Aiming for stronger ties with its audience, private television channel Nagorik TV officially went on air yesterday.

Commerce Minister Tofail Ahmed announced the formal launch of the private channel at a programme at Bangabandhu International Conference Center (BICC) in the capital.

The minister expressed expectation that the new channel will nurture the spirit of Liberation War and highlight the development of the country.

Information Minister Hasanul Haq Inu hoped that Nagorik TV will be able to meet the demands of its audience.

The programme also honoured eminent artist Mustafa Monwar, Prof Abdullah Abu Sayeed, Prof Momtaz Uddin Ahmed, Mustafa Kamal Syed and Managing Director of Channel-i Faridur Reza Sagar.

Meanwhile, from the same podium, Managing Director of Mohammadi Group Rubana Huq announced the formation of “Annisul Huq Foundation”, to honour and encourage the dynamic people for their contribution in the society.

Rubana, also wife of former DNCC Mayor Annisul Huq, recalled the memory of her husband. She later inaugurated the logo of the foundation.

Among others, State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Nasrul Hamid, and power and energy adviser to the prime minister Toufiq-e-Elahi Chowdhury, were present.