
procedures required in order to issue WiMax license. WiMax provides a cost
effective and quality service, so it will foster the internet penetration in the near
future.
4.1.3 Television Network:
(a) Bangladesh Television (BTV): Bangladesh Television is the national

television of Bangladesh. It is the only terrestrial channel in the country. The
information and circular broadcasts by this media is the most circulated,
because it is owned and run by government. It has great influence in social and
day to day life of the citizen. It broadcasts many development programs in the
sector of health, education, women and children affairs, weather and
agriculture.
As Cable/satellite TV is yet to reach the rural area of the country, BTV is

the most powerful tool for information dissemination in Bangladesh. Almost
41% households own television. Although there was a wide variation between
urban (78%) and rural (27%) areas, 26% households own black & white TVs
whereas 15% were found to have colored TVs. Nearly 10.4% households had
cable connections. So, 25% households had satellite penetration among the total
TV owning households. Viewer ship of TV in the year 2004 was about 64%,
which was one and a half times higher than that in 1998 (42%) and two times
higher than the viewer ship in 1995 (31%).10
(b) Local Satellite TV: Satellite TV has been gaining popularity since the end of
nineties. It is now a well-networked infrastructure in Bangladesh. There are 9
private channels. These channels are very popular among the citizen, especially
the news service.
10. http:// www.sdnbd.org/sdi/issues/IT-computer/ict4d-2007-bytesforall.pdf
51
These channels promote our culture and heritage worldwide, especially with the
non resident Bangladeshis watching the programs. Local cable operators
broadcast different information relevant to the viewers and can be treated as an
alternative channel for information dissemination for local areas.
4.1.4: Radio Network:
(a) Bangladesh Betar
Bangladesh Betar is the national Radio channel in Bangladesh. It has coverage

all over the country. As radio is cheap, everyone can easily avail this. It also
broadcast many development programs. It plays a vital role in weather
broadcasting for coastal areas.
(b) FM Radio:
Nowadays FM radio has gained much popularity among the citizen, especially
among the young generation. FM radio service is now only available in Dhaka
and Chittagong. FM radio can be a great tool for local services and information.
As such it is an important way to broadcast about the traffic situation in the
city.
The ownership & reach of the radio seemed to be declining. Only 32%
people own radio of which only 27.3% radios are in working order. This is
because public radio has failed to attract people and the opportunity to watch
TV has gone up rapidly. Only 22.5% people listen to the radio. Radio audience
has declined in urban areas sharply. As in the past, radio reach remained
higher among males (30%) compared to females (16%). Dhaka is the most
popular radio station having 31.3% listener-ship.11 Radio is still popular in rural
and hill tracts area of the country. Community radio has a good potential in the
country with neighboring countries like India, Srilanka and Nepal have
exercising huge positive impact of community radio among the mass people.
11 http://www.sdnbd.org/sdi/issues/IT-computer/ict4d-2007-bytesforall.pdf
52
4.1.5 Post (e-Post)
Bangladesh Post Office introduced Electronic Mail Service in the name of e-Post
from 16 Aug 2000. e-Post service enables people to send and receive messages
or scanned images through email from these post offices in the country.
People who do have access to internet would be able to send and receive
email messages without possessing an email ID. Thereby bridging some of the
digital divides in the arena of public communication systems.
Now the service is available in our 16 Head Post offices namely Dhaka
GPO, Chittagong GPO, Sylhet HPO, Moulavibazar HPO, Feni HPO, Comilla HPO,
Noakhali HPO, Mymensingh HPO, Jessore HPO, Kushtia HPO, Barisal HPO,
Bogra HPO and Sirajgonj HPO ZIA, and International Airport Post Office.
4.1.6 Tele Center & Cyber Caf
Some of the most marginalized segments of digital divide are the rural
communities around the world most of which lack access to information and,
more often than not, lack access to technology. One of the key challenges facing
development practitioners today is how to utilize information and
communication technology (ICT) tools to provide service to this underserved
segment with the objective of decreasing human poverty and improving
livelihoods. The services delivery platform of choice for various poverty
alleviation interventions so far has been through the humble telecenter often
given names relevant to the region or community within which it is based.
In Bangladesh various private organizations have experimented with

establishing different types of telecentres. D.Nets Pallitathya Kendras are
centered on providing livelihood information to the community they serve.
Grameen Phone, a leading telecom operator in Bangladesh, has 475 Community
Information centre (CIC) that are fully owned by local entrepreneurs. With a
minimum investment of BDT 80,000 (USD 1,100) an entrepreneur can become a
franchisee of Grameen Phone and thus serve her or his community. Community
Multimedia Centre (CMCs) which was launched by YPSA (a Bangladeshi NGO) is
equipped with computers with CD-ROM, a pocket PC, digital video camera,
audio recorder, cassette player, cable TV, cable radio and DVD players. Rural
53
ICT Centers (RICs) run by the Digital Equity Network (DEN) with support from
KATALYST disseminates livelihoods information for local businesses in sectors
that are relevant to the community such as information for fishermen or
potato farmers or poultry farmers.
Present telecenters of Bangladesh disseminate information to the rural

community through various methods e.g. text contents, multimedia contents,
animated contents, video documentary etc. To disseminate the information,
telecenters use mobile phones, internet, email, sometimes printing services of
the contents, brief written explanation, customized consultation etc. In some
areas telecenters provide community peoples access to online newspapers.
Primarily the telecenter operators read out the contents preserved in digital
format for the illiterate people. Some telecenters have taken social mobilization
and training initiatives to aware the community people about different social
and human development issues. Besides these, flexi load for recharging the
mobile phones, net to phone services for calling the relatives abroad, courier
service are also found at some of the telecentres in Bangladesh.
Most of the telecenter operators have text based contents. Few

telecenter practitioners are developing animated contents on a experimental
basis. Audio contents are mainly useful for illiterate (print disabled) people as
well as for the people with visual challenges. Although not very large in number,
video contents are quite popular among rural people.
The existing challenges for telecenters include lack of steady power

supply, internet connectivity, quality services of the local service providers,
effective empowerment of the female infomediaries of the rural communities. The
initiative of Bangladesh Telecentre Network (BTN) puts a positive effort in
achieving better coordination and synergy among telecentre practitioners. In the
mean time, e-Governance focal points are becoming interested in telecentre
activities to bring Government closer to the people and to build peoples trust on
Government mechanism.
The business of cyber caf has been growing in Dhaka since the late 90s.
Cyber caf is now available even at the district level. People use cyber cafs to
browse, send and receive e-mails, transfer data and even for video conferencing.
The caf owners association presented, an estimate showing that 40 per cent of
their users are students, 30 per cent job-seekers, 20 per cent business users
54
and 10 per cent of them fall in the mixed category. Everybody was dreaming of a
high bandwidth after the connection to the SE-ME-WE-4, but it will take time to
benefit from such connectivity. The rate for browsing in cyber caf is BDT 20-35
(approx) per hour.
4.1.7 The Power Sector of Bangladesh
Undisrupted supply of electricity is an important factor for the ICT sector and as
well as for overall economic growth of Bangladesh. Without ensuring the
uninterrupted power supply ICT enabled services cannot be ensured. Due to
huge amount of load shedding, our economy is losing significant amount of
money and working hour every single day. However, the condition of the power
sector of Bangladesh is improving. But the situation is not yet satisfactory and
there is still a long way to go.
The service providers
At present, four state-owned agencies under the Ministry of Energy and Mineral
Resources are responsible for electricity development and distribution in the
country. These are:
Bangladesh Power Development Board Responsible for generation and transmission of

(BPDB) power in the country and distribution in urban
areas except the area under Greater Dhaka.
Dhaka Electric Supply Authority (DESA) Responsible for distribution of electricity in the
greater Dhaka area including the metropolitan city
of Dhaka.
Dhaka Electric Supply Company DESCO, established under Companies' Act of

(DESCO) 1994 is responsible for distribution of electricity in
Mirpur area of the Metropolitan City of Dhaka in
Greater Dhaka. DESCO purchases power from
DESA.
Rural Electrification Board (REB) Responsible for distribution of electricity in rural

areas.
55
Total Power Generation:
The installed capacity of the all the power plants was 5245 MW including 1260
MW in the private sector (IPP) in the fiscal year 2006. But the maximum power
generation in fiscal year 2006 was 3,782 MW, which was about 1.65% higher
than the previous year. The net energy generated in 2006 was 14,456 Gwh in
public sector power plants under BPDP. In addition to this about 8, 286 Gwh of
electricity was purchased by BPDB from IPP. As a result, the net energy
generated by public and private sector power plant stood at 22,747 GWh, which
was 7.46% higher than the previous year. System loss in BPDB system for the
fiscal year 2006 was 7.82% of the net energy generation, which was 9.29% in
the year before.12
Fuel of the Power Plant:
Most of the power plants use gas as fuel; others use Hydro, Foil, HSD as the raw
materials for electricity production. Unavailability of necessary gas is one of the
major problems for power generation.
Installed Capacity Comparison in Respect to Fuel

4.77%
4.39%
5.34%
4.08% Gas
Diesel
Furnace Oil
Hydro
Coal
81.42%
Fig: 4.5 Status of installed capacity comparison in respect to fuel
The power plants of Bangladesh
There are 21 government owned power plants in the country. In the private
sector there are 6 plats. Among those some of the power units remain shut down
for maintenance work regularly.
12 The daily Star, 1st page, Dhaka Saturday, September 22, 2007
56
Load Shedding - the most-talked about issue
Bangladesh has been experiencing huge electricity shortage for several years. As
a result load shedding has become a part of our daily life. It is also evidenced by
the statistics provided by BPDB annual report 2005-2006. It has shown that the
load shedding was imposed on 347 days in the fiscal year 2005-2006.
The maximum level of demand served in 2006 was 3,742 MW against the
forecast demand of 4,693 MW as per Power System Master Plan (PSMP-2005).
The power development board worked hard to improve the efficiency of the
existing plants and to start more power units.
Power failure also creates other problems as it disrupts the supply of

water in the metropolitan cities and affects the agriculture sector as farmers
cannot pump water to the fields. Therefore, power failure creates a lot of
obstacles for our country.
BPDB has made a significant improvement in power supply recently by

improving day to day management where officials and technical experts are
encouraged to take independent decisions. Additionally, governments close
monitoring of this sector and taking necessary steps assist to achieve this
improvement. Moreover, governments successful implementation of load
management and staggering holidays at industrial zones, improvement in gas
supply to power plants and high emphasis on bill collection helped to achieve
this stage. As a result of all these steps, the amount of load shedding has
decreased significantly13. However, to continue this situation and to meet the
growing demand government needs generate more electricity and encourage
alternative resources of electricity.
Setting up new power plants
Bangladesh will require producing 8, 000MW electricity by 2010 to support its

growing demand for both commercial and domestic use. In order to achieve
Bangladesh needs more investment in this sector.
13 The daily Star, 1st page, Dhaka Saturday, September 22, 2007
57
The government has already taken some initiatives to set up new power
plants through private investors. The government signed deals with private
sponsors to set up 10 small power plants across the country, having total
capacity of about 200 MW. The private sector sponsors will set up the plants,
each with 10-30 MW capacity, at 10 separate locations on `Build-Own-Operate''
(BOO) basis.14
Additionally, different foreign investors and development organizations

are showing interest to invest in the power sector. Government requires
negotiating with them effectively to improve the efficiency of the existing plants
as well as to set up new power plants.
Pre-Paid Meters for Electricity:
BPDB has implemented the prepaid meter project at a cost of Tk 4.15 crore. It
was introduced in Sylhet, Sirajganj and Uttara of the Dhaka city under some
pilot projects. Prepaid meters for electricity consumers in Bogra town were also
introduced with a view to lowering system loss.People can buy prepaid cards of
the meters at a vending centre of the local PDB office. Consumers can recharge
the prepaid electricity cards from the vending outlet.
The new system can remove the existing hazards like maintaining meter reading
and regular bill payment. Under this system, the consumers need not to pay a
minimum amount if they do not use the electricity.
Alternative sources of electricity
Solar panel can be a good alternative for electricity in Bangladesh. Bangladesh

government has taken some projects to identify and implement other sources for
electricity. Such a project is Solar Power for Rural Electrification in the fiscal
year 2005-2006 with the help of the World Bank. Search for renewal source of
electricity is still continuing the full pace. Windmills can be a good source of
electricity in the southern coastal area of Bangladesh. Some researches are
going on this issue in Bangladesh.
14 www. Energybangla.com, Bangladesh Govt Signs Deals with Private Cos for 10 Small
Power Plants
58
The Right Livelihood prize, which is recognized as an "alternative" to

the Nobel prizes, was awarded to Grameen Shakti (GS) this year (2007) for solar
energy applications. Grameen Shakti (GS) is a sister concern of the World
renowned Grameen Bank and is working with solar energy in rural areas. Solar
energy can be scaled up massively and rapidly to provide an affordable and
climate-friendly energy option for the rural poor. Grameen Shakti has
successfully developed a market-based approach. The basis of Grameen Shaktis
success is an innovative system for financing the solar home systems by
villagers. This system is based on experiences from Grameen Banks micro-
credit program. GS has successfully linked renewable energy technologies with
income generating activities. It ensures sustainability of the system and provides
efficient services at the local level through renewable energy entrepreneurs.
59
4.2 Service Status

4.2.1 Government Sector
4.2.1.1 ICT Status of different ministries/ divisions
Bangladesh government declared the ICT sector as one of the thrust

sector. As a part of e-Governance practice, government earlier had taken
initiatives to introduce ICT for all ministries and divisions. It took a good
number of initiatives to introduce e-Governance in the country. Few such
goals are providing greater access to government information, promoting
civic: engagement by enabling the public to interact with government
officials, making government more accountable by making its operations
more transparent and thus reducing the opportunities for corruption and
providing development opportunities, especially benefiting rural and
traditionally underserved communities. ICT has a critical role to play in
good and better governance.
The report briefly summarizes the ongoing ICT related projects or any
initiatives in the ministries which fosters the e-Governance issues in
Bangladesh. Most of the ministries have their own websites. It is seen that the
offices are equipped with sufficient computers, printers, scanners and other
tools. Most of the offices are Internet connected with the line of broadband or
dial-up system. LAN, WAN & MAN connection is available in some of the
ministries. Some of the ministries use different customized softwares for smooth
operation of the ministries. For example, some of the subordinate organizations
of Ministry of Industries uses different types of software for payroll system,
share, accounting, personal system, daily production, sales and staff monitoring
etc. The details of infrastructure and connectivity of different ministries and
divisions are attached in the Annex - 2
Connectivity issue:
More than 50% ministries have their own Local Area Network (LAN). They
are connected to internet via dial up connection or broadband connection.
Some ministries have also connected their zonal offices to LAN and the
internet. For example, Ministry of Primary and Mass Education has 30
computers in the ministry and 100 computers in primary education office,
which are LAN connected. In Primary Education Ministry 6 divisional offices
60
and 16 district offices are connected with WAN through a central server.
SICT is the responsible body for LAN setup in the ministries and they has
already setup LAN in couple of ministries.
Software Issue:
Some of the ministries use customized software for their internal purpose
and service delivery. They mainly use payroll system, accounting software,
daily production monitoring software, sales and staff monitoring software
etc. The software usually used in the ministries are listed below:
Operating System: Windows 98, Windows XP, Windows 2000.

Application Software: Office 2000,Office XP, Office XP 2003
Anti Virus: Norton, Symantec, McAfee
Other Software: ACD See, Acrobat Reader-writer, Nero
Some customized software is also used in different ministries like gate

pass software, inventory management software, project information
management system etc. Some software is very much customized for their
service delivery. Such as, Ministry of Environment and Forest use
customized software on Historical Clearance database, water quality database
in the unit. Software on Plant-Specimen Database Program is also used. Some
common customized software like gate pass software, payroll management and
content management software can be shared by differed ministries.
Hardware Issue:
Ministries are equipped with personal computers, UPS, printers, scanner,

photocopier, laptops. Some ministries have their own server and mailing
system. They also use multimedia projectors for presentation purpose.
Training:
Training is an important part of ICT. Different ministries have taken

different initiatives to train their officials and personnel. These trainings
makes up a continuous process. Some trainings are mainly conducted
topics like for beginners and some are little bit advanced. These trainings
61
are mainly on office management software (e.g OFFICE Xp), networking

(CCNA), web browsing etc. Also specialized training is given on customized
software.
Web based Service:
Web based service is a good tool for better and easy service delivery channel
for government. Some ministries already give web-based service to the
citizen. Such as
Publication of SSC/HSC resul. (http://site.educationboard.gov.bd/results_db/ )
Bangladesh Hajj Information. ( http://www.bdhajjinfo.org/ )
Department of Agricultural Marketing

(http://www.dambd.org/MarketInfo/market_informaiton.htm )
4.2.1.2 Support to ICT Task Force (SICT) Programme
To realize the goals set forth by the ICT Policy, an ICT Task Force had been
formed, In 2003, the government launched a Support to ICT Task Force (SICT)
program at the Ministry of Planning, with the mandate of providing
administrative and secretarial support to the ICT Task Force in realizing various
ICT projects, particularly e-Governance. The Support to ICT Task Force (SICT)
Program was created by the governance to provide various strategic and
implementation support to some of the decisions taken by the National ICT Task
Force, which is headed by the Honorable Prime Minister. Currently, the primary
responsibility of SICT is to implement e-Governance projects in different
government offices across the country. Further, another of its responsibilities is
to provide support to the National ICT Taskforce to ensure access to information
by every citizen to facilitate empowerment of people and to enhance democratic
values and norms for sustainable economic development. The project is
generally divided into two components for outsourcing purposes: software and
training services, and hardware and networking equipment.
So far SICT has initiated 55 projects in different sectors. These projects

have been taken up from 14 different sectors which are: Labor and Employment,
Tourism, Power Energy & Mineral Resources, Others, Education, Rural
Development, Water Resources, Communication, Industries, Social Welfare,
62
Agriculture, Physical Planning, Law Enforcement & Security and Public

Administration. Among these the highest number of projects has been initiated
for Public Administration.
Completed Projects:
The initiated projects have excelled tremendous impact in facilitation on the

various citizen services and reducing common sufferings. Among those projects
a portion has already been completed and the rest are successfully underway.
Process automation at GM Norths Office under the Ministry of Post and
Telecommunication, a completed project has had positive impact on improved
citizen services like personalized access to personal subscription information
through the internet, online access to amount of payment due, bill payment
status, status of application for new telephone line, status of shifting of
telephone line to new address, complaints through the Internet, downloadable
forms.
To make agricultural market prices available online to push the country

towards greater economic growth by empowering farmers and businessmen
involved with the agricultural sector, SICT Program has completed a project of
online daily market price for the Ministry of Agriculture which produces by
several benefits for farmers, customers and policy makers such as daily market
information from 30 districts, price information of about 260 agricultural
commodities, historical data of agricultural products etc. Through these
information farmers are better informed about the best prices, policy-makers are
more informed about the price variations which helps them to get better
prepared to take precautionary steps.
Through the implementation of online public examination results and

statistics, SSC and HSC students can get online access to registration status,
test centers, and exam results through personalized IDs, thus saving huge
amount of time and money wasted on travel to find out the information, also
they can download various forms regarding foreign admission and scholarship
and teachers can download various forms regarding MPO, update of
qualifications.
After the implementation Interactive Website for Ministry of Expatriate

Welfare and Overseas Employment citizens are getting information about job
63
opportunities abroad, news and announcements for expatriates and those

interested to work abroad and online have access to necessary forms. The
Government is being benefited by being able to exchange information between
the Ministry and embassies, reporting regarding statistics about expatriates.
After successful completion, the interactive website for Ministry of Labor and
Employment, created some favorable impact on the citizens including creating
awareness of employees about their obligations to maintain labor laws and
regulations, their rights, safe working environments, training programs being
conducted at BMET etc.
Through the implementation of Connectivity and Process Automation of

Bangladesh Tea Board, now the status of tea-gardens can be checked from
headquarter offices, which will help in strategic decision-making, standardized
system for storage and retrieval of data, which will facilitate easier analysis of
data and Informative and updated website can help attract foreign buyers.
An interactive website has been developed for the Ministry of Land, which
contain relevant information about the responsibilities and activities of the
Ministry and its subsidiaries, database of key personnel, annual reports,
strategic plans, portfolio budget statements, laws and regulations, various
downloadable forms, tribal land management, dynamic land tax calculation.
After being successful completion of the project of Land Record Archiving at
Manikganj Record Room under the Ministry of Land citizens have been receiving
much quicker services in obtaining porchas and a good quality printed and
certified copy of Khatian/ Mouza map, instead of a hand-written copy. Digital
storage helps to prevent tampering of old records. The Board of Investment (BOI)
is the primary government body dedicated to attracting foreign and local
investment in the country. It is crucial that the internal processes of BOI are
automated so that it is better prepared to carry out its functions more
effectively. The successful automation of BOI will also help to portray a positive
image of Bangladesh among foreign and local investors. Potential investors are
now better informed about investment opportunities. BOI officials are now more
efficient in carrying out their daily activities.
The Special Security Force (SSF) is in charge of security of the Prime

Minister and other issues of highest national importance. It is very important
that this Force be properly equipped to handle such a crucial task. The SICT
Program has completed the task of strengthening the SSF by providing IT
64
solutions for enhanced communication and security maintenance. The project

was Hardware, Software and Connectivity for Special Security Force which
provide Secure Intelligence Database (SID), Communication Management
System, Inventory management System, Operations and Protection Management
System.
For effective governance, it is crucial that administrative units at the local
and district levels have an efficient system for exchanging data and information
with the Cabinet Division. Also, with regular updates of information about
situation at local-level, citizens will be better informed about the state of affairs
in the country. The SICT Program has taken up the important task of developing
an interactive website for the Cabinet Division that will allow citizens to get
updated information, filing complaints electronically through the website. It
helps in effective communication, information dissemination and reporting
between district-level government offices and Cabinet Division, It improves
transparency in the government and facilitates quicker decision-making.
Citizens can easily get online access to information about registration,

test centers, exam dates, exam results, announcements regarding procedures
and other related matters after Automation of Result Processing at Bangladesh
Public Service Commission where more than 100,000 people take public service
exams each year. Now PSC is more efficient and more error-free, much less
time-consuming and more efficient with online posting.
After the office automation of Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) the

management systems like human resources, inventory, criminal database,
vehicle and motor transport, payroll management, operations management etc
are being improved. In an effort to establish e-Governance in the public sector in
Bangladesh the SICT programme has taken up steps to implement the ICT
training for Government officials as one of the steps in Human Resources
development. SICT has appointed Bangladesh Computer Council (BCC) to
conduct the ICT training for the Government Officials. The participants are
initially selected by the respective departments and sent to SICT for their final
nomination. The training is being provided through lectures, presentations,
discussions and hands on practices. The evaluation of the participants is done
on the basis of their overall performance, class participation and attendance.
Each participant is awarded a certificate after the successful completion of the
course.
65
Ongoing Projects:
Apart from these completed projects there are 41 projects still under SICT
programme are going on. In the ground of existing problems of the system these
initiatives were being taken in various sectors and departments. Process
Automation at Post Office is one of those projects. Currently the post office does
not have an effective mechanism for tracking mails. It may take several weeks
for the Post Office officials to respond to a clients query regarding the status of a
mail. The business process of the post office is also riddled with inefficiency,
causing a client to have to go to several counters for one service. Due to the lack
of an integrated system, the same information is sometimes entered in register
books at different desks/counters. With availability of private postal services,
citizens are becoming increasingly aware of the inefficiency of the government-
run postal system. Some of the services that will be provided under the project
are tracking of mails, one-stop service at GPO, electronic money order, e-mail
service for the public etc. The benefits that citizens will get after successful
completion of this project are postal services at low price, one-stop service, send
and e-mails at low cost.
Citizens will be able to find out recommendations about care of livestock,

prevention of diseases etc. Researchers and students can get research papers,
required data for research papers easily without physically having to BLRI.
Citizens will benefit since government decisions will be made faster and actions
taken more swiftly due to vedio conferencing. Citizens will benefit from improved
law and order situation, would know about criminals, and identify missing
persons in police custody. Communication between the Armed Forces Division
and the Prime Minsters Office will be improved.
Citizens will benefit from more efficient decision-making and

implementation of activities that pertain to national security. Status of various
rivers could easily be known and river research standard be upgraded. Citizens
and organizations can verify freedom fighter certificates, get access to the list of
the freedom fighters, get access to history and pictures related to the liberation
war etc. Tourists will get easy access to information regarding the different
tourist spots which will positively affect the other related industries. Easy
dissemination of information regarding administrative units in the Hill Tracts
areas, update of information regarding negotiations and treaties.
66
Citizens will get easy access to information regarding activities and

upcoming plans of RDCD, their relevant statistics, training schedules of
organizations under RDCD. People will have access to relevant policies and
regulations of various industries run by the government, be able to verify
standardization of commodities, patent information, dealerships, access to case
lists judgments and important orders from the court. PGR officials will be more
efficient in carrying out their daily activities and will be better equipped to take
strategic decisions regarding security. Exchange of information within and
among ministries will become smooth.
Prisoners will benefit from increased efficiency of the government in

providing various services and improved transparency by the government about
prisoner status. People will get ADP database, regional allocation of resources,
beneficiary groups. Citizens can get access to information about sugar
production status and prices, authorized dealers of sugar and food. Prediction of
river behavior, design and drawing for infrastructure development projects will
also be found. Efficiency of Dhaka DC Office is going to be ameliorated in near
future. Citizens/ government servants will get access to information about
activities of the ministry housing and public work and its offices, about different
application procedures and be able to download forms online.
Citizens will be benefited indirectly being served by more efficient and

well-trained public administration officers. Automate the processes of the Sylhet
Divisional Headquarter and its associated DC offices, UNO offices, A.C (Land)
offices will provide reliable means by which information/data is managed to
achieve the optimal efficiency and resource management. People of Jamalpur
and Sherpur will get flexible, turnkey office management and file tracking
solution that includes administrative, general, revenue, land acquisition,
education and development related activities which will reduce liability risks.
People will get easy access to information regarding different savings schemes.
The business community will be benefited by using the trade portal which is
under undergoing implementation process as supervised by the Ministry of
commerce. Sustainable productivity of forest land and forest industries without
resource depletion could be ensured. The current process of manual verification
of fingerprints in National Security Intelligence (NSI) is cumbersome, lengthy
and prone to human errors. Information exchange and dissemination among
different NSI offices is also minimal. These problems will be reduced.
67
To ensure the best uses of the Vashani Navo-Theatre it is necessary to

disseminate information about the Navo-theatre to a wide range of people. A
project is also underway. Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) is the main
source of official statistics in Bangladesh. The main functions of BBS are to
collect, compile, analyze, and publish statistics of all sectors of the economy to
meet the needs of development planning, research, policy and decision making.
After the successful completion of current project quality of BBS data will be
improved. Manpower of Bangladesh Biman will become well-trained. The
projects lists under SICT programme is attached in Annex 3
Overall Comments:
The SICT programme under the Ministry of Planning had submitted a status
report on various ongoing projects. The status report was further being
examined with prior scrutiny and physical visit of the sub projects. It was found
that website is considered as the only way to explore information in all the sub
projects. Other channels were not being considered in that sense. Response of
customers about the status of bill in the website of BTTB was minimal. In the
same way the website of the Agricultural Marketing Department didnt reach its
prime consumer, meaning the farmers. But this website added significant value
to the secondary stakeholders. It is being manifested that in some cases system
study was not properly conducted prior implementation of those sub projects.
So estimation in the time of software development was not proper.
Although it was top most important task to establish network in the

secretariat but it is still in primitive stage. These sub-projects have created
tremendous zeal and enthusiasm among the ministries and departments which
will play key role in near future to implement e-Governance in the country. The
monitoring system of SICT is feeble and which needs to be strengthened
immediately. Related ministries and departments could take the initiative to
continue play the initiative role to continue the flow of tasks even after the
completion of the sub-projects under the projects. SICT programme is the
largest of all programme of e-Governance in the finance of Bangladesh
Government. In the reality of our country e-Governance is wholly a new concept
The experience of designing and implementation of the sub projects will help in
taking and implementing timely e-Governance activities in future. For this
reason it is needed to conduct a comprehensive technical and managerial
evaluation of these sub projects.
68
4.2.1.3. Success and failure samples of Govt. ICT Project
While computers in most government offices tend to be used primarily as

typewriters, some government offices have begun to apply ICT to achieve more
efficient governance. For example, the Finance Division of the Ministry of
Finance has developed customized software for budget planning, sensitivity and
impact analysis, financial projections, and preparation of various reports. In
addition, the Finance Division has created software to facilitate interface
between the development and revenue budgets. The Bangladesh Bureau of
Educational Information and Statistics (BANBEIS), the statistical wing of the
Ministry of Education, has created a Geographic Information System (GIS) map-
based software that provides information on density of academic institutions in
particular regions, individual institution-level data, and other useful educational
statistics. The website of the Planning Commission has a useful searchable
database of all Annual Development Programme (ADP) projects undertaken in
the last three years. The Commission has also established an intranet whose
features include: file-sharing facilities through a Local Area Network (LAN), video
conferencing, an electronic notice board, a digital library that stores policies,
minutes of meetings, and other useful documents in searchable format, ADP
database facilities, and application software for tracking the movement of files.
Other important e-Government projects will be discussed in the next chapter on
selected case studies. Under the SICT Programme, several ministries and
government departments have undertaken major e-Government projects.
Examples include the Dhaka Passport Office under the Ministry of Home Affairs,
the Ministry of Education, the General Manager Norths Office of the Ministry of
Post and Telecommunication, the Department of Agricultural Marketing under
the Ministry of Agriculture, the Land Record Office in Manikganj under the
Ministry of Land, Ministry of Labor and Employment, and the Ministry of
Expatriate Welfare and Overseas Employment. Many other government offices
including the Bangladesh Bank, the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary
Affairs, and Dhaka City Corporationare also in the process of implementing
important e-Government initiatives.
In last half decade Govt. of Bangladesh had taken some remarkable

initiatives in various sectors. But all of them were not in fact success story.
Some of those have tremendous impact on citizen services and some of those
were not adequate enough. Ownership of those initiatives was different from
69
case to case. Some of those initiatives are Public Examination Computerization-

