The Language Department, Punjab, has been making continuous efforts to promote Punjabi language through a series of activities aimed at encouraging literature and book culture. In this regard, Jaswant Singh Zafar, director of the Language Department, Punjab, shared that a special scheme has been launched to promote reading culture — the ‘Book Matching Grant Scheme’. This scheme is specifically designed for schools, colleges, and rural libraries, encouraging institutions to purchase books of a certain value, against which they will receive books of equal value free of cost.
This initiative works on a cost-sharing basis, where a private entity, i.e. the Raja Rammohan Roy Library Foundation (RRRLF), which works under the Government of India, provides funds to states and union territories. These funds are then matched by the state government to develop, improve, and stock libraries with books in rural areas.
Dr Inderjeet Singh, Research Officer at the District Language Office, Amritsar, said that the primary objective of this scheme is to encourage students and readers to develop a habit of reading and to enrich libraries with quality literature.
“It aids in procuring books and reading materials, developing infrastructure (such as construction or repairs), purchasing furniture, computers, and peripheral equipment, as well as establishing mobile libraries,” he said. He added that this initiative will especially benefit libraries in rural areas and further expand the treasure of knowledge. He appealed to educational institutions and rural libraries in the district to make maximum use of this scheme of the Punjab Government. The scheme specifically supports the establishment of “Rural Book Deposit Centres” and “Mobile Library Services” to ensure access to books for disadvantaged populations in remote areas.
As per the process, institutions interested in purchasing books may submit a request letter on their official letterhead, signed by the head of the institution, at the District Language Office, Amritsar (District Administrative Complex, Room No. 301, Third Floor). Government libraries, government-aided libraries, and registered voluntary organisations (NGOs) providing public library services are eligible. He also informed that quality religious, literary, and historical books are available at the District Language Office, Amritsar, at special discounts.
