Min urges people to reconnect with books in age of social media

Punjab Language Minister Harjot Singh Bains has emphasised the importance of reconnecting with books and preserving cultural heritage in the era of social media.

Speaking at the concluding ceremony of ‘[Punjabi Month-2024’ at Bhasha Bhawan, the minister announced several initiatives to promote literature and enhance financial self-reliance of the Language Department.

Bains highlighted the government’s commitment to making the department self-sustainable by generating funds through self-sponsored initiatives. He revealed that the department would soon launch a campaign encouraging people to gift books during major festivals like Diwali, starting next year.

“Books are lifelong companions. In today’s fast-paced world dominated by social media, it is essential to reconnect with our roots through literature,” said Bains. He urged people to visit the Language Department and explore its treasure trove of literary works.

Citing the department’s recent achievement of generating Rs 7 lakh through book sales during ‘Punjabi Month’, Bains stated that the public’s interest in reading remained strong and needed further encouragement.

On the occasion, awards were presented to 15 writers for the best literary books in Hindi (2023 and 2024), Sanskrit (2023 and 2024), and Urdu (2024). Additionally, the Language Department’s publications, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Darshan and Tarikha Patiala, were officially dedicated to the public.