The Parliamentary Standing Committee on the Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Ministry on Wednesday stressed expanding affordable and reliable internet services, strengthening cyber security and improving digital services for citizens.

The recommendations came at the committee’s first meeting at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, chaired by BNP MP Kalim Uddin Ahmed of Sunamganj-5.

The meeting discussed the manpower and functions of departments and agencies under the ministry, their major achievements and future plans.

Officials briefed the committee on policy formulation and implementation in the posts and telecommunications sectors, spectrum management, the telecommunications industry, parcel services and ongoing Wi-Fi services.

The committee was also informed about plans to provide Wi-Fi services at airports, improve the quality of land services, reduce internet costs, make effective use of unused assets of Bangladesh Telecommunications Company Limited (BTCL) and expand parcel services through the postal department.

It emphasised accelerating initiatives to maintain the addresses of all citizens in the postal department’s database, expand broadband infrastructure and ensure reliable and affordable services.

The committee also stressed promoting an AI-enabled Bangladesh, facilitating digital payments, resolving customer complaints through call centres and strengthening cyber security.

It called for faster implementation of projects aimed at ensuring safe internet use for children, adolescents and secondary-level students.

The committee recommended measures to expand the use of information and communication technology to develop the younger generation and create employment, while supporting the establishment of a knowledge-based society.

It also recommended steps to improve the quality of services provided by state-owned mobile operator Teletalk.

Committee members and senior ministry officials took part in an introductory session at the beginning of the meeting.