The government has directed officials to ensure digital attendance at government offices to strengthen employee accountability and curb irregularities and corruption.

The directive was discussed at the first meeting of secretaries under the current BNP-led government, held at the Secretariat on Tuesday (September 15), around seven months after the new government took office. Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Gani chaired the meeting, according to officials familiar with the discussions.

The meeting also focused on the ongoing power and energy crisis and the potential impact of rising global fuel prices amid the Iran conflict. Secretaries stressed increasing the use of renewable energy alongside imported fuels to reduce pressure on the economy and power sector.

Particular emphasis was placed on expanding solar power in the country. The meeting discussed installing solar panels at government buildings and facilities, encouraging the private sector to use solar power, and increasing the share of solar energy in electricity generation.

Other issues included filling vacant government posts, speeding up government activities and ensuring transparency and accountability in the implementation of priority programmes such as the Family Card and canal re-excavation initiatives.

The secretaries were also asked to ensure transparency in government spending and beneficiary selection while taking measures to prevent irregularities and corruption.

I can also make it shorter and tighter for a newspaper/business news website if you prefer.