“Gen Z is not an alien species from another planet. They are shaped by us. If we want this generation to understand their abilities and responsibilities, we must provide them with 24-carat pure content— which is rooted in stories, culture and values,” said Mr. Yuvraj Malik, Director of the National Book Trust, India (NBT) and CEO of the New Delhi World Book Fair, speaking on the final day at the launch of children’s books and the “Vidya and Chhota Bheem – Big Green Mission” at the Theme Pavilion.
The launch event was attended by Prof. Milind Sudhakar Marathe, Chairperson of NBT India; Shri Kumar Vikram, Joint Director and Chief Editor and Mr. K. Ganesh, Director – Sustainability & Corporate Affairs, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd.
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Timeless Children’s Stories Relevant in Contemporary Contexts
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NBT’s project Aadhunik Kaljayi Bal Kahaniyaan, aimed at nurturing personality development, moral values and awareness of India’s literary and cultural heritage among children, was launched at the Theme Pavilion of NDWBF 2026. This series was created under the guidance of Chairperson Prof. Milind Sudhakar Marathe, Director Mr. Yuvraj Malik, and Chief Editor & Joint Director Mr. Kumar Vikram.
In its first phase, seven books have been published, presenting classic Hindi literature stories with colourful illustrations. The stories were carefully selected with consideration for the psychology and interests of children across different age groups. The first set includes: Mitthu by Premchand, Kunji by Acharya Shivpujan Sahay, Chamagadar ka Ras and Do Gauraiya by Bhisham Sahni, Saikil ki Sawari by Sudarshan, Bahadur by Amarkant, Sabse Sundar Ladki by Vishnu Prabhakar
The project saw notable contributions from Project Officer Dr. Lalit Kishore Mandora and Associate Editor Yogita Yadav.
Bilingual Children’s Books to Reach Every Child in Their Language
Six additional bilingual books enriching NBT India’s children’s library were also launched at the Theme Pavilion. Designed in two languages, these books aim to ensure that every child has access to reading material in their own language. The titles include: Sweet Colours of India, A Story About Water, Tail, A Helping Hand, Ravan Remedy, Amazing Octi, and Set Me Free. These books are intended for children from preschool up to age eight.
Launch of Vidya and Chhota Bheem – Big Green Mission
A special initiative by NBT India and Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd., conceived as a meaningful CSR program for children, was also launched. This publication is a comic adaptation of the original book Towards Responsible Use of Plastics, developed by Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. in collaboration with the Centre for Environment Education. The comic format makes sustainability concepts accessible and engaging for young readers.
A panel discussion on creating environmentally aware citizens and the role of families and schools was also held, featuring Mr. K. Ganesh, Mr. Ashish Jain, Dr. Shruti Sharma, Ms. Chhavi Mehta, and Ms. Harshnu Wadhwa. Mr. Prabhjot Sodhi, Senior Programme Director at the Centre for Environment Education and advisor to the Material Recycling Association of India and Earth Day Network India, was also present.
Books as a Medium to Revive Cultural Heritage
Speaking at the launch, Mr. Yuvraj Malik emphasized, “Storytelling has always been part of our tradition. Today’s new generation lacks stories to pass on. We cannot create a generation through social media feeds or Instagram reels. We must give them content rooted in values, culture, and stories. These books and book fairs are an attempt to revive our cultural heritage. No child should remain untouched by books. Every hand should hold a book, and every child should be able to read books of their choice in their mother tongue. Through content, we contribute to nation-building.”
Prof. Milind Sudhakar Marathe, Chairperson of NBT India, highlighted the importance of literature and storytelling in shaping the personality of the new generation and linked it to family and social responsibility. Chief Editor & Joint Director Mr. Kumar Vikram spoke on the continuing relevance of storytelling (kissa-goi) in contemporary times.
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