The aroma of new books and the boundless joy they bring are unparalleled, inspiring individuals to expand their thought-horizons.
Highlighting the importance of fostering a love for reading among the younger generation, Chief Minister Professor (Dr.) Manik Saha inaugurated the 43rd Agartala Book Fair at the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay stage in the Hapaniya International Fair Ground this evening.
Emphasizing the critical role of parents in nurturing reading habits, the Chief Minister urged families to take an active role in encouraging book reading.
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In his inaugural address, the Chief Minister acknowledged the excitement surrounding the annual book fair, noting that the people of the state eagerly await its arrival every year.
Considering the academic calendar of students, the book fair has been scheduled earlier this year.
“In earlier times, gifting books during events was a common practice. We must revive this tradition,” he said, urging everyone to adopt reading as a habit.
The Chief Minister further described the Agartala Book Fair 2025 as a “festival of intellect and creativity” and underscored the role of books as the foundation of knowledge.
Supported by the state government, the Agartala Book Fair 2025 is an annual highlight in Tripura’s cultural calendar.
This year, the fair will run for 13 days, concluding on January 14. The 43rd edition features 178 stalls, including 42 from other states. To ensure accessibility for all, free bus services have been arranged.
Confluence of writers, publishers, and bibliophiles
Speaking as the guest of honor, Minister for Industry and Commerce Santana Chakma described the 43rd Agartala Book Fair as a confluence of writers, publishers, and bibliophiles. She emphasized the timeless relevance of books, stating, “Books never grow old; they always feel new whenever you read them.” She also encouraged visitors to buy books and support the fair’s growth.
Renowned author Jaydeep Chattopadhyay from Kolkata addressed the gathering, while MLA Mina Rani Sarkar presided over the event, urging residents to participate in the fair.
Welcoming everyone, Dr. P.K. Chakraborty, Secretary of the Department of Information and Culture, highlighted the fair’s contribution to Tripura’s literary landscape and the decision to hold it earlier in January to accommodate students.
Events and Ni-Kshay Camp:
The book fair will host various engaging activities, including book launches, panel discussions, quizzes, and poetry sessions. The theme for this year is “Sarveshaam Shantir Bhavatu” (“May peace prevail for all”). The Chief Minister officially unveiled the fair’s souvenir and inaugurated theme songs in Bengali and Kokborok to mark the occasion.
As part of the fair, the National Health Mission Tripura has set up a Ni-Kshay camp to identify and treat tuberculosis (TB). Chief Minister Saha formally inaugurated the camp and released the November edition of the health newsletter.
Distinguished Attendees:
The inaugural ceremony was graced by several dignitaries, including Deputy Speaker of the Tripura Legislative Assembly Ram Prasad Pal, Mayor of Agartala Municipal Corporation and MLA Dipak Majumdar, Chairman of the West Tripura Zilla Parishad Balai Goswami, Director of the Department of Information and Culture Bimbisaar Bhattacharya, and Vice Chairman of the State Cultural Advisory Committee Subrata Chakraborty. After the ceremony, the Chief Minister and other guests toured the fair.
Fair Timings:
The Agartala Book Fair 2025 will be open from 2:30 pm to 9:00 pm on regular days and from 2:00 pm to 9:30 pm on holidays.
