Sambalpur Book Fair 2024 wraps up with a literary triumph

“Books foster a culture of reading and knowledge in the society, and this book fair is a great opportunity for the people of Sambalpur to benefit from it,” said Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Hon’ble Minister of Education, Govt. of India, while inaugurating Sambalpur Book Fair 2024 at PHD Grounds, Ainthapali, Sambalpur. He also added that NEP 2020 launched under the visionary leadership of the Hon’ble Prime Minister will create a new global order in the education system. The book fair was organised by National Book Trust, India (Ministry of Education, Govt. of India) in collaboration with SETU. The theme of this edition was ‘Book for All’.

“One book can change your life, and this mega book festival for the people of the city of Sambalpur provides a prospect for all to find that book here in this ocean of books in all Indian languages, across all age-groups and genres”, said Shri Yuvraj Malik, Director NBT-India while addressing the gathering. Hon’ble MLA Subas Chandra Panigrahi & Shri Nauri Naik, as well as Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director IIM Sambalpur, and Prof. Minketan Pathi, SETU President also spoke about the book fair and various activities that are part of it. Hon’ble Education Minister also virtually inaugurated the Rangavati Centre, Sambalpur.

Hon’ble Education Minister also flagged off the ‘Mahanadi Pustak Parikrama,’ NBT-India’s Book Exhibition on Wheels – where it will visit all towns, cities and villages on the banks of River Mahanadi and disseminate the message of reading.

With over 125 stalls by more than 50 exhibitors with books in English, Hindi, Odia, and all Indian languages, and various other Indian languages, engaging activities for children and youth, literary sessions, the festival created a dynamic space for literary exploration and community bonding. The event featured approximately 30 activities for children, 14 literary sessions, and 20 cultural performances.