J&K: LG Manoj Sinha flags off Reading Marathon at Chinar Book Festival
Srinagar, July 25
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday flagged off the Reading Marathon organised as part of the Chinar Book Festival on the banks of the Dal Lake, with thousands of students from colleges and universities across the Union Territory participating in the unique event promoting reading, fitness and environmental awareness.
Organised by the National Book Trust, the marathon formed part of the Chinar Book Festival and Education Week celebrations, marking six years of the National Education Policy (NEP).
Participants carried banners and placards bearing messages such as "Say No to Drugs, Yes to Books," highlighting the campaign's focus on encouraging reading among the youth.
Sharing pictures from the event on X, Sinha said the initiative blended education with physical fitness while encouraging young people to take responsibility for protecting nature.
"Today at the banks of Dal Lake, flagged-off the Reading Marathon, a unique celebration of knowledge, fitness, and responsibility towards nature. Thousands of young readers and runners from colleges & universities of Jammu and Kashmir joined this inspiring event organised by National Book Trust as part of Chinar Book Festival. The Reading Marathon, part of Education Week, marks six successful years of the National Education Policy. It shows that education must go beyond classrooms. With the motto 'Run for a Green Future', the reading marathon reminds us that just as knowledge requires discipline, protecting the mother nature demands sustained effort. I urge every participant to take three resolutions -- Make reading a daily habit, dedicate themselves to environmental conservation and commit to bringing positive change in the society," he wrote on X.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and young readers, who ran along the scenic Dal Lake carrying messages promoting literacy, environmental conservation and a drug-free society.
The Reading Marathon was organised with the theme "Run for a Green Future," combining sport and fitness with the broader objectives of fostering reading habits, raising awareness about environmental protection and encouraging social responsibility among the youth.
The Chinar Book Festival is being organised by the National Book Trust to promote a culture of reading and learning in Jammu and Kashmir, with the Reading Marathon emerging as one of its key public engagement activities this year.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Finally, some good news from J&K! The combination of reading, running, and environmental protection is exactly what young India needs. The 'Say No to Drugs, Yes to Books' message is timely. I just wish more government-supported events like this were held throughout the year, not just during Education Week. But a great start nonetheless! 🏃♂️📖
A unique concept! Reading marathon on the banks of Dal Lake - it's genuinely innovative. But honestly, I hope this isn't just a photo-op for politicians. The real test will be whether these students actually develop reading habits and environmental consciousness beyond the event. Still, any step to encourage reading in today's TikTok era is welcome. 👍
This is a beautiful initiative! The NEP completing six years and celebrating with such a community-driven event is inspiring. I particularly like the slogan 'Run for a Green Future'. In Kashmir's serene setting, this message has even more power. Would love to see similar 'Reading Marathons' organised in other states too. Well done, National Book Trust! 👏📚🌏
It's heartening to see thousands of students participating in a reading marathon in Kashmir. The region's youth often get overshadowed by negative news - this shows their enthusiasm for education and environmental causes. The three resolutions (daily reading, environmental conservation, societal change) are exactly what we need as a nation. Respect to LG Sinha for backing this. 🙏
Reading marathon is a fantastic
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