By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Oct 18: In a bid to enhance reading habits and promote libraries as centres of knowledge and social growth, the Directorate of Arts and Culture, Meghalaya, on Friday organised a one-day workshop on ‘Habit of Reading as a Tool for Social Development and Economic Upliftment’ under the National Mission on Libraries Scheme at U Soso Tham Auditorium here.
According to a statement here, the workshop aimed to enrich students, book lovers, scholars and the public by encouraging good reading habits and highlighting the importance of libraries in broadening minds, promoting social development, and serving as powerhouses of information and knowledge.
The programme commenced with an inaugural session, during which Director of Arts and Culture department, I. Majaw, delivered the welcome address.
This was followed by a speech by Arts and Culture Minister, Sanbor Shullai, who emphasised that reading adds immense value by broadening perspectives and nurturing the process of learning.
He further noted that reading enhances knowledge and sharpens intellect, thereby transforming individuals and society at large.
“The habit of reading can make us more aware of our culture and society, making us more informed and well-read individuals in the years to come,” he said.
During the workshop, the resource person, Prof Shalini Lihitkar of Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University, Maharashtra, delivered an insightful presentation on the role of reading in developing well-informed citizens and its contribution to social development and socio-economic progress.
Participants included students from 15 schools, representatives from North-Eastern Hill University and Martin Luther Christian University, members of Kali Kit Kot and Seng Kynthei Laitumkhrah Pyllun, as well as library professionals and users of the State Central Library.





