Srinagar, July 16: Stressing the transformative power of reading, National Council for Promotion of Urdu Language (NCPUL) Director Dr. Shams Iqbal said that placing a book in the hands of every young person can change destinies, nurture informed minds and build responsible citizens.

Speaking at a literary programme aimed at promoting reading culture among youth, Dr. Iqbal said that books are not merely a source of knowledge but powerful instruments for character building, critical thinking and social transformation.
"A book in every young hand can change destiny and build better citizens," he said, urging educational institutions, parents and society to encourage reading as a lifelong habit.
He expressed concern over the declining reading culture in the digital age, observing that excessive dependence on mobile phones and social media has distanced many young people from books. While technology has made information easily accessible, he said, it cannot replace the depth of understanding, imagination and intellectual discipline that reading books provides.
Dr. Iqbal stressed that a strong reading habit enables young people to develop analytical thinking, creativity and moral values while helping them make informed decisions in life. He said nations that invest in libraries, literature and education create generations capable of leading social and economic progress.
Highlighting the role of the National Council for Promotion of Urdu Language, he said the organisation is committed to promoting Urdu literature, supporting writers and publishers, and making quality books accessible to students and readers across the country.
He also called for organising more book fairs, literary festivals, reading campaigns and library initiatives to revive interest in books among children and youth. Educational institutions, he said, should create an environment where reading becomes an integral part of students' daily lives rather than being confined to academic requirements.
Dr. Iqbal noted that literature plays a crucial role in preserving culture, promoting communal harmony and strengthening national integration. He urged young people to read across disciplines, including literature, history, science and philosophy, to broaden their perspectives and contribute meaningfully to society.
The participants appreciated the emphasis on reading culture and agreed that encouraging young minds to engage with books is essential for building an informed, progressive and compassionate society. They expressed hope that such initiatives would inspire more young people to rediscover the joy of reading and learning.