National Book Policy Essential for Cultivating Reading Culture, Says Education Minister

Minister for Education, Science and Technology, Bidhya Bhattarai, emphasized the pivotal role of the proposed National Book Policy in fostering a reading culture during a meeting held today at the Ministry. The session featured submissions from experts across various fields regarding the proposed National Book Policy-2081 BS.

Minister Bhattarai highlighted that the Policy aims to promote not only reading culture but also the establishment of libraries, stating that writers and publishers should be recognized as valuable human capital in this effort. She also revealed plans for the government to introduce a Library Act to further support these initiatives.

Lawmaker Manish Jha advocated for expanding book reading facilities beyond academic institutions, suggesting their inclusion in hotels and restaurants to enhance accessibility. He called for international access to Nepali books, stressing the necessity for an enabling environment that ensures broader access to quality literature.

The program included representatives from publication houses, book suppliers, and libraries, all of whom provided insights and opinions regarding the proposed policy. Their contributions aim to shape a comprehensive framework to encourage reading and enhance the literary landscape in Nepal.