BOMDILA, 14 Jul: Around 100 students participated in an awareness programme and an essay writing competition on the theme ‘Importance of reading in students’ life’, organised at the government middle school here by the West Kameng district library on Friday as part of the National Reading Month.
During the programme, District Library & Information Officer (DLIO) Lobom Tamin delivered a lecture on the significance of cultivating the reading habit and the numerous benefits reading brings to one’s life.
“In today’s digital age, with the advent of IT and mobile phones, the younger generation is gradually losing interest in reading. While it has become incredibly easy to search and find information within seconds on the internet, it is essential to recognise that not everything available online is accurate or reliable,” he said.
Tamin added that the internet can serve as a useful reference tool, “but when it comes to in-depth study and comprehensive understanding, there is no substitute for books.”
“The use of mobile phones is affecting our concentration power as our brains try to function on various notifications and visuals simultaneously. In the case of books, however, the situation is vice versa,” he said.
The DLIO added that it is conjectured that the decline in reading habit among students “could be one of the reasons behind the decreasing pass percentage in recent years.”
“Reading not only enhances knowledge and expands vocabulary but also improves critical thinking, creativity, and analytical skills. Moreover, it opens up new worlds, broadens perspectives, and fosters a lifelong love for learning,” he said.
The library awarded cash prizes, certificates and free membership to the top three winners of the essay writing competition. (DIPRO)
