Sri Vijaya Puram witnessed the inauguration of the Monsoon Book Reading Festival 2025, led by the Chief Secretary of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration. The week-long literary event, running from June 16 to 22, aims to foster a love for reading and learning among students and young readers. Hosted at the State Library, the festival began with a ceremonial lamp lighting, drawing in education officials, schoolchildren, and literary enthusiasts.
The event aims to deepen engagement with books through an immersive programme designed for students. Activities include drawing competitions for children with special needs, storytelling sessions, book readings, and treasure hunts. This curated mix of intellectually enriching and creatively stimulating sessions is meant to inspire a habit of reading, critical thinking, and exploration among youth.
Interactive sessions energize young minds
Following the inauguration, the Chief Secretary toured various sections of the library and interacted with the children participating in the different activities. His engagement, marked by encouragement and enthusiasm, resonated with the young audience. The schedule for the week features storytelling, craft making, quizzes, news reading, and documentary screenings, all structured to help build imagination and curiosity in students.
Organisers say the events are tailored to be inclusive and engaging for learners across all age groups and backgrounds, reaffirming the administration’s focus on quality education and holistic development. The initiative also seeks to balance screen time with meaningful reading, especially in a digitally dominated environment where traditional reading habits are diminishing.
Call to revive reading culture
The Chief Secretary highlighted the essential role of reading in shaping informed citizens and nurturing empathy. He noted that developing a reading culture is more important than ever, especially as digital media often overwhelms younger audiences. Commending the Education Department’s initiative, he lauded the festival as a model of how public platforms can promote learning and dialogue.
The Monsoon Book Festival stands as a public commitment to educational values and cultural literacy, with the hope that the week’s programming will influence long-term learning habits among the youth in the islands.
