Chennai, Feb 4 (NationPress) As the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections draw near, the Tamil Nadu Children Writers and Artists Association is urging prominent political parties to emphasize children's arts, literature, and library development in their election manifestos. They argue that investing in young minds is crucial for the state's cultural and intellectual future.

Established in 2021, this association has progressively broadened its reach and now functions through 35 branches statewide. Its mission is to foster children's creativity, imagination, and emotional health by providing access to books, storytelling, theatre, and visual arts.

The organization asserts that governance should prioritize children's intellectual, ethical, and cultural advancement rather than relegating them to a secondary status.

In a comprehensive “Children’s Arts and Literature Charter of Demands,” the association has put forth several proposals for political parties to consider.

A significant suggestion is the organization of an annual children’s book fair in Chennai during the summer holidays, to be co-hosted by the state government and the Publishers’ Association of South India.

The association believes that such an event would not only promote reading habits but also support regional authors and enhance the accessibility of quality children's literature for families.

The charter additionally advocates for the establishment of a dedicated Azha Valliappa Award for children’s literature, akin to the esteemed Tiruvalluvar, Bharathiar, and Bharathidasan awards, to honor writers and creators in this domain. Among its structural proposals is the formation of an autonomous Tamil Nadu Children’s Arts and Literature Corporation, led by an IAS officer.

This corporation would concentrate on research, documentation, publication assistance, and the systematic promotion of children’s literature and artistic expressions.

The association has also called for the integration of children’s literature into university syllabi, the conferral of honorary doctorates for distinguished contributors, and the appointment of trained librarians in schools.

Furthermore, they advocate transforming school libraries into vibrant, child-friendly, and creative environments, supported by storytellers and theatre trainers in government schools.

Additional requests include establishing exclusive children’s libraries and cultural centers in every district, along with regular children-centric programs at district book festivals.

Udhayasankar, a recipient of the Bal Sahitya Puraskar and president of the association, mentioned that the charter has already been submitted to the Chief Minister’s Office and various political parties. Efforts are underway to garner wider support to ensure children’s cultural development becomes a significant electoral promise.