At least 10 per cent people in the country are victims of autism, said Social Welfare Minister Rashed Khan Menon on Sunday.
The minister came up with the remarks at a press on the eve of 11th World Autism Awareness Day.
"According to recent World Health Organisation (WHO) report, 15 per cent people of the world population are victim of autism at some extend. The scenario was quit same in Bangladesh," he said.
"Following the WHO assessment, a large portion of our population has autism and country's inclusive development is not possible keeping them outside", added Menon.
"The autistic people are included in our society and disabilities are not curse rather a part of natural biodiversity. Every people with disabilities have constitutional right of living a normal life in the society," said the minister, reports UNB.
According to recent database, a total of 15,58,543 people of the country are autistic where 6,91,483 are physically disabled and 52846 are mentally disabled, Menon said.
This year's World Autism Awareness Day's theme is "Empowering Women and Girls with Autism".
A special programme will be held marking the day at Bangabandhu International Conference Centre at 10 am where Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will be the chief guest.
Following the programme, the prime minister will inaugurate 'blue light' campaign in recognition of people living with autism. Blue lights will be illuminated in all government establishments for three days.
Nine persons and organisations under three categories will be honoured with prizes in the Monday's programme, the minister said.