1994, Railway Ticketing, Hajj Management System, Financial Management
Reform Programme, Agricultural Marketing information, Field Level
Administrative Information, Online Immigration, Primary Teacher Recruitment
System, Stock Exchange Automation, RCC e-birth Registration, National Data
Bank etc.
Success Story
Among these a success story is Hajj Management System. The website had a
startup cost of about Taka 20 million, which was borne by the Ministry of
Religious Affairs from its own resources. The operational expenses of
maintaining the website are now covered through a small computer fee
collected from individual pilgrims. The project used tripartite business model
involving the government, the private sector, and academia. The government
outsourced the development and maintenance of the website for two years to a
private firm named Hatil IT, which in turn engaged the Institute of ICT (IICT) of
the Bangladesh University of Engineering Technology (BUET) to develop the
website and to manage the various technical aspects. Hatil IT is now
responsible for updating and maintaining the website. The Hajj site had a
tremendous impact on the Hajj management system of the country. Now the
relatives of the pilgrims can easily be informed about the latest status of the
Hajjis in abroad. They can easily communicate to the pilgrims as and when
required. This has really exempted many people out of tension. Fraud and cheat
of the various agencies have significantly lowered due to the strict monitoring
and handling of the management through the website. Various complexities
regarding form collection and their filling up have reduced due to the
downloaded services and guidelines to fill up forms as provided by the website.
Pilgrims can prepare themselves earlier accordingly to any policy oriented
changes made by the Government.
Failure Story
Simply opposite of this, a failure story, is the National Data Bank Project. As the
name implies, the National Data Bank (NDB) project was planned to provide a
broad range of data and information support to many levels of stakeholders both
inside and outside Bangladesh. The NDB was to link twelve ministries and
divisions with scope for further network connections to the planning cells of all
70
other ministries/divisions. The network was based on ATM/Fast Ethernet

protocols using fiber optic/VSAT (very small aperture terminal) connections; a
client/server architecture was set out for the system; and a relational database
management system plus other applications were to form the software basis for
the project. The focal stakeholder was the Statistics Division within the Planning
Commission but the network aimed to provide facilities for both input and
output of statistical data to all the main organs of government such as the Prime
Ministers Office, Ministry of Planning, Ministry of Establishment, etc. The
broad range of potential user groups meant that stakeholders were not only
found throughout the public sector, but also within the private and NGO sectors
in Bangladesh and overseas. The project framework was developed via a
directive from the Ministry of Planning in 1992. The project was finally
approved midway through 1994, and was scheduled to start midway through
1995. The project actually began in 1998. Annual investment costs have varied
but, during key network investments in 1999/2000, US$440,000 was spent. In
terms of impact, there has been some limited infrastructural development of the
network, with a LAN (local area network) created within the Planning
Commission. The LAN has problems, with one of the main network switches not
working, and with inadequate human capacities to manage and operate the
network. A few preliminary attempts were made to use the LAN, but those have
been abandoned with no evident usage of the network since 2000. No database
has been established, and no storage of statistical data is visible in any part of
the intended project.
4.2.1.4 ICT Reflection in Annual Development Programme (ADP)
Bangladesh has only recently begun to take serious initiatives in e-Governance.

The National Information and Communication Technology (ICT)) Policy 2002
gives due emphasis to the gradual implementation of e-Governance in all
government offices. e-Governance projects can be defined as infrastructure
buildup and the application of ICT to improve the efficiency, responsiveness,
transparency, and accountability of government.
Several government offices have begun to undertake e-Governance

projects, ranging from basic computerization to sophisticated information
systems that aim to automate processes and to ensure more efficient service
delivery. These projects have met various levels of success.
71
It was found from ADP that government has taken many initiatives to
implement e-governance. The listed projects have been identified through the
impact of ICT in ADP. The list of some initiatives by Bangladesh government in
the Annual Development Programme of last three years (from fiscal year 2004-
2005 to 2006-2007) is attached in Annex -4.
These projects are funded either by Bangladesh government or by development

partner of Bangladesh government. Some projects are also funded jointly by
Bangladesh government and
Total Budget in ICT Sector
development partner. By
analyzing the Annual 95000 93959 93643
94000
Development Programme of the 93000
92000
government of last 3 fiscal years, BDT (in lakh) 91000
90000
it has found that there was a 89000 87737
88000
boost between 2004-2005 to 87000
86000
2005-2006 and the budget 85000
84000
remained almost same for the 2004-2005 2005-2006 2006-2007
Fiscal year
fiscal year 2005-2006 and fiscal
year 2006-2007. But the number
of running projects has increased Fig: 4.6 Total Budget in ICT sector
in 2006-2007 from the previous
fiscal year.
Bangladesh is still at the

Proposed Budget in Infrastructure
beginners level in implementing Buildup
ICT, so it is crucial to work on 69500
69363
68909
the infrastructure first. In this 69000
BDT (in lakh)
context it has been seen that 68500

67937
68000
government established
67500
submarine cable link to connect
67000
the country to the information 2004-2005 2005-2006 2006-2007
Fiscal year
super highway. Government also
has taken some initiative to
establish the national backbone
Fig: 4.7 proposed budget in Infrastructure build up
for data and telecommunication
network.
72
Human resource development in ICT sector is a priority sector in

Bangladesh. Budget for human resource development in the fiscal year 2004-
2005 was BDT 88.88 cores in 2005-2006 it was BDT 187.31 cores and in 2006-
2007 it was 88.50 crores.
Though the allocation in the budget for ICT is increasing but ration of ICT
allocation with respect to total budget is decreasing. In the fiscal year 2004-
2005 the allocation for ICT was 1.53% of total budget while it is only 1.46% in
2005-2006 and 1.34% in 2006-2007.
e-Governance is becoming a fact in the lives of the citizens of the country.

The progress is slow and there is confusion about the means to achieve this,
but there is no doubt about the goal of attaining e-Governance. A coordinated
effort by political leaders, bureaucrats, development partner and private
entrepreneurs is critical to facilitate the growth of the ICT sector, and, hence,
the socio-economic development of Bangladesh.
4.2.1.5 Status of Government Sector Websites
In general terms, a website is a communication tool, its primary function

being to enable individuals and organizations to share and exchange
information through the internet. It is possible to make a certain amount of
information available to the citizens through the website in electronic
format, to gather information from the citizens themselves and to provide
electronic services to the citizen. For these reasons, websites can be useful
tools to support the work of governmental agencies for which contact with
the public and/or with other government agencies and organizations is
important.
An e-Governance website can fulfill one or more of the following

functions:- it can be a publishing tool, similar to a newspaper, a magazine,
a book or a radio/TV broadcast , it can be a marketing tool, providing
agencies with a way to publicize and promote their services and activities, it
can be a transactional tool, when they allow the users and the public
agency to exchange all the information necessary to support a transaction
of any kind and it can be a work tool, allowing a public agency to exchange
73
information with its employees and/or other stakeholders in the

organization, and therefore facilitate professional activity in general.
The report analyzes the current status of the various government

websites. The report also shows a comprehensive scenario regarding
information available in the various websites, whether the websites are
updated on a regular basis and whether they are working effectively. The
report includes only the website of the ministry and division of the
Government of Bangladesh.
(a) Government Ministries:
Ministries are the highest

Banngla Interface
governing authority of the
Government. All the ministries 40
35
35
Number of Ministry
have their websites and these 30

25
provide important information Number Of
20
Ministry
to the citizens. Most of these 15
10
websites have no Bangla 5
5
interface. As majority of the 0
Bangla Interface No Bangla
people still needs to have the Enable Interface
standard English knowledge, Fig: 4.8 Status of Bangla interface

current websites in the true
sense do not fulfill the need of
the people.
Update of information is a very

Updated Information
important factor. Mass people
35 33
and various organizations want 30
Number of Ministry
the updated information for 25

20
their usages.Although there is Number Of
15 Ministry
various information provided in
10 7
general, but most of the 5
ministries websites do not have 0

Updated Not Updated
adequate search options. 6 out
of our studied ministries have Fig: 4.9 Number of updated information
the search options. As the
74
websites are almost static therefore in spite of having search option it does not
really meet the need of mass people and organizations. It is being seen that
some of the ministries do not provide download services for the downloading of
the information provided by the ministries.
(b) Government Organizations:
In case of various government organizations, the situation is much worse

regarding various services. The Bangla interface service, updated information,
search option and form download services are not adequate. So the mass people
and organizations can not get the required information in spite of having
websites.
The scenario in respect to

Bangla Interface
Bangla interface the situation is
160 152
worse than in the ministries. 140
Num ber of M inistry
Only 7 government 120

100
organizations have bangla 80
interface out of our studied 159 60

40
organizations/divisions. 20 7
0
Bangla Enabled Interface No bangla Interface
Fig: 4.10 Number of Bangla interface
Update of information is also very important. It has been found that the
maximum of our government organization regularly update their websites. But
more emphasis should be given
Form Download
to update of information.
100 91
Although there are various 90
80
Number of Ministry
68
information provided in general, 70
60
50
but most of the organizations 40
30
websites do not have search 20
10
options. Out of the studied 0
Form download No download Option
websites it has been found that
only 15% of organizations have
Fig: 4.11 Number of Form Download
search option in their websites.
75
It is seen that most organizations do not provide download service. But it is a big
crucial factor for better and easy service delivery.
Bangladesh government has published 50 forms in websites

(http://www.forms.gov.bd/default.aspx). It is a good initiative. But the
penetration is not very good for the lack of promotion. The forms here need
review and update.
SMS Service:
It was that found one government website that is SMS-enabled. And that is:
1. Bangladesh Hajj Information (http://www.bdhajjinfo.org/)
WAP Enabled Websites:

Telecommunication is the most popular means of communication in
Bangladesh. It should be used for mass communication. To access the website
from the mobile it has to be WAP enabled. But no government website has been
found to be WAP enabled.
Disability:
Disable people is part of our society. Policy makers and development
practitioners should think of them and government should facilitate their
accessibility. It has been found that none of the studied websites have admitted
this issue. If Government websites ensure this issue then other organizations
will be influenced.
.bd domain Registration:

It is really a good finding that all of our government websites have .bd domain
registration. This really shows our awareness and concern.
The main drawback of our government sector websites is its static nature. These
websites should be dynamic. Dynamic websites will provide enhanced search
option, easy to update and not but the least the greater functionality and ease to
maintenance.
Finally it can be said that the publishing information is the first steps
towards e-Governance. From this study it is found that at current time(2007) e-
76
Governance service in Bangladesh is still in its infancy period. But for a

developing country like Bangladesh, establishing an efficient e-Governance will
help reducing costs for the government and make the citizens lives simpler and
better. If not well-conceived and implemented, e-Governance initiatives can
waste resources, fail in their promise to deliver useful services and thus increase
public frustration with government.
4.2.2 Status of private sector
4.2.2.1 Banking Sector
Industrialization efforts of the government during the 1990s included

investment in balancing, modernization and reconstruction, creation of new
industrial estates and export processing zones, promotion of private investment,
and attraction of foreign direct investment. The policy changes have been in line
with trends in the international market, recommendations of donor countries
and agencies for liberalization of trade and investment, and structural
adjustment programs. Almost at regular intervals of 4 to 6 years after 1982, the
government has adopted new industrial policies with increased incentives for
private investors from both home and abroad. These policies have some common
aspects such as incentives to promote industrialization in rural and remote
areas, to encourage entrepreneurs to use local raw materials, and development
of a system that would help in the transfer of technology.
Already all industrial sectors except the following four categories have been
opened up for private investment to pave rapid expansion of the private sector:
Arms, ammunition and defense equipment;
Nuclear energy;
Security printing (paper currency) and mint; and
Public reserve forests.
In addition, measures initiated relating to tax holiday, duty on plant and

spares import, royalty, double taxation, technical fees, expatriate workers, etc.,
remained in force. Logistic services were provided at increased level from the
'one stop' service window of the Board of Investment (BOI) in 1999-2000. A
'Welcome Centre' was opened at the Zia International Airport, and a scheme for
77
setting up five Industrial and Hi-tech Industrial Parks is underway. Large

number of work permits to foreign nationals were issued and renewed.
The significant and promising Bangladeshi private sectors from both the
manufacturing and service sectors are:
Ready Made Garments (RMG)
Textiles
Telecommunications
Housing & Construction
Banking
Media & Advertising
Pharmaceuticals
Energy
Agro, Poultry, & Fisheries
IT Services (ITS) and IT Enabled Services (ITES)
Although the private sector is more inclined to the ICT adoption in

Bangladesh than the overall public sector, but the ICT diffusion process is still
quite slow. Banking sector leads all the other sectors by wide margins in terms
of ICT adoption and reflecting its benefits in the revenues and profits. All the
dynamic private sector entrepreneurs are realizing the ICT potentials for their
business benefits. Almost all sizeable private sector businesses at least try to
automate their accounts and payroll systems.
Use of ICT in Banking Sector:
Using ICT in banking sector is not new in Bangladesh. Bangladesh Krishi

Bank started its ICT Journey back in 1987 with two personal computers (PC)
installed in its Head office. But banks which have already introduced different
services using ICT have to take new initiatives to add different options to
disperse their services to general citizen of this country.
This report focuses the ongoing ICT related services or facilities and the
automation process of the banks which can foster e-Governance system in
Bangladesh. Most of the banks have their own website and a few banks are on
the line. In addition most of the banks have online banking facilities for
78
customers and some of the banks are planning to transform the manual system
into full automation process. The detail of ICT status is attached in theAnnex -5
Online banking:
Maximum bank in Bangladesh

use ICT as a delivery channel. 37 Online Banking Status
banks out of 52 provide ICT

enable services now. These banks
15, 29%
are providing many services Online Banking
Facilities
through the use of ICT. As the No online Banking
Facilities
demand for modern banking is
37, 71%
increasing all the banks are
trying to increase the quality of
their services by using modern Fig: 4.12 Status of online banking
technology.
Service Line:
The commercial banks are providing online banking, ATM support, SMS and net
banking services in the country. These technology based services also provide
fund transfer through internet, debit/credit Card facility and SMS service for
different queries and bank statement etc. The major services offered by bank
through ICT infrastructure are as follows:
1. ATM (Automated Teller Machine) Booth

2. Different types of Cards (VISA, Master Card, Debit, Credit card)
3. Point of Sales (POS)
4. Online Banking
5. SMS Banking
6. Tele-banking
79
ATM is giving the bank customers immense combative advantages of cash

withdrawal and automated banking. ATM booths provide the facilities of
withdrawal or deposit of cash
or cheque as well as paying Usages of ATM card
utility bills like of that
4%
Grameen, AKTEL, City Cell, Balance Check
9%
DESA, TITAS etc. As ATM is 39% Cash Withdrawal
15%
Cash Deposit
the most popular ICT enabled
Fund Transfer
service of banks, this can be Others
33%
taken as a positive indicator.
Fig: 4.13 Usages of ATM card
Point of Sales (POS) terminals are mainly established for online payment of
shopping bills. There are many POS centers in the big cities which accept card
from different banks. They provide facilities of account info, transaction within
own account, viewing and printing the balance and account statement for the
last 20 (twenty) transactions. But no bank in Bangladesh provides full- featured
online banking.
Banks introduced SMS Banking System by which the customer can

perform many banking transactions from anywhere. SMS banking also enables
the similar features of POS in many banks.
Utility Bill Payment:
At present several utility service providers along with many banks have started
using electronic payment system in Bangladesh. But the system still has not
reached the mass majority. Bangladesh Bank has posted an ICT Guideline in
their website for the banks and financial institution to create their own ICT
policy for the security of the online transactions. Nationalized bank like Sonali,
Janata, Agroni and Private banks like Dutch Bangla bank, Brac bank, Eastern
Bank, Standard Chartered, and HSBC etc are using ATMs and POS for payment
of utility bills electronically. Ready Cash card, Q-Cash card, ATM card and POS
are the most used options for the electronic payment. One of the problems is
that these services are mostly available in big cities and towns. People living in
remote villages still have no idea that such services are available.
80
Currently (2007) they provide the service of mobile telephone bills. Some
other utility service providers like PDB, DESA etc. are using Ready Cash to pay
the bills. In some cases an ATM card can be used. Recently, PDB has taken up a
pilot project at Chittagong where the PDB electricity bill can be paid through
Grammen Phone connected mobile. Other service providers which provide rates
like TITAS, the bills could be paid automatically through banks every month.
Connectivity & Software:
Some Banks have recently adopted V-SAT communication system to bring its
rural branches under the online branch banking facilities. The software used in
banks ensures the highest level of security at application, network, database
and operating systems level ascertaining the confidentiality and security of
customer's personal and account's information. Banking software used in
Bangladesh are mostly imported from India and Pakistan. Bangladesh software
industry still has not earned the confidence of the bank owners. In some case
like Bangladesh Bank, customized software applications are in use.
Role of Bangladesh Bank:
Bangladesh Bank being the governing authority of public and private

commercial banks, could play some very important roles. It should review
the policy and make new Acts or laws (if needed) to foster the ICT
initiatives in the banking sectors.
Auto Clearing House: It is a common demand of the bankers, so
Bangladesh bank should consider this issue and take necessary steps.
National Payment Gateway: The usages of bank card in the customer
level is quite satisfactory. But the customer faces a general problem of
lack of ATM booth. An idea to solve the problem is to establish a national
payment gateway so that customer of one bank can use the ATM booth of
another bank. Several attempts have been taken by individual or group of
banks to make a common payment gateway. But no one has gained the
overall acceptance among the bankers. In this regards, maximum
bankers are of the opinion that Bangladesh Bank should make the
policy, and infrastructure and most importantly should own this common
platform.
81
Further Services:
Besides offering current IT based services the commercial and specialized banks
are drawing their future plan to provide further services. Opening L/C through
using internet banking, transferring fund using internet banking, providing the
rate of foreign exchange to customers etc are the services which banks are
currently pondering to offer. In the last decade a revolution has occurred in
banking sector. A major portion of automation in banking sector has already
been completed.
4.2.2.2 Bangladesh IT and ITES (IT Enabled Service) Sector
In Bangladesh the ICT (IT & ITES) industry is yet to become a significant part of
main stream economy. But we have experienced a remarkable growth in the last
five to ten years. Currently the industry is growing faster as the younger
generation has a positive attitude toward ICT. The current trend and trade in
ICT sector is very significant.
Local Market Scenario
The market size of the total ICT industry in Bangladesh is estimated to be

approximately Tk 1,300 crore per year (excluding the telecom sector). Out of
this the software segment (comprising mostly of customized and packaged
software - not including different types of IT enabled services like desktop
publishing, multimedia, animation, GIS, data entry, digitization etc.) is
estimated to be more than Tk. 200 crore per year. The international software
giants (Microsoft, Oracle, Sun etc.) hold the lions share of the
packaged/licensed (off-the-shelf) software market segment. Locally there are
over 400 registered software companies operating in the country that mainly
cater to the customized software development and maintenance segment of the
market. Local companies share this segment with a number of international
software vendors who have significant market presence in specific client
segments like banks, telecom, MNCs and some large donor funded government
projects.
82
Domestic ICT Market in Bangladesh

(Total Market Size Approx. Tk.1,300 crore/year)
Computer &
Network
Hardware
Software
Tk.200 crore
(approx.)
Internet &
Network Other ITES
Services
Fig: 4.14 Domestic ICT market in Bangladesh
The current demand in the market is for back-office automation

(accounting/finance, HR, inventory, billing etc.) by organizational IT users,
which is one of the main driving force for the software industry. This is a
common approach during the early development stage of software industry in
any country. The interesting factor however in Bangladesh is that many
companies are involved in developing high value customized applications like
ERP, CRM, SCM etc. This also shows the gradual maturing of the software
companies as well as a higher level of client awareness of the potential value.
Software Trade:
Bangladeshi software has Software & ITES Export and Import

market mostly in USA,
35
29.8
Canada, the European 30 27.01
25.5
in million US$
25
countries, the Middle East, 20 Export
15 12.68 Import
Japan, Australia, South Africa 9.03
10 7.19
4.2 5.36
and some of the South East 5 2.8 1.33
0
Asian countries. The industry Fig: 4.15 Status of Software $ ITES export
2001-2002 2002-2003 2003-2004 2004-2005 2005-2006
and Import 15
Fiscal Year
has experienced more export
than import in software and
Fig: 4.15 Software & ITES Export and import
ITES sector in the fiscal year
2005-2006. This clearly shows our ability to compete with the interventional
market. The quality of softwares is also appreciated by the big business houses
and governments equally.
83
Human Resource Dynamics:
It is estimated from the BASIS survey that around 7,000 software professionals
are employed in more than 400 registered software firms in the country
Fig: 4.16 Technical Job Distribution surveyed

software companies
From the above graph, it is seen that a significant portion of technical

professionals in the surveyed firms are involved in the non-coding activities (e.g.
project management, system analysis, system architecture, quality assurance
etc.) which are highly important components of project life cycle for any software
project. It really shows the dedication and sincerity of the software firm to
develop them to as a global competitor.
IT Enabled Service:
Information Technology Enabled Services (ITES)(e.g desktop publishing,

multimedia, animation, GIS, data entry, digitization etc) is a large, fast-growing
worldwide industry fueled by customers seeking efficiency and cost-savings from
outside vendors, as well as rapid advancements in telecommunications and
information technology. Offshore outsourcing of these services has become
accepted and prevalent. Bangladesh has the potential to obtain a share of this
market, which could result in a substantial number of jobs and meaningful
export diversification for the country.
84
As a provider of ITES for (principally) overseas customers, Bangladesh meets the

requirements in terms of telecommunications infrastructure, labor costs, and
government policies. However, there is a great need to focus on creating or
promoting factors within Bangladesh that are competitive in the international
arena. Other countries are already vying for their share by focusing on reduced
costs, increased quality, and meaningful incentives for corporations to award
their business to their locations instead of others.
Prospective IT intensive Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Areas for

Bangladesh
The global BPO Industry is estimated to be worth 120150 billion dollars; of this
the offshore BPO is estimated to be some US$11.4 Billion. India has 63% share
of the offshore component 15. Bangladesh can get a subsequent share of this
offshore component. Initially, Bangladesh can get the BPO contracts which are
low in the value chain. Some of the prospective areas are:
Data Entry, Data Processing

Call Centre
E-Accounting
GIS/AutoCAD
A survey by BASIS shows, approximately 1000 seat jobs are being exported
which is worth approx. US$ 5 million dollar.
15. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Business_Process_Outsourcing
85
4.2.3 Recommendations in Infrastructure & Service

Sector
This section is mainly a reflection of scopes and possibilities in different issues

of infrastructure & service sector, where ICT can play facilitating roles to
introduce e-Governance. The scopes and possibilities have been identified
through Focus Group Discussion (FGD) with different stakeholders, books and
journals reviews, and intensive interviewing with citizens. Focus Group
Discussion (FGD) with different stakeholders will be a continuous process,
which will be updated and incorporated in this report on a regular basis. The
recommendations from different stakeholders and citizens are the following.
(a) Develop e-citizen portal: The technical team of different government

bodies and agencies have suggested the introduction of e-citizen portal where
updated information of all services of Government will be presented on a regular
basis. The ultimate target is to reach the standard of e-citizen portal of
Singapore. They have also recommended to take some intermediate steps to
reach these goal. These are:
1. Develop a Search option on the basis of services
2. Incorporate telephone index
3. Prioritize the services
4. Standardize interface layout
5. Prepare guidelines to regularly update website contents
(b) Develop a National Payment Gateway for smooth banking:

Development of national payment gateway is a common demand to the Central
Bank. Most of the banks have individual ATM booths. If a national payment
gateway is developed, then all banks can use the gateway. That will enable
bankers and customers to have a hassle-free and easier system. Bangladesh
bank is the main responsible authority to formulate the National Payment
Gateway Policy.
(c ) Reduce internet and local bandwidth costs: The Internet bandwidth

costs are almost ten times higher in Bangladesh than that of India. All
participants very strongly urged and recommended to drastically reduce all sorts
of network bandwidth costs in Bangladesh. Since the Government has already
86
installed (or almost completing the installations) of country wide high speed
network backbone, and also the high speed submarine cable connection to the
internet; so the citizens can access these paying only minimal bandwidth costs.
Although the Government may lose some short term bandwidth rental revenues;
but the longer term the indirect Government revenue potential is very large.
That will happen throughout the country with lots of new and interesting
businesses coming forward and they then paying taxes to the Government,
which will be much larger than the direct bandwidth rental revenues alone! The
businesses and citizens also demand to slash down the higher taxes / tariffs on
the very expensive Network Equipments. Since the Government still favors the
computer hardware imports with zero taxation policy; so it is the popular
demand that they do the same for all the network equipments. This will also
help to reduce the network access and bandwidth costs for businesses and
general citizens. The recently legalized IP Telephony should also fall into this
greatly reduced access and bandwidth pricing recommendations.
(d) Leverage existing network infrastructure: The Government owns the

largest Network Infrastructure in Bangladesh, as it is quite normal in a
developing country. BTTB owns quite large network bandwidth capacity, which
they may not fully utilize in the foreseeable future. So the private ISPs and MAN
/ WAN providers suggest to leverage the existing Government owned Network
Infrastructure all over the country. They also recommend the Government to
charge them only minimally so that they can provide affordable prices to the
customers.
87
There is continued
necessity of a highly skilled human
resource pool in Bangladeshs ICT sector.
Skilled human resources are currently in
high demand and short in supply. This
chapter aims to understand the state of IT
education infrastructure of Bangladesh
and the challenges citizens face in
accessing IT education
HUMAN RESOURCE READINESS

FOR ICT ADOPTION
88
CHAPTER 5: HUMAN RESOURCE READINESS

FOR ICT ADOPTION
There is continued necessity of a highly skilled human resource pool in

Bangladeshs ICT sector. Skilled human resources are currently in high demand
and short in supply. ICT graduates are not gaining the skills required by the
private sector, and due to rapid growth and changing nature of the sector, this
disparity will increase in the future. At the same time ICT students are
graduating and unable to find employment. There is a great gap between the
academic and professional sectors. The ICT topics taught widely do not always
align with the needs and priorities of the private sector. Students learn the
requisite theoretical and technical skills but not how and where to apply them:
career counseling and formal contact with the private sector is non-existent or
too general to be of any benefit to ICT students. Education in the ICT field is
seen as formal and theoretical and as a result it does not convey the real picture
of the private sector.
This chapter aims to understand the state of IT education infrastructure

of Bangladesh and the challenges citizens face in accessing IT education. The
concluding recommendations were gathered from the survey result and other
secondary research findings.
5.1. Access to ICT learning
Formal education in computers was first started in 1984 with the foundation of
Computer Science and Engineering Department in Bangladesh University of
Engineering and Technology. ICT education thereafter gradually extended to the
bachelor's degree, higher secondary and secondary school levels. In Bangladesh,
there are about 83,796 primary level institutions, 5,694 and 15,748 junior and
secondary level institutions respectively, 2,339 higher secondary and degree
colleges and more than 1,000 ICT training centers. 1
1
http://www.digitallearning.in/articles/article-details.asp?articleid=907&typ=Perspective
89
Primary and Secondary Schools
The first five years and the next three years of education constitute the primary
and junior secondary levels respectively. Students become, in a very small way,
aware of computers and their vast applications through their general science
textbooks at these levels. A majority of schools in the country cannot afford to
buy computers for their students. Though a small number of city-based schools
have very limited computer laboratory facilities, yet they fail to make their
students familiar with internet, e-mail and related technology because of the
lack of nationwide telecommunication infrastructure and internet facilities. In
addition, school teachers at these levels lack the minimum level of training on
IT.
Secondary and higher secondary levels
The 9th and 10th years of a school-going student and the next two years of a
college-going student constitute the secondary and higher secondary levels
respectively. Computer science was introduced as an optional subject for
secondary level students from the beginning of 1994, and about 150 schools
were permitted to start up the subject. Many more schools have shown interest,
and the quantitative expansion of ICT education at the secondary level is
phenomenal. The National Education Policy has recommended compulsory
computer courses from the secondary level of education. The Board of
Intermediate and Secondary Education, Dhaka introduced computer science as
an optional subject in 1991. Already, more than 200 colleges have introduced
computer science as an optional subject for science stream students. Moreover,
about 30 polytechnic institutes of the country (mostly located in Dhaka) are
offering four-year diploma courses for those who have graduated from SSC in
computer technology. Bangladesh Open University is now offering three-
semester diplomas in computer applications.
Undergraduate and Post-Graduate Universities
At the moment, Bangladesh had 5 specialized science and technology

universities and 28 public universities, 54 private universities, 6 BITs and some
national university-affiliated post-graduate institutes and colleges, most of
which are offering courses related to computer science and information
technology.
90
Bangladesh Open University is the only university in Bangladesh that is offering

Distance Education. Established in 1992 by an Act of Parliament, it has opened
up new vistas in distance education in the country. Situated at a picturesque
site of Gazipur, 30 km north of Dhaka, BOU has a printing and production
division and a modern media centre.
Bangladesh Open University relies heavily on print materials, electronic

media like radio-television and audio-video cassettes, tutorial services,
computer networking and the internet. The use of these techniques helps BOU
to take its academic programs to the doorsteps of people far and wide. It makes
room for in-house education.
IT Training Institutes
Due to their growing demand, IT training institutions are spreading all over the
country. A survey shows that most trainees at these institutes enroll in software
application courses, especially MS office. When inquired about the quality of
training, 48% of the trainees were found very satisfied, 39% were satisfied and
the rest 13% were unsatisfied. Inadequate logistic support, backdated course
plan and inefficient trainers were some of the reasons for trainee dissatisfaction.
Survey also reveals that nearly 85% of the trainees plan to train further in IT
and take courses in Photoshop, Dream waver, flash. Certification programs such
as MCSE, CCSP, MCDBA also run popular amongst trainees. In relation to
performance in the job market, while most trainees responded positively, 3% felt
that these trainings were insufficient to compete in the job market.
According to management, most students find jobs in networking, system

administration or programming right after graduating from these institutes. Due
to the rapid growth in telecommunication industry telecommunication courses
are also gaining much popularity lately. Most training centers provide training
under the authorization of Microsoft Certified Partner for Learning Solutions
(MCPLS) through qualified instructors. These internationally recognized vendor
certification increase the credibility of the trainees in the job market. However, it
was suggested that the Government take steps to monitor the training centers
and assist in improving the standard.
91
5.2. Research and Development
ICT has been developed in Bangladesh with inadequate plan or direction.

