Tripura, 18 Dec 2025: Preparations for the 34th Agartala Book Fair are in their final stages ahead of its inauguration on January 2 at the Hapania International Fair Ground. A meeting of the expanded Steering Committee was held on Wednesday at the Agartala Municipal Corporation conference hall to review the overall progress and planning of the event.
The meeting was attended by Agartala Mayor Dipak Majumder, Deputy Mayor Monika Das Dutta, Vice Chairman of the State Cultural Development Committee Sabuj Chakraborty, directors and officials from concerned departments, conveners of various sub-committees, and representatives from multiple government offices.
During the meeting, members reviewed the extent of preparedness for the book fair and discussed possible improvements and new additions aimed at enhancing convenience for visitors and publishers. The fair’s daily schedule was also deliberated. While some publishers and booksellers suggested starting the fair earlier in the day, it was decided to retain the existing timing—from 1:00 pm to 8:30 pm—for the time being.
Addressing the media after the meeting, Mayor Dipak Majumder said the committee was broadly satisfied with the current status of preparations. “The arrangements are almost complete. The planning is being guided by the experience of those who have been associated with the book fair for many years. If required, additional meetings of the sub-committees or the steering committee will be convened,” he stated.
The Mayor also informed that proposals have been made to invite renowned literary figures and artists from outside the state. As this involves government-level decisions, the matter will be discussed with the Chief Minister before finalizing any invitations. He added that coordinated decisions have already been taken regarding the theme pavilion, pandal decoration, nameplates for officials, and the overall design of the fair.
Highlighting the significance of the event, the Mayor said the Agartala Book Fair is one of the state’s most popular and traditional cultural gatherings. In addition to book sales, the fair features cultural programmes, poetry meets, discussion sessions, quiz competitions, and various student-oriented activities, making it a vibrant platform for literary and cultural engagement.
Officials noted that the number of applications from publishers and stall owners is likely to surpass all previous records this year. Several organizations from outside the state have also expressed interest in participating, reflecting the growing popularity of the fair.
Overall, the steering committee meeting focused on ensuring that the upcoming book fair is well-organized, accessible, and appealing to the public. Organizers are hopeful that the 34th edition of the Agartala Book Fair will add a new dimension to the state’s cultural and literary landscape.
With the preparations nearing completion and active participation from various departments and sub-committees, the administration remains optimistic that this year’s Agartala Book Fair will be more engaging, orderly, and memorable for readers, visitors, and publishers alike.
