A recent study by the Institute for Planning and Development (IPD) reveals a significant disparity in the allocation of the Annual Development Programme (ADP) across districts in Bangladesh. Only seven districts receive 50% of the ADP, while the 25 lowest recipient districts receive a mere 13% of the allocation. Dhaka district leads with a 21% share, followed by Cox’s Bazar with 9% due to ongoing projects, including power initiatives. Chattogram and Narayanganj secure third and fourth places with 6.85% and 3.85% respectively.
The study emphasizes the need to address the high regional disparity in development budget allocation. Meherpur and Panchagarh rank lowest with only 0.36% and 0.39% respectively, while other districts like Chuadanga, Thakurgaon, Jhalakathi, Jhenaidah, Barguna, and Joypurhat also receive minimal allocations. To achieve balanced development, the study emphasizes special allocation for backward regions and sustainable economic initiatives. It highlights the significantly lower allocations for north-western, northeastern, and central south regions compared to central and southeastern regions.