IMPHAL, Nov 25: A state level debating competition commemorating the 4th Foundation day of Kamini Devi Memorial Library and THAU Information Centre was held at the THAU ground.
The competition was held under the theme “The multifaceted activities adopted by various civil societies, Manipur in the name of welfare of the people do more harm than good”.
The debating competition had competitors from various districts of the state.
Social scientist, Dhanabir Laisharm acted as the Speaker while Associate Professor Political Science, GP Women College, Th Ranibala, Assistant General Manager, Manipur state co-operative Bank, Ch Birchandra sat as the jury members.
Mayanglambam Sureshkumar Singh, Kakching Khunou Hijam Maning Leikai, Khundarkpam Ranijit Singh, Khangabok Khullakpam Leikai, Selish Oinam, Singjammei Chingamathak Pisum Leirak received the first, second and third prizes accordingly.
Speaking to media persons, a KTML member said a number of books on various topics have been made available in the library, however the number of readers are unimpressive.
The library was established to promote education system and to motivate the youths into reading books and save them from turning towards drugs and alcohol.
He said however, due to the failure of the public to utilise the books made available in the library, the books will be renting out so as to encourage the reading habits amongst the people of the state.
He said students from below the poverty line can also asked the library for books that they cannot afford which the library will allow him to rent for free.
Ex-MLA, Okram Joy said libraries take an important role in shaping the educational system of a society.
The library system was introduced in the state since before the 2nd World War, however there has been not much improvement till date, he said.
He continued that the reading habit amongst the youth of the state is almost negligible.
He further dwelt on the importance of debating competition in a democratic country like India.