Thaindian News

New Delhi, June 15 (IANS) Concerned at the growing reduction in the numbers of book lovers, the government has taken up the challenge to revive the dying habit of book reading.

The union Culture Ministry Wednesday announced a pilot scheme of financial assistance for book fairs, exhibitions, participation in international book fairs and publishing events in an attempt to promote awareness about quality literature and inculcate the habit of reading, both among adults and children, said a ministry statement.

A ministry source said the popularisation of Indian culture is the objective of the pilot scheme, which would create a climate in which a vast number of people would buy and read books.

The scheme will benefit not-for-profit organizations, including societies, trusts, universities, publishers and book trade associations.

The scheme is, however, not meant for organizations or institutions that are functioning as religious institutions or as schools and colleges, he said.

Grants for specific projects shall be restricted to 75 per cent of the expenditure, subject to a maximum of Rs.10 lakh per event. The grant will be released in two instalments of 75 percent and 25 percent.

All payments will be made only through electronic transfers, he added.