Research opportunities need to be developed to develop policies to spread the
use of ICT throughout the country to eliminate digital divide, gender problems
etc. Currently, some educational institutions including Dhaka University, BUET
and East West University have initiated research programmes in IT-related
fields. These include machine learning, pattern recognition, speech recognition,
automatic translation, computational algorithm, VLSI and 3-D vision.
Considerable research work has been done in the use of Bengali in computers.
Some government organizations including BANSDOC, BERNET, URC are also
conducting research on IT development.
Bangladesh National Scientific and Technical Documentation Centre

(BANSDOC):
Bangladesh National Scientific and Technical Documentation Centre

(BANSDOC) was established in 1972 as a unit of Bangladesh Council of
Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR). In 1987 BANSDOC and National
Science Library (NSL) were amalgamated and the newly created organization
was renamed as BANSDOC owing the status of a premier national organization
and apex body in the country with the recommendation of the National Science
and Technology Policy envisaged in 1987. According to the mandatory role and
responsibility, BANSDOC deals with library, documentation and information
services, products and systems in the field of information science, information
and communication technology.
BANSDOC houses the National Science Library (BANSDOC Library) that

acts as a major information resource centre in the country in the field of Science
and ICT. It has the finest collections in Information Science and Information and
Communication Technology and a strong reference collection in general S&T
aspects. It holds over about 19,000 books, about 425 periodical titles, both local
and foreign in the field of Science and ICT. A significant number of these foreign
periodicals are received in electronic form in CD-ROMs. BANSDOC has set up
an Electronic/Digital Library Division with facilities to access information from
CD-ROMs. To support its ICT services, BANSDOC has set up an ICT based
Cyber Service Centre which is well-equipped with the computer and online
92
broadband connected networking facilities to ensure all out high quality cyber
services to the users.
BANSDOC works closely with similar counterpart institutions in the

countries over the world to bring about global information exchange. BANSDOC
is associated with the activities of International Federation for Information and
Documentation (FID), International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA),
Commonwealth Library Associations (COMLA), SAARC Documentation Centre
(SDC), European Patent Office (EPO), European Commission (EC), UNESCO,
ISESCO etc.
The University Resources Centre (URC) and Bangladesh Education and

Research Network (BERNET):
The University Resources Centre (URC) and Bangladesh Education and

Research Network (BERNET) have been established for better coordination and
cooperation between the Universities and the University Grants Commission of
Bangladesh. This has paved the way for our students, teachers, officers and
researchers to enter into the world-wide information technology network.
University Grants Commission (UGC) can play a very important role in

building up an online library or a portal to have access to the world class
journals for research purposes. These journals usually are very expensive for
subscription and sometimes not possible for a single university to become its
member. As Bangladesh is lacking a lot behind in the field of research and as
the universities do not share their research topics or outcomes, duplicity has
become a common problem.
UGC can act as a coordinator for the universities by hosting the

outcomes of different researches in their dynamic website. While boosting up the
field of local researches, UGC can subscribe to the world leading journals and
make the universities under it members of it so that they could have the access
to these journals as well. UGC can also host in their website where the hard
copies of the original local journals could be found, if not allowed to give out the
full text of the research.
BERNET can act as a centrally controlling body for the knowledge share
of the universities. It would have discussion with the universities having certain
facilities to be shared with others so that others could also take the advantage
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rather than starting from the scratch. BERNET would also keep its role for
providing internet connection for those in need of it.
5.3. Content
Digital and audio Visual Content
ICT consist of not only the computer and the internet but also mobile phones,
radio, TV, among other things, present unprecedented opportunities in the field
of education as well as different livelihood issues. Educational content that is
much more true to life, timely and demand driven is being developed in the
audio-visual form in many countries and promoted through computer, TV and
portable computing and multimedia devices. ICT enhances learning for all ages.
For example, radio, television, VCD etc. used in combination with printed course
material, can make literacy lessons more true-to-life and interesting. Multimedia
ICT provides words, images, movement and animation in combination with
audio to enhance learning. Such forms of ICT can also be entertaining and
thereby motivate the target audience to watch and learn. Television and other
audio-visual media can also provide a means by which to stimulate discussion
and critical thinking.
A total of 23 organizations are involved in producing ICT based materials

for the non formal education sector. Among the 23 organizations 9 are NGOs, 9
are Commercial firms and the rest are Educational and Research organizations.
Out of 195 ICT-based materials more than 70% of the materials are developed
by NGOs and research and educational organizations. Only 29% of the materials
are developed by the private sector. The highest number of ICT-materials (129)
is developed in from of video, animation and combination of video and
animation. This form has been chosen thanks to the wide availability of
television and video-player across the country. Furthermore, these materials can
also be run on the computer. Product for internet is still limited in numbers.
While combination of animation and video is found more effective, but only
NGOs have used such combination. Although most of the ICT-based materials
developing institutions emerged in early 2000s, their number is still limited.
Lack of ready market, inadequate and irregular funding, lack of proper facilities
for developing high-quality ICT-based materials, lack of high-skilled materials,
inadequate experience of educationists in ICT-based materials development, yet
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low penetration of ICT and interruption of power supply were identified as major
problems by the developer institutions.
Apart from education content there are many digital contents on

livelihood issues as for example: Agriculture, Law & Human Rights, Non farm
economic activities, Health, appropriate technologies etc. Content means
information that are available covers issues like business/ small enterprises
(poultry, potato farming, fishery etc.); different citizen services (job
advertisement/ employment opportunities, SSC/ HSC/ University admission
tests results etc.); agriculture (improved farming etc.); health; laws and human
rights; disaster management.
Contents at the moment are developed by different agencies like WIN,

D.Net etc. and distributed to these centers by different agencies like Katalyst
and others. Though these are vast in size and quite handful in numbers but
found to be mostly non-communicative to the community people mainly for the
language and in some cases the way it is presented. It is not dynamic (updated
regularly) enough to meet the local needs.
In some cases the search mechanisms are complicated for the common
people. Printed information is available but it is priced and one has to pay for
printing out information found in the web. Some printed information is available
but again lacks clarity.
Mobile Contents in Bangladesh
Nowadays Asia is the focus market for the service providers and the vendors.
One survey carried out by the researchers from the Russian School of
Economics, the London Business School, various colleges of Cambridge
University and the Anglo-Russian telecoms investment group reported
Bangladesh as the number one telecom opportunity market for the
manufacturers, service providers and the vendors. According to the report the
top five countries for telecoms investment are Bangladesh, China, India,
Indonesia and Russia.
A new trend is observed in telecommunication sector that people

(generally young generation) are getting more interested in different attractive
and useful services other than traditional voice calls. Mobile phone operators
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have realized and admitted this new demand. And they are now providing
different popular and attractive value added services. In this context it is
observed that new mobile content developers are coming forward to meet up the
market demand.
Technology:
Content and application services are developed mainly on the following
technologies in Bangladesh:
Short Messaging Service (SMS)
Enhanced Messaging Service (EMS)
Smart Messaging
Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS)
Wireless Application Protocol (WAP)
Java 2 Micro Edition (J2ME)
IVR
Services
Content developers are providing many useful and attractive features and
services. Some of the services are very much popular among the target groups.
There is a variation on the peoples demand and the developers have also
focused on those demands. Following are the popular services provided by the
content developers:
Entertainment content (ring tones. logos, wallpapers, karaoke, mobile
comics, picture message, animations and many more)
Advertising and Promotion
Voting, Survey and Public Opinion
Lifestyle Content (ie. horoscope, sports, news, movies, fitness)
Interactive Contests and Games
Custom Application development
Business applications development (banking/sales force automation and
more)
Service for media (print media/TV channels)
The customers who are interested to use these services are charged from Tk 2 to
Tk 40, depending upon what services he/she is using. Mobile phone has spread
out largely among the mass people. They are using it for different contents, like
emergency numbers, news, voting etc. So it can be used widely as a service
delivery channel for government or other organization. For example, government
can quickly scan the public opinion about a national issue or the like.
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5.4. Free and Open Source Software
Many governments in the world have saved millions of dollars in software

licensing by adopting free open source software alternatives. For example, the
South African government has saved millions of US dollars by adopting open
source. Bangladesh Government has formulated copyright law. But software
piracy is still quite rampant in Bangladesh. One of the main barriers to
implement copyright and anti-piracy law is the relatively higher price of software
licenses. Legally and easily available many free and open source software are as
good as many commercial patented close-source software.Recently, (particularly
from the last ve years) there are many success stories involving the application
of FOSS around the world.
FOSS as a Technology Phenomenon
Here are some examples of technologies that have evolved past the mature stage
and where the FOSS implementation is at least on par with the proprietary
implementation:
Table 5.1 :Alternatives of Proprietary Software on FOSS)

Technology Proprietary FOSS
Web Browser MS Internet Explorer Firefox
Mail Transport MS Outlook Express Thunderbird
Web Server MS IIS Apache
Image Manipulation Photoshop Gimp
Productivity Suite MS Ofce OpenOfce.org
Database MS SQL MySQL, PostgreSQL
Software Industry
As the main focus of this report was on the usages and development of FOSS
around the country, software industry is a very important stakeholder. A survey
has been conducted around 20 most prominent software companies in
Bangladesh to know the usage pattern of open source. It has been found that
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98% of our industry people have heard about the name of FOSS, and have
interest on this and believe that it is a strong alternative of proprietary software.
Importance of Open Source in

Software Industry
9% 4%
9%
Very High
26% High
Medium
Low
VeryLow
52%
Fig 5.1: Importance of open source in software industry
As FOSS is not yet very popular yet in Bangladesh, it has been surveyed among
the business people, on which issues, the FOSS community should focus to
popularize it in the software industry. They mostly believe that stability is the
most important factor, then security, technical help etc. The real picture is some
what as follows
Importance of different features

6% 6% 18%
7%
7%
16%
8%
8% 13%
11%
Higher Stability
Higher Performance
Better Functionality
Better Security
Low Licence fees
Operatin and administrative cost saving
Installation and integration cost saving
Fig 5.2: Importance of different features to popularize open source software
Citizen Survey:
A survey has been also conducted on 60 people of different location and age who
are familiar with open source software. In the citizen level FOSS is still at the
beginners level. Maximum of the surveyed people only heard about the open
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source. The most popular open source software among the citizen is Mozilla
FireFox web browser. Usage of FOSS in the citizen level is diversified which is
reflected in the following graph.
Usages of Different Open Source

Software
40 35
35 28
30 24 23
25 20
20
15
10
5
0
OpenOffice.org
Mozilla/Konquer
Apache
MySQL/Postgre
Linux
SQL
or
Fig 5.3: Usages of different open source software
Some of the surveyed people showed their keen interest to participate in open
source project.
Some benefits of FOSS:
Capacity building & localization: FOSS has the tendency to improve capacity
locally, i.e. within the organization, region, or country. As source code is open,
we can localize many world renowned software for our specific need.
Community: There is a lively community interacting on the basis of cooperation

around FOSS. So, technical help is always available.
Enable learning: Anyone can study the source code to learn how the software
works internally and what its developers considered good programming practice.
This knowledge can then be applied to improve the software at hand or to use
related techniques on other software projects.
License cost: Absence of licensing costs results in immediate savings. It is very

important for country like Bangladesh. Use of open source software will also
decrease our dependency on pirated proprietary software.
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Meets government responsibilities: Democratic governments have identied

specic responsibilities in handling data that are much more easily met using
FOSS modiable to local needs. No matter how small a locale, FOSS can and
as experience shows will be localized to the needs of this particular locale.
Security: In general FOSS takes a very conservative approach to security:

features and services that might expose a system to security risks are initially
disabled and features that enhance the security of a system are initially enabled.
As source code is open nobody can secretly embedded code in the software.
Vendor independence: Anyone can obtain services from any provider, including
source code changes according to specic requirements, such as security
enhancements, xes for defects, and particular functionality.
FOSS can be a good alternative for proprietary software technically, but most of
our people do not aware of it. And software industries as well as citizen have
demanded that a committee should be formed to grow awareness and give
technical help to the industry and conduct necessary research to localize it. So,
lastly it can be said that Throughout history, every generation has had to
stand up for freedom. Now it's our turn for our software independence.
5.5. Localization
The first attempt of localization started in the early 1980s with Bangla font
development in windows environment and many fonts were developed in ad hoc
ways resulting in a gross interoperability. Absence of planned activities and
policies resulted in different key-board mapping and made the localization a
cumbersome process. The UNICODE in late 90s shed a new light on this issue
and after that, the process of localization began to take a new shape in the
country. The open source software till then has the most significant effect in the
localization efforts in Bangladesh. The major initiatives are run by the
volunteers. However, in recent days the institutional initiatives are also in the
scene.
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Local Language Computing Policy
There are three primary sources of local language policy statements in

Bangladesh:
1. Government of Bangladesh (GoB) Circular,
2. National ICT Policy, and
3. Broadband Policy (proposed, awaiting Cabinet approval).
The local language computing policy in Bangladesh was set in motion by the
Government of Bangladesh (GoB) circular that states that Bangla is the primary
language for official correspondence and reports. Specifically, the circular states
the following:
All GoB correspondence should be in Bangla.

All laws of the land have both Bangla and English. But, in case of if any
differences between the two versions, the Bangla version prevail.
Local content development
a. All Government agencies should have their own websites published

and updated regularly.
b. All government websites should have content both in Bangla and
English.
Relevant Government Ministries and Departments
GoB has assigned the Ministry of Science, Information, & Communication

Technology (MoSICT) the task of managing all Science and ICT related activities.
MoSICT in turn has formed Bangladesh Computer Council (BCC) as the apex
body for all ICT related activities in the country. Ministry of Culture is
responsible for all language specific activities, which has delegated the language
related tasks to Bangla Academy as the national language authority.
Policy Initiatives
The GoB has in recent years made significant strides in formulating policies to
enable the growth of ICT in Bangladesh, with references to the need for local
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language computing. The publication of the National ICT Policy is one such
initiative that has been driven directly by the Prime Ministers office. However,
there is a distinct lack of initiatives that may directly affect the development of
local language computing, such as directed research funding and other forms of
assistance.
Success Stories
The notable successes in local language computing arena have been due to the
open-source volunteer efforts, led by Ankur and BdOSN. Ankur
(http://www.ankurbangla.org) started localization of open source software like
Linux, open office, gaim etc. Ekushey (www.ekushey.org) started developing
open source Unicode-enabled fonts and Bangla input methods. Some other
volunteer groups and individuals came into the scene as well. The only notable
effort from the public sector is the initiative by Bangladesh Computer Council
(BCC) in 2004, which created a national keyboard mapping and a collation
sequence.
As of now (November, 2007), countrys sole center for localization has

been created at BRAC University. The Center for Research on Bangla Language
Processing (CRBLP) is currently conducting research projects that deal with
Bangla language processing. The research team is working on Bangla
information retrieval, (e.g., Bangla spell-checking, Bangla search engine),
morphological analysis, developing a digital Bangla lexicon and an online
dictionary, building an annotated Bangla corpus, Bangla computational syntax,
Bangla optical character recognition and Bangla speech processing. This center
is supported in part by a grant from the PAN Localization Project (PanL10n) of
the International Development Research Corporation (IDRC) of Ottawa, Canada.
There are two parallel efforts currently underway: the various Bangla natural
language processing activities, and the localization efforts.
Bangla Natural Language Processing (NLP):
Research in Bangla NLP is slowly gaining momentum through different

international conferences. There are two major annual conferences that have
created a forum for the like-minded to get together and share their work: the
Bangla Natural Language Processing track in the International Conference on
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Computer and Information Technologies (ICCIT), and the International

Conference on Computer Processing of Bangla, which is a dedicated conference
for Bangla NLP. This year (2007) alone, there have been a number of original
papers, dealing with linguistic issues such as lexical resources, syntax,
semantics, etc, to advanced applications such as speech processing and optical
character recognition for Bangla script. The basic NLP tools are now reaching a
level of maturity that allows the newcomers to experiment and innovate, and
hopefully create new NLP applications for Bangla. A number of these
applications have been released by various research and development efforts in
Bangladesh in recent times.
Localization Efforts
There are two primary areas of localization efforts open source localization and
open content localization both driven by volunteer efforts. Ankur and BdOSN
completed the creation of glossary (Bangla version of computer terms). Ankur
and associates volunteers had already localized different open source software.
These included Linux distribution like Fedora, Mandriva, Suse and Ubuntu;
Desktop environment like Gnome and KDE; Applications like OpenOffice.org,
GAIM, Firefox and Thunderbird.
The localization initiative was started with development of Bangla Fonts

and Bangla Input Systems. There are a few prominent groups, which have been
involved in these activities for long. Bijoy, Prabartan, Alpona, Akshar, Lekhoni
are the major ASCII-based input system, which are now in use. These systems
are proprietary. Among the open source initiative Avro is the most prominent
and complete.
In Bangladesh, the main thrust sector in Open Content Development has

been the development of the Bangla Wikipedia. It was organized by Bangladesh
Open Source Network (BdOSN) and its sister organization, Bangla Wiki. The
project aims at developing a free, open access encyclopedia in Bangla language.
Besides the Bangla Wikipedia, some initiatives have been started in recent years
to develop some open content in science, especially in mathematics. The Bangla
Wiki project aims at organizing contributors to the Bangla Wikipedia, publicizing
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it through print and electronic media, and providing the support infrastructure
for collaboration.
Since its launch in late March 2006, the Bangla Wiki project has been
very successful. Although the Bangla Wikipedia was initiated in 2004, it only
had 540 articles till March 2006, with very little actual content. Initially, a target
of 10,000 articles in one year was set. The project has been able to attract a
large number of editors. As of October 2005, the total registered editor count is
865. The number of articles in the Bangla Wikipedia has grown initially at a rate
of 800 articles per month, with occasional burst of activity raising the rate
beyond that. As a result of these activities, the Bangla language Wikipedia
crossed the 10,000 article mark in September 2006, becoming the 50th
Wikipedia, and the 2nd language from South Asia to achieve this. Now
(November, 2007) the total Bangla language articles is 16531 and it growing very
rapidly.
Some Bangla content on the web:
1. There are more than 200+ local language websites in Bangladesh. Major
daily newspapers and some magazines have their own website in Bangla.
However, there is a tendency to use non-standard encodings instead of
Unicode.
2. Some local initiatives are there which developed website in Bangla. Some
Bangla blogs are beginning to appear locally.
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5.6. Recommendations
5.6.1 Education and ICT
Facilities should be built to promote ICT education and computer-aided

education in all levels (primary to post-graduate). Donor agencies, non-
government organizations and other development partners of the country should
participate in building up the necessary capacity in this area. The mutually
supportive roles of public and private finance point the way to raising the overall
level of investment in ICT education and training.
Teachers are the most vital resource in promoting modernisation and

higher standards; their recruitment, training, deployment and appropriate
incentives are critical to ICT education system in Bangladesh. Since there is an
acute shortage of qualified teachers, short-term intensive training on ICT may be
arranged. Wherever necessary an international faculty or expatriate
Bangladeshis working abroad may be invited as visiting faculties at least once a
year. Modern and effective ICT networks need to be built to support traditional
methods of teaching and learning and to increase the quantity and range of
education and training, for example, through distance learning. The promotion
of the study of foreign languages (mainly English) should be increased to
enhance the understanding of different cultures and enhance mobility in a
globalised ICT world. The developing of a culture of entrepreneurship in ICT
education, not least in developing the closest R&D links between universities
and companies.
Not only those who are intellectually gifted or economically privileged, but
everyone should have access to ICT learning and training. Special attention
should be given to the needs of the disadvantaged. The use of ICT as a teaching
tool and for delivery of distance learning can help stretch our limited teaching
resources and provide a high quality education to all. Everyone should be
encouraged and enabled to continue ICT learning throughout their lives, not just
in the years of compulsory schooling.
For primary and junior secondary level, general science textbooks should
adequately cover fundamental concepts on computers and their numerous
applications. Differences between hardware and software, history of computers
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and their use, classification of computers, concept of computer network,

internet and emails, introduction to computer peripherals and input/output
devices should be introduced. There should be uniformity in course curricula
and degree requirements. Course curricula should be revised at no more than
two-year intervals. Post-graduate programmes should be strengthened. Most of
the graduates leaving the country for higher studies do not return. A rigorous
and standard post-graduate programme will encourage more students to
complete their higher studies in the country and eventually fill up the current
vacuum of qualified teaching stuffs. Books and journals should be made
available in the university libraries.
5.6.2 Research and Development
Research and development in ICT should focus on need-based fundamental and

applied research, contributing to the improvement of quality and efficiency of
the application to our ICT environment. The following focus areas have been
identified for research priority.
1. Lifelong/adult ICT learning

2. Gender, ICT, Bangladesh:
3. Software applications and poverty reduction in Bangladesh:
4. E-commerce potential in Bangladesh:
5. Focus on Tele-centres: How can they contribute to social development in
Bangladesh
6. The networking revolution: opportunities and challenges for Bangladesh.
7. Agriculture information management
8. Disaster management and ICT.
9. Health and ICT.
The Dhaka Ahsania Mission has already started its above-mentioned

activities using its own resources, with very limited financial help from donors.
With proper resources, it would be able to eliminate the digital divide and
improve the socio-economic condition of the rural community.
Bangladesh Computer Council should encourage ICT R&D activities to be

carried out by the public and private sector organisations. BCC along with ICT
industries, should assist in formulating plans to conduct need-based R&D
activities in the Universities, BITs and public & private sector R&D institutions
106
and encourage the younger generation in these activities. The ICT industry may
fund for R&D activities for new ICT products and services through Industry-
Academia collaboration.
A central on-line data bank for scientific and technological information

should be established which can be accessed by educational institutions and
other R&D organisations. R&D efforts on Bangla text processing, Bangla voice
recognition, translation and synthesis should be intensified. Technology
Corporations such as Microsoft, IBM, Computer Associates, Oracle, SAP etc.
should be approached to set up their R & D Centers in Bangladesh.
5.6.3 Free and Open Source Software (FOSS)
Recently, in Bangladesh, discussion of e-Governance has been intensifying in

many ministries. Some have already taken initial steps towards the use of ICTs
to facilitate government activities. But the downside is that the government has
to spend a significant amount of resources on software licensing requirements and
on updating hardware resources to meet the requirements for latest proprietary
technologies such as Windows XP. In order to avoid unnecessary expenses in
software procurement, use of pirated software is becoming more and more
prevalent. Use of open source technologies can significantly bring down costs for
e-Government for Bangladesh.
There have been cases where the governments of some countries have refused to
use certain software in fear of security vulnerabilities. Some have warned that
proprietary software whose source code is not made available may have hidden
logic bombs through which unwarranted leakage of sensitive information may
be possible. The Chinese government has openly declared that China thinks
Microsoft software contains secretly embedded code that the United States
government can manipulate at will. So, in case of dissension between the two
countries, a Pentagon official can hit a switch and--presto!-- cripples China's
computing infrastructure.
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Open source technologies are completely transparent for the following reasons:
1. Their source code is made publicly available
2. They are developed by programmers from all over the world who are not
necessarily within the confinements of a single company as it happens with
proprietary software
3. They generally go through scrutinizing eyes of thousands of programmers and

users from all over the world.
As Bangladesh builds more and more databases and other information

repositories with sensitive data, it will become increasingly crucial to safeguard
against irresponsible use of closed software.
The characteristics of FOSS make it much easier for government to meet

the requirements of freedom, security, and transparency.
1. FOSS uses (and where it does not, can easily be modied to use) open,
standard data formats. This allows free access to information.
2. Using and maintaining FOSS does not depend on the cooperativeness of a
single provider. Due to the open source code, availability of compatible systems
can be guaranteed. Many providers can compete and public data can be
permanent.
3. The possibility of auditing the source code and thus guaranteeing that it is
free from code that maliciously or inadvertently compromises data security and
integrity, necessary for the national security and autonomy of a country as well
as for the security of its citizens.
5.6.4 Localization
Localization challenges vary from the lack of rendering support for the Bangla
script to the immaturity of Bangla Natural Language Processing (NLP), and the
lack of a national initiative to make local language computing a priority.
To convince publishers of various content, from individuals to online

newspapers, to start using Unicode for storage. One reason the online
publishers have been very reluctant to use Unicode is the deficiency of
existing systems in rendering the Bangla script properly. With the
increasing popularity of Linux, and with current fixes in the Windows
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rendering engine, that problem would hopefully not be a roadblock in the

near future.
To convert the existing non-standard encoded documents to Unicode,
this is a non-trivial task. The development of Bangla NLP, which in turn
will make it possible to create advanced Bangla NLP software, must be
supported through funded research.
Creating national standards is another challenge, as the government is
not fully aware of the importance of these standards. The lack of a
collation standard even today is a testament to that challenge.
The concept of formulating policy to accommodate local language computing is

fairly new in Bangladesh. The good news is that the awareness is slowly building
with, especially after the publication of the National ICT Policy. The National ICT
Task Force headed by the Honble Prime Minister has certainly brought the
importance of ICT to the forefront of public policy. However, there have been
scant efforts in turning the local language computing policy statements into
actions by the public sector that void has been filled primarily by various
volunteer groups and research efforts. There has also been a surge in research
papers in Bangla Computational Linguistics/Natural Language Processing,
capacity in which is needed to create the framework for the advanced NLP
applications such as machine translator, speech to text, text to speech
processors, etc. However, for sustainable change there should be a policy
Framework to promote R&D on Local Language Processing in public
universities.
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Implementation of e-governance in
Bangladesh has been identified as an
important aspect of the countrys path
forward. This horizon scan report is a
baseline assessment of existing
capacity, needs and options for
implementing e-Governance in
Bangladesh. In the light of the
recommendations made by the citizens
and service providers, some priority
focus areas may be identified and
action plans may be developed as a
THE WAY FORWARD
way to move from statements to real
results towards e-Governance.
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CHAPTER 6: THE WAY FORWARD
Implementation of e-governance in Bangladesh has been identified as an

important aspect of the countrys path forward. This horizon scan report is a
baseline assessment of existing capacity, needs and options for implementing e-
Governance in Bangladesh. In the light of the recommendations made by the
citizens and service providers, some priority focus areas may be identified and
action plans may be developed as a way to move from statements to real results
towards e-Governance. These Action plans however, should be regularly
reviewed and updated; they should, where appropriate, be reinforced by regional
and sub-regional coordination efforts, notably in the context of economic
integration.
(a) Making e-Governance a National Priority
As a powerful tool to pursue development goals (PRS and MDG), e-

Governance needs to receive the highest level of national political
commitment. An e-Governance vision should be developed through a
consultative process involving all relevant interested parties in the
country, including the private sector and non-government organizations
(NGOs). This vision should commit, in particular, to the establishment of
an enabling, pro-competitive regulatory and policy framework as well as
the associated institutional policy-making and regulatory capacity;
GoB should distinguish and recognize the importance of e-Governance
for internal efficiency and effectiveness within government, as well as of
e-Governance for institutional capacity building, transparency,
accountability and its ability to enhance democratic governance;
Interested stakeholders, including governments, the private sector, NGOs

should support e-Governance and mobilize available resources and offer
regulatory and policy expertise to support it;
e-Governance should be practiced in a truly decentralized and open

fashion, and include the creation or use of existing regional networks and
conferences, virtual information exchanges and other means of sharing
the knowledge, lessons and experience likely to increase awareness,
understanding and political commitment in this area.
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(b) Improve Connectivity, Increase Access and Lower Costs
Multiple technologies should be allowed to compete for communications

networks and services and access terminals. Awareness of the cost-
effectiveness of various technologies for use in diverse situations facing
the country should be promoted by exchanging relevant experiences and
expertise;
The establishment of public and community ICT access points should be

supported as a key means to facilitate timely, broad, affordable and
sustainable access to ICT; for this purpose facilities such as post offices,
elementary schools, cyber cafes or telecenters could be used; emphasis
should be placed on providing both access and training;
Approaches to promote universal access for rural and remote areas in

should be pursued, in accordance with national e-Governance vision
setting and on the basis of existing best practices;
R&D efforts for the development and adaptation of cost-effective

technologies suitable for conditions prevailing in Bangladesh (FOSS)
should be encouraged;
The deployment of national and regional internet backbones, especially

through private investment.
(c) Enhance Human Capacity Development, Knowledge Creation and

Sharing
Promote and support ICT dissemination among the children - whether in

school or not, with special attention paid to the girls and urge the non-
profit and private sectors as well as the government to scale up their
efforts in wiring educational facilities and ensuring adequate teachers
training;
Enhance the training of teachers on ICT and the "digital literacy" of

students. Effective measures should be identified to enhance the use of
the Internet to improve the performance of staff, teachers and students in
schools and the universities, and for distance learning programmes; e
112
Learning should conversely be considered as a powerful tool to enable all

types of education and training.
Expand opportunities for training, education and knowledge sharing for

people living in rural and remote areas through distance learning;
Give special attention to disenfranchised and illiterate people

(particularly youth and women), through innovative partnerships to
disseminate knowledge and skills using ICT;
Enhance awareness of senior policy makers with a particular accent on

the benefits of e-Governance for enhancing democracy, transparency and
government accountability;
Encourage government offices and private companies to offer a portion of

the working time of their skilled human resource base to train in ICT-
related subjects;
(d) Foster Enterprise and Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Economic

Development
Private sector mentoring and incubation activities should be further

encouraged ; this could include sharing best practices, business
expertise and know-how, ICT expertise, management expertise,
knowledge management capabilities, and training of entrepreneurs ; such
initiatives should seek to build on the strengths of the country.
Private-public partnerships involving companies, local entrepreneurs,

governments, non-profit organizations and labor organizations should be
encouraged, in order to foster local enterprise, innovation and lifelong
learning.; these should include an emphasis on basic education
(including mathematics and sciences), as well as on vocational training
and the development of core ICT skills; such partnerships could also
provide a means to help establish the centres of excellence described in
Action Point 3; development finance institutions should also be
encouraged to increase their participation in relevant concerted private-
public initiatives.
113
In support of the above points, the financial institutions including private

and public banks should be encouraged to integrate ICT-related
entrepreneurship into their assistance programmes, including micro-
credit facilities, equity capital and other business development
programmes, and to consider innovative methods of promoting the
availability locally or regionally of seed/risk capital and other resources
to help entrepreneurs from all over the country.
(e) Establish and Support Dedicated Initiatives for the ICT Inclusion
Encourage efforts to mobilize public and private support for a significant

improvement of basic information and communication infrastructure in
the areas where such infrastructure is most lacking;
Support partnerships to facilitate the setting up of internet exchange

points The specific needs of the ISPs should be taken into account while
planning regional Internet backbones;
Encourage telecommunications equipment and service providers to work

co-operatively with less developed countries to aggregate demand and
reduce costs;
Encourage joint stakeholder efforts to address the unique ICT dilemmas,

with a view to sustainable solutions. Policy and regulatory issues
pertaining to infrastructure - especially regarding telecommunications
systems - should be the core elements of this engagement. In this
framework it should be taken into account that ICT is a means of
supporting rural-urban linkages.
(f) Promote ICT for Health Care
Enhance the valuable uses of ICT in health education, knowledge

sharing, monitoring, statistics, and delivery of care and in meeting
internationally agreed health targets (MDG)
Expand the use of ICT in the campaign against infectious and

communicable diseases utilising appropriate forms of communication
such as community radio, broadcast media, telecommunications and the
114
Internet. The initiative should be focused in severely affected areas with

content, applications and strategies shared and replicated more broadly.
Create a network in partnership with governments, the private sector,

non-profit and international organizations emphasizing a) the logistical
and management aspects of treatment in the field, and b) preventative
measures through the dissemination of information to the general public,
health sector professionals and policy makers.
(g) National Effort to Support Local Content and Applications Creation
Encourage the software community, including the open source and

commercial software communities, to develop applications relevant to
local needs, to make its software available to the rural community.
Encourage the growth of e-Governance as a means of achieving a critical

mass of on-line content and encourage governments to provide widely-
available free-of-charge access to state-owned information and local
content, except where it is private or classified;
Encourage local content development, translation and/or adaptation to

fulfill the needs of learners, scholars, professionals, and citizens for
education, learning, training and application development, including
provision of online access;
Support programs for digitizing and putting public content online,

focusing on multilingual applications and local heritage;
Support participation by local stakeholders in setting technical standards

for incorporating local languages in ICT applications;
Encourage networking of bodies which acquire, adapt and distribute

content on a non-commercial basis.
115
Annex 1: The detail of citizen survey report
Citizen Survey Report

Summary of key findings
Usage of ICT tools
The usages of mobile phones were found to be highest. Among the survey
participants, 77% use mobile phone, 22% computer, 11% internet (this portion is
calculated from the 22% computer users). But the common thing is that, the cost of
this information technology mediums are not controlled yet. Thats why every
survey participants suggest that to reduce the call rate, decrease computer price
and make the internet more available and cheaper. TV audiences are higher
between radio and TV spectator (86%) and the interest of listening radio is very little
(23%). But now FM radio creates it image thats why the rate of radio listeners is
also increasing.Generally, normal people prefer mobile phone and use it as a
successful medium of information technology and than thy use electronic mediums,
newspapers, and Internet accordingly.
Service Access for Citizens
Citizens dont know how they get Government services. Survey result shows that
most of them believe, it is not possible to give information through Internet.
However they think if the Government offices and officers become more helpful and
conscious about their duty it will be more useful for them.
Use of ICT in Local Government
It had seen that 22 UNO offices have computers but a little connected with internet.
They only use computers to compose. Here, one thing is very important and work
as catalyst that they have lack of computer skilled and trained employees. Thats
why most UNO officers suggest recruiting skilled people or trained the existing
employees. But none of them had interest to use computer in making database or
computerized automation.
The survey is conducted on 11union community chairman and 22 members. Only 4
UP offices have computer without internet connectivity. They use the computer to
compose only.
ICT for NGO and Business Organizations
44 small and medium business are also under this survey and it had been seen
that only computer & information technology related business have use the
computer in proper reason otherwise the use of computer is not that much
mentionable. But if the business earns profit than all of them have interest to use
it.Most of NGOs are use computer, among 44 which are surveyed. But all works
are composing and accountancy related. Some NGOs are also use it in e-mail
exchange.All 11 local cambers have computer. They use it mainly on administrative
and writing purpose
Introduction:
1.1 Background
The term e-Governance is mainly concerned with Governance rather than the
electronic mode of providing it. That is why it is important to know the services that
are essential to citizens and then finding a way to provide them electronically. The
citizen survey was designed keeping that in mind. The survey tried to identify the
needs of the citizen and finding ways to overcome the problems through ICT. The
questionnaires of the survey were designed keeping also mind that it would cover
citizens from all levels of society and so technical aspects were kept to the
minimum.
The Citizen Survey is one and probably the most important component of the
Horizon Scan report. It was decided that when finding out the present status of
Bangladesh to implement e-Governance, a first hand data collection would be done
covering citizens or stakeholders from every possible level of the society. Even
though in the initial plan many more stakeholders were decided upon, not all could
be covered due to shortage of time.
1.2 Scope of the study
The study overall covered 11 Districts, namely, Dhaka, Chittagong, Barisal, Sylhet,
Rajshahi, Khulna/Bagerhat, Rangamati, Kurigram, Sunamganj, Sirajganj, and
Narayanganj. The districts included around 700 citizens representing almost all
levels of the society, 44 small and medium scale business organizations, 10 local
business chambers from 10 Districts, 44 NGOs established mainly in the rural part
of the country, 22 Upazilla Nirbahi Officers, 11 UP Chairman and 22 Members
(including female members) from the same Union Parishod as the Chairmen. The
700 citizens included stakeholders namely Agro-farmers, Poultry farmers,
Fishermen, Labors, Professionals, Housewives, Students, Self-employed, Job
seekers, Sr. Citizens (above 60), Disabled citizens, Daily labours, Very poor (under
the $1 income margin), Teachers and Government employees. A detail of the
number of each category is provided in Annex-I.
1.3 Objectives of the study
The Citizen Survey report is probably the most important part of the Horizon Scan
activity. The purpose of the Horizon Scan activity is to know the readiness of e-
Governance in Bangladesh and it would not be viable if the needs of the citizens
could not be identified. The survey was very covert with regard to the technicalities
of ICT and very conspicuous about identifying the services required. The survey
seeks to:
Assess the status of the existing ICT infrastructure

Identify the services the citizens seek most
Identify the obstacles in reaching these services
Identify ways by which they could be solved using the existing ICT
infrastructure or new technology
Identify the most preferred channel for e-Governance
1.4 Methodology
The division of the categories and the regions were fist selected and was vetted by a
sub-committee. The clustering of the regions were done on the basis of the
homogeneity of the challenges they usually face. The fist five districts were chosen
as they are also the major Divisions of the country namely, Dhaka, Chittagong,
Rajshahi, Sylhet and Barisal. Khulna was avoided in this case as it was to be taken
for other reasons as well. The other districts were chosen due to their variation in
facing natural disaster and obstacles throughout the year. Kurigram was selected
because of the situation of Monga every year, Sunamganj was selected due to its
geographical property of being the biggest swamp area, Sirajgonj was chosen for
being a great Char area of the country, Rangamati was chosen for being one of the
districts of Chittagong Hill Tracts area, Khulna/Bagerhat was chosen for being in
the coastal area and battered every year by cyclone. Narayanganj was chosen for
being one of the closes districts from the capital to observe the differences in
services for mere 14 miles.As it is a pilot study, the sample size was determined by
through guessing based on previous experience.
After the questionnaire were prepared, the surveyors were selected and trained
on the collection of data. A pilot survey was then carried out in Savar and Doha of
Greater Dhaka to get the feel how people responded. Some of the questionnaire
were then changed when some problems were identified. And then after another
extensive of the surveyors, the survey was conducted. Analysis of the survey was
done through statistical analysis for the closed ended answers and summarizing
the open ended answers.
1.5 Structure of the report
The study report is divided into three main categories. (1) An overall picture of the
different districts and the status of the ICT infrastructure in these areas, (2) An
overview of what the different categories of citizens needs are and what are the
problems they are facing in achieving these needs, also the recommendations
provided by the citizens to solve these problems through ICT are incorporated. (3)
An overview of the most effective mode of delivery channels for e-Governance.
The Overall Status of ICT Infrastructure
Mobile Telephones:
Mobile phone is spread out in whole country and it had been already reached in
every levels people hand. The survey is run on 700 citizens from 11 districts. It had
been found that 567 (81%) people use mobile phone in various purposes and
55.55% has their own mobile set. Most of the people use mobile phone in their
personal affairs thats why survey result shows that 41% of their mobile bill incur
on personal issue. Now people think mobile phone as a weapon to maintain social
relationships with their friends and family as well as with known person.
But largest portion of participants are not satisfied with the call rate of mobile
phone. Only 23% participants think that the call rate is normal but the majority
portion give the opinion to decrease the call rate below 50paica.
Computer Usage
Computer use does not mentionable like the mobile phone. But people at least
know about the computer. The survey was continued on 700people, among them
78% dont use the computer and residual 22% computer users not use it any
appropriate reason. On 22% computer users, only 74 have personal computer and
81 use it on cyber caf, educational institution, office etc. Computer uses larger
amount in big cities like Dhaka, Chittagong but in Curigram computer using rate is
also high. 75% users use it in compose or writing purpose. Beside this they also
entertained by using computer like listening song, watching movie, TV etc.
Students use the computer to complete different paperwork which is related with
their study. 37% users play game on computer.Though the use of computer now
increasing all over the country but people is not satisfied with the price. 69%
participants think that, locally attached (clone) PC price should be in 13000/-
15000/- range.
Use of the Internet
The scenario of using internet is very disappointing. In this survey only 11% people
told that they use the internet. Some of them have own internet connectivity others
use the cyber caf, office, business firm and in house of friends and known person.
But now mobile phone opens a new door. Many internet users use internet through
mobile phone. But most of the participants say that internet is not that much
available and cheap.
Television: The Best?
Survey result shows that among the mass media TV is most popular. 86%
participants watch TV. BTV is the most popular channel normally but where people
have satellite connection there the scenario is quite different. People ranked the
news top.
Radio:
From survey we find that radio is less famous than the TV in Bangladesh. Only
29% participants listening radio and most of them hear Bangladesh Bater. In times
of listening radio listeners top choice is news. Beside this, weather and agricultural
programs are also popular. But in Dhaka and Chittagong private radio channels are
become popular because of FM radio. Young generations are now highly attracted
with FM radio programs. FM radios are now able to create this fascination among
them because of their easy accessibility in mobile phone.
The Citizens Needs, the challenges and the recommendation
The following needs were identified from the different categories of citizens from the
answers they provided during the survey. As the citizens come from different levels
of the society, their needs were also different. They have spoken about the
challenges that they face in achieving their needs and have also made some
recommendations to face them.
a. Agro-farmers
The problems:
High electricity cost for irrigation

When there is an epidemic in the crops there is nobody to help
Cannot get Agro loans easily
Necessary seeds and fertilizers cannot be found
Contaminated pesticides in the market
Cannot get adequate price of commodities in the market
Lack of cold storage
No complain centre
Solutions:
Establishment of a complaint centre

Information and services through mobile telephones
Distribution of good quality seeds and fertilizers with honest dealers
Reduce the electricity bill for the farmers so that get water at cheaper cost for
irrigation
Establishment of a service centre
Establishment of trade centre by the Government so that fair price could be
achieved for agro commodities
Provide easy condition based agro loans
What can ICT do?
Provide information through village info centres

Arrange TV programmes for farmers to educate them and provide solutions for
agro-problems
Build a network through mobile telephones and internet to sell agro
commodities
Connect the farmers with agricultural specialists to discuss their problems
b. Poultry farmers
The problems:
Lack of medicine for the animals
Irregular visit by the Veteran
Security problem
Expensiveness and contaminations of animal food
Lack of complaint centre
Solutions:
Increasing accountability
Increase awareness
Decrease the cost of commodities to raise animals and vet services
Provide loan to the poultry farmers
Employment of infomediary personnel to provide the Government information
What can ICT do?

Establish online or mobile phone based complaint centre.
c. Fishermen
The problems:
Cannot send SOS when in trouble in the deep sea

Does not get fair price for the fish
Cannot get the required weather forecasting
Expensive fish ..
Solutions:
Get law and order personnel everywhere

Provide timely weather forecast
Register the names of the fisherman and the boat with the local authority
when going out in the sea
Provide security for the fishermen out in the sea
Provide loan for the fishermen
Provide policy support for the fair price of the fish
Decrease middleman-ship
What can ICT do?
Provide weather forecast through mobile phone

Provide SOS service through radio or any other means of communication from
deep sea
Provide market price of the fish using ICT, preferably using mobile phone
d. Labors
The problems:
Lack of policy and policy implementation

Lack of awareness of the law and policies regarding safety, wages etc.
No life insurance so work risk is higher
Lack of life / job security
High expense of money order to send it to home
Solutions:
Standardize minimum wage system and make the employees bound to pay
that
Provide life insurance
Assure the human rights of the labors
Increase awareness of the labor policies and laws
What can ICT do?
Promote Labor policies and laws in mass communication channels

Provide legal advice through mobile phones
Prove labor access to the Government using ICT
e. Professionals
The problems:
No socially accepted general identity card

Lack of a database for on professionals
Lack of policy or laws for the professionals
Problem of getting required information from the Government employees
High income tax
Submissions of utility bills
Solutions:
Creation and Implementation of necessary policy and law

Making Government offices compulsory in providing required information and
services to the citizens
Building information centre
What can ICT do?
Provide correct information to the citizens to decrease corruption

Submission of utility bills through SMS
Provide website, e-mail and phone based Government services
f. Housewives
The problems:
Increased price of commodities

Insufficient health services due to lack of doctors, nurses and medicines
Electricity crisis
Has to travel long distances for medical service
Solutions:
Free health and education services

Fair price shops of BDR in every area
What can ICT do?
Could help in informing the problems to the Government

At the same way Government can let them know of the available services
Providing such facilities so that a health worker could come if contacted over
telephone
g. Students
The problems:
Procedure for learning English in not good enough

Education expense is very high
Corruption of many Polytechnic teachers.
Lack of adequate instruments, educational components etc..
Lack of security in educational institutes
Lack of a good modern library
Low quality food and medical services in student halls
Solutions:
Provide training to teachers

Increase government budget for education
Supply of required educational instruments
Provide computers with internet connection in educational institutes
Arrange for more scholarships for students
What can ICT do?
Provide educational materials through mobile phones and internet which

could decrease the educational expense
Increase the skill of students using ICT
Promote the rights of the citizens using mass media
h. Self employed
The problems:
Bribery, hassle and duration of getting information

Lack of adequate training and bank loans
Solutions:
Have accountability in the government system

Have good monitoring of the NGOs
What can ICT do?
Provide close circuit cameras in city corporations, tax offices etc. to monitor
any corruption
i. Job Seekers
The problems:
Making bank drafts

Security
Favourism and corruption in getting jobs
Solutions:
Adequate trainings
Unemployed allowance
What can ICT do?
Could help in increasing accountability
j. Senior Citizens
The problems:
Does not get the required medical services

Does not get the Senior Citizens allowance
Government doctors are more interested in patients at private clinics
Solutions:
Provide the senior citizens allowance procedure on the hands of the military
Arrange to get proper medical service
What can ICT do?
Could help in increasing awareness and accountability
k. Disable citizens
The problems:
Sometimes has to bribe the concern authority to get the disable citizens
allowance form
Disable people are deprived in the education sector
No government books (e.g. Brail books) for the disable people to study
Government infrastructure and the roads/public transports are not disable
friendly
Not all the required places that a disable person has to visit situated on the
ground floor
No software solution available for the disables
Solutions:
Planning and implementation of policy friendly towards disable citizens

Giving more importance to disable citizens from the government
Provide improved educational system for the disabled
What can ICT do?
Broadcast disabled friendly programmes over the mass media

Make disabled friendly software by the government
l. Daily Labors
The problems:
Negligence of the Family planning assistants and the Health assistants

Security
Hassle
Lateness in the transfer of money through post office
Solutions:
Following procedures correctly

Stop bribery and selling of government medicines
Reduce price of everyday commodities
Arrange for minimum wages system
Arrange for festival bonus for daily labors
What can ICT do?
Use the mass media to broadcast about the hardship of the daily labors and
create awareness
m. Very Poor (Below the $1 margin)
The problems:
Negligence of the government employees

Cant gat the required medical service
Cant get free medicine
Solutions:
Provide government lands for them

Get easy loan
What can ICT do?
Monitor whether the services supposed to be provided to them are actually

provided using ICT
n. Teachers
The problems:
Proper medical service

Hassle in trading with government banks
Lack of correct information regarding land record
Unplanned building for educational institutes
Hassle and wastage of time in the Court of Law
Solutions:
Complaint box in every Thana and monitor them

Provide training to explain the required information regarding land
Increase honorium and social status of teachers
What can ICT do?
Provide close circuit camera in all important government offices to stop bribery
Computerize land records
o. Government Employees
The problems:
Has to give bribe for maintenance of utility services

Bribery in tax offices to registrar names
Has to bribe to get land contract papers or registration
Favourism in case of jobs or promotion
Solutions:
Create awareness and integrity among people

Could provide 50 percent bonus for the increased price of commodities
What can ICT do?
Online tax payment system

Receiving complains using ICT
Broadcasting of news, information etc. independently
Upazilla Nirbahi Office
Infrastructural Status
Main reason for using computer Administrative work

LAN connectivity No
Internet connectivity Yes
Kind of Internet connection Dial Up
Own mail domain No
Number of Internet users (av. per office) 2
Administrative database Yes (primary)
Database update and development Typist
personnel
Objective of the database General information storage
Kind of information stored in database Official general information
Website Yes
e-Governance status
Goal Status
Saving government time General improvement
Saving expenditure of the government No improvement
Saving citizens time Highly improved
Saving citizens money Not much improvement
Saving citizens hassle Slight improvement
Increasing transparency Highly improved
Time management Highly improved
Increasing accountability General improvement
The Upazilla Nirbahi Officers have provided separate opinions regarding the goals
achieved in e-Governance, but generally they do not think there has been much
improvement in reducing citizens time for getting services. They think that e-
Governance can play very important role for their offices.
The sectors in which the citizens usually face problems are provided below in
descending order.
1. Health services
2. Education services
3. Land services
4. Legal services
5. Communication
The recommendation the UNOs provided for solving these problems are:
Transparency and accountability in every step of the procedures

Identify the actual problems in these sectors and take necessary steps in
solving them
Get the services close to the citizens
Development of the government in its own way
Give citizens more access to the government
Amendments of certain laws
The role the ICT could play to solve these problems:

Could accelerate government procedures
Collect more data and analyze them
Trading of information could be faster
According to the UNOs the following channels (in descending order) are the most
effective ways to promote e-Governance
1. Telephone
2. Electronic media
3. Print media
4. Internet
The UNOs also provided their views of the following matters that are thought to be
hampering e-Governance in their organization
Hampering elements Comment

Lack of Infrastructure Not at all
Lack of high speed internet Not at all
Lack of citizens access to Internet A lot
Lack of Computer knowledge A lot
Lack of adequate training A lot
Lack of maintenance No
Electricity crisis Some
Lack of Bangla computing Some
Fear of change Slightly
The UNOs think that to change the mind setting of their employees towards e-
Governance, the following steps could be taken
Computer training
Provide allowance to motivate in increasing skill
Motivate employees through seminars or workshops
Provide training at Thana level
Provide necessary equipments for three steps
Number of stakeholders in citizen survey report
S.N Stakeholder category Number

1. Agro Farmers 57
2. Poultry Farmers 41
3. Fisherman 55
4. Labors 41
5. Professionals 41
6. Housewives 41
7. Students 56
8. Self-Employed Citizens 42
9. Job-Seekers 41
10. Senior Citizens 40
11. Handicapped Citizens 40
12. Daily labors 57
13. Very poor (below $1 margin income) 41
14. Teachers 40
15. Government Servants 57
16. Overall responses 700
Annex: 2 Summary of ICT Status in Ministries
(1) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Defense

Web address: www.mod.gov.bd
The Ministry of defense has 12 agencies to deal with the budget, statutory and
regulatory matters and to certain extent establishment and administration subjects
of the armed services.
Agencies of the ministry and its website:
1. Cadet College Direction Council: No website
2. Army Headquarter, Branch of ENC: No website
3. Military Medical Service Department: www.dgms-mod.net
4. National Defense College: www.ndcbd.com
5. SPARRSO: www.sparrso.gov.bd
6. Bangladesh Survey Office: www.bangladesh.gov.bd/mod/sob/sobweb.htm
7. CGDFs office: www.cgdfbd.org
8. Chief Administrative officers office: No website
9. Bangladesh Climate Office: www.bmd.gov.bd
10. Secret Sign Office: website design is going to be processed
11. MODC Headquarter: website design is going to be processed
12. Military Land and Army Quarters Office: No website
Connectivity: All of the agencies of Ministry of Defense are connected with internet
but its use is limited only for communication.
Software & Hardware issue: The ministry is equipped with 11 computers. To build
the infrastructure network as a part of introducing E-Governance initiative 1
Multimedia Projector, 10 computers with UPS, 3 DOT and 5 Laser printers will be
provided to the ministry.
Training: To introduce E-Governance system in the ministry of Defense ICT
training courses are being provided to the Govt. official.
ICT related projects: No information is provided about ICT related projects.
(2) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Industry

Web address: www.moind.gov.bd
Ministry of Industry has a website (www.moind.gov.bd) which publishes the
information of the ministry, its departments and other corporations.
Website Issue:
Bangladesh Industrial and technical Assistance Centre (BITAC): http:/bitac-
atspace.com
Bangladesh Institute Of management (BIM): www.bim.org.bd
Bangladesh standards & testing Institute (BSTI): www.bsti.gov.bd
National productivity Organization (NPO): www.npobd.org
Connectivity: The in-house infrastructure of the ministry is going to be connected
with internet and LAN.
Software and Hardware issue: Some of the subordinate organizations of Ministry
of Industries uses different types of softwares for Payroll system, share, accounting,
personal system, daily production, sales and staff monitoring etc.
ICT initiatives: No information is provided about ICT related projects
(3) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Land

Web address: www.minland.gov.bd
The important aims and objectives of Ministry of Land are management and
settlement of the Government owned lands (khas lands), sairat mahals (jalmahal,
shirmp mahal etc.), vested properties and abandoned properties. Collection of land
development tax is another important task of this ministry as well as land survey
and record keeping and updating. Acquisition and requisition of land are also
important responsibilities of this ministry. To maintain the data and statistics of
the land it is very urgent to transform it in electrical standard system to strengthen
the E-Governance system of Bangladesh. But there is no mentionable initiative to
make process it. The positive thing of The Govt. website of Ministry of land is that
people can access for downloading the Tax collection form here.
Agencies of the Ministry & its Website issue:
Land Reformation Board: No website
Land Appeal Board: No website
Directorate of Land Records and Survey: No website
Land Administration Training Centre: No website
Connectivity: Internet and LAN connection is available in the ministry of Land.
The process for internet connection is going to be processed in Land Reformation
Board.
Software & hardware issue: No information is available for software and hardware
issue of the ministry.
ICT related projects: No information is provided about ICT related projects
(4) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Housing and public works

Web address: www.mohpwd.gov.bd
Ministry of Housing and public works and its agency has websites. All of the
websites contains update information of the institutions and different types of
project.
Agencies of the ministry and its website
Office of Public Works: www.pwd.gov.bd
Capital Development Authority: www.rajuk.dhaka.gov.bd
Chittagong Development Authority: www.cda.gov.bd
National Housing Authority: www.nha.gov.bd
City Development Office: www.Vdd.org
Housing and Building Research Institute: www.hbri.gov.bd
Khulna Development Authority: www.kda.gov.bd
Connectivity: No information is available
Software & hardware Issue: No information is provided about software & hardware
issues.
ICT related Projects: There are no ICT initiatives in the ministry and its agencies.
(5) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Fisheries and livestock
Web address: www.mofl.gov.bd
The role of Fisheries and Livestock sectors in the development of agro-based economy
of Bangladesh is very important and promising.
Connectivity: No information is provided about connectivity issue.
Software & hardware Issue: No information is available
ICT related Projects: There are no mentionable ICT initiatives in Ministry of

Fisheries and livestock. Already they have developed a website under Planning and
Policy Support Unit project by the funding of DANIDA. In addition a project is running
for creating network among Chief office of Fishery project and district Fishery office
which is funded by The Fourth Fishery Project. MIS is already developed in the
ministry.
(6) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Power, energy and Mineral Resources
Web address: website is not yet developed
Connectivity: No information is available about connectivity
Software & hardware Issue: No information is provided about software & hardware
issue.
ICT related Projects: In Ministry of Power, energy and Mineral Resources some
sorts of ICT initiatives have already been taken to strengthen its activities through
different types of automation process like payment of utility bill through electronic
system at PDB and DESCO.
Future Plan: Some future initiatives have been planned to implement as internet
banking of eastern bank Limited, pre-paid metering by PDB and DESCO.
(7) Bangladesh National Parliament Secretariat (Computer Cell)
Website Address: www.parliament.gov.bd
Under E-Governance program many ICT initiatives have been taken to create
accountability, to make transparency of Govt. services to the rural poor in
Bangladesh National Parliament Secretariat.
Software & hardware Issue: Different types of softwares are used in Bangladesh
National parliament Secretariat for different purposes: parliament arguments,
budget of parliament secretariat, inventory of stored goods, bio data of staffs of
parliament secretariat, bio data of the members of parliament, gate pass and
random sampling of questions of parliament members. In addition, some IT
training courses are also conducted to build the capacity of the Govt. official.
ICT related Projects: There is no ICT initiative in Bangladesh National Parliament

Secretariat.
(8) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Primary and Mass Education

Website Address: www.mopme.gov.bd
Agencies of the ministry and its website:
Primary Education Office: www.dpe.gov.bd
Implementation of Compulsory Primary Education Observation Unit: No website
Connectivity: Broadband internet connection is available in the ministry. 30
computers in the ministry and 100 computers in Primary Education Office are LAN
connected. 6 divisional offices and 16 district offices are connected with WAN
through central server.
Software & hardware Issue: Ministry of Primary and Mass education has a very
dynamic website which publishes regularly the MPO information, the list of Govt.
schools and the school performance. The MPO information is very important for the
school, teachers residing in rural areas. They can access it from the remote corner
of their locality. It needs to mention that 76,610 MPO-included teachers of 19521
private primary schools and payment of the government portion of their monthly
salary are being done through customized software. In addition, 9735 honorary
teachers of 3120 Community Primary Schools and payment of their honorary
payment at three months interval are being done through developed software.
Primary Education Office already provided 975 PCs to the field offices under
Primary Education development Activities
ICT related Projects: Primary Education Office have already provided training
4500 staffs about ICT at central and field level. The ministry also established 54
ICT labs in 54 PTI to build the capacity of human resources
Future Plan: The ministry have future plan to conduct training on ICT for primary
school teachers to develop the capacity of Human Resource. Primary Education
Office have a plan to establish Computer lab for training in each of the Institute of
Primary Teachers Training in 6 divisional towns The Implementation of
Compulsory Primary Education Observation Unit, agency of Ministry of primary
and Mass Education has the following future plans
1 To make all activities of this unit web-based
2. Print the status of all applications of teachers on the internet
3. Establish interactive communication with the teachers
4. Make the internal activities of the Unit, such as, accepting letters, decisions
taken by the staffs at file notes computer based
5. A project entitled Strengthening and Capacity Building at Compulsory Primary
Education Implementation Monitoring Unit (CPEIMU) is submitted to the ministry
to start e-governance.
(9) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Social Welfare

Website Address: www.msw.gov.bd
Ministry of Social Welfare is one of the important ministries dealing with human
resource development, Poverty alleviation, Welfare-development and empowerment
of the bypassed, disadvantaged segment o people. To introduce Bangladesh as a
Welfare state the ministry is implementing programs like old age allowances,
disable allowances, grants and aids to acid burnt victims. The ministry has a
website (www.msw.gov.bd) publishes the policy, development projects and other
initiatives.
Agencies of the ministry & its websites:
The Department of Social Services (DSS): No website
National Council of Social Welfare: No website
National Foundation of Disable Development: No website
Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al-Nahiyan Trust: No website
Connectivity: Dial up system & Broadband ADSL is used for internet connection.
Software & Hardware issue: 20 PC, 4 Server & 9 modem is used in the ministry.
ICT related projects: Some capacity building trainings has also been conducted
for govt. officials in the Ministry of Social Welfare. But there is no specific ICT
related project to foster the implementation process of the programs like old age
allowances, disable allowances, grants and aids to acid burnt victims.
(10) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Communication

Website address: www.moc.gov.bd
The Ministry of Communication is responsible to the Minister for all aspects
concerning the operation of roads and railways in Bangladesh. To create the
accountability of the whole activities of the ministry the roads and Highways
Department has already initiated the program of E-Governance. The website of The
Roads and Highways Department (RHD) is very interactive database. The website
has been awarded as BEST WEBSITE in the category of E Governance cluster of
Bangladesh from World Summit for Information Society (WSIS).
Agencies and its website:
Road and Highway Department: www.rhd.gov.bd
Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation (BRTC): www.brtc.gov.bd
Jamuna Multipurpose Bridge Authority (JMBA): www.jmba.gov.bd
Connectivity: Under this program a comprehensive Management Information
System (MIS) is developed. Every Block of the main office is connected with LAN
connection. In addition Bangladesh Road Research Institute, Training centers and
Zonal offices, 64 district offices is connected with LAN connection. Road Building
and Ministry of Communication is connected through Radio Link.
Software & Hardware: In the department of Bangladesh Road Transport
Corporation (BRTC) Software for Accounting System is developed for BRTC office,
main units and regional offices of BRTC. A database is also developed for buses,
trucks and corresponding manpower. In the department of Jamuna Multi Purpose
Bridge Authority (JMBA) customized software is developed for Payroll Accounting
system. 490 PC (including field level dept), 211 PC (only RHD dept.) and (186 PC
connected with LAN) are used in the ministry.
ICT related projects: To strengthen the E-Governance project ICT related trainings
are provided to some officers and personnel. LAN and broadband connection is
available in the Jamuna Multi Purpose Bridge Authority (JMBA). ICT coordination
Committee is developed with the integration of all officers from Ministry of
Communication for monitoring the ICT initiatives of the ministry.
(11) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs

Web address: No website
Connectivity: No information on connectivity
Software & Hardware: Under the program of SICT the ministry is already equipped
with 10 PC, 10 UPS, 4 Printer and 1 scanner
ICT related Projects: In the Ministry of Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs a website is
going to be developed under SICT project with the help of BIDS as an initiative of E-
Governance.
(12)Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Website address: www.mofabd.org
The technology used in the ministry of Foreign Affairs for effective e governance to
raise the quality of the services of national as well international level. Most of the
officers and staff of the ministry are conversant with the basic operations of
computer and generally face no problem in using different platforms of windows to

meet their job.
Connectivity: The ministry has provided internet and networking facilities to the
officers and staffs for easy and smooth running of administration. Presently the
ministry is using the link and connection from TTB with bandwidth of 512 kbps.
Software& Hardware: The ministry generally uses the software generally requires
for regular office work except for UNCLOS wing where for special purpose CARIS
LOTS software and other GIS software is used for determining maritime limits and
boundaries and for producing maps. The software is used in the ministry is listed
below:
Operating Software: Windows 98, Windows XP, Windows 2000.

Application Software: Office 2000,Office XP, Office XP 2003
Anti Virus: Norton, Symantec, McAfee
Other Software: ACD See, Acrobat Reader-writer, Nero
ICT related Projects: Ministry of Foreign Affairs has incorporated office

management course in the foreign Service Academy, where all the probationary
officers get specialized training on Computer and ICT. The Foreign Service academy
also recognizes accounting training program for the Administrative/ personal
officers of the ministry. In addition, Ministry sends its officers and staffs in different
short trainings in different institutions.
Future Plan: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs hopes that it will help to establish
interactive connection between public officials and communities, local business
people and global actors through sharing of information through internet and
thereby paving the way for stronger, more accountable and transparent e-
governance. There are some other specific plans in the ministry:
To improve skill of the officers and staffs in using MS Excel, PowerPoint,
Access, Outlook Express and E-mail.
To link its websites with the rest of the Ministries and Govt. Agencies
To install an interactive database commonly called HR (Human Resource)
to facilitate its overall activities which can reduce a huge paperwork. The
software will provide the information about all officers like joining, transfer,
leave, promotion and other related service records ,organizational structure,
TO&E and other info of the headquarters and the missions
(13) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Environment and Forest

Web address: www.moef.gov.bd
The Ministry of Environment & Forests is the nodal agency in the administrative
structure of the Central Government, for the planning, promotion, co-ordination
and overseeing the implementation of environmental and forestry programmes.
Connectivity: The ministry uses radio link for its networking. Broadband
connection and dial up is also used in the agency of the ministry. The ministry and
its agency have websites which mainly publishes the information about the
ministry and development projects.
Software & Hardware: The ministry has a project to develop Customized software
on Dak track which is now under implementation. In addition customized software
on Historical Clearance database, water quality database, Project information
system, training database are also used in the unit. Software on Plant-Specimen
Database Program is also used here.
ICT related Projects: There is no ICT related projects in the ministry.
(14) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture

Web address: www.moa.gov.bd
Agencies and its websites:
Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC): www.barc.gov.bd
Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC): www.barc.gov.bd
Department of Agricultural Extension: www.dae.gov.bd\
Department of Agricultural Marketing:www.dam.gov.bd
Soil Research and Development Institute www.srdi.gov.bd
Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI) www.brribd.org
Bangladesh Jute Research Institute (BJRI) www.bjril.gov.bd
Cotton Development Boardwww.cdb.gov.bd
Agriculture Information Service: www.ais.gov.bd
Sugarcane Research Institutewww.bsri.gov.bd
Seed Certification Agency www.sca.gov.bd
Bangladesh Applied Nutrition and Development Board (BAN- HRDB) www.ban-
hrdb.gov.bd
Bangladesh Agriculture Development Corporation (BADC) www.badc.gov.bd
Connectivity: The ministry introduced the intranet system. The ministry officials
exchanges information through emails among the ministry and its departments.
Financial Monitoring Unit is connected to the Ministry of Finance and CAG office
through WAN.
Software & hardware issue: In Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC)
some softwares as Natural Resource database (land/soil, underground water
etc),Weather Database, Inventory Database, Human Resource Database,
Bangladesh Country Almanek, Plant Genetic Resources Database, Pay-roll System,
Project Information Management System, Personal Management System are used
here.
4 servers, 100 computers, 30printer, 1 scanner & 1 projector are used in the
Ministry of Agriculture. Department of Agricultural Extension is equipped with 36
comuters, 38 UPS, 22 Printer, 1 Photocopier, 7 scanners, 3 laptop, 1 network sever,
1 multimedia, 1 multimedia projector, 1 power generator.
ICT related projects: MIS is established in 2005 in the ministry of Agriculture to
implement E-Governance and ICT related activities with the funding of DANIDA
Already the ministry trained up the Govt. officials to make efficient on IT. A project
Institutional Support Unit (ISU) is going to be launch for the operation of E-
Governance and MIS for the year 2007-2011. Department for agricultural extension
has introduced ICT Programme from June 2005 which allocates 83.52 lakhs Taka.
Under this programme following initiatives have been taken to strengthen it:
Software has been developed on Crop Production Module (CPM).

Personal Database software has been already developed.
A PDS sheet has been developed for distributing and filling up the
information.
AMIS (Agricultural Inputs Management Information System) has been
developed and being used now.
PMIS (Personal Management Information System) has been developed for
data entry.
Department of Agricultural Marketing has planned to gather all market information

through internet under different projects to strengthen E-governance and ICT
initiatives. In this connection ministry has already been provided computers,
telephone and internet connection in the field offices. 44 district offices have been
taken under the network. The collected market information has been published
through the website (www.dam.gov.bd). The ministry has a future plan to expand
the network.
Soil Research and Development Institute has already included the IT related
activities in the establishment of soil laboratory and the project of Strengthening of
Soil Resource Management, Analytical and Farmers Services project. Internet is
connected in SRDI head office and 26 district offices. LAN is also connected here.
Oracle based databank is developed for storing all information of Land and Soil
Resource User Manual and for analyzing and mapping accordingly.
In Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI) an ICT cell has been set up for the
operation of ICT activities. Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI) has already
developed a database for storing information of officers and staffs of BJRI.
E-governance and ICT related topics are incorporated in the regular training
activities of Cotton development Board (CDB). The department already conducted
ICT trainings for Govt. official to increase the capacity to handle the IT issues.
ICT cell is developed in Agriculture Information Service, Bangladesh Sugarcane

Research Institute, Seed Certification Agency, Bangladesh Applied Nutrition and
Development Board (BAN- HRDB), Bangladesh Agriculture Development
Corporation (BADC)
Future Plan: BRJI has some future plans to strengthen the activities of BJRI:
Connect all departments and branches of BJRI within a LAN
Set up a WAN to connect all offices in different places of the country
Provide broadband internet connection to the departments/branches of
BJRI
Develop an interactive web
Develop customized S/W for Accounts
(15) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Youth and Sports

Web address: www.moysports.gov.bd
Connectivity: LAN is set up in the ministry under the subproject of Network
Backbone establishment at Bangladesh Secretariat.
Hardware & Software issue: No information is available
ICT related projects: No information is provided about ICT related projects.
(16) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Liberation War Affairs

Web address: www.mlwa.gov.bd
Connectivity: LAN connection is being processed but yet now it is introduced.
LAN is set up in the ministry under the subproject of Network Backbone
establishment at Bangladesh Secretariat.
Hardware & Software issue: No information is available
ICT related projects: The ministry has a website but it is not working. There is no
ICT initiative in the ministry
(17) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Website address: www.mohfw.gov.bd
The ministry has a website (www.mohfw.gov.bd) which publishes the information
on health services, and medical services. The ministry has taken some initiatives to
make strengthen the E-Governance issues.
Hardware & Software issue: They have developed a PMIS (Personal Management
Information System) database to retrieve BCS (Health) cadre (Doctors) information
such as service, promotion, training, leave, lien, and education etc for officials.
They have a plan to make it web based, so that they can use the information
through internet. Service Statistics System (S.S.S) has been developed in the
ministry
To Produces different types of SS reports and data entry screen
DGFP generating monthly FP-MCH &RH services contraceptive performance
report
To determine achievement rate of permanent, IUD, implant oral pill,
condom, indictable acceptors, contraceptive method mix etc.
Logistics Management Information System (LMIS) has been developed for Family
planning monthly logistics report of contraceptive stock status from central
warehouse (CWH) and Regional Warehouse (RWH). At present DGFP is using dial-
up e-mail facilities for data transfer from one place to another. There is no
telemedicine project in E-Governance system. If the telemedicine project can be
introduced then patient can get better treatment facilities from periphery through
telemedicine system.
ICT related projects:

The ministry has a future plan to provide ICT training services to all officials and
staffs, so that e-governance system would run smoothly.
(18) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Home Affairs

Web address: www.mha.gov.bd
The ministry of Home affairs has a website (www.mha.gov.bd) which publishes the
information on the current activities, the strength, the departments and other
wings of the ministry.
Agencies & its website
Bangladesh Police www.police.gov.bd
Bangladesh Rifles No website
Directorate of Ansar and VDP www.ansarvdp.gov.bd
Directorate of Fire Service and Civil Defense No website
Department of Narcotics Controlwww.dnc.gov.bd
Directorate of Jail No website
Directorate of Immigration and Passport www.immigration-passports.gov.bd
Bangladesh Coast Guard No website
Connectivity: Local Area Network (LAN) is going to be processed for connection in
the ministry of Home Affairs. An email account (info@mha.gov.bd) is opened for
official usage. An ICT cell is formed in Bangladesh Rifles to make successful the
usage of computer technology in communication. This cell is performing for
communication through Dial up internet connection and email; LAN connection, to
introduce the network connection in all departments by storing and sharing the
information, to establish voice communication and data through using the optical
fiber, to apply the e-governance in economic accounting system. In the department
of Ansar and VDP LAN is connected for sharing the information in quickest
manner. Broadband is connected to main offices and academics. Some of the
district offices are connected with GPRS and dial up system. The web address of the
Ministry of Home Affairs is www.ansarvdp.gov.bd and email address is
info@ansarvdp.gov.bd for communication. Directorate of Fire Service and Civil
Defense uses email for communication.In the Directorate of Immigration and
Passport the development of website is under processing and Bangladesh Coast
Guard plans to connect the offices into a network.
Hardware & Software issue: The ministry and its departments are equipped with
computers. In addition they are developing the database for different uses. In the
Directorate of Jail under SICT project 11 central jails, 4 divisional offices, jail offices
are connected with network.
ICT related projects: No information is available about ICT related projects.
(19)Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Women and Children Affairs (MWCA)

Web address: www.mwca.gov.bd
The Ministry of Women and Children Affairs (MWCA) aims to mainstreaming
women in the development process, elevating their status in the society, raising
awareness about child rights and development of the latent potential of children.
Software & Hardware Issue: No information is available
ICT related projects: In this ministry a project Strengthening the Computer
Training Center and Establishment of Computer Unit at District Level is running
to strengthen the ICT activities. There are no mentionable ICT initiatives in the
ministry
(20) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Commerce

Web address: www.mincom.gov.bd
The Ministry of Commerce, Government of the Peoples Republic of Bangladesh is
mainly entrusted with the responsibility of dealing over all trade and commerce of
Bangladesh.
Agencies and its website:
Tariff Commissions: www.btariffcom.org
Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) Bangladesh: www.epb.gov.bd
TCB: www.tcb.gov.bd
Directorate of Insurance: No website
Import and Export Office: No website
Bangladesh Tea Board: www.teabord.gov.bd
Sadharan Bima Corporation: www.sbc.gov.bd
Office of the Registrar of Join Stock Companies & Firms: www.roc.gov.bd
Jiban Bima Corporation: No website
Foreign Trade Institute: No website
ICAB: www.icab-bd.org
ICMB: www.icmab.org.bd
Bangladesh Insurance Academy: www.bia.gov.bd
Software & Hardware issue: The ministry and it agencies are equipped with
computers, printers and other equipments. 62 computers & 35 printers in the
ministry of Commerce, 32 computers & 20 printers in Tariff Commissions, 50

computers & 38 printers in Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) Bangladesh, 4
Computers & 3 printers in TCB, 3 Computers & 2 Printers in Directorate of
Insurance, 2 Computers & 1 printer in Import and Export Office, 50 Computers &
38 printers in Bangladesh Tea Board, 105 Computers & 79 printers in Sadharan
Bima Corporation, 24 Computers & 3 Printers in Office of the Registrar of Join
Stock Companies & Firms, 65 Computers & 25 Printers in Jiban Bima Corporation,
7 Computers & 2 printers in Foreign Trade Institute, 31 computers & 9 Printers in
ICAB , 90 Computers & 22 printers in ICMB and 40 Computers are used in
Bangladesh Insurance Academy.
In Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) Bangladesh Quota Management Software
(Oracle) is going to be processed for export statistics. In the Office of the Registrar
of Join Stock Companies & Firms a project is running titled Computerization of the
office of Register of Joint Stock Companies and Firms with the funding of SEDF
and Australian Govt. In ICAB software is developed for Tally Programme for
Accounts and Inventory of Accounts department. In ICMB Exam Result, Student
Information, E-library, Personal management, Member Database is already running
through electronic media.
ICT related Projects: There are no mentionable ICT projects in the ministry.
Future plan: The ministry and its agency has following future plans:
To set up Office automation and trade portal
To develop Office automation software and develop dynamic web page
To develop trade portal and Division wise office automation
To introduce the Computer network system
To introduce online registration.
To introduce online insurance system
To Develop an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software
(21) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Finance

Web address: www.mof.gov.bd
E-Governance projects are being implemented in Finance Division.
Agency and it website:
National Board of Revenue (NBR):www.nbr-bd.org
Connectivity: Finance Division and office of the CGA have introduced the MTBF
Budgeting and Transaction Accounting Computer Systems. These computer
systems have been connected to the respective end users in different Ministries and
Accountings offices by means of (i) at the Secretariat area a campus Based Local
Area Network(LAN): which is in turn connected to (ii) a national Wide Area Network
(WAN) that links to the office of the CGA.
Software & Hardware: The division already developed customized software for
preparing national budget, budget planning, sensitivity analysis, impact analysis,
financial projections, gender and poverty related report generation. Finance
Division has commented activities to build networking infrastructure to connect
various offices of the government involved in public financial management so that
information can be provided in a timely and transparent manner to whose who
need. Finance Division provide those ministries adopting the Medium Term
Budgeting Framework (MTBF) access to the computerized Budget System so that
necessary budget information can be accessed for the last two years and captured
for future years.
NBR is capturing revenue information of income tax and VAT using Unique Tax
payers Identification Number (UTIN) by software and this is primarily being used in
LTU-Tax and LTU-VAT office. Software is developed for capturing information about
consignment and other information under Reform in Revenue Administration
(RIRA) project with the funding of DFID.
ICT related projects: There is no mentionable ICT initiative in the ministry
Future Plan: NBR has the following plans:
Purchase of 10 PCs and other equipments under Modernization and
Automation Project (MAP)
Start Manifest through ASYCUDA Software at the Chittagong Custom House
under the Chittagong Port Facilitation project with the funding of ADB
Conversion of the TIN (Taxpayers Identification Number) software to Oracle
Database.
Make the website dynamic
Make a proposal for ICT activities of NBR and its departments.
(22) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Food and Disaster Management

Web address: www.mofdm.gov.bd)
The ministry has website (www.mofdm.gov.bd) presents the information of the
ministry, its activities and development activities
Agencies & its website:
Directorate of Food: www.dgfood.gov.bd
Directorate of Relief and Rehabilitation: www.drr.gov.bd
Disaster Management Bureau: www.dmb.gov.bd
Connectivity: The ministry is connected with broadband connection. The ministry
has domain email address and all the branches are connected with LAN. In
Directorate of Food email is created for all district officers. This email is used for
communicating with the regional, district food controller and central food
reservation center.
Software & Hardware issue: Following software has been developed in the ministry
Central Relief Management Information System (CRMIS) S/W

EOI called for Disaster Management Information Network (DMIN) Portal
Development
Develop Risk Reduction Reporting
Database (RRRDB) and Disaster
Management Committee Database (DMCDB)
ICT related projects: One of the ICT initiatives in the ministry is Comprehensive
Disaster Management programme (CDMP). Under CDMP project Disaster
Management Information Center (DMIC) sends weather forecast and agro mate
bulletin and pre signal for weather, earthquake and tsunami from Global Disaster
alert & Co-ordination System (GDCS) to the ministry and district relief and
rehabilitation officers through e-mail. In addition the ministry already trained up
officials.
(23) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Science and Information and

Communication Technology
Web address www.mosict.gov.bd
The Ministry of Science and Information & Communication Technology,
Government of Bangladesh is promoting Science and Technology as stewardship of
positive change in society and for balanced socio-economic upliftment and national
well-being and thus to make Science and Technology a part of national culture.
Connectivity: No information is available on connectivity
Software & hardware issue: No information is available.
ICT related projects: The use of Science and Technology as a means of sustainable
use of Environment, Ecosystem and Resources, and to contribute to world pool of
knowledge in Science and Technology. There are some ongoing following projects in
the ministry.
(a) Support for Development of Public Sector use of ICT under EMTAP
To establish electronic communication network within the selected
ministries, divisions or organizations.
Formulation of e-government strategy in light of existing ICT policy.
To prepare action plan for the development of ICT
(b) Basic Infrastructure for Hi-tech Park (1st stage), Kaliakair, Gajipur
To build the basic infrastructure for Hi-tech Park, e.g., water, electricity, roads,
boundary wall etc.
(c) Development of Infrastructure for IT Applications (DIITA)
To develop and expand IT related education and training
To establish a network backbone at BCC Bhaban
(d) Technology Expansion Cell Establishment (2nd stage) project

To set up network among the ministry and its departments
(e) To build Bangladesh- Korea Institute of Information and Communication

Technology
Future Plan: There are following future plans in the ministry:

(a) National Intranetworking Project for Bangladesh
To improve government efficiency and promote interaction among
Government network infrastructure
To use ICT system within the public administration to improve efficiency and
transparency, reduce wastage of resources, enhance planning and raise the
quality of services.
(b) To introduce Computer Training programme in educational institutions
To create the opportunities of Lab system in the school and colleges of 64
districts.
To develop the Computer related guide for the level of S.S.C and H.S.C
(c) To establish Information Technology Village in Khulna
To create the in structural and other facilities for data entry, data
processing and exporting of softwares.
To expand and development of softwares.
(d) To transform B.C.C bhaban as the central unit of ICT initiatives of Govt.
(24) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Shipping

Web address: www.mos.gov.bd
Chittagong Port Authority (CPA): www.cpa.gov.bd
Bangladesh Shipping Corporation (BSC):www.bsc.gov.bd
Bangladesh Internal Water Transport Association (BIWTA):www.biwta.gov.bd
Mongla Port Authority (MPA):www.monglaport.gov.bd
Bangladesh Internal Water Transport Corporation (BIWTC):www.biwtc.gov.bd
Bangladesh Land Port Authority: www.bsbk.gov.bd
Department of Shipping (DOS):www.dos.gov.bd
Marine Academy: www.m.academy.gov.bd
Software & hardware Issue: A Computerized system has already been developed
for financial, Accounts, Export Import, Truck Management, Activities related to
Officers Welfare.In Bangladesh Shipping Corporation (BSC) Internet connection
And LAN is available. In Mongla Port Authority (MPA) Computerized Management
Information System is developed (MIS) for computerization of all activities of MPA.
Department of Shipping has a website (www.dos.gov.bd) which publishes the
information on its activities, marine training and the recruitment of the crew. Some
important forms can be download from this website.
ICT related projects: The ministry of shipping has a plan to establish and start
computerized Container Terminal Management Systems (CTMS) and Management
Information System (MIS) under the project Chittagong Port Trade Facilitation with
the funding of ADB.
(25) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Post and Tele-communication

Web address: www.mopt.gov.bd
Connectivity: In the Ministry of Post and Tele-communication LAN is connected
Software &hardware issue: No information is available
ICT related projects: Web-based customer service has been developed for BTTB
telephone system. The ministry already set up BTTB sub-marine cable, national
optical fiber infrastructure and DDN system.
(26) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Education

Web address: www.moedu.gov.bd
Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education (Head Office): www.dshe.gov.bd
Directorate of Technical Education (Head Office):www.techedu.gov.bd
National Academy for Educational Management: www.naem.gov.bd
Bangladesh Bureau of Educational Information and Statistics: www.banbeis.gov.bd
DIA: website registration is completed
Technical Education Board: www.bteb.gov.bd
Madrasah Education Board: www.bmeb.gov.bd
NCTB: www.nctb.gov.bd
UGC: www.ugc.org
Education Board, Barisal: Website development is under process.
Connectivity: The ministry of education is connected with LAN and internet.
Software & Hardware issue: The ministry and its agencies are well equipped with
PC, internet, Server, modem, and projector. The ministry has developed software on
Decentralize Education Management Information System, Monthly Pay Order

Management System, and Govt. College management Teachers management
software. The Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education (Head Office) has
developed some of the software: Office Management System, Library Management
System, and Inventory Management, transcript/certificate printing, registration
processing, and probable list of admit card processing and scholarship processing.
They already have planned to convert the software in oracle platform. Technical
Education Board already developed Affiliation software, OMR form Scan software,
RIF (Registration Information Form) processing software for registration, Admit card
processing software and Result processing software. Bangladesh Bureau of
Educational Information and Statistics has developed Educational Information
System (Oracle),BCS Education cadre officer PDS (Oracle),School Mapping (Arc
View 3.2),Head Teachers Training and CPD,( Oracle ),Computer Teachers Database
who received computer training (Access),District Level Education System (Java
PHP),Web Database for Education Institutions (PHP & HTML ), Upazila-wise GIS
Web Database(PDF, PHP & HTML). Education Board Computer Center has
developed softwares on Result Processing Tabulation Printing Transcript/Certificate
printing, Registration processing, probable list of admit card processing,
Scholarship processing, different types of statistics processing. Technical Education
Board developed softwares on Affiliation, OMR form Scan RIF (Registration
Information Form) processing for registration, Admit card processing, Result
processing. Madrasah Education Board developed software on Base Accounts
management.
Ministry of education is equipped with 2 servers, 86 PCs, 2 laptop, 57 printers, and
2 multimedia projectors. 4 servers, 60 PCs, 6 laptop, 1 printer, and 1 multimedia
projector are used Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education (Head Office),1
server, 45 PCs, 30 printers, and 1 multimedia projector in Directorate of Technical
Education (Head Office), 7 server, 136 PCs, 30 printers, and 8 multimedia projector
in National Academy for Educational Management, 7 servers, 100 PCs, 6 laptop, 23
printers, and 6 multimedia projectors in Bangladesh Bureau of Educational
Information and Statistics,11 Pcs,10 printers in DIA, 8 Server, 260 PCs,34 printers
in Education Board Computer Center, 2 servers, 78 PCs, 32 printers, and 1
multimedia projectors in Technical Education Board,1 servers, 46 PCs, 12 printers,
and 1 multimedia projectors in Madrasah Education Board, 40 PC,20 laptop in
NCTB, 2 servers, 78 PCs, 32 printers, and 1 multimedia projectors in UGC and 10
PCs and Printer in Education Board, Barisal are used.
ICT related Projects: Korea Govt. gave the fund to BANBEIS to establish
Bangladesh Korea ICT Training Center for Education (BKICE) in BANBEIS (5 labs)
for Computer training of the teachers.
Future Plan: The ministry and its agencies have some future plans to develop the
following softwares:
Updating BCS (Edn) cadre officer database system (Oracle)
Monitoring and Inspection Project Management software
Library Automation software
Accounting software
Online registration system software
Fund management software for BTEB
Online exam system software
(26) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Water Resources

