Salem Book Fair inaugurated by Tourism minister

Tamil Nadu’s Minister for Tourism, R. Rajendran, inaugurated the much-anticipated Salem Book Fair on Friday evening near the New Bus Stand at the Corporation Grounds.
Speaking at the event, the minister highlighted the government’s initiatives to foster a reading culture across the state, emphasizing the transformative power of books. He quoted the adage, "When libraries open, prisons close," underscoring the societal impact of reading and education. He also lauded the state’s efforts to establish new libraries under the leadership of the Deputy Chief Minister. Drawing inspiration from Tamil literary and social reform icons, he noted how leaders like Periyar, Mahatma Gandhi, and Anna instilled the importance of books and knowledge in their teachings and actions.
The minister shared insights from the success of the 2023 Salem Book Fair, where books worth Rs. 2.12 crores were sold, with over 1,82,393 books purchased by school and college students as well as the general public. "This year, with over 200 stalls set up in collaboration with the South India Booksellers and Publishers Association (BAPASI), the fair promises to be even bigger," he added.
Running from November 29 to December 9, the Salem Book Fair will host daily seminars, workshops, cultural programs, and lectures from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. The minister urged students, youth, and the public to take advantage of this literary fest.
Following the inauguration, motivational speaker Madurai Ramakrishnan delivered a keynote address titled “ Karaiyum Kagithangal (Dissolving in Paper)'.
The event witnessed the presence of key dignitaries, including District Collector Dr. R. Brinda Devi, Salem Mayor A. Ramachandran; Salem West MLA R. Arul, Corporation Commissioner Ranjith Singh and numerous officials and public representatives.