Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, December 15:
The 15th Imphal Book Fair was opened today by Art and Culture Minister Ph Parijat at Mela Ground of Mapal Kangjeibung.
The 10 day long Fair is being organised by the State Central Library in association with Manipur Library Association and Raja Ram Mohan Roy Library Foundation, Kolkata.
About 100 stalls including 19 firms based at Delhi, Kolkata and Guwahati are opened in the fair.
Speaking at the inaugural function, Padmasree RK Jhaljit remarked that Manipur has become a majestic land surrounded by hills and shielded by soldiers.
Saying that the State Government had constructed a good library hall, Jhaljit conveyed his desire to inculcate and promote the habit of reading and to facilitate 'knowledge to knowledge connectivity'.
He also mooted earmarking a fund for the book fair so that it can be organised in a grand manner.
Speaking as chief guest, Parijat wished that Manipur may become a peaceful State rather than a violence and crime abundant State.
The inaugural function was presided by Director of Art and Culture Dr Kh Sorojini.
The book fair will also feature interaction with film actors and Shumang Leela artistes in addition to spot essay writing and painting competitions.
However, all book release function slated for tomorrow have been postponed to December 18 on account of the general strike called by the anti-dam lobby tomorrow.