Web address: www.mowr.gov.bd
Bangladesh water Development Board: www.bwdb.gov.bd
Water Resources Planning Organization (WARPO) www.warpo.gov.bd
Centre for environmental and geographic Information Services (CEGIS) :
www.cegisbd.com
FFWC: www.ffwc.gov.bd
Institute of Water Modeling: www.iwmbd.org
Joint River Commission: No website
Connectivity: No information is available about connectivity.
Software & hardware issue:
ICT related Projects: There are no mentionable ICT initiatives in the ministry of
Water resources and its agency.
(27) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Planning, Planning Division

Web address:
Connectivity:
Software & hardware issue:
ICT related Projects: SICT project is being implemented in planning ministry.
Under this project many subprojects are being implemented by SICT. These sub
projects are:
Process Automation at GM Norths office Under the ministry

of post and telecommunication
Online Public Exams Results and Education statistics Under
Ministry of Education
Online daily market Price for the ministry of Agriculture
Interactive website for Ministry of Expatriate welfare and
overseas employment
Interactive website for Ministry of labor and Employment
Connectivity and Process Automation of Bangladesh tea
Board
Interactive Website of the Ministry of Land
Land Record Archiving at Manikganj Record Room Under the
Ministry of Land
Process Automation of Board of investment
Hardware, Software and connectivity for special security
Force
Interactive Website for the Cabinet Division
Automation of Result Processing at Bangladesh Public
Service Commission
Office automation of rapid action Battalion (RAB)
Backbone Connectivity with Armed Forces Division computer
center with PM office and allied support
E-governance at Bangladesh Biman
Interactive website for the Ministry of Chittagong Hill Tarcks
affairs
Process automation at Bangladesh Livestock Research
Institute
IT system development and interactive website of River

research institute
Process automation of Fisheries Research institute
Interactive website for the Ministry of liberation war affairs
Interactive website for the rural development and cooperative
division
Interactive website for the ministry of industries.
Process automation at Karmachari kallayan Board
Process automation and network connectivity for jail
Process automation at Dhaka DC office
Process automation at Jamalpur DC office
LAN setup and connectivity among Ministries based at
Bangladesh Secretariat.
Update of ADP database and establishment of GIS at
planning Commission
Presidents office automation
E-Government Initiatives National data Resource Center
Digital town
ICT Training to the Government officials.
Video-conferencing
(28) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas

Employment
Web address: http://probashi.gov.bd/
Bureau of Manpower, Employment & Training (BMET): No website
Bangladesh Overseas Employment & Services Ltd. (BOESL): No website
Association of Recruiting Agencies engaged in Manpower Export (BAIRA): No website
Connectivity: LAN and internet connection is available. 21 district offices of the
ministry are connected with dial system.
Software & hardware issue: The ministry is equipped with 6 Computers and 6
UPS.
ICT related Projects: Under the E-Governance many activities have been taken to
strengthen the role of the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas
Employment. These initiatives are:
1. Web based e-governance application and interactive website for expertise

welfare and overseas development. The main objectives of the programme to
develop website, to give hardware support and training.
2. BMIT Computer Database Network Establishment. The main objective of the
praogramme is to increase the accountability in the ministry and build
networking among the Biman offices and dist offices.
3. Web based E-Governance application and interactive website for Expatriates'
Welfare and Overseas Employment. The main objectives of the programme to
develop website, to give hardware support and training.
4. Bangladesh Overseas and Services. The main objective of the programme I to
modernize and mobilize the activities of recruitment in BOESEL.
In addition, the ministry already conducted ICT related training activities for the
officers and employees.
(29) Name of the Ministry: Ministry of Establishment

Web address: www.moestab.gov.bd
Connectivity: Ministry of Establishment is running a Local Area Network (LAN)
system. The officers working under the ministry located in different location of the
ministry are the basic user of the LAN. For setup a LAN in the ministry all the
sections are using the required Hardware and Software. The ministry is also
providing Internet services for Minister, State Minister, Dy. Minister and Secretaries
to all ministries and divisions.
ICT related projects and activities: Data of the officers of Bangladesh Civil
Service (Admn) & other cadre officers who are posted as DS or JS or Additional
Secretary or Secretary have been computerized from their Personnel Data Sheet
(PDS). Data of above officers are continuously being updated to take into account
the following factors:
o Posting/Transfer of officers.
o Promotion of officers.
o Local and Foreign training of officers.
o Joining report of officers.
o Foreign travel of officers.
o Change in academic qualifications.
o Disciplinary actions etc.
The Government of Bangladesh took up a Project named PMIS/MSW
comprising three major components i.e. (1) PMIS (2) MSW including
planning cell and (3) Strengthening the Secretariat Library with its
documentation cell. As a result the Public Administration Computer Center
(PACC) has been established, Planning cell has been created and a library
with modern reading facilities has been established.The major objectives of
the Project PMIS/MSW phase-I has been successfully achieved and
significant development in the administrative skill of the Ministry of
Establishment has improved by using computer facilities.
The PACC was established in 1984 with the objective of strengthening the
personal management services of the Ministry of Establishment (MOE) by
using computer. A systematic database was designed for proper recruitment,
training, placement and promotion of the public servants on merit. The main
objectives of the PACC are :
o To strengthen the MOE by computerizing the latest data related to the

personnel matters of officers under its control,
o To collect, analyze, evaluate and store data in the computer and use the
same for prompt decision-making,
o To reduce the load of file work, simplify the complicated and outdated
procedures and evolve an effective personnel management information
system.
To perform the objectives a mini network of 24 users was established in the

PACC with terminals in the different high officials' desk including the Prime
Ministers Office. Presently the network of the PACC has been extended upto
the Divisional Commissioners' office. The following broad activities are being
performed in the PACC:
a) Personnel Management Information System (PMIS).
b) Census of Civil Posts.
c) Computer Training Activities.
d) Technical advice to Ministries/Divisions, Departments etc
e) Website and Internet Service
Computer Training Activities:

Establishment Ministry is running various types of computer training course for
various levels of govt. officials. For this training programme ministry has a training
center and various training equipments including 12 stand alone microcomputers.
Future Plan and activities: Ministry of Establishment has an aim to computerize

all collectorate and its linked offices. In this connection, ministry has been taken a
project as a model to computerize Gagipur District Collectorate. The Ministry of
Establishment had allocated public fund from the Government of the Peoples
Republic of Bangladesh (GOB) toward the "Modernization and Computerization of
Collectorate and its Offices" and it intends to apply part of the proceeds of this fund
to payments under the contract for Application Software Development at Deputy
Commissioner's Office, Gazipur.
The main objective was to develop CD-ROM Based Imaged Land Record
System having viewing, printing and Land Records Information and Administration
Service facilities. The application software was developed using Oracle 9i under
Windows 2003 Server and the data entry of all historical data into the databases to
run the systems full functional. Database is capable of using Unicode complaints
Bengali and English. Developed applications are n-tier architecture for Web enabled
user interface. Also latest version of Internet Developer Suit (IDS) was used for
front-end development.
The following E_Government Applications was developed by the Consultant
at Deputy Commissioner's Office Gazipur:
(a) Land Records & Land Management Systems.
(b) Judicial information Management Systems.
(c) Arms Management systems.
(d) Development Project Management Systems.
(e) Personnel Information Management Systems.
(f) Web-Site Development.
(g) Other Daily Tasks Management Systems.
*** The report of ICT status of different ministries has prepared on the basis of
replies of a quetionanire which was sent by principal Secretary to the Secretaries
of all ministries. In this report the information would be updated if any
information of any ministries would be available in future.
Annex 3: Name & Status of SICT project

Name of the project Implementing Authority Status
Process Automation at GM Ministry of Post and Completed

Norths Office Telecommunication
Online Daily Market Price Ministry of Agriculture Completed
Online Public Exams Ministry of Education Completed
Results and Education
Statistics
Interactive Website Ministry of Expatriate Welfare and Completed
Overseas Employment
Interactive Website Ministry of Labor and Employment Completed
Connectivity and Process Connectivity and Process Completed
Automation Automation
Interactive Website the Ministry of Land Completed
Land Record Archiving at Ministry of Land Completed
Manikganj Record Room
Process Automation Board of Investment Completed
Hardware, Software and Special Security Force Completed
Connectivity
Interactive Website Cabinet Division Completed
Automation of Result Public Service Commission Completed
Processing
Office Automation Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) Completed
ICT Training to the Ministry of planning Completed
Government Officials
Process Automation Bangladesh Livestock Research On going
Institute
Process Automation Post Office On going
Video-Conferencing Ministry of planning On going
e-Police Ministry of Home On going
Backbone Connectivity Ministry of planning On going
with Armed Forces Division
Computer Center with PM
Office and Allied Support
IT System Development River Research Institute On going
and Interactive Website
Process Automation Fisheries Research Institute On going
Interactive Website Ministry of Liberation War Affairs On going
Interactive Website Ministry of Civil Aviation and On going
Tourism
Interactive Website Ministry of Chittagong Hill Tracts On going
Affairs
Interactive Website Rural Development and Cooperative On going
Division
Interactive Website Ministry of Industries On going
Interactive Website Supreme Court On going
Hardware, Software and Presidents Guard Regiment On going

Connectivity
LAN Setup and Bangladesh Secretariat On going
Connectivity among
Ministries
Process Automation and Ministry of planning On going
Network Connectivityi Jail
Update of ADP Database Bangladesh Planning Commission On going
and establishment of GIS
Facility
Digital Town On going
Interactive Website Bangladesh Sugar and Food On going
Industries Corporation
Process Automation Water Development Board On going
Process Automation Dhaka DC Office On going
Process Automation Bangladesh Government Staff On going
Welfare Board
Process Automation Ministry of Housing and Public On going
Works and its Subordinate Offices
Office Automation with VSAT in BPATC On going
Hardware
e-Government initiatives Department of Narcotics Control On going
for process automation
e-Government system Sylhet Divisional Headquarter On going
e-Government system Jamalpur DC office On going
e-Government system Sherpur DC office On going
Interactive Website National Savings Directorate On going
e-Governance Application Ministry of Commerce On going
e-Governance Application WARPO On going
e-Government initiatives Ministry of Power, Energy and On going
Minerals Resources
e-Governance Application Forest Research Institute On going
Establishment of Computer Local Government (NILG) On going
Lab at National Institute
e-Governance National Security Intelligence (NSI) On going
Presidents Office On going
Automation
GIS Software Development Fisheries Department On going
Interactive Website Vashani Navo-theatre under the on going
Ministry of Science & Information &
Communication
Hardware support Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics On going
Hardware support training centre of Bangladesh On going
Biman
e-Government Initiatives National Data Resource Center On going
Annex 4: ICT Initiatives of Bangladesh Government in

Annual Development Programme (ADP)
(From 2004-2005 to 2006-2007 Fiscal year)
Project
Impleme
Develop Expendit
Serial nting Fiscal
Project Name ment Ministry ure (unit
No. Organiza Year
Partner : lakh
tion
Taka)
Establish
2,66,000 Digital
Post and Tele- 175450 2004-
1 Telephone Lines B.T.T.B ----
communication (70771) 2005
(transform
76,000 Lines )
Establish High
Capacity Optical
2 Fiber with Spar B.T.T.B
Transmission
Link
Establish/
Expansion of
Digital Telephone Post and Tele- 163378 2004-
3 B.T.T.B China
Exchange in communication (108155) 2005
Different Districts
in Bangladesh
International
Telecommunicati
on System Post and Tele- 65702 2004-
4 B.T.T.B I.D.B
Establishment communication (53382)* 2005
through Sub-
Marianne.
Establishment of
Digital Radio link
& Digital Supplier Post and Tele- 9519 2004-
5 B.T.T.B
telephone Fund communication (5787) 2005
Exchange in
Tribal Chittagong
Introducing
Internet Service
Post and Tele- 2004-
6 in every district of B.T.T.B
communication 2171 2005
Bangladesh
urgently
Establish
Upazilla and
7 Growth Center B.T.T.B
communication 2005
Digital Telephone
Exchange (15783)
Establish Digital
Telephone
8 Exchange in B.T.T.B
communication 2005
Metropolitan City
and Important (36054)
Cities
Establish Digital UDCF,
9 Telephone B.T.T.B South
communication 33541 2005
Exchange in Korea
Chittagong,
Khulna and (15000)
Sykhet.
10 lakh T&T Post and Tele- 79695 2004-

10 Mobile B.T.T.B
communication 2005
(51088)
Establish Radio
Link In Different Post and Tele- 2726 2004-
11 Upazilla in B.T.T.B
communication 2005
Bangladesh (1700)
Establish Digital
Telephone
12 Exchange in B.T.T.B
communication 2005
Karaniganj of
Dhaka District (2057)
Introducing Pre-
Paid Service By Post and Tele- 1819 2004-
13 BTTB B.T.T.B
communication 2005
(1220)
Collecting and
Establish
Banglade
Automatic Letter Post and Tele- 2004-
14 sh Post
Sorting machine communication 2820 2005
Office
For Bangladesh
Post Division
Establishment of Departme
a Computer nt of
Institute in Feni Vocation 2004-
14 ------------ Education 2414
District al 2005
Educatio
n
Establishment 0f
Science &
Universit
Technology
y Grant 2004-
15 University in 12 -------- Education 9057
Commiss 2005
district (where
ion (UGC)
there is no
University)
Computerization
of the
Ministry
Examination
of 2004-
16 System of ------- Education 393
Educatio 2005
Bangladesh
n
Technical
Education
Introducing
Computer Ministry
Science Course in of 2004-
17 Education 5308
Class Nine in Educatio 2005
Selected High n
School
Engineering Stuff Public
College, Work Housing and Public 2004-
18 994
Bangladesh Departme Works 2005
nt
Expanding and Universit
39495 2004-
19 greater y Grants Education
(14018) 2005
development of Commiss
Chittagong, ion
Khulna, Rajshahi
and Dhaka BTI.
Greater
Development of Universit
University Grants y Grants 2004-
20 Education 508
Commission and Commiss 2005
University ion
Resource Center
Establish the
infrastructure of
Banglade
Military Institute
sh Army 2004-
21 of Science and Defense 3500
Headquar 2005
Technology in
ter
Mirpur
Cantonment
MIS Health and
Health
Services and Health and Family 2004-
22 and 2256
Personnel Welfare 2005
Nutrition
Information,
Education and Family Health and Family 2004-
3040
Communication Planning Welfare 2005
(F P)
MIS Health and
Services and Family Health and Family 2004-
23 955
Personnel (F P) Planning Welfare 2005
Introducing
Film and
Modern DVD
Publicati
Technology in 2004-
24 on Information 1279
Film and 2005
Departme
Publication
nt
department
Introducing Banglade
Digital technology sh Film
in BFDC Developm 2004-
25 Information 1961
ent 2005
Corporati
on
Establishment of Ministry
technology of
Expansion Cell Science
and Science and
Informati Information & 2004-
26 446
on & Communication 2005
Commun Technology
ication
Technolo
gy
Development of National
Invented/prepare Science Science and
d Projects by and Information & 2004-
27 150
Young Scientist Technolo Communication 2005
gy Technology
Museum
Permanent Departme
Storage Project of nt of 2004-
28 -------- Cultural Affairs 68
Rare District National 2005
records of Archive &
National Archive Library

through
Computerization
Strengthen the
Computer
Training Centre
Departme
of Department of
nt of Women and Children 2005-
29 Women Affairs ---------- 543
Women Affair 2006
and
Affairs
Establishment of
Computer unit in
District level.
Establishment of
Local
Computer
Governm 2004-
30 Network in Local -------- LGRD 163
ent 2005
Government
Division
Division
Development of
Information & Science and
Prime
Communication Information & 296 2004-
31 Ministers ----------
Technology Communication (15) 2005
Office
System of Prime Technology
Ministers Office
Banglade
Science and
sh
Strengthen the Information & 2004-
32 Compute ----- 2329
Bangladesh Communication 2005
r Council
Computer Technology
(B.C.C)
Council
Banglade
Science and
Development of sh
Information & 2004-
33 Infrastructure for Compute ---------- 1392
Communication 2005
IT Application in r Council
Technology
Bangladesh (B.C.C)
Science and
Support to ICT Ministry
Information & 8316
34 Task Force of ------ 2004-
Communication (100)
Program Planning 2005
Technology
E.U/ South Asia Departme
Intellectual nt of
Properties Rights Patent, 425 2004-
35 E.U Industries
Co-operation Design & (375) 2005
Project for Trade
Bangladesh Mark
Strengthening the
Policy Ministry
Formulation of Post &
Post & Tele- 2296 2004-
36 Capacities of Telecom I.D.A
Ministry of Post & municati
Telecommunicati on
on
The study on Departme
Urban nt of
2249 2004-
37 Information Banglade JICA Planning
(2100) 2005
Management for sh
Greater Dhaka Statistics
City
Strengthening the
Regularity Post & Tele- 5825
38 B.T.R.C I.D.A 2004-
Capacity of communication (3610)
2005
BTRC.
Computerization
of Project
Account Manual,
Development of
Finance 2004-
39 Asset ------ Establishment 290
Division 2005
Management &
Reforming Project
Audit
Methodology
Strengthening the
Prime
ICT Capacity of Prime Ministers 99 2005-
40 Ministers UNDP
the Prime Office (99) 2006
Office
Ministers Office
Bangladesh Banglade
Science and
Korea Institute of sh
Information & 901
41 Information & Compute KOIKA
Communication (580) 2005-
Communication r Council
Technology 2006
Technology (B.C.C)
Assistance to
SICT for Science and
Strengthening Planning Information & 2005-
42 UNDP 1520
Planning Division Division Communication 2006
, ERD,IMED Technology
Trough ICT
Pre-Paid Metering Banglade
Pilot Skim sh Power
Power, Energy and 3383 2005-
43 developm D.R.G.A
Mineral Resources (2565) 2006
ent
Board
Computer
National Science and
Training Project
Women Information & 2005-
44 for Women on ------ 257
Organizat Communication 2006
District basis (10
ion Technology
centers)
45 Computerization
of the Office of
Register Joint
Commerc
Stock Companies 2005-
e Australia Commerce 452
& Firms 2006
Ministry
46
Strengthening the
Institutional B.T.R.C UNDP 245
communication 2006
Capacity of
BTRC.
Development of Science Science and 2005-

82
47 Small Business and Information & 2006
ICT Strategies for Informati Communication

Bangladesh on & Technology
Commun
ication
48 Strengthen the Agricultu

Agricultural ral
2006-
Information Informati ------- Agriculture 1500
2007
System on
Service
49 Survey of
Bangladesh
Textile Industries
to Update
Departme
Database/MIS & 2006-
nt of ------ Industries 90
Asses the 2007
Textile
Requirement of
Textile
Technologist of
Different Level
50 Information, Ministry
Education & of Health I.D.A, Health and Family 11176 2006-
Communication & Family U.N.F.P.A Welfare (2040) 2007
Welfare
51 Strengthening
Capacity to Departme
270 2006-
Generate nt of F.A.O Agriculture
(91) 2007
Information on Forestry
Forest Resources
52 Environmental Water
Monitoring Resource
Information Planning Canadian 1723 2006-
Water Resources
Network for Organizat CIDA (1440) 2007
Water Resources ion
(WRPO)
53 Strengthening
Banglade
Capacity of BBS Health and Family
sh 581 2006-
in Data Collection U.N.F.P.A Welfare
Statistics (14) 2007
& Analysis Using
Bureau
GIS Maps
54 Electronic Impleme
Government ntation
Procurement (e- Monitor
76 2006-
GP) Readiness & I.D.A Establishment
(47) 2007
Assessment & Evaluatio
Implementation n
Plan Division
55 Computerization Departme
2006-
of Police Stations nt of ------ Home 2700
2007
Police
56 Strengthening Banglade UNFPA Health and Family 581 2006-
Capacity of BBS sh Welfare (14) 2007
in Data Collection Statistics
and Analysis Bureau
using GIS Maps
57 Modernization I.R.D I.D.A Finance 2476 2006-
and Automation (1845) 2007
Project of NBR
58 Strengthening the Parliame Denmark Parliament 7762 2006-

Parliamentary nt , DFID, Secretariat (4992) 2007

Democracy. Secretari Netherlan
at ds, UNDP
59 Strengthening the BANSDO ------- MOSICT 784 2006-
BANSDOC C (9) 2007
* Bracketed Amount is Foreign Fund

Annex: 5 Scope for ICT Initiatives of Bank in Bangladesh
1. Name of the bank: Agrani Bank

Web address: www.agranibank.org
Work implemented: 19 ATMs are established in different places in Dhaka,
Chittagong and Sylhet which helps persons avoid risk or carrying cash. ATM Card
Holders can draw cash from any ATM location and also enjoy other services like
paying variety utility bills like those of BTTB, AKTEL and Grameen Phone through
ATM service.
Current activities: Seven important branches of Agrani Bank in Dhaka city is
integrated as a 'composite network' with Micro Wave Radio Link. Account Holder of
any of the seven branches can deposit/credit cash or checks, draw cash, make
money transfer, collect Statement of Account, and enquire present balance etc. at
any of the networked branches. Seven networked branches in Dhaka city are:
Principal branch, Ramna branch, Dhaka, Purana Paltan branch, Amin Court
branch, Foreign Exchange branch, Dhaka Jatiya Press Club branch, Dhaka, BAF
branch.
Future plan : Provisions for payment of utility bills of DESA, WASA, TITAS gas and
other organizations through ATM cards, completion of the electronic of the
electronic banking project by the end of 2008 when it will be highly updated and
integrated for electronic utility bill payment system.
2. Name of the bank: Bangladesh Commerce Bank Limited

Web address: www.bcbl-bd.com
No online facility is available in BCB. They have no relevant future planning within
1 year.
3. Name of the Bank: Bangladesh Krishi bank

Web address: www.krishibank.org.bd
Work implemented: Bangladesh Krishi Bank started its ICT journey back in 1987
with two personal computers (PC) installing in its head office. Recently BKB has
computerized its different accounting, lending and personnel activities by
establishing a Computer Cell in the Head Office. The Cell is enriched with one
Mini Computer system, one Local Area Network (LAN) system and good number of
PCs. Skilled and well trained officers from scholastic background are posted here to
run the cell efficiently.
Current activities: The bank has also computerized different activities like clearing
house, book keeping and accounting, weekly position, scheduled bank statistics
(SBS), classification of loan, follow-up, reconciliation of inter-branch transactions,
employees provident fund account, preparation of statement for credit information
bureau (CIB) and other necessary statements for various purposes. Now all the
departments of the head Office are equipped with computer, activities of which are
being monitored by the Computer Department.
Future plan: Bangladesh Krishi Bank has launched a five years computerization
plan under which 28 selected branches are computerized in the first phase and the
computerization process will continue in future. Many precautionary measures
have been taken to increase the efficiency and efficacy of the banking activities.
Additional tools like money-counting machine and additional counters for utility
service have been set in different branches so as to ensure better and quick services
to the customers. The traditional system of banking will be transformed into

electronic and internet system of banking as much as possible. In line with
government policy more rural branches/booths will be opened in the remote areas
to facilitate smooth supply of agricultural credit.
4. Name of the bank: Bangladesh Shilpa Bank

Web address: www.shilpabank.gov.bd
Bangladesh Shilpa Bank has a website but they have no IT driven activities.
5. Name of the bank: Bank Asia Limited

Web address: www.bankasia-bd.com
Current activities: Bank Asia symbolizes modern banking with innovative services
in Bangladesh. They are providing online banking, ATM Support, SMS and net
banking services in the country. This technology based services also provide fund
transfer through the internet, debit/credit card facility and free SMS message for
special type of withdrawal from customers account time to time. Bank Asia has
launched its M-Banking Product THUMBPAY which allows customers to access
their bank accounts from their Mobile Phone. This service is currently available to
AKTEL subscribers only. SMS Push and Pull services are available for Grameen
Phone and City Cell subscribers by which a client will get a message within 5-10
seconds if any amount is debited or credited from clients account. Through
internet Banking Customers can access account to view and print the balance and
account statement for last 20 (twenty) transactions. The Bank conducts its
operations through twenty four (24) branches in the country. Bank Asia customers
have access to 21 ATMs as a member of ETN. The Bank has already set up its own
ATM machine at 6 corresponding branches and is also in the process of setting up
its own ATM network at every focused point in the city with a view of providing
retail banking services.
6. Name of the bank: BASIC Bank Limited (Bank of Small Industries and
Commerce)
Web address: www.basicbankbd.com
The bank has no online or IT related facilities.
7. Name of the Bank: BRAC Bank

Web Address: www.bracbank.com
Current activities: BRAC bank has initiated simple & convenient SMS and
internet banking. SMS service is available for both Grameen Phone and AKTEL
subscribers.38 ATMs (Automated Teller Machine) & POS (Point of Sales) networks
have been established.
Future plan: More than 50 ATMs booth will be established within 2007.
8. Name of the bank: City Bank Ltd

Web address: www.asia.citibank.com/bangladesh (Citibank has no individual
website. But there is a website about the city group where information on City
Bank is available.)
Current activities: Citibank provides the facilities of online banking by which

customer can do banking operations from anywhere around the world with
connectivity to CitiDirect Online Banking. The City bank has online facilities in 30
branches. City Bank have already set up 2 ATM booths.
9. Name of the bank: Dhaka Bank Limited

Web address: www.dhakabankltd.com
Current activities: Dhaka Bank initiated SMS Banking with the subscribers of
Grameen phone. With SMS banking, customers can get the services: utility bill
payment, balance Inquiry, statement request, cheque book Request, stop cheque
and cheque status inquiry. Grameen subscribers can pay their online payment
through internet banking. Dhaka bank has no own ATM booth but customers can
use different ATM booths for their purposes. Recently Dhaka bank has negotiated
with E Bank Consortium so that card holders can have the facilities of E-cash.
Dhaka Bank also has provided the facilities of credit card to the customers.
10. Name of the bank: Dutch Bangla Bank Limited

Web address: www.dutchbanglabank.com
Work implemented: Installation of 149 ATMs. 650 POS terminals is established for
online payment of shopping bills.
Current activities: DBBL introduced SMS banking system by which the customer
can perform many online banking transactions from their home, office or cyber-
caf. Utility bills can be paid using debit/credit card at any ATM of DBBL. DBBL
also provide the facilities of internet banking system.
11. Name of the bank: Eastern Bank Limited

Web Address: www.ebl-bd.com
Work Implemented: EBL is using software M- Switch, the first of its type in
Bangladesh. They can function any sort of work within its network independently
using this software. High Speed DDN and Radio Link connectivity is using between
Branches and the Head Office. Local Area Network (LAN) is providing data network
connectivity at the Head Office and the branches. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
is connecting the Dhk branches with HO, Ctg branches with Agrabad and Syl
branches with Chouhatta. Wide Area Network (WAN) is enabling the data network
circle between Head Office and the branches.
Current activities: Eastern Bank Limited Bangladesh provides online banking
services. Customers can paid the bill of GP post-paid phone, T & T bill, and salary
of Scholastica School through using internet banking. Eastern Bank have 50 ATM
booths and plans to extend it 100 in numbers within the year 2007.
Future plan:
EBL will provide the facilities of e-commerce Banking, EBPP Services, E-Banking
Facility, e commerce Transaction. EBL has a plan to introduce the e-Commerce
banking through providing the following services:
Customers can buy mobile pre-paid card through using the mobile phone
Customers can open L/C using internet banking.
Customers can transfer the fund using internet banking.
The rate of foreign exchange will be provided to customers.
12. Name of the bank: EXIM Bank Limited

