The government aims to establish six libraries in every assembly constituency, with an allocation of Rs 64 lakh per constituency.

Chandigarh: The Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is making significant strides to foster a love for literature among children and youth across the state. As part of this initiative, modern libraries are being established alongside continued funding for school libraries. In January this year, 14 state-of-the-art libraries were inaugurated in Sangrur district at a cost of Rs 4.62 crore. On August 15, 14 rural libraries were opened in Ludhiana district, with a total of 42 rural libraries planned for construction in the area.

The government aims to establish six libraries in every assembly constituency, with an allocation of Rs 64 lakh per constituency. Chief Minister Mann emphasized that these libraries will be a driving force for the state's development and prosperity, with the primary objective of cultivating reading habits among the youth. He expressed confidence that this initiative will empower young people to become equal partners in Punjab's socio-economic growth.

CM Mann also envisioned that these libraries would play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the youth, producing future bureaucrats, scientists, doctors, technocrats, and other professionals. These world-class libraries are equipped with modern amenities, including air conditioning, inverters, CCTV cameras, Wi-Fi, and other high-tech facilities, making them a haven for book lovers.

Additionally, the Punjab government is encouraging literary writers to contribute books to these libraries. To further promote literary talent, CM Mann announced an annual award for emerging poets in memory of the late Punjabi poet and writer Surjit Patar, who passed away in May this year. The award will carry a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh and is open to students from the 8th grade through graduation. 

This initiative underscores the Mann government's commitment to nurturing both the literary culture and the intellectual development of Punjab’s youth.