Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Sunday inaugurated the four-day annual conference of deputy commissioners (DCs), issuing directives on his government's policies and priorities, and guidance on making the administration more dynamic and people-friendly.

He opened the DC Conference-2026 at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium for the first time since assuming office as Prime Minister after winning the 13th parliamentary election.

The conference will conclude on May 6 after a series of sessions, including working sessions and discussions on various proposals submitted by the DCs.

Deputy commissioners from across the country are taking part in the conference, where administrative activities, development plans and ways to improve public services are expected to be discussed.

Addressing the opening session, the Prime Minister outlined the government's policies and priorities and gave necessary directives to the field administration.

Earlier, Tarique Rahman walked from his office at the Secretariat to the Osmani Memorial Auditorium to attend the opening ceremony, said his Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Rumon.

People standing on both sides of the road greeted him, and he responded by waving at them.

A total of 34 sessions, including 30 working sessions, will be held during the conference, with 56 ministries and divisions taking part.

The deputy commissioners have submitted 1,729 proposals on various governance-related issues. Of those, 498 have been included in the working papers. The highest number – 44 proposals – came from the Health Services Division.

Key discussion topics this year include land management, law and order, local government, disaster management, employment, social security, e-governance, education, health services, environmental protection, infrastructure development and monitoring of development activities.

The DCs will also pay courtesy calls on the President, the Speaker and the Chief Justice. Separate working sessions will be held with the Chief Election Commissioner and the Anti-Corruption Commission.

The DC Conference is held annually to facilitate direct interaction between government policymakers and the district administrators, and to provide necessary policy guidance.