Planning Minister MA Mannan on Tuesday said the weaker side of the Development Project Proposals (DPPs) is the absence of proper feasibility study.
"This is not only my observation but also many of the experts. Even the prime minister has mentioned the issues several times," he said while speaking at a workshop on "Finalisation of draft format of the feasibility study for the development projects."
The Planning Commission (PC) organised the workshop in Dhaka with Planning Minister MA Mannan in the chair.
Earlier, there was no specific format for the feasibility study to be added to the DPPs. The initiative will guide the ministries and agencies to prepare proper feasibility study for the development projects.
Mr Mannan also said the feasibility study was a must for the development works which involve a large sum of pubic-taxed money.
"In the DPP, there is a column for the feasibility study. The agencies usually write there that they have done the study. But it is not examined properly whether the study has really been completed or not."
"The technical side would be examined by the engineers. But as a government representative, this is our duty to verify the financial matters of the development projects through the feasibility study," he added.
Mannan said: "Everywhere I have to face the question about corruption. In the TV talk show, I have to face the questions about corruption. It may need not a research or discussion on corruption. It exists and occurs."
"Nevertheless, we have some steps against corruption. We will take actions against any corruption and misdeeds."
He added: "But now-a-days corruption is a big issue of discussion. So, I mentioned the issue over you (civil servants). I think it is hype. As it (corruption) is a big discussion point among the people, it must have a base."
"When anybody asked about corruption in the project implementations, I replied that I (planning ministry) do not execute the projects. Then they replied that you approve the DPP."
"They also told me that your people prepare the DPPs. After retirement, civil servants frame the DPPs on behalf of many public agencies as the consultants," he said, adding that since the people have expertise, they can prepare the DPPs for any agencies.
"There is corruption. But I think it's not a team work. It is done individually. From my long service experience in the government, I can say that individual-level corruption exists."
He said: "Our government has taken a stand against corruption. We are aware of it. And we and my ministry will never allow corruption."
Planning Secretary, members and high officials concerned were present at the workshop.
