Dhaka, May 28 -- The government is planning to expand social safety net programs and increase the amount of allowances in the upcoming budget. There are considerations to raise about 10 types of allowances, including old-age, widow, abused wives, and disabled persons' allowances. For instance, old-age, widow, and abused wives' allowances may be increased by BDT 150-200.

Currently, 6 million elderly citizens receive a monthly allowance of BDT 600, and 2.775 million widows and abused women receive BDT 550. Some 3.234 million disabled people receive BDT 850 monthly. The government also provides allowances to improve the quality of life of hijra (third gender), bedes (river gypsies), tea workers, and other marginalized groups - these may als...