ITANAGAR : Education Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona on Monday reviewed key initiatives aimed at strengthening the state’s library network and promoting the stories of Arunachal Pradesh’s unsung heroes through an innovative partnership with Amar Chitra Katha.
Chairing a review meeting of the Department of Libraries, Sona deliberated on measures to modernize the library ecosystem and make public libraries more relevant to the needs of today’s learners.
The meeting focused on introducing the Book Cafe concept to encourage a stronger reading culture among students and youth, while transforming libraries into modern learning centres equipped with digital resources and collaborative spaces.
The minister also reviewed the feasibility of upgrading Circle Libraries into District Libraries wherever required and directed the department to conduct a comprehensive gap analysis covering infrastructure, staffing and operational requirements.
Emphasizing the importance of libraries, Sona said they must evolve into vibrant centres of knowledge and lifelong learning.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating accessible, future-ready library spaces that inspire learning and innovation across Arunachal Pradesh.
Earlier in the day, the minister also held a meeting with officials of the Department of Public Libraries and representatives of Amar Chitra Katha to explore a collaborative initiative for preserving and promoting the stories of the state’s unsung heroes.
The discussions centred on developing engaging comic books and 2D animated educational content based on the documented lives of Arunachal Pradesh’s unsung heroes, making their stories more accessible and inspiring for young readers.
The proposed publications are planned as supplementary reading material for students of Classes VI to X and will be published in English, Hindi and selected tribal languages to ensure wider outreach across the state.
Sona interacted with Deepesh Kothari, Vice President, and Rajesh K V, Deputy Head – Brand Stories, of Amar Chitra Katha to explore avenues for the collaboration. The Department of Public Libraries will coordinate the publication and dissemination of these learning resources across the state.
Stating that the state’s heroes deserve to be remembered and celebrated, the minister expressed confidence that the initiative would instil pride in Arunachal Pradesh’s rich history, strengthen reading habits among students, and inspire future generations through the remarkable stories of its people. (Source: UNI; Photo: Facebook-PD Sona)
