The New Delhi World Book Fair has begun. The nine-day event was inaugurated by President Pranab Mukherjee in New Delhi. Speaking on the occasion, Mr Mukherjee said, book fairs should remind people that country's history and traditions have always celebrated the argumentative Indians, not the intolerant one. The President admired the Delhi Book Fair for playing the twin role of being a cultural as well as a business hub for more than four decades. Mr Mukherjee said, it is an important initiative which helps spread reading habits and contributes to creating book culture within communities.

Noting that reading not only enriched knowledge, but helps people to get socially connected, the President said, no human society can develop in all its dimensions if it does not produce meaningful literature for its children and young leaders. He urged upon authors, publishers and government to do their utmost to promote the children's literature. He also appealed to parents and teachers to inculcate in children, the habit of reading at young age itself.

AIR correspondent reports, the theme this year is – “Kathasagara: Celebrating Children’s Literature”. About eleven hundred exhibitors from India and abroad will display books at around 1760 stalls and 210 stands. Eleven countries including France, Iran, Pakistan and Japan will be displaying books in the foreign pavilion. Entry ticket for adults will be of 20 rupees and ten for school children. Tickets can also be purchased at select Metro stations such as Rajiv Chowk, Dwarka and Noida City Centre.