Events mark World Book Day

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, April 23

A number of educational institutes, organisations marked World Book Day on Tuesday. The day marked by UNESCO is meant to promote reading and protection of copy right.

The day was celebrated at the District Library Amritsar by holding a quiz competition on topic Books and Authors in collaboration with IHA Foundation and Earth Day Network to mark the day. Holy Souls School students participated in the quiz event. DAV Public School conducted a special assembly on World Book and Copyright Day. The students spoke about the importance of this day. It is a celebration of authors, illustrators, books and most importantly reading.

Dr Neera Sharma, principal of the school, while addressing the students said, “Only a sincere reader of good books knows what divine pleasure he gets from reading books.” The primary wing of Police DAV Public School also celebrated the World English Language Day.

Phulkari, a city-based women organisation, organised a programme to promote reading among underprivileged students in elementary school at a young age. The organisation hoped to develop interest in reading among students at an early age.

Many in the city feel that there is a requirement to promote reading, especially in the age of digital time, when online games, internet offer a means of recreation. Indu Arora, a former educationist, feels the habit of reading should be started at an earliest possible age. She said, “Interesting stories with pictures help enhance their interest in reading and schools should have a period of short story reading to inculcate the importance. Parents and teachers should encourage children to stay away from online games.

Sunaina Khanna, a mother of two, added, “Online games must not be encouraged at a young age. I try to inculcate the habit of reading books in my children. Books are men’s best friend.”