Staff Reporter

Itanagar, Jun 19: The Department of Public Libraries celebrated National Reading Day at the State Central Library, Itanagar, with a series of events aimed at promoting reading culture among students and honouring local literary voices.
To mark the occasion, an essay writing competition was conducted among students from various schools across the Itanagar Capital Region. The theme of the contest was “The Decline of Reading Habits: Analyze the Factors Contributing to Declining Rates and Emphasize the Need to Promote Literacy and Reading for Pleasure.”
Renowned poet, novelist, and Padma Shri awardee Mamang Dai, who graced the event as chief guest, emphasized the enduring value of reading books. She noted that reading physical books enriches knowledge more deeply than digital consumption, and encouraged students to cultivate reading and writing habits for clarity and expression.
As part of the programme, the department also honoured women writers of Arunachal Pradesh for their literary contributions. Among those felicitated were Padma Shri and Sahitya Akademi awardee Mamang Dai, Dr Jamuna Bini, Assistant Professor (Hindi), Rajiv Gandhi University; Ponung Ering Angu, retired Joint Director (ICDS); Miranda Pertin, Under Secretary to Chief Secretary; and Dr Nasi Koke, Assistant Professor.
In her welcome address, Cultural Affairs Secretary Mamata Riba highlighted the significance of reading in shaping informed and thoughtful citizens. Director of Public Libraries YR Ete delivered the keynote address.
The essay competition saw participation from over 50 students representing six schools across the Capital Complex. The top five winners - 1st: Mimi Baki (VCS Itanagar), 2nd: Tatung Mathew (RPS Itanagar), 3rd: Gem Ronya (VRAS Itanagar), 4th: Tailyang Rilung (VKV Itanagar), and 5th: Gichik Jashmin (VRPS Itanagar) were awarded cash prizes, trophies, and certificates.
The event concluded with a reaffirmation of the department’s commitment to nurturing a reading culture among the youth.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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