Neyveli: In a significant cultural announcement, Cuddalore District Collector and 2016 batch IAS officer Sibi Adithya Senthil Kumar revealed that one of the biggest libraries in Tamil Nadu will be established in Cuddalore district by next year. The announcement was made during the fourth day of the Neyveli Book Fair 2025, held at the Lignite Hall on July 7.
The announcement was met with applause from students, teachers, and members of the public who had gathered at the ongoing 24th edition of the Neyveli Book Fair, organized annually by NLC India Limited (NLCIL).
The Neyveli Book Fair 2025 filled with shelves full of stories, opened its doors to curious readers filled with enthusiasm and energy. From young minds to lifelong learners, Day 1 has already set the tone for ten days of literary joy!#UnfoldingThePages #NeyveliBookFair2025… pic.twitter.com/KbE9lyKuli
— NLC India Limited (Official) (@nlcindialimited) July 5, 2025
Tamil Nadu Government Sanctions Major Library Project
Speaking at the glittering evening function, Collector Sibi Adithya expressed pride in NLCIL’s role in organizing the book fair for 24 consecutive years, calling it a symbol of community progress through knowledge. He said, “The Tamil Nadu government has sanctioned a major library in Cuddalore. By next year, the district will have one of the largest libraries in the state.”
He praised NLCIL’s collaboration with the District Administration in implementing multiple welfare initiatives and fostering a strong reading culture.
Books shaping Bharat!
— NLC India Limited (Official) (@nlcindialimited) July 7, 2025
The 24th Neyveli Book Fair was virtually launched by Hon’ble Union Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy, alongside NLCIL CMD Shri Prasanna Kumar Motupalli.
He praised NLCIL’s vision in nurturing young minds—calling it a bold stride towards #ViksitBharat2047.
190+… pic.twitter.com/2MqKluC7Zn
Literary and Cultural Highlights Mark the Fourth Day
The event was presided over by M. Venkatachalam, Director (Power), NLCIL, who in his address stressed the importance of knowledge in human evolution and history. Quoting Chanakya’s Arthasastra, he remarked, “Knowledge is the most powerful tool for any individual.” He encouraged students to nurture reading habits from a young age.
Widespread Student Participation and Literary Energy
The book fair, which opened on July 4, 2025, witnessed enthusiastic participation from students across towns and villages in Cuddalore district, teachers, employees of NLCIL, and the general public. The fair continues to be a celebration of books, culture, and community engagement.
The inaugural function