The Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) launched the project on Digital and Transport Connectivity for the Socioeconomic Resilience of Rural Communities during the post-COVID-19 Period in Asia-Pacific Countries, 2022–2025, to strengthen the capacity of government officials in three pilot countries – Bangladesh, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic and Samoa – to develop innovative strategies for improving rural digital and transport connectivity for socioeconomic resilience. As one activity of the project, this paper aims to propose actionable strategies for promoting information and communications technology (ICT) connectivity in rural areas of Bangladesh. It is primarily based on secondary data sources, including national policy documents (such as the Perspective Plan 2021–2041 and the draft ICT Master Plan 2041), government reports, research institution surveys, and international organization reports, complemented by lessons from case studies in other countries.

Over recent years, the Government of Bangladesh has introduced a number of ICT-related policies, acts and strategic plans to foster digital transformation and socioeconomic development. However, despite progress, rural areas continue to lag behind urban centres due to the persistent digital divide. Effective implementation of rural ICT strategies requires not only policy design but also strong engagement and coordination among stakeholders, including government, private sector, NGOs, and local communities. Drawing on the analysis, this report outlines guiding principles and proposes seven actionable strategies to enhance rural ICT connectivity, aiming to support Bangladesh’s transition towards a more inclusive and knowledge-based digital economy under the “Smart Bangladesh” vision.

In this context, this paper outlines actionable strategies focused on the following objectives: (1) proposing actionable strategies to increase rural ICT connectivity in Bangladesh; (2) mapping out the stakeholders for implementing actionable strategies (3) providing a sustainable way forward.

Six strategies are proposed: (1) developing ICT training and awareness programmes for rural communities; (2) developing a sector-wise rural-specific ICT data set; (3) increasing affordable smartphone availability in rural areas; (4) ensuring stable broadband connectivity in rural areas with affordable price ranges; (5) involving direct beneficiaries in the planning process; (6) ensuring a sustainable investment pathway for rural ICT development.