President Iajuddin Ahmed, Chief Adviser Fakhruddin Ahmed, immediate past prime minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia and Awami League President Sheikh Hasina gave separate messages on the occasion.

The day is a public holiday.

The government has chalked out elaborate programmes to observe the day. The programmes include hoisting the national flag atop all government and non-government buildings, publishing supplements in newspapers, displaying banners inscribed with 'Kalema Taiyeba' at important government buildings, establishments and roads, illumination of government and military establishments, arranging milad mahfil and special prayers at Secretariat and Bangabhaban mosques.

Besides, Various religious and socio-cultural organisations have drawn up programmes to observe the day. The programmes include religious processions, milad and doa mahfils and discussions.

The Ministry of Women and Children Affairs will arrange cultural programme in cultural and educational institutions. The Islamic Foundation will hold discussion meetings, seminars and essay competition under its fortnight-long programme.

Bangladesh Television (BTV), Bangladesh Betar and private TV channels will air special programmes highlighting the significance of the day.

Improved diets will be served in hospitals, prisons, orphanages and child homes.