Book fair can foster intellectual curiosity: Prof Lokendra
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, December 15 2024: The 31st Imphal Book Fair 2024 has been inaugurated on Sunday, with Manipur University vice-chancellor Prof N Lokendra emphasising potential of such fairs in fostering intellectual curiosity among the reading and research-oriented community.

The fair being held at the auditorium of the State Central Library, here, is organised by the Library in collaboration with Raja Rammohun Roy Library Foundation, Kolkata.

Speaking as chief guest of the inaugural function, Prof Lokendra noted the growth of Manipur's reading, thinking, and intellectual community over the past two decades.

He highlighted how the book fair provides an avenue to access diverse reading materials and facilitates interactions with writers and intellectuals.

Such initiatives can enrich the intellectual community and contribute to the growth and development of society, he remarked.

This year's book fair features 72 stalls, with participation of 21 publishers within the state, 11 from outside, and several book firms and stores.

Apart from book sales, the fair includes interactive sessions with writers and intellectuals to engage attendees and stimulate intellectual discourse.

Language Planning and Implementation director L Radhakanta opined that though the current fair is offering 15 percent discount on all books, the organisers should exploring ways to offer greater discounts to compete with online platforms like Amazon and Flipkart.

Art and Culture director M Joy was also present, at the event, during which a commemorative souvenir for the book fair was released.

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