A Strategic Framework for Sustainable Development in the Chittagong Hill Tracts of Bangladesh

This paper assesses the development challenges and opportunities in the CHT and proposes some integrated strategies for the development of the farm and non-farm sectors within a supportive environment that provides peace, stability, and good governance, together with appropriate policies and institutional mechanisms. The approach implies a shift in focus from agriculture to the development of the secondary and service sectors and will bring dynamism into the rural economy. Promoting non-farm activities and supporting labour mobility, both farm to non-farm and internal and external migration, could be key elements in a rural development and poverty reduction strategy for the region and could help to address the growing population pressure.