By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Oct 5: The 2nd edition of the Shillong Book Fair, organised by the National Book Trust (NBT) India, under the Ministry of Education, was inaugurated by Governor CH Vijayashankar on Saturday. Held at the State Central Library premises, the nine-day event will run until October 13.
During the inauguration, Principal Secretary, Arts and Culture department, FR Kharkongor, applauded the turnout despite the inclement weather, stating that the participation showed the community’s commitment to books and knowledge. Quoting Khalil Gibran, he encouraged students to embrace reading as a way to overcome fears, urging them to “Be a reader, be a leader.”
Despite the heavy rains, the inaugural day saw the participation of over 300 students from more than 10 schools, who partook in events such as a drawing competition themed around ‘My City, My Shillong’ and ‘When I Grow Up.’ The first day also featured cultural performances by the Geetanjali Dance School and the Snam Rangsa Band, adding to the lively atmosphere. The event was also attended by senior officials, including Commissioner and Secretary, Education department, Vijay Kumar Mantri, who emphasised his personal preference for reading as a means of engaging the imagination. Other dignitaries included Director, Education department, Swapnil Tembe, and Director, Arts and Culture department, DD Shira.