How is the Gujarat Government Enhancing Library Access?
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Synopsis
Discover how the Gujarat government is reinvigorating the 'Vanche Gujarat' campaign to promote a culture of reading across the state. Learn about the expansion of government libraries, the celebration of National Read a Book Day, and the initiatives aimed at encouraging vibrant reading habits among all citizens.
Key Takeaways
- Vanche Gujarat campaign promotes reading.
- 197 government libraries are operational in Gujarat.
- 71 new libraries are set to open this year.
- September 6 is 'National Read a Book Day'.
- Libraries support reading in tribal communities.
Ahmedabad, Sep 5 (NationPress) In an effort to inspire individuals to embrace reading as a regular habit, former Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi initiated the 'Vanche Gujarat' (Read Gujarat) campaign back in 2010. This initiative included a comprehensive plan to enrich the state's libraries with a variety of books and texts.
Currently, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the state government is revitalizing this campaign to expand its reach and deepen the reading culture across Gujarat.
The focus is now on significantly increasing the number of government libraries throughout the state. Last year marked a significant milestone with the decision to establish 64 government-operated libraries in 50 tehsils across 21 districts, as well as 14 tehsils in seven tribal districts. Of these, 53 libraries are now operational.
As of today, the state boasts a total of 197 functioning government libraries. This year, the government has sanctioned the construction of 71 additional libraries at the tehsil level.
September 6 is recognized as ‘National Read a Book Day’, motivating individuals to take a break from their daily lives to indulge in the joy of reading.
The aim of this celebration is to inspire everyone to develop a passion for reading, allowing them to cultivate the reading habit and appreciate its benefits.
Currently, there are 197 operational government libraries in Gujarat, comprising 33 district libraries and 150 tehsil libraries, alongside intermediary libraries, mobile libraries, the State Central Reserve Book Store, the State Art Library, and a Women's Library.
Libraries scattered across the state promote the habit of reading among citizens. Reports indicate that over 500 individuals access reading materials daily in central libraries, while more than 150 readers utilize district libraries each day.
In district libraries with available reading facilities, more than 250 readers benefit from the resources daily, with over 100 readers accessing tehsil libraries each day as well.
To foster a love for reading and writing within the tribal communities, libraries have been established in all tribal-dominated tehsils. This initiative ensures that the tribal population also enjoys reading and writing services.
Libraries have been initiated in 14 tehsils across seven tribal districts, thus providing the tribal community with access to essential reading and writing resources.
Point of View
I emphasize that the Gujarat government's commitment to enhancing library access and promoting reading is a commendable step. This initiative aligns with the broader national goal of fostering education and literacy. By reinvigorating the 'Vanche Gujarat' campaign, the state is not only preserving a rich cultural heritage but also empowering its citizens through knowledge.
NationPress
05/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'Vanche Gujarat' campaign?
The 'Vanche Gujarat' campaign, initiated in 2010 by former Chief Minister Narendra Modi, aims to promote reading habits among the people of Gujarat while enriching the state's libraries with books and texts.
How many government libraries are currently operational in Gujarat?
Currently, there are 197 government libraries functioning in Gujarat, including district and tehsil libraries, mobile libraries, and specialized libraries.
What is the significance of September 6?
September 6 is celebrated as 'National Read a Book Day', encouraging individuals to take time out of their routines to enjoy reading.
How is the state government supporting tribal communities in reading?
The state government has initiated libraries in all tribal-dominated tehsils to promote reading and writing among tribal communities.
What initiatives are in place to enhance library access?
The Gujarat government is focused on increasing the number of libraries, with plans for 71 new libraries this year and existing libraries encouraging daily reading habits among citizens.
