New Delhi, February 10, 2024: The 52nd edition of the New Delhi World Book Fair (NDWBF) commenced today with Hon. Minister Dharmendra Pradhan officiating the opening ceremony. Celebrating India’s vibrant linguistic diversity and rich literary traditions, NDWBF 2024 promises to be a captivating fusion of literature, cultural expressions, and knowledge exchange.
Returning to the esteemed Pragati Maidan venue from February 10 to 18, 2024, the fair is jointly organized by the National Book Trust and the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO). This year’s theme, ‘Multilingual India: A Living Tradition,’ underscores the country’s dynamic linguistic landscape. Doors are open to visitors daily from 11 am to 8 pm.
In a gesture to encourage participation, entry is complimentary for schoolchildren in uniform, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities. For other attendees, ticket prices are set at Rs 20 for adults and Rs 10 for children.
A notable highlight of NDWBF 2024 is the presence of Saudi Arabia as the guest of honor, with 25 delegates showcasing their literary heritage across 2000-plus stalls. Dr. Abdullatif Al-Wasel, publishing general manager of the Saudi Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission, expressed the significance of this participation in bolstering bilateral ties, especially following Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to New Delhi in 2019 and subsequent cultural agreements.
Additionally, the Sahitya Akademi has curated a series of programs focusing on India’s indigenous languages. From February 11 to 17, distinguished speakers representing Punjabi, Hindi, Urdu, Assamese, Maithili, Santhali, and Sindhi will share their insights and experiences at Lekhak Manch (Hall 2) and Bal Mandap (Hall 3) of Pragati Maidan.
As a cornerstone event in the publishing world for the past five decades, NDWBF continues to draw international acclaim. The 2024 edition, housed in newly constructed Halls 1-5 at Pragati Maidan, reaffirms its status as a vital platform for literary exchange and cultural dialogue.
Organized by the National Book Trust, India, under the Ministry of Education, Government of India, and co-hosted by ITPO under the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, NDWBF 2024 promises to be a stimulating celebration of literature and learning for all attendees.