New Delhi, 10 January (H.S.): Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan declared on Saturday that India has emerged as the world's third-largest publishing hub, emphasizing books as humanity's greatest companions even in the digital age while inaugurating the 53rd New Delhi World Book Fair at Bharat Mandapam.

Running from January 10 to 18, the fair features over 1,000 publishers from more than 35 countries, 3,000 stalls, and 600 literary and cultural events. For the first time, entry remains completely free, enabling millions of readers, students, and families to participate without fees.

Thematic Focus Unveiled

This year's theme, Indian Military History - Valour & Wisdom @75, honors 75 years of independence by celebrating the armed forces' courage, sacrifices, and nation-building contributions. The theme pavilion showcases over 500 books on military history, model exhibitions, panel discussions on the 1971 war and Kargil conflict, and interactions with war heroes.

Minister's Visionary Address

Pradhan invoked the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita's reverence for knowledge as most sacred, positioning the fair as a festival of ideas exchange and dialogue that strengthens patriotism alongside reading culture. He hailed the event as a grand confluence of knowledge, thoughts, and culture.

Visitor Logistics

Open daily from 11 AM to 8 PM, access points include Gate 10 (directly linked to Pragati Maidan Metro), Gates 3 and 4 (Bhairon Road), and Gate 6 (Mathura Road). Parking facilities span Bharat Mandapam basements B1 and B2 plus open areas near Bhairon Road.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar