The National Book Trust (NBT) of India is poised to launch a publishing series entitled ‘Corona Studies Series’. This move is significant in equipping the Indian populace, of all ages, with relevant and comprehensive understanding of diverse aspects of the global pandemic: Corona. The series aims to go beyond merely providing medical information, delving into various subjects ranging from psychological and social impact to economic implications. The NBT has also initiated a scheme to offer select bestsellers for free online reading, under the campaign ‘#StayHomeIndiaWithBooks’ to encourage staying indoors during this health crisis.
The Corona Studies Series: An Overview
The Corona Studies Series intends to engage readers in a variety of subjects pertinent to the pandemic. The series will entail affordably priced books in multiple Indian languages, thus making it accessible to a wider audience base. The primary objective is to cater to the post-Corona readership requirements across different demographics.
Content and Themes of the Series
The to-be-published series will cover a range of topics including psycho-social implications of the pandemic. It is also set to explore how the pandemic and induced lockdown have influenced art, literature, folklore, and science/health awareness. In addition, the series will delve into economic and sociological aspects, offering a comprehensive analysis of the pandemic’s impact on these realms.
#StayHomeIndiaWithBooks Initiative
In conjunction with the book series, the NBT has undertaken the ‘#StayHomeIndiaWithBooks’ initiative. As part of this program, the NBT offers pdf versions of some selected and bestselling books for free download. The objective of this initiative is to encourage individuals to stay home and limit their outdoor exposure, thereby aiding in the containment of the COVID-19 virus spread.
About the National Book Trust
The NBT is an apex body established by the Government of India’s Department of Higher Education and Ministry of Human Resource Development in 1957. The primary goals of the NBT are to produce high-quality literature in English, Hindi, and other Indian languages. It aims to make this literature available to the public at moderate prices. Furthermore, the NBT organizes book catalogues, arranges book fairs/exhibitions and seminars, and takes all necessary steps to encourage readership and foster a book-minded culture among the populace.
By launching the Corona Studies Series and other initiatives, the NBT is leading efforts to provide accurate information and raise awareness about the pandemic. These actions are critical for helping individuals and communities navigate these uncertain times and prepare for the post-Corona era. As the saying goes, knowledge is power, and through these books, the NBT is empowering the readers and encouraging a more informed response to the crisis.
(Source: PIB)