With mobile phones and social media taking up most of their time, many students are drifting away from books. In a region where some areas still face challenges in accessing educational resources, promoting reading becomes even more important. Books should reach every student, regardless of where they live.
Aadil Jahangir
Every year on April 23, people across the world celebrate World Book and Copyright Day, a day that reminds us of the power of books and the importance of respecting the work of authors. In Jammu and Kashmir, this day is observed with a special sense of connection, as the region has a long and rich tradition of learning, storytelling, and literary expression.
In the context of Jammu and Kashmir, the importance of this day becomes even clearer. For generations, knowledge in the region has been preserved through manuscripts, poetry, and scholarly works. From the quiet corners of old libraries to the growing academic institutions of today, books have always played a central role in shaping minds and preserving culture. Even in the present digital age, where information is available at our fingertips, the value of reading a book remains unmatched.
In colleges and schools across Jammu and Kashmir, World Book and Copyright Day is marked through different activities like seminars, discussions, and book exhibitions. These events are not just formalities; they create awareness among students about the importance of reading and help them understand the value of original ideas. Libraries, in particular, come alive on this day, reminding everyone that they are more than just rooms filled with books; they are spaces where ideas grow.
A meaningful programme in this regard was organised at Government Sheikh-ul-Alam Memorial Degree College, Budgam, under the guidance of its Principal, Dr Mohd Amin Malik. Speaking on the occasion, he highlighted the importance of celebrating World Book and Copyright Day, especially in the context of Jammu and Kashmir.
Dr Malik spoke about how books have always been a source of knowledge, awareness, and cultural preservation in the region. He encouraged students to develop a regular reading habit and to understand the importance of respecting intellectual property in today’s digital world.
The College Librarian, Ms Snowber Majeed, shared her thoughts on the occasion. She emphasised the role of libraries in shaping academic life and guiding students towards meaningful learning.
Ms Snowber explained that a good library is not just about having a large collection of books, but about how effectively those resources are used. She encouraged students to make the library a part of their daily routine and explore knowledge beyond their textbooks.
The programme saw active participation from students and staff, which added life to the event. Students showed genuine interest, took part in discussions, and reflected on their own reading habits. Such participation shows that, despite the distractions of modern technology, the connection between young minds and books is still alive.
The government has also been taking consistent steps to strengthen library infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir. Efforts such as upgrading library facilities, introducing digital resources, and supporting academic institutions reflect a growing recognition of the role libraries play in education and social development. These initiatives are helping to make knowledge more accessible, especially for students in remote and underserved areas.
At the same time, the day also brings attention to some important concerns. One of the biggest challenges today is the declining habit of reading among young people. With mobile phones and social media taking up most of their time, many students are slowly drifting away from books. This makes it even more important for institutions and teachers to create opportunities that bring students back to reading.
Another important aspect is copyright. In simple terms, it means respecting the hard work of authors and not misusing their content. In today’s world, where copying and sharing information is very easy, many people do not realise the importance of giving proper credit. Creating awareness about copyright is necessary so that students grow into responsible learners and professionals.
In a region like Jammu and Kashmir, where some areas still face challenges in accessing educational resources, promoting reading becomes even more important. Efforts like book donation drives, strengthening library facilities, and encouraging community reading can make a big difference. Books should reach every student, regardless of where they live.
World Book and Copyright Day is also a reminder that books have the power to connect people. They help us understand different perspectives, build empathy, and promote peace. In a diverse place like J&K, this role of literature becomes even more meaningful.
In the end, this day is not just about celebrating books; it is about valuing knowledge and the people who create and share it. Authors give us ideas, and readers keep those ideas alive. The celebration at Government Sheikh-ul-Alam Memorial Degree College, Budgam, is a small but important example of how such days can inspire students and strengthen the culture of reading.
As we observed this day, the message is simple: pick up a book, read a few pages, and take a moment to appreciate the effort behind it. Because in every book, there is not just information, but a world waiting to be discovered.
The writer is a library Professional posted at Government SAM Degree College, Budgam
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