Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Jagadish Kharel, has said that the government is committed to delivering a sense of good governance while heading toward elections. Speaking at the “Kitab Jatra” event organized by Kitab Yatra Foundation at Nepal Police Club, Minister Kharel emphasized the collective responsibility to guide the nation toward positive transformation.
“We are in government during a sensitive time. The responsibility to move the country forward lies on everyone’s shoulders. The government is committed to ensuring good governance while conducting elections,” he said.
Praising the Kitab Jatra initiative, he stated that the event has significantly contributed to promoting reading culture. He stressed that no one should be deprived of education, calling it the guiding light that dispels darkness. He urged everyone to embrace reading culture at every stage of life.
The foundation has been organizing Kitab Jatra for seven consecutive years, aiming to promote language, literature, art, and culture.
Festival Director Rishiram Adhikari said the program features deep discussions on social issues, traditional values, political contexts, and the path to a bright future. “Words do not tire, but people do. Stories continue to move forward—and Kitab Jatra represents those stories,” he said, adding that the initiative is also being taken abroad to uplift the level of education and awareness.
This year’s festival features over two dozen discussion sessions, interactive programs, and musical performances. Writers, politicians, artists, editors, and journalists from Nepal and abroad are participating. The festival includes exhibitions, Mithila art live painting, food stalls, musical shows, and traditional dances such as Chaliya, Jijiya, and Maruni.
The opening ceremony began with Swasti Vachan, followed by Lakhe dance, poetry recitation by actor Nazir Hussain, and an AI literature showcase.
Notable speakers include authors Neelam Karki Niharika, Mohan Mainali, Nawaraj Lamsal, Subin Bhattarai, journalist Tikaram Yatri, banker Anil Keshari Shah, Rajendra Baniya, Sanjay Silwal Gupta, Rajesh Hamal, and many others.
On the occasion of the festival, Kitab Yatra Foundation will honor two personalities with the Prem Sahitya Samman and Best Seller Award, each carrying a prize of NPR 111,111.
About the Author