Web address: www.eximbankbd.com
Current activities: The bank is currently providing credit card service
(MasterCard) to the privileged customers in collaboration with Prime Bank. Floating
VISA card for both debit and credit card service is under process.
13. Name of the bank: IFIC Bank Limited

Web address: www.ificbankbd.com
Current activities: IFIC Bank Limited has recently introduced online banking in
Gulshan Branch. They have a plan to extend the facilities in other branches. IFIC
Bank Limited is running the opportunities of credit card and debit card. IFIC Bank
Limited has 3 ATMs booth and many of the ATM booths of different bank are being
used by the IFIC customers.
14. Name of the bank: Islami Bank Bangladesh Ltd

Web address: www.islamibankbd.com
Current Activities: Islami Bank Bangladesh has ATM booths providing the
facilities of withdraw or deposit cash or cheque as well as pay utility bills like those
of BTTB, Grameen, AKTEL, City Cell Phone, DESA, WASA, TITAS etc. The service is
now offered by ETN and eleven member banks including Islami Bank Bangladesh
Limited. Now IBBL E-cash card holders can be paid their monthly installment of
Mudaraba Hajj Savings, MSS (Pension), Mudaraba Muhor Savings and HDS
schemes of IBBL through ATM. Customers may know their present balance at any
time from the machine.
Future plan: EBBL has a plan to provide the facilities of POS (Point of Sale).
15. Name of the bank: Jamuna Bank Ltd

Web address: www.jamunabankbd.com
Current activities: Jamuna Bank now receives Grameen Phone and Banglalink
mobile bills through its 29 online branches located at Dhaka, Chittagong, Sylhet,
Gazipur, Bogra, Naogaon, Narayanganj and Munshigonj. Jamuna Bank Limited has
introduced its online banking on April 05, 2005.Customers can also enjoy 24 hours
banking service through ATM card from any of Q-cash ATMs located in Dhaka,
Chittagong, Khulna, Sylhet and Bogra.
16. Name of the bank: Janata Bank

Web address: www.janatabank-bd.com
Work implemented: Janata Bank has launched a credit scheme titled Financing
Computer Software Development & Data Export to hasten the growth of
information technology and to attract young energetic IT professional.
Current activities: Janata Bank has internet banking services which is limited
only one branch. Presently Janata Bank and other Q-cash Consortium member
Banks can serve their customers through 65 ATMs. Besides Janata Bank ATMs, a
Q-cash (ATM) Card holder can enjoy the facilities of all ATMs belonging to all
Consortium Banks located in Dhaka, Chittagong, Khulna , Sylhet, Bogra, Cox-
Bazar, Sirajgonj, and Munshigonj. The bank also provides the facilities of payment
of utility services to the customers through ready cash like gas bills of Titas,
Bakhrabad and Jalalabad Gas Transmission and Distribution Companies,
electricity bills of Dhaka Electricity Supply Authority, Dhaka Electricity Company,
Bangladesh Power Development Board and Rural Electrification Board, telephone
bills of Telegraph and Telephone Board, water/sewerage bills of Water and

Sewerage Authority, municipal holding tax of the City Corporation/municipalities.
17. Name of the bank: Mercantile Bank Limited

Web address: www.mblbd.com
Current activities: Online Banking has been activated in 32 (Thirty Two) branches
of the Bank from January 01, 2006. 50 ATM booths have been installed in different
places of Bangladesh.
18. Name of the Bank: Mutual Trust Bank Limited

Web address: www.mutualtrustbank.com
Work implemented: All the branches of the Mutual Trust Bank (except two rural
branches) are connected with the central server at its Head Office through Radio
Link of 3.5 frame relay network and fiber optics provided by the country's leading
data communication service provider X-Net Limited, a joint venture company with
GrameenPhone. The Bank has recently adopted V-SAT communication system to
bring its rural branches under the online branch banking facilities. The V-SAT
connectivity is being provided by Square Informatics Ltd. Mutual Bank is using
Microsoft's enterprise version of SQL Server 2000 as data reservoir, the software
ensures the highest level of security at application, network, database and
operating systems level ascertaining the confidentiality and security of customer's
personal and account's information.
Current Activities: Mutual Trust Bank is a pioneering among its competitors in
providing real time online banking facilities to its customers.
Future Plan: Mutual Trust Bank Limited has a plan to launch debit card facilities
within the 2nd week of August, 2007. They have a plan to provide the facilities of
payment of utility bill services.
19. Name of the bank: National Bank Limited

Web address: www.nblbd.com
Current activities: National Bank Limited has 8 ATM booths. The bank also has Q
cash services.
Future plan: National Bank Limited has a future plan to introduce the online
services.
20. Name of the bank: National Credit & Commerce Bank Ltd
Web address: www.nccbank-bd.com
Current activities: NCC Bank is extending ATM facility through E-Cash shared
ATM Network. The number of ATM facility through E-Cash shared Network is 18
which are located in Dhaka and Sylhet. NCC Bank is currently providing on-line
banking services.
21. Name of the bank: One Bank Limited

Web address: www.onebankbd.com
Current Activities: ONE Bank Limited offers online banking 'Any Branch' banking
service that facilitates its customers to deposit, withdraw and transfer funds
through the counters of any of its branches within the country.
Future Plan: The Bank will provide a state-of-the-art technology banking such as
Any Branch Banking, ATM services, home-banking, tele-banking, mobile-banking
etc.
22. Name of the bank: Premier Bank Limited

Web address: www.premierbankltd.com
Current activities: premier bank has online and SMS banking services. The bank
already set up Wide Area Network using Radio, Fibre-Optics & other available
communication systems to provide any branch banking to customers.
Future plan: The bank has a plan to install ATMs around the country .A robust
banking software will be implemented for the total banking operation.
23. Name of the bank: Prime Bank Ltd

Web address: www.prime-bank.com
Current activities: The Bank has set up a Wide Area Network (WAN) across the
country to provide online branch banking facility to its clients. GP subscribers can
pay their bill. In addition students from different private universities can pay their
tuition fee from their bank account sending a request. Prime bank customers can
use the ATM of Dutch Bangla Bank and Standard Chartered Bank.
Future Plan: Prime bank Ltd. has a plan to introduce internet and SMS banking
within 2008. Also they plan to establish own ATM booth.
24. Name of the bank: Pubali Bank Limited

Web address: www.pubalibangla.com
Current activities: Establishment of 3 ATM booths.
Future plan: The bank plans to introduce online banking, internet & SMS banking.
The bank has already declared the launch of Debit card.
25. Name of the bank: Rajshahi Krishi Unnayan Bank

Web address: www.rakub.org.bd
Current activities: There is no ICT initiative in Rajshahi Krishi Unnayan Bank
Future plan: In the near future online connectivity would be applicable for central
bank's other return/statements. Besides, the concept of e-Government is also
coming up. Under the circumstances the Bank has revised an elaborate Perspective
ICT (information and communication technology) Plan: 2006-2010. RKUB has a
plan to provide online services to the customers, computerization of 353 branches
and all other controlling offices. The Bank has instantaneously responded to the
central bank's efforts of computerization of scheduled banks statistics (SBS),
borrowers information i.e. credit information bureau (CIB) reports and clearing
house activities.
26. Name of the bank: Rupali Bank Limited

Web address: www.rupali-bank.com
Current activities: Rupali Bank Ltd. offers some special services to customers in
addition to its normal banking operation. Collection of various utility bills is one of
them. Under this service, the Bank benefited customers by collecting their various
utility bills such as telephone bill, water & sewerage bills, electricity bills free of
charge. To modernize banking operation and ensure prompt services, major
branches of the bank have already been computerized. Other important branches
are in the process of computerization.
27. Name of the bank: Shahjalal Bank Limited

Web address: www.shahjalalbank.com.bd
Current activities: Shahjalal Bank Limited offers online and Mobile banking i,e
SMS/Push pull service for customers in 21 branches. In addition, Grameen
Phone subscribers availing the service to pay their bills, advances, security deposit
and other related charges through all branches of Shahjalal Islami Bank Limited. 3
ATMs have already been established. Customers can use different booths and POS.
28. Name of the bank: Social Investment Bank Ltd.

Web address: www.siblbd.com
Current activities: Recently the Bank has introduced online banking amongst 20
branches of SIBL. SIBL has introduced E-Cash ATM Debit Card service since June
2004 through E-Cash ATM booths within Dhaka, Chittagong, Sylhet, Rajshahi and
Cox's Bazar. Customer can pay Grameen, Aktel and City Cell mobile phone bill
through E-Cash ATM Booths.
29. Name of the bank: Sonali Bank

Web address: www.sonalibank.com.bd
Current activities: Sonali Bank started "Sonali Bank Ready Cash Card Service".
Cardholders can easily pay utility bills like - water, telephone and gas etc. Only
computerized branches of Dhaka City will deal with Ready Cash Card. Branches of
other cities and towns will introduce Sonali Bank Ready Cash Card in due course.
Sonali Bank has recently initiated long term and short term credit facilities on
easier terms to set up and run IT based projects.
30. Name of the bank: South East Bank Limited

Web address: www.southeastbank-bangladesh.com
Current activities: South East Bank has online banking in every branch. GP and
Banglalink subscribers have the facilities to pay their bills. South East bank has no
ATM of its own but customers can access ATMs negotiated with the bank. .
Future plan: The Bank has plans to introduce internet and SMS banking within 3
months.
31. Name of the bank: Standard Bank Limited

Web address: www.standardbankbd.com
Current activities: Standard Bank Limited has already introduced online Banking
service in 10 branches.
Future plan: The bank has a plan to introduce internet banking facilities.
32. Name of the Bank: Standard Chartered Bank Ltd.

Web address: www.standardchartered.com.bd
Current Activities: The bank has provided internet banking, online banking and
SMS banking. In addition, the bank provides the auto bill payment facilities for
Grameen phone, Aktel and Citycell subscribers. Customers can pay the utility bill
such as telephone bills, electricity bills, and gas bills using the ATM cards, debit
cards. More than 30 ATMs booths have already been established.
33. Name of the Bank: United Commercial Bank Ltd

Web address: www.ucbl.com
Current activities: UCB Ltd. has already introduced online and SMS banking
services for its customers. The bank has credit card facilities.
34. Name of the Bank: The Trust Bank Ltd

Web address: www.trustbankbd.com
Current activities: The Trust bank has the facilities of tele banking. customer gets
the facilities through tele banking - balance enquiry,exchange rate Enquiry
,request for account statements , enquiry on our products & services ,change of
account address , renewal of fixed deposit, account opening assistance.
Annex: 6 Questionanire
e-Government Survey for Citizens

Access To Information (A2I) Programme, BGD/06/005
Chief Advisers Office, Tejgaon, Dhaka
This survey is designed to scan the status of e-Governance in Bangladesh that

would provide a general idea about the role of your organisation regarding e-
Governance.
Name Age Gender Occupation Address Area Tel

Email
ACCESS
1. Do you have access to a mobile phone/land phone? Yes No

2. Where is the mobile phone located?
3. How far is the mobile phone? .
4. What do you use the mobile phone for? Rank your uses and the number of
times per month you use it for that reason. Rank #times/month
a. _______________________________________________________________
__
b. _______________________________________________________________
__
c. _______________________________________________________________
__
d. _________________________________________________________________
e. _________________________________________________________________
5. How much money do you spend to use the phone every month?
.
6. Are you happy with the pricing of the phone service? Yes No
7. If no, what should be pricing policy?
.
8. Do you have access to a computer? Yes No

9. Where is the computer located?
10. How far is the computer? .
Rank #times/month
11. What do you use the computer for? Rank your uses.
a. _____________________________________________________________
___
b. _____________________________________________________________
____
c. _________________________________________________________________
d. _________________________________________________________________
e. _________________________________________________________________
12. How much money do you spend to use the computer every month?
.
13. Are you happy with the pricing of the computer service? Yes No
14. If no, what should be pricing policy?
.
15. Do you watch TV? Yes No

16. Where do you watch it?
17. How many hours/week do you watch TV? ..
18. What are your favourite channels?

19. What are your favourite TV programs? Please Rank them.
a. _________________________________________________________________
b. _________________________________________________________________
c. _________________________________________________________________
d. _________________________________________________________________
e. _________________________________________________________________
20. What type of programs would you like to see more? Please Rank them.
a. _________________________________________________________________
b. _________________________________________________________________
c. _________________________________________________________________
d. _________________________________________________________________
e. _________________________________________________________________
21. Do you listen to radio? Yes No

22. Where do you listen to it?
23. How many hours/week do you listen to radio? ..
24. What are your favourite stations?

25. What are your favourite radio programs? Please Rank them.
f. _________________________________________________________________
g. _________________________________________________________________
h. _________________________________________________________________
i. _________________________________________________________________
j. _________________________________________________________________
26. What type of programs would you like to listen to more? Please Rank them.
f. _________________________________________________________________
g. _________________________________________________________________
h. _________________________________________________________________
i. _________________________________________________________________
j. _________________________________________________________________
SERVICES
1. What are the important services your take from the Government? Please
Rank them. What is the average time required to get a service?
What is the average cost spent in obtaining the service including Rank Time Cost
transportation cost?
a. ________________________________________________________________
b. ________________________________________________________________
_
c. ________________________________________________________________
_
d. _________________________________________________________________
e. _________________________________________________________________
2. What problem do you face in getting services or information from the Govt.?
a. _________________________________________________________________
b. _________________________________________________________________
c. _________________________________________________________________
d. _________________________________________________________________
e. _________________________________________________________________
3. What would you suggest as possible measures to address these problems?

_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
4. How do you think ICT (computer, internet, mobile phone, TV, radio) could
help
in addressing these problems?
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
5. Prioritize the following channels of information delivery as you feel best to

use for this country.
a. Internet
b. Telephone (mobile, land phone)
c. Print media
d. Electronic media (TV, radio, etc.)
Signature of Citizen
Bangla Version of the questionnaire
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2. gveBj dvbwU wK Avcbvi wbRi? bv nj Gi Aevb Kv_vq? KZ`~i?
.............................................................................................
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5. dvb mevi `vg wbq wK Avcwb m? nuv bv
6. hw` bv nq, g~jbxwZ wK nIqv DwPr? ...................................................
7. Avcwb wK KwDUvi eenvi Kib? nuv bv
8. KwDUviwU wK Avcbvi wbRi? bv nj Gi Aevb Kv_vq? KZ `~i?
...................................................................................................
9. cwZgvm KwDUvi eenvi Avcbvi KZ UvKv eq nq? ...
10. KwDUvii `vg wbq wK Avcwb m? nuv bv
11. hw` bv nq, Gi g~jbxwZ wK nIqv DwPr? ................................................
12. Avcwb wK BUvibU eenvi Kib?
13. BUvibU mshvMwU wK Avcbvi wbRi? bv nj Kv_vq Avcwb BUvibU eenvi Kib? KZ `~i?
...........................................................................
14. BUvibUi `vg wbq wK Avcwb m? nuv bv
15. bv nj Gi `vg wKiKg nZ cvi? .. ...........................
16. BUvibUi eenvI gvm gvU KZ mgqi Rb Avcbvi KZ UvKv LiP nq? . . . . . . . .
17. KwDUvi/BUvibU Avcwb wK KvR eenvi Kib? gvYymvi DjL Kib|
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....................
18. Avcwb wK wUwf `Lb? nuv bv

19. Avcwb Kv_vq wUwf `Lb? ........................................................
20. mvn Avcwb KZNUv wUwf `Lb? ............................................
21. Avcbvi wcq wUwf Pvbj Kvbwj? ......................................................
22. Avcbvi wcq wUwf Abyvb Kvbwj? cQì gvYymvi wjLyb|
Lei ...................
bvUK ....................
UK kv ....................
Mvbi Abyvb ...................
bvP ..................
webv`bg~jK ..................
Kwl wfxK
23. Avcwb wK aibi Abyvb AviI `LZ Pvb? gvYymvi wjLyb|
................ ................
................ ................
................ ................
24. Avcwb wK iwWI kvbb? nuv bv

25. Avcwb Kv_vq iwWI kvbb? ........................................................
26. mvn Avcwb KZNUv iwWI kvbb? ...........................................
27. Avcbvi wcq iwWI kb Kvbwj? ......................................................
28. Avcbvi wcq iwWI Abyvb Kvbwj? cQì gvYymvi wjLyb|
................ ................
................ ................
................ ...............
29. iwWIZ Avcwb AviI wK Abyvb bZ Pvb? cQì gvYymvi wjLyb|
................ ................
................ ................
................ ...............
mevmg~n:
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(b)
e-Government Survey for DC Office
This survey is designed to scan the status of e-Government in Bangladesh that would
provide a general idea about the role of your organisation regarding e-Government.
Full Name :
Designation :
STATUS OF INFRASTUCTURAL SUPPORT

1. How many computers do you have in your office?
2. What are the computers used for? Check all that apply.
a. Administrative work
b. Training
c. Providing information to public
d. Email
e. Internet browsing
f. Other
Explain .. ...
3. Do you have any existing LAN? Yes No
4. Do you have any internet connection? Yes No
5. What kind of connection do you have? Broadband Dial Up
6. Do you have any mail domain? Yes No
7. Domain Name .
8. How many persons have access to internet at your office? ..
9. No. of Officers No. of Staffs ..
10. Do you have any organizational database? Yes No
11. Who is responsible for maintenance and update?
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----
12. What is the database used for?
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----
13. What kind of content is stored in the database?

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
14. Do you have any organizational website? Yes No

15. What is the website address? _______________________________
16. Who is responsible for maintenance and update of the website?
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----
17. What kind of content is stored on the website?
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----
18. How often is the website updated?
e-GOVERNANCE
1. Below are some of the goals of e-Government. How much progress do you think
your organisation has made towards attaining each goal?
A lot of A fair A little Not much No

progress amount progress progress Progress
of
progress
a) Save time for

the Govt.
b) Save the cost

of the Govt.
c) Save time for
the citizen
service
d) Save cost for

the citizen
e) Reduce
hassle for
the citizen
f) Increase

transparency
g) Saves time
h) Increase

accountabilit
2. Overall, would you say that e-Government will have a positive or negative effect
on the way that your organisation operates?
Very positive Somewhat Neutral Somewhat Very negative

positive negative
3. What services do you feel people have the most problems with? Please Rank
them.
f. _________________________________________________________________
g. _________________________________________________________________
h. _________________________________________________________________
i. _________________________________________________________________
j. _________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
5. How do you think ICT (computer, internet, mobile phone, TV, radio) could help
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
6. Prioritize the following channels of information delivery as you feel best to use
for this country.
e. Internet
f. Telephone (mobile, land phone)
g. Print media
h. Electronic media (TV, radio, etc.)
7. Of the factors below, which of them are hampering your organisation's ability to
deliver services through e-governance?
Not at all A little Somewhat Quite a lot Greatly

a) Lack of
infrastructur
e
b) Lack of high
speed

internet
connection
c) Citizen's lack
of access to

internet
resources
d) Citizen's lack
of computer
literacy,

particularly
in target
populations
e) Lack of
adequate
training
f) Insufficient

maintenance
g) Power failure
h) Lack of
Bangla
computing
i) Fear of

change
8. Do you think change in the mind set of employees is important for effective
implementation of e-Government in your office? Yes No
9. If YES, what is your suggestion for the best enhancement of the employees
mind set toward e-Government:
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
10. If you would like to make any further comments, please do so below or attach a
separate sheet. Your comments will be greatly appreciated.
_____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
Signature of Authority
Date:
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Gm Uz Bbdigkb cvMvg, wewRwW/06/005
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c~Y bvg : ........................................................

cèx : .......................................................
AeKvVvgvMZ myweavi Aev
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2. wK wK KvR KwDUvi eenvi Kiv nq? (mve cQì cvk wUK wP w`b)
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weeiY: ...........................................................................................
3. eZgvb Avcbvi wK Kvb LAN mshvM iqQ? nuv bv
4. Avcbvi Awdm wK BUvibU mshvM iqQ? nuv bv
5. Avcbvi mshvMwU wK aiYi? eWe Wvqvj Avc
6. Avcbvi Awdm wK Kvb gBj WvgBb iqQ? nuv bv
7. WvgBbi bvg (hw` _vK) : ............................
8. Avcbvi Awdm gvU KZ Rb BUibU eenvi Ki? .. .. .. .........................

9. BUibU eenviKvix KgKZvi msLv: ............. Kgxi msLv: ......................
10. Avcbvì wK Kvb cvwZvwbK Z_fvvi AvQ? nuv bv
11. Gjvi nvjbvMv` I Dbqb K Ki?

.............................................................................................................................................................
...............................................................
12. Z_ fvvi wK KvR jvM?
.............................................................................................................................................................
..............................................................
13. Z_fvvi wK aiYi Z_ msib Kiv nq?
.............................................................................................................................................................
...............................................................
14. Avcbvi cwZvbi wK Kvb IqemvBU AvQ? nuv bv
15. IqemvBUi wVKvbv (hw` _vK) :......................................
16. IqemvBUi nvjbvMv` I Dbqb Ki K? ........................................................................................

17. Avcbvì IqemvBU wK aiYi Z_ AvQ?
...................................................................................
18. KZw`b ci ci IqemvBUi nvjbvMv` Kiv nq? ..............................................
B-Mfvb
1. wbP B-MfgUi wKQy j Ìqv AvQ| GB jwj ARbi w`K Giga Avcbvi cwZvb KZ`~i GwMqQ ej Avcwb
gb Kib?
mevwaK mvaviY mvgvb Zgb Kvb GKeviB

DbwZ DbwZ DbwZ DbwZ bq DbwZ bq
K. miKvii mgq mvkq

L. miKvii eq msKvPb
M. bvMwiK mevi mgq mvkq
N. bvMwiK mevi eq mscY
O. bvMwiKì Svgjv Kgvbv
P. ^QZv ew
Q. mgq mvkq
R. Revew`wnZv ew
2. mevcwi, Avcbvi cwZvbi cwiPvjbvq B-MfgU wK aibi (BwZevPK ev bwZevPK) fywgKv ivLe ej Avcwb gb
Kib?
Lye fvj gvUvgywU fvj AvMi gZvB Lvivc Lye Lvivc
3. Kvb aiYi mev LvZ Rbmvaib mevcv mgmvi m~Lxb nq? gvYymvi wjLyb
K. .................................................................................................
L. .................................................................................................
M. .................................................................................................
N. .................................................................................................
O. .................................................................................................
4. GB mgmvwj mgvavb Avcbvi civgk wK?

...........................................................................................................................................................................
....................................................................
........................................................................................................................
5. Avcbvi gZ Z_ chyw (KwDUvi, BUvibU, gvevBj dvb, wUwf, iwWI) GB mgmvejx mgvavb wK aiYi mnvqZv
KiQ?
...........................................................................................................................................................................
.....................................................................
........................................................................................................................
6. Avcbvi `wZ wbPi Kvb Z_ gvagwj AMvwaKvi wfwZ GB `ki Rb mevwaK hyMchvMx? (cQì gvbymvi)
K. BUvibU
M. wcU wgwWqv
7. wbPi Kvb welqwj Avcbvi cwZvbK B-Mfbi gvag mev c`vb euvav mw KiQ ej Avcwb gb Kib?
gvUB bv mvgvb gvUvgywU ewk AbK ewk
K. AeKvVvgvMZ NvUwZ
L. DPMwZi BUvibUi Afve
M. RbMYi BUvibU Kg mshyw
N. RbMYi wekl Ki wPwZ
RbmvaviYi KwDUvi vbi Afve
O. Dchy cwkYi Afve
P. Achv iYveY
Q. we`yr NvUwZ
R. evsjv KwDwUsqi Afve
S. cwieZb fxwZ
8. Avcwb wK gb Kib Avcbvi Awdm Kgxì gvbwmK Aevi cwieZbi Rb B-MfgU cqvRb? nuv
bv
9. nuv nj, Kgxì gvbwmKZv B-MfgUi cwZ AviI BwZevPK Kivi Rb Avcbvi civgk wK?
...........................................................................................................................................................................
.....................................................................
........................................................................................................................
10. hw` Avcwb AviI Kvb civgk w`Z Pvb, AbyMn Ki c_K KvMR Zv mshy Kib| Avcbvi civgk mvì weePbv
Kiv ne|
...........................................................................................................................................................................
.....................................................................
........................................................................................................................
KZci ^vi
ZvwiL:
(c) e-Government Survey

for
UNO Office
Full Name :
Designation :

b. Training
d. Email
f. Other
Explain .. ...
21. Do you have any existing LAN? Yes No
24. Do you have any mail domain? Yes No
25. Domain Name .
26. How many persons have access to internet at your office? ..
27. No. of Officers No. of Staffs ..
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
32. Do you have any organizational website? Yes No

33. What is the website address? _______________________________
34. Who is responsible for maintenance and update of the website?
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----
35. What kind of content is stored on the website?
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----
36. How often is the website updated?
e-GOVERNANCE
your organisation will make towards attaining each goal?

progress amount progress progress Progress
of
progress
i) Save time for

the Govt.
j) Save the cost

of the Govt.
k) Save time for
the citizen
service
l) Save cost for

the citizen
m) Reduce
hassle for
the citizen
n) Increase

transparency
o) Saves time
p) Increase
accountabilit
y

positive negative
them.
k. _________________________________________________________________
l. _________________________________________________________________
m. _________________________________________________________________
n. _________________________________________________________________
o. _________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
for this country.
i. Internet
j. Telephone (mobile, land phone)
k. Print media
l. Electronic media (TV, radio, etc.)

j) Lack of
infrastructur
e
k) Lack of high
speed

internet
connection
l) Citizen's lack
of access to

internet
resources
m) Citizen's lack
of computer
literacy,

particularly
in target
populations
n) Lack of
adequate
training
o) Insufficient

maintenance
p) Power failure
q) Lack of
Bangla
computing
r) Fear of

change
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
Date:
B-MfgU Rwic
DcRjv wbevnx KgKZvì Rb
cavb Dc `vi Kvhvjq, ZRMuvI, XvKv|
Z_ c`vb Kie|
c~Y bvg : ........................................................

cèx : .......................................................
20. wK wK KvR KwDUvi eenvi Kiv nq? (mve cQì cvk wUK wP w`b)
K. ckvmwbK KvR
L. cwkY
M. RbMYK Z_ c`vb
N. B-gBj Av`vb c`vb
P. BUvibU eenvi
Q. Abvb KvR
weeiY: ...........................................................................................
21. eZgvb Avcbvi wK Kvb LAN mshvM iqQ? nuv bv
23. Avcbvi mshvMwU wK aiYi? eWe Wvqvj Avc
24. Avcbvi Awdm wK Kvb gBj WvgBb iqQ? nuv bv
25. WvgBbi bvg (hw` _vK) : ............................
26. Avcbvi Awdm gvU KZ Rb BUibU eenvi Ki? .. .. .. .........................

27. BUibU eenviKvix KgKZvi msLv: ............. Kgxi msLv: ......................
28. Avcbvì wK Kvb cvwZvwbK Z_fvvi AvQ? nuv bv

.............................................................................................................................................................
...............................................................
30. Z_ fvvi wK KvR jvM?
.............................................................................................................................................................
..............................................................
31. Z_fvvi wK aiYi Z_ msib Kiv nq?

.............................................................................................................................................................
...............................................................
32. Avcbvi cwZvbi wK Kvb IqemvBU AvQ? nuv bv
33. IqemvBUi wVKvbv (hw` _vK) :......................................
34. IqemvBUi nvjbvMv` I Dbqb Ki K? ........................................................................................

35. Avcbvì IqemvBU wK aiYi Z_ AvQ?
...................................................................................
36. KZw`b ci ci IqemvBUi nvjbvMv` Kiv nq? ..............................................
B-Mfvb
gb Kib?

K. miKvii mgq mvkq

L. miKvii eq msKvPb
P. ^QZv ew
Q. mgq mvkq
R. Revew`wnZv ew
Kib?
13. Kvb aiYi mev LvZ Rbmvaib mevcv mgmvi m~Lxb nq? gvYymvi wjLyb
K. .................................................................................................
L. .................................................................................................
M. .................................................................................................
N. .................................................................................................
O. .................................................................................................
14. GB mgmvwj mgvavb Avcbvi civgk wK?

...........................................................................................................................................................................
....................................................................
........................................................................................................................
15. Avcbvi gZ Z_ chyw (KwDUvi, BUvibU, gvevBj dvb, wUwf, iwWI) GB mgmvejx mgvavb wK aiYi mnvqZv
KiQ?
...........................................................................................................................................................................
.....................................................................
........................................................................................................................
16. Avcbvi gZ wbPi Kvb Z_ I hvMvhvM gvagjv AMvwaKvi wfwZ GB `ki Rb mevwaK hyMchvMx? (cQì
gvbymvi)
K. BUvibU
M. wcU wgwWqv
gvUB bv mvgvb gvUvgywU ewk AbK ewk
K. AeKvVvgvMZ NvUwZ
O. Dchy cwkYi Afve
P. Achv iYveY
Q. we`yr NvUwZ
S. cwieZb fxwZ
18. Avcwb wK gb Kib Avcbvi Awdm Kgxì gvbwmK Aevi cwieZbi Rb B-MfgU cqvRb? nuv
bv
...........................................................................................................................................................................
.....................................................................
........................................................................................................................
20. hw` Avcwb AviI Kvb civgk w`Z Pvb, AbyMn Ki c_K KvMR Zv mshy Kib| Avcbvi civgk mvì weePbv
Kiv ne|
...........................................................................................................................................................................
.....................................................................
........................................................................................................................
KZci ^vi
ZvwiL:..............
(d)
e-Government Survey
for
UP Office
Full Name :
Designation :

b. Training
d. Email
f. Other
Explain .. ...
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
e-GOVERNANCE
your organisation will make towards attaining each goal?

Progress amount progress progress Progress
of
progress
q) Save time for

the Govt.
r) Save the cost

of the Govt.
s) Save time for
the citizen
service
t) Save cost for

the citizen
u) Reduce
hassle for
the citizen
v) Increase

transparency
w) Saves time
x) Increase
accountabilit
y

positive negative
them.
p. _________________________________________________________________
q. _________________________________________________________________
r. _________________________________________________________________
s. _________________________________________________________________
t. _________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
for this country.
m. Internet
n. Telephone (mobile, land phone)
o. Print media
p. Electronic media (TV, radio, etc.)

s) Lack of
infrastructur
e
t) Lack of high
speed

internet
connection
u) Citizen's lack
of access to

internet
resources
v) Citizen's lack
of computer
literacy,

particularly
in target
populations
w) Lack of
adequate
training
x) Insufficient

maintenance
y) Power failure
z) Lack of
Bangla
computing
aa) Fear of

change
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
Date:
B-MfgU Rwic
BDwbqb cwil` Awdmi Rb
Z_ c`vb Kie| Avcbvi Ìqv Z_ Ab eenvi bv Kivmn Gi m~b MvcbxqZv eRvq ivLvi wbqZv Ìqv nQ|
c~Y bvg : ........................................................

cèx : ........................................................
BDwc, DcRjv Ges Rjvi bvg: ........................................................

38. hw` _vK, wK wK KvR KwDUvi eenvi Kiv nq? (mve cQì cvk wUK wP w`b)
K. ckvmwbK KvR
L. cwkY
M. RbMYK Z_ c`vb
N. B-gBj Av`vb c`vb
P. BUvibU eenvi
Q. Abvb KvR
weeiY: ...........................................................................................

40. hw` _vK, Avcbvi mshvMwU wK aiYi? eWe Wvqvj Avc
41. wK aibi Z_ mvavibZ Avcbviv msMn Ki _vKb?
42. Avcbvì Awdwmqvj Z_ wKfve msMn Kiv nq?
44. Z_ eevcbv, eenvi Ges msib Kvb Amyweav nq wK?
45. Gme KvR KwDUvi eenvi Kiv nj wK myweav ne Avi SvgjvUvB ev Kv_vq?
B-Mfvb
gb Kib?
K. miKvii mgq mvkq

L. miKvii eq msKvPb

P. ^QZv ew
Q. mgq mvkq
R. Revew`wnZv ew
Kib?
23. BDwc _K Kvb aiYi mev LvZ Rbmvaib mevcv mgmvi m~Lxb nq? gvYymvi wjLyb|
K. .....................
L.....................
M.....................
N.....................
O.....................
24. GB mgmvwj mgvavb Avcbvi civgk wK
25. Avcbvi gZ Z_ chyw (KwDUvi, BUvibU, gvevBj dvb, wUwf, iwWI) GB mgmvejx mgvavb wK aiYi
mnvqZv KiQ?
26. Avcbvi gZ wbPi Kvb Z_ I hvMvhvM gvagjv AMvwaKvi wfwZ GB `ki Rb mevwaK hyMchvMx?
(cQì gvbymvi)
K. BUvibU
M. wcU wgwWqv
gvUB bv mvgvb gvUvgywU ewk AbK

ewk
K. AeKvVvgvMZ NvUwZ
O. Dchy cwkYi Afve
P. Achv iYveY
Q. we`yr NvUwZ
S. cwieZb fxwZ
28. Avcwb wK gb Kib Avcbvi Awdm Kgxì gvbwmK Aevi cwieZbi Rb B-MfgU cqvRb?
nuv bv
(hw` Avcwb AviI Kvb civgk w`Z Pvb, AbyMn Ki c_K KvMR Zv mshy Kib| Avcbvi civgk mvì weePbv
Kiv ne|)
mgxvKvixi ^vi
ZvwiL:..............
ge:
(e) e-Government Survey

for
NGO / Business
Access To Information (A2I) Programme, BGD/06/005
This survey is designed to scan the status of e-Governance in Bangladesh that

would provide a general idea about the role of your organisation regarding e-
Governance.
Name Designation Organization Name Address Tel

Fax
Email
website
GENERAL INFORMATION
27. What is the objective of your organization?
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----
28. Who are your target audiences?
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----
STATUS OF INFRASTRUCTURAL SUPPORT

b. Training
d. Email
f. Other
Explain .. ...
48. What kind of connection do you have? Broadband Dial
Up
SERVICE DELIVERY
6. What are the important services your organisation provides to citizens?

Please rank them. Which of these services is dependant on service or
information from the Government?
Rank Dependent?
a. _______________________________________________________________
__
b. _______________________________________________________________
__
c. _______________________________________________________________
__
d. _________________________________________________________________
e. _________________________________________________________________
7. What are the important services your organisation often takes from the
Government?
Please Rank them. What is the average time required to get a Rank Time Cost
service? What is the
average cost spent in obtaining the service including
transportation cost?
f. ________________________________________________________________
g. ________________________________________________________________
_
h. ________________________________________________________________
_
i. _________________________________________________________________
j. _________________________________________________________________
8. What service or support from the Govt. do you most need for your
operational efficiency?
Please Rank them.
u. _________________________________________________________________
v. _________________________________________________________________
w. _________________________________________________________________
x. _________________________________________________________________
y. _________________________________________________________________
9. What problem do you face in getting services or information from the

Govt.?
f. _________________________________________________________________
g. _________________________________________________________________
h. _________________________________________________________________
i. _________________________________________________________________
j. _________________________________________________________________
10. What would you suggest as possible measures to address these

problems?
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
11. How do you think ICT (computer, internet, mobile phone, TV, radio) could
help
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
12. Prioritize the following channels of information delivery as you feel best to
use for this country.
q. Internet
r. Telephone (mobile, land phone)
s. Print media
t. Electronic media (TV, radio, etc.)
Date:
(f) A Baseline Survey on Free and Open Source

Software (FOSS) in Bangladesh: Knowledge, Awareness, and Usage
Questionnaires for Individuals
e-Gove Cell of Chief Advisors Office would like to invite you to participate in a
quick survey on Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) which is currently
undertaking among the citizen of Bangladesh to identify and explore the
opportunity of FOSS.
We would appreciate your kind effort.
Section 1: Background Information
1. Name ____________________________ 2. Occupation ____________________
3. Institution/Organization ____________________________________________
4. Email _____________________________ 5. Mobile _______________________
6.Gender a Male b Female
7. Age _______________.
Section 2: Knowledge and Awareness of FOSS
8. Have you previously heard of free and open source software (FOSS)?
1 Yes 2 No
9. Would you like to know more about FOSS?

1 Yes, 2 No
10. If yes, how did you come to know about FOSS? (Tick all that apply)
a Newspaper b Internet c Magazine/journals

d Television e Conference/workshop f Work colleagues
g Radio h Friends i Academics
j FOSS community k During studies l Training
m Other, please specify____________
11. What is your understanding of FOSS? (Tick all that apply)
a. It is software that is distributed freely to anyone interested.

True False Not sure
b. It allows users access to the programs source code.

True False Not sure
c. It allows users to modify the source code.

True False Not sure
d. It allows users to redistribute the modified software to others.

True False Not sure
e. Its license should not include unreasonable restrictions.

True False Not sure
12. What is your level of awareness of FOSS?

1 Slightly aware of open source concepts.
2 Have adequate information about FOSS, but need further information
before using.
3 Have investigated thoroughly on FOSS and have decided to use.
4 Highly involved in FOSS arena.
13. Do you use Open Source Software, e.g. Linux, Apache, MySQL
1 Currently using
2 Planning to use within the next 3-5 years
3 Not using now, thinking of using in future but not decided yet
4 Not using now and have no plans to use in future
5 Used before but not using now. Why?
_________________________________________________________
Section 3: Usage of FOSS (for FOSS User)
14. Have you used following FOSS software packages:
a. Linux
Yes No
b. Apache
Yes No
c. OpenOffice.org
Yes No
d. Mozilla Firefox
Yes No
e. MySQL/PostgreSQL
Yes No
15. Who provides support for FOSS products that you use? (Tick all that
apply)
1 In house staff 2 Software company/paid
supplier
3 FOSS newsgroup 4 Websites
5 Friends/relatives 6 Self
7 other, please specify ..
16. Have you undergone any training on FOSS products?

1 Yes. 2 No
17. How much important the followings are for open source software:
1=very important 2=important 3=neither nor 4=less important 5=not

important 6=dont know 7= NR
Criteria 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
1. Open and/or modifiable source code

2. Low or no license fees
3. Better price to performance ratio
4. Higher performance
5. Higher stability
6. Better protection against unauthorized
access
7. Better functionality
8. Higher number of potential
applications
9. Lower hardware costs for FOSS.
10. Technical People on FOSS
11. Better response with bug fixes

and/or support
12. Less reliance on a particular vendor
13. Better inter-operability with other
products due to open standards
Section 4: Perception of FOSS
18. How important is FOSS for you?

1 very high 2 high 3 medium
4 low
5 very low 8 dont know
19. What are your most important sources of information on FOSS? (Tick
all that apply)
a Newspaper b Internet c
Magazine/journals d Television e Conference/workshop
f Work colleagues
g Radio h Friends i
Academics j FOSS community k During studies
l Training m Other, please specify____________
20. Have you benefited by using FOSS?

Yes No
If Yes, then how ---

a. reduce costing
b. Better security
c. easy to develop/ customize
d. Other, Please Specify ____________
21. Have you faced any problem while using FOSS?

Yes No
If Yes, what kind of problem you have faced?

a. Hardware related
b. Software related
c. Interoperability
d. Security
e. Other, Please Specify ____________
22. How do you overcome FOSS related problem?

a. Taking help from Technician
b. Internet Community
c. Friends
d. Colleagues
e. Other, Please Specify ____________
Section 5: Participation and Contribution to FOSS community
23. If used or using FOSS, what is your role in the open source project?
1 Maintainer
2 Both developers & user
3 Developer only
4 User only
5. Other, please specify____________
24. How are you involved in your contribution to open source?

1 Volunteer
1.1 Self employed
1.2 Employee (non profit org)
1.3 Employee commercial company
1.4 Educational institute/research
25. Are you involved in or aware of any FOSS groups?

1 Yes, 2 No
If yes, please specify the mane of the group .
25. Further Comments

_______________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
Thank you for your cooperation.

(g) A Baseline Survey on Free and Open Source

Software (FOSS) in Bangladesh: Knowledge, Awareness, and Usage.
Questionnaire for Software Industry
We invite your organization to participate in a new research project that we are undertaking.
Experience reported from numerous projects and international institutions suggests that free and
open source software has particular features that are inductive to not only cost reduction, but also
in supporting sustainable development of software and capacity building. It is assumed that the
benefits of FOSS can be brought to bear in Bangladesh.However; very little information is available
regarding its use, although there is evidence of its use by a few institutions.This research revolve
around a central question: "How can we benefit from FOSS?" or paraphrased What do we need to
do to derive benefit from FOSS?" In order to attempt to get information on this question, this
research seeks answers on the extent of FOSS usage, knowledge and awareness, perception,
contribution and potential of use in future.
Section 1: Background Information

1. Name _______________________________________
2. Designation _______________________________________
3. Organization _______________________________________
4. Email _____________________________
5. Phone _____________________________ 6. Fax ___________
7. Website address______________________________________________
8. Gender a Male b Female
9. Age a 20-24 b 25-29 c 30-34 d 35-39 e 40-44 f 45-49

g 50-54 h 55-59 i 60-64 j 65-69 k 70+
Section 2: Organizational Profile
10. What is the category that best fits your organization? Please specify its
main services (see additional notes for this)?
1 Government and Public Sector __________________________
2 Regional Organization _________________________________
3 Private Sector ________________________________________
4 Civil Society_________________________________________
5 Other, please specify__________________________________
11. How would you best categorize your organization?
a. Number of employees
1. not more than 5 persons
2. 6-20 persons
3. 21-100
4. more than 100 persons
b. Turnover or total assets

1. not more than $30,000

2. between $30,001 - $100,000
3. between $100,001 $500,000
4. between $500,001 - $2 million
5. more than $2 million
c. Foreign exchange earnings

1. not more than $30,000
2. between $30,001 - $500,000
3. between $500,001 - $2 million
4. more than $2 million
5. Not applicable
Section 3: Knowledge and Awareness of FOSS
12. Have you previously heard of free and open source software (FOSS)?
1 Yes 2 No 99 NR
13. Would you like to know more about FOSS?

1 Yes, why
___________________________________________________________________________
2 No, why
_____________________________________________________________________
99 NR
14. If yes, how did you come to know about FOSS? (Tick all that apply)
a Newspaper b Internet c Magazine/journals d

Television e Conference/workshopf Work
colleagues g Radio h Friends i
Academics j FOSS community k
During studies l Training m
Other, please specify____________
n NR
15. What is your understanding of FOSS? (Tick all that apply)
a. It is software that is distributed freely to anyone interested.

True False Not sure NR
b. It allows users access to the programs source code.

c. It allows users to modify the source code.

d. It allows users to redistribute the modified software.

e. Its license should not include unreasonable restrictions.

16. Now we would like to ask about General Public License (GPL) and
Berkeley Systems Distribution (BSD)
License. Do you know what GPL and BSD Licenses stand for?
1 Yes 2 No 99 NR
a. The GNU Public License (GPL) allows you to make any changes to the FOSS
software as you may wish.
b. The GPL requires that all changes to the software are publicly distributed.
c. The BSD License allows you to make any changes to the software as you may
wish.
d. The BSD License requires that all changes to the software are publicly
available.
True False Not sure
Section 4: Usage of FOSS
17. Please tick all kinds of services that your company provides. (Tick all
that apply)
1 Computer maintenance and engineering

2 Computer supplies and accessories
3 Off the shelf software packages
4 Network design, planning and installations
5 Programming and system analysis
6 Hardware repair
7 Multi-processing UNIX servers
8 Telecommunications systems
9 Computer training
10 Software upgrades and repairs
11 Routers/ADSL/DSL support
12 Cable installation
13 Support for EFTPOS machines
14 Web design, development & hosting
15 Helpdesk for IT support
16 Software & licensing training
17 Design & implementation of customized software applications
18 Other, please specify ___________________________________________________
99 NR
18. Is your organization using Proprietary Software, e.g. Windows XP, etc.
1 Currently using
___________________________________________________
5 Not using now and have no plans to use in future
90 Dont know 99 NR
19. Is your organization using Open Source Software, e.g. Linux, Apache,
mySQL
1 Currently using
___________________________________________________
5 Not using now and have no plans to use in future 90 Dont know 99 NR
20. While using FOSS did your organization
a. Modify the software to our needs

Yes No
b. Redistribute the software freely after modifications

Yes No
c. Seek assistance in installation and maintenance

Yes No
d. Encounter major difficulties in using
Yes No
e. Reported bugs to online community

Yes No
21. What proportion of software used in your organization is available

under
1 open source license, No. of packages_____________ and No. of copies

__________________
2 proprietary license, No. of packages_____________ and No. of copies
__________________
90 Dont know 99 NR
22. In your organization, please describe the process of how it was decided
to use particular software?
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________
23. The following selection of Proprietary and FOSS software packages.

Please indicate whether you are aware of each package or have used each
one and the reasons for doing so. (Tick all that apply)
a. Linux
Yes
No
Using Reasons
b. Apache
Yes
No
Using Reasons
c. OpenOffice.org
Yes
No
Using Reasons
d. Mozilla/Konqueror
Yes
No
Using Reasons
e. MS Office
Yes
No
Using Reasons
f. Windows XP
Yes
No
Using Reasons
g. Macintosh
Yes
No
Using Reasons
h. MySQL/PostgreSQL
Yes
No
Using Reasons
i. JAVA
Yes
No
Using Reasons
j. Oracle
Yes
No
Using Reasons
24. Please select where FOSS is used specifically. (Tick all that apply)
1 Infrastructure (network, server, etc) 2 Administration 3

Finance 4 Teaching 5 Student Labs 6
Research 7 Production 8 Medical 9
Manufacturing 10 PCs for client applications 11
Database 12 Creating websites 13 Banner system 14
Scheduling 15 Project management 16 Inventory management
17 Resource planning 18 Training 19 Audio/Video production
20 Software development 21 Other, please specify_____
90 Dont know 99 NR
25. Now I will present to you several criteria that can influence a decision in
favour of or against FOSS. Please tell me, how important each of the following
criteria was in your decision to favour of or against Open Source.

1. Open and/or modifiable source code

2. Low or no license fees
3. Better price to performance ratio
4. Higher performance
5. Higher stability
6. Better protection against unauthorized access
7. Better functionality
8. Higher number of potential applications
9. Open Source applications were already integrated into the Open Source
Server.
10. Lower hardware costs for FOSS.
11. Cost savings regarding installation, integration and customization to
company needs.
12. Cost savings regarding daily operations, administration and support
13. Cost savings regarding training and introduction of users
14. FOSS recommended as a better alternative by IT personnel, media, Internet,
etc.
15. Existing solutions, know-how and/or experiences in your company
regarding Open Source server operating systems
16. Better response with bug fixes and/or support
17. Less reliance on a particular vendor
18. Better inter-operability with other products due to open standards
19. FOSS used for internal purposes and Proprietary for external
communications.
20. Other, please specify
25. Does your organization train staff and users on FOSS products?
1 Yes. How?
_________________________________________________________________________
2 No
Section 3: Perception of FOSS
26. How important is the FOSS for your company?
1 very high 2 high 3 medium 4 low

5 very low 90 dont know 99 NR
27. Now I have some questions on the general use of FOSS in your
company. They are not related to any specific IT area. In the following, I
will present a number of statements to you. Please, tell me for each
statement how much it applies to your company. For your answer, you can
use the following range:
1=totally agree 2=somewhat agree 3=neither nor 4=somewhat disagree

5=totally disagree 90=dont know 99=no answer
1. FOSS is used because people want to be more independent from the pricing
and licensing policies of the big software companies.
2. Using FOSS supports the Open Source community.

3. Open source development is the most efficient way to develop software.
4. FOSS is superior in quality to proprietary software.
5. Proprietary software is generally better supported than FOSS.
6. Proprietary software has its uses.
7. Some proprietary software is high quality.
8. It is difficult to find FOSS for specific requirements.
9. FOSS maintenance is more expensive than proprietary software.
10. Hardly any FOSS competent people around us to support its use.
11. FOSS use is good for internally use.
12. FOSS use externally is not good as not compatible with many other
proprietary software users.
13. FOSS users need to have more than basic PC applications knowledge to
sustain its use.
28. What are your most important sources of information on FOSS? (Tick
all that apply)
a Newspaper b Internet c Magazine/journals d
Television e Conference/workshop f Work colleagues g
Radio h Friends i Academics j
FOSS community k During studies l Training m
Other, please specify____________
n NR
29. What have been your greatest concerns about FOSS?

1. Inter-operability
2. Identification of relevant software
3. Managing in-house projects
4. Maintenance & support for troubleshoot
5. Compatibility with other users, particularly external users
6. Modification of source code
7. Skilled personnel in FOSS
Section 4: Participation and Contribution to FOSS community (for non-

users skip this section)
30. What would best describe your level of involvement in open source
software?
1 Use open source software, but do not participate in development to any

extent.
2 Indirect contribution to open source software development, e.g. filing bug
reports, project administration on a moderate scale.
3 Contributing directly to the development work of open source software
projects (including documentation) on a significant scale.
90 dont know 99 no answer
31. If answered 2, 3 to the above questions, please state it

1 Yes, please state these collaborations
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
2 No 90 dont know 99 NR
32. What have been your greatest concerns for FOSS development?
_______________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
Section 5: Potential Usage of FOSS

33. Who is responsible for making software purchasing decisions? (Tick all
that apply)
1 The CEO 2 IT Manager 3 Human Resources Manager

4 Personally as its for personal use 5 Other 90 dont know
34. How much flexibility do individuals have in using FOSS within the
organization?________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________
35. Do you look to any outside bodies for guidance on what software to
purchase?
1 Yes, who is responsible for doing this research?
_______________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
2 No, please explain how the decision is made?
_____________________________________________
90 dont know 99 NR
36. Any additional comments?

_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
__________
Thanks
(h) Survey on Computer Training Centre
For Training Centers
1. Name :
2. Designation :
3. Organization :
4. Email :
5. Phone/ Mobile Number :
6. Please name the courses you offer.
7. How do you maintain your quality of service?
8. Do you think people are benefited after completing these courses? If yes,
please explain.
9. Which courses should be given preference for job market? How do you
cope with the job market?
10. What is the overall standard of training centers in Bangladesh? How can
we improve the standard? How can government help you in this regard?
Your opinion.
11. How do your trainees perform in the job market? In which categories of
jobs they usually get into?
12. What is your opinion about vendor certification?
Thanking you for your cooperation.

(h)Survey on Computer Training Centre
For Trainee
1. Name :
2. Designation :
3. Organization :
4. Email :
5. Phone/ Mobile Number :
6. Why have you enrolled for this training? What is your expectation after
completing this training?
7. What are the courses that should be given preference to improve skills for
job/ better job?
8. Do you think that people are doing well after completing these kinds of
training?
9. Do you have any plan for further training?
10. What is your opinion about the current standard of training centers?
11. What is you opinion about Vendor certification?

Annex -7
List of Tables
Table: 1.1 Bangladesh Data Sheet
Table: 1.2 Bangladesh at a glance
Table: 1.3 Key economic ratios and long term trends
Table: 1.4 Structure of the Economy
Table: 1.5 Rank Status
Table: 4.1 Different Data Service Provider by BTTB
Table 4.2: Monthly Cost for 2Mbps connection in different countries (Core toISP)
Table 4.3: Monthly cost for 256 kbs data link in different countries (ISP to End
user)
Table 5.1: Alternatives of Proprietary Software on FOSS)
Annex -8
Lists of Figures
Fig: 2. 1usages of Mobile Phone (on the basis of Expenditure)
Fig: 2.2 Expected Call rate of Mobile Phone
Fig: 2.3Use of Computer in Different Purposes
Fig: 2.4Status of Different TV Programs
Fig: 4.1 Ratio of share in PSTN Market
Fig: 4.2Total Mobile Phone Subscriber
Fig: 4.3Tele density (in Mobile Phone)
Fig 4.4: SEA-ME-WE-4 Sub Marine Cable
Fig: 4.5 Status of installed capacity comparison in respect to fuel
Fig: 4.6 Total Budget in ICT sector
Fig: 4.7 proposed budget in Infrastructure build up
Fig: 4.8 Status of Bangla interface
Fig: 4.9 Number of updated information
Fig: 4.10 Number of Bangla interface
Fig: 4.11 Number of Form Download
Fig: 4.12 Status of online banking
Fig: 4.13 Usages of ATM card
Fig: 4.14 Domestic ICT market in Bangladesh
Fig: 4.15 Software & ITES Export and import
Fig: 4.16 Technical Job Distribution surveyed software companies
Fig 5.1: Importance of open source in software industry
Fig 5.2: Importance of different features to popularize open source software
Fig 5.3: Usages of different open source software
Annex 9: Research Team of Horizon Scan report

Supervisors
Mr. A.A Munir Hasan, PIS, A2I Programme, Chief Advisers Office
Mr. Anir Chowdhury, Policy Adviser, A2I Programme, Chief Advisers
Office
Mr. Fokruzzaman, Consultant, A2I Programme, Chief Advisers Office
Mr. KAM Morshed, Assistant Country Director, MDGs & e-Development
Cluster, UNDP
Principal Investigator
Ms. Mirza Afreen Fatima Lusha, Jr. Consultant, A2I Programme, Chief
Advisers Office
Assistant Investigator
Ms. Suparna Roy, Programme Assistant, A2I Programme, Chief Advisers

Office
Mr. Md. Jabed Morshed Chowdhury, Research Assistant, A2I
Programme, Chief Advisers Office
Reviewers
All Technical Committee Members, A2I Programme, Chief Advisers Office
Mr. Md Mostafizur Rahman, Director -2, A2I Programme, Chief Advisers
Office
Mr. Mohammad Rafiqul Islam Khan, Director -15, A2I Programme, Chief
Advisers Office
Mr. Shakib Ahmed, System Analyst, ASIST, Planning Commission
Ms. Rubaiya Ahmed, Jr. Consultant, A2I Programme, Chief Advisers
Office
Mr. Rashid Naim,Programme Assistant, A2I programme, Chief Advisers
Office
Mr. Kazi Md. Khalid Hossain, Research Assistant, A2I Programme, Chief
Advisers Office
Field Researchers
Supervisor
Mr. Pallab Mohaimen, In-charge IT page, The Daily Prothom Alo
Surveyors
33 field surveyors of Horizon Scan Team

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An assessment study of e-Governance in Bangladesh

Copyright Access to Information (A2I) programme

Summary of Access to Information (A2I)

e-Governance is a strategic issue that relates to redesigning the national

The outcomes of such rather scattered initiatives have resulted in the

As a follow up action of this recommendation an e-Governance Cell was

The Programme A2I was being designed as a follow up of the third

Identify, prioritize and mainstream ICT into the national

Identify emerging opportunities for ICT for development initiatives

The journey for establishing e-governance system in Bangladesh faced

With the proliferation of mobile, while the communication infrastructure

The scope of Access to Information (A2I) programme is the provision of

4.2.2.2 Bangladesh IT & ITES Sector 86

The Horizon Scan Report, an outcome of comprehensive effort of Horizon Scan

At last, we would like to acknowledge the amiable and instrumental

(a) Technical Committee Members of A2I Programme

*** Special Invitee of Technical Committee

(b) e-Gov cell members

(c) ICT Focal Points

Mr. Md. Abdur Rashid, Joint Secretary, Presidents Offfice.

Mr. Humayun Kabir Khan, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Liberation War

(d) IT experts in Govt. ministries/divisions/agencies

Mr. S. M. Shahid, Programmer, Compulsory Primary Education,

Mr. Md. Shakhawat Hossain Bhuiyan, Assistant Programmer, ERD,

(e) Experts from BTTB

(f) University Grants Commision

(g) Experts in Banking Sector

(g) Internet service Providers Association of Bangladesh and Cable TV

Mr. Nizam Uddin Masud, Secretary General, Cable Operator Association

(i) Policy Experts

(j) Technical Editor

In todays world Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has

Adaptation of e-governance is a key for smart governance and making

To achieve these desired objectives a critical assessment of ICT status at

Engr. Mahabub Sarwar

A2I Access to Information

NRI Networked Readiness Index

SEA- ME- South East Asia Middle East Western Europe 4

Information and communication technologies (ICTs) have brought major

In the past decade, the Government of Bangladesh had taken various

Although quite behind in the global race, Bangladesh is slowly improving in

Cellular Phone has revolutionized the telecommunication industry in

Bangladesh Post Office introduced Electronic Mail Service (e-Post) through

Energy is the prerequisite for a strong ICT infrastructure of any country. At

Bangladesh was connected to the information super highway through sub

The Government with its organs is gradually moving towards the

This report also takes a look at the ICT HR readiness of Bangladesh.

Currently, 23 organizations are involved in producing ICT based

e-Governance, which essentially aims at enhancing good governance and

promoting the development of requisite human resources and ICT infrastructure

1.1 Country Profile of Bangladesh

Bangladesh, a sovereign state in the Table: 1.1 Bangladesh Data Sheet 1

South Asian belt encompasses a mass Administrative Unit As per 2006

Looking at the history on formation of Bangladesh, it is recorded that

In regard to its geographical location, the country is environmentally

1 Bangladesh data sheet, 11 July, 2007 (http://www.bbs.gov.bd/index.php)

Over 98% of the people communicate in Bangla here in Bangladesh;

Elaborating on the achievements & benchmarks acquired in the

Furthermore, Bangladesh is one of the largest participants in United

Particulars 1986 1996 2006

Gross national savings/GDP 14.6 19.8 33.7

2 MDG in Bangladesh, BBS report

Table: 1.4 Structure of the Economy 4