Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus today conferred the Independence Award 2025 on seven individuals, recognising their glorious and outstanding contributions to the nation.

The chief adviser handed over the award at Osmani Memorial Auditorium.

Prof Jamal Nazrul Islam was given the award in science and technology category while Mir Abdus Shukur Al Mahmud (posthumously) in literature category, Novera Ahmed (posthumously) in culture, Sir Fazle Hasan Abed (posthumously) in social service, Mohammad Mahbubul Haque Khan alias Azam Khan (posthumously) in Liberation War and culture, Badruddin Mohammad Umar in education and research, and Abrar Fahad (posthumously) for his role as a young protester.

Advisers, the chiefs of the army, navy and air force, and senior government officials were present at the ceremony conducted by Cabinet Secretary Sheikh Abdur Rashid.

Speaking at the function, Prof Yunus said the nation is proud today, but it is very painful that these people were not given this recognition when they were alive.
"We remember them today with gratitude," he said.
Nobel Laureate Yunus said the people of the country are delighted to honour them with this award despite it being late.

He said their works would inspire all.
The Independence Day Award or Swadhinata Padak, is the highest state award given by the government of Bangladesh.
Introduced in 1977, this award is bestowed upon Bangladeshi citizens or organisations in recognition of their substantial contributions to one of many fields, including the War of Liberation, the Language Movement, education, literature, journalism, public service, science and technology, medical science.