The fifth Gomti Book Festival was inaugurated by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who reflected on his initial hesitations regarding the event when it was first proposed. He acknowledged that the book festival aimed to provide a platform for youth, authors, and publishers to come together and exchange ideas. CM Yogi outlined the importance of facilitating discussions between the young and established authors to enhance literary engagement.

CM Yogi recalled conversations with key individuals involved in the festival’s organisation, including Yuvraj Malik and former Additional Chief Secretary Awanish Awasthi. He underscored the significance of this initiative in addressing gaps in literary interaction and promoting reading among the youth of Uttar Pradesh. The Chief Minister expressed his support for moving forward with the festival after understanding its potential benefits.

During his address, CM Yogi asserted that the event aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to connect ancient Indian knowledge with contemporary learning. He remarked that when educational resources were limited in the past, Uttar Pradesh faced an identity crisis and was labelled a “BIMARU” state. However, he noted that recent efforts have begun to yield positive outcomes in education and literary development.

Encouragement for Youth to Read

CM Yogi refuted claims that today’s youth lack interest in reading, stating that young people actively engage with literature when it is accessible to them. He pointed out that previous festivals in Gorakhpur had drawn larger crowds than those in Lucknow, implying a strong public interest in reading. He urged young people to shift their focus away from social media and foster a reading habit that goes beyond their academic syllabus.

The Chief Minister also suggested that students purchase books that inspire creativity and ideas, establishing personal “book banks” at home. He specifically recommended Prime Minister Modi’s book “Exam Warriors,” which offers strategies for overcoming challenges in life. This emphasis on reading, according to CM Yogi, is crucial for personal growth and development.

Referencing India’s longstanding intellectual tradition, CM Yogi quoted the Sanskrit phrase, “Aano Bhadra Kratavo Yantu Vishwatah,” which advocates for the sharing of noble thoughts from all corners. He reaffirmed Uttar Pradesh’s rich history as a centre of knowledge, citing prominent locations such as Naimisharanya, Kashi, and Prayagraj Kumbh.

Government’s Support for Grassroots Literacy

CM Yogi highlighted the government’s initiatives aimed at encouraging reading at the grassroots level. He stated that approximately 57,600 Gram Panchayats have been equipped with Gram Sachivalayas, which include conference rooms and digital libraries filled with resources from the National Book Trust. These facilities enable villagers to access literature more readily and foster a culture of reading.

Moreover, he remarked on the establishment of digital libraries and smart classrooms under the Operation Kayakalp initiative in various schools. These advancements, according to him, are intended to modernise education and make learning more accessible and engaging for students.

The nine-day Gomti Book Festival, running from September 12 to 20, features over 200 stalls and the participation of more than 120 publishers nationwide. CM Yogi encouraged attendees, especially students and young adults, to explore various genres, meet authors, and attend discussions, emphasizing that formal education must be complemented by extensive reading for a well-rounded understanding of society.

He affirmed the Uttar Pradesh government’s commitment to support the expansion of the book festival beyond Lucknow in the future. The event, organised in collaboration with Lucknow University and the National Book Trust, includes a variety of activities such as literary sessions, book launches, cultural performances, and children’s activities, fostering a comprehensive literary environment.

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