Agartala 3 Jan, 2025: Yesterday, “Books expand the boundaries of consciousness, and the unique satisfaction derived from the scent of a new book is unparalleled,” said Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha while inaugurating the 43rd Agartala Book Fair at Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Stage in the International Fair Ground, Hapania, this evening. Emphasizing the importance of fostering a love for reading among the next generation, he urged parents to take proactive responsibility in this regard.
The Chief Minister stated that the people of the state eagerly await the annual book fair. This year, considering students’ academic schedules, the event has been organized earlier than usual. He highlighted the tradition of gifting books at various events and encouraged the revival of this practice, urging everyone to develop a reading habit. Describing the book fair as a festival of intellect and creativity, he noted that books form the foundation of knowledge acquisition.
The 43rd Agartala Book Fair, spanning 13 days, will continue until January 14. This year’s fair hosts 178 stalls, including 42 from outside the state. To ensure accessibility, free bus services have been arranged. The Chief Minister pointed out the growing number of visitors, stalls, and book sales, which reflect the increasing success and prestige of the Agartala Book Fair.
This year’s theme is “Sarveshaam Shaantir Bhavatu” (Let Peace Prevail for All). Alongside new book launches, the fair will feature discussion sessions, quizzes, poetry conferences, and other engaging activities. During the inaugural event, the Chief Minister unveiled the fair’s souvenir and theme songs in both Bengali and Kokborok languages.
Minister of Industries and Commerce, Smt. Santana Chakma, described the book fair as a meeting point for writers, publishers, and book lovers. Highlighting the timeless relevance of books, she urged attendees to embrace reading and support the event by purchasing books.
Noted Kolkata-based author Jaydeep Chattopadhyay also shared his views, while MLA Mina Rani Sarkar, who presided over the event, encouraged people to visit the fair.
Secretary of the Information and Cultural Affairs Department, Dr. P.K. Chakraborty, noted the significant role of the book fair in promoting literature in the state and expressed hopes for its continued success.
The fair opens daily at 2:30 PM and runs until 9:00 PM, with extended hours on holidays. A special “Ni-Kshay” health camp by the National Health Mission, Tripura, was inaugurated by the Chief Minister. This camp offers tuberculosis detection and treatment facilities, including a mobile Ni-Kshay van equipped with CB-NAAT machines. Certificates were also awarded to four Ni-Kshay Mitras (supporters).
The event witnessed the presence of distinguished guests, including Deputy Speaker of the Tripura Legislative Assembly Ram Prasad Paul, Agartala Mayor and MLA Deepak Majumdar, West Tripura Zilla Parishad Sabhadhipati Balai Goswami, and others, who joined the Chief Minister in exploring the fair.
