Staff Reporter 

Itanagar, Oct 21: Education, RWD and Public Libraries Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona today inaugurated the New Age Learning Centre (CALC) at the State Central Library, Itanagar, reaffirming the government’s commitment to promote a culture of reading and digital learning in Arunachal Pradesh.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister expressed concern that the people of the state, particularly the younger generation, have yet to fully realise the importance and value of reading books and utilising libraries.
“We, the people of Arunachal Pradesh, still do not understand the true value of books and libraries,” he remarked, adding that libraries are vital centres of learning and personal growth.
Appreciating the Department of Public Libraries for initiating the innovative concept, the Minister said the government is always ready to support creative and meaningful ideas aimed at enhancing learning opportunities. “If there is a good idea, the government will definitely support it. But maintaining such centres is equally important,” he stressed.
Highlighting the poor state of many libraries across the state, especially at district and sub-divisional levels, Sona noted that most have become neglected assets due to declining public interest. “Libraries are among the most valuable assets of the government, but unfortunately, many remain unused. A library is a place where we can gain knowledge, and people must realise its importance,” he said. 
Encouraging the youth to develop a regular reading habit, Sona said that while e-books and digital platforms offer convenience, reading printed books provides a richer and more immersive experience.
Sharing his personal experience, the Minister added, “Many people approach me with requests for various developmental projects, but rarely does anyone come forward to seek improvement or development of a library.”
He urged people from all walks of life to recognise the library as a cornerstone of intellectual development and a key space for lifelong learning.
Speaking on the occasion, Secretary of Public Libraries, Mamata Riba, highlighted the shortage of officers, staff, and infrastructural facilities in the department, especially in the districts. She called for strengthening institutional support to make libraries more functional and attractive to the public.
Earlier, delivering the welcome address, Director of Public Libraries, Yanga Rigia Ete, said: “The NALC fosters an environment where learning is engaging and enjoyable. We are proud to dedicate this space to the youth and children of our state, providing a peaceful, modern environment for focused study. Many students have already started using the centre to prepare for various competitive exams.”
The NALC has transformed the library’s old, underutilized rooms into a vibrant reading and study area. Ete added, “To all learners—the NALC is dedicated to you. Read, explore, and never stop learning. This centre is not just a library, but a vibrant community hub for lifelong learning, creativity, and connection.”
The New Age Learning Centre (CALC) aims to blend traditional reading with modern digital learning tools, providing a space where students, researchers, and the general public can access both books and technology-driven educational resources.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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