Patna (Bihar) [India]: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, along with Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha, inaugurated the 40th annual Book Fair at Gandhi Maidan on Friday.
This year, the central highlight is the Bihar Land and Revenue Department’s section, featuring the printed copies of Kaithi Lipi, which include maps and figures of Bihar. The initiative is part of the state’s ongoing comprehensive land survey.
Theme and Focus
The theme of this year’s book fair, “Tree, Water, Life, and Protection of Environment,” underscores the urgent need for environmental conservation.
The Land and Revenue Department’s contributions aim to educate the public about Bihar’s land survey process, which seeks to modernize land records, resolve disputes, and enhance socio-economic development. The survey, started earlier this year, is expected to be completed across all districts by the end of 2025.
Officials Speak
Deepak Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary of the Land and Revenue Department, lauded the initiative:
“This is very innovative for us in this book fair, and it will help people understand the land survey and address their queries regarding it,” he said.
Director Priyadarshi echoed similar sentiments, highlighting how the book and accompanying services simplify access to land maps and survey assistance:
“This is something new in this fair, and the department brings it for the public. They can get maps of their land and receive support for the land survey,” he noted.
Public Services at the Fair
Book fair organiser Amit Jha emphasized the relevance of this year’s theme amid rising temperatures and climate concerns:
“The theme is very important, especially this year as the average summer temperature rose by 3-4 degrees. This is the time to take action,” he told ANI.
Jha also highlighted how the fair offers various services, such as issuing Ayushman cards and providing printed maps of Bihar:
“There are many schemes from different government departments. For instance, Ayushman Bharat cards can be made here, and anyone can come to the land revenue stall to print out a map of the state,” he explained.
He praised the Land and Revenue Department for their proactive approach, adding:
“We expect a huge public turnout at this counter.”
Event Details
The book fair began on December 6 and will continue until December 17, featuring attractions and services aimed at creating public awareness of government schemes and fostering environmental consciousness.