Sindh CM calls on youth to develop reading habits on World Book Day

KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has underscored the importance of books, languages and copyright protection in messages issued on the occasion of World Book and Copyright Day, World English Language Day and World Spanish Language Day.

According to a statement issued from the Chief Minister House, Shah said books continue to serve as a basic source of knowledge, awareness and intellectual development. He said reading has an important role in improving creative and cognitive abilities.

The chief minister said encouraging a reading culture among young people is an urgent need, adding that books help create meaningful links across generations and cultures. He said the observance of World Book Day is intended to promote interest in reading and support educational and literary activity.

Focus on literature and language

Shah said the Sindh government is working to promote Urdu and Sindhi literature at the international level. He said Sindhi books are an important record of the province’s history, culture and identity, and added that preserving them remains one of the government’s priorities.

In his message, the chief minister also referred to the significance of language observances marked on the same day, highlighting the role of linguistic and literary traditions in broadening knowledge and cultural understanding.

He said books are not only a means of learning but also a way to strengthen intellectual awareness in society. He linked reading with the development of imagination and mental growth, and stressed the need to bring younger generations closer to books.

Copyright protection highlighted

Murad Ali Shah also stressed the importance of awareness about copyright, saying the protection of creators’ rights is necessary for social progress. He said safeguarding the rights of writers and other creators is essential in supporting a healthy intellectual and cultural environment.

The statement said the chief minister’s messages were issued to mark World Book and Copyright Day as well as World English Language Day and World Spanish Language Day. In this context, he reiterated that literature, language and the protection of creative work all have an important place in educational and social development.

Shah said books remain central to the spread of knowledge and awareness, while literary preservation and copyright protection are necessary to sustain cultural heritage and encourage creativity. He also renewed emphasis on promoting reading habits among youth as part of broader efforts to strengthen educational and literary engagement.