‘Let’s have Rabindra Jayanti first, Nazrul Jayanti could be the next’

How do you view the re-establishment of the train link between India and Bangladesh?
It’s a good beginning. It reflects a long cherished desire of the people of the two countries for stronger ties, especially the two Bengals. This will serve the interests of both the countries. In fact, it will deepen the bonding between the people on both the sides of the border.

A lot of time is wasted during checking. Had this time been reduced the journey would have been much more comfortable.
Of course this is one problem that has to be tackled. But I believe these problems will be sorted out soon and the authorities will take care of the passenger comfort. In fact, when you start something, these kinds of problems do crop up...but they are eventually overcome.

People are saying that the Indian side is taking more time than their Bangladeshi counterpart...
Every country has its own security concerns.... I don’t want to comment on that. But once again I want to stress that these problems will be sorted out soon.

Our Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting PR Dasmunshi suggested that Rabindra Jayanti be celebrated on board Maitree Express....
That was a very good suggestion...I sent that proposal to our Foreign Ministry. Artistes from both the countries can participate in this event. I put stress on one thing —- people-to-people contact. Artistes and students from both the countries should mingle more frequently, exchange ideas...that is how you benefit.

Can we have a Nazrul Jayanti on board Maitree Express?
Yes we can. Let’s have the Rabindra jayanti first.

Bengalis are the largest segment of tourists in India. Bangladesh has several tourist spots that can attract people from here...two-thirds of the Sunderbans is in Bangladesh, you have the world-class Cox’s Bazaar sea beach. Bengalis in West Bengal spend a lot of money on travelling... they go to Thailand, Malaysia, Europe... but they do not go to Bangladesh...the major reason is that there is hardly any publicity...
It’s true to some extent. In fact, we have wonderful spots...we have old temples, Buddhist sites, archaeological sites, etc. I admit that we should take more initiatives to promote them not only in terms of improving infrastructure but going in for publicity. I am planning to bring the chairman of Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation here...we can have a road show...

India often makes allegations that terrorist hideouts exist in Bangladesh...
Here, the stand of Bangladesh is well known that nobody will be allowed to use Bangladesh soil to harm any foreign country, including India. The BDR and BSF often sit together and both the sides are very sincere in their work.