Over 1500 enthusiastic people took part in a day-long 'open budget session' on Saturday, held at the UP office compound.

UP chairman Sheikh Alamgir Haidar placed a Tk 10,11,000 budget for the union for 2006-07 financial year and replied to various questions.

The programe, first of its kind in the area, was organised by two NGOs- Manusher Jonno and Agragati Sangstha--to ensure transparency and accountability of the local government body.

Shyamnagar Upazila Nirbahi officer (UNO) Zahidul Islam was the chief guest while local elite also attended the programme.

The enthusiastic villagers asked how the money would be spent and also gave suggestions.

Speaking on the occasion, the UNO said such open discussion on Union Parishad budget will ensure transparency in activities of local governments and development. Such programmes should be organised in other areas also, he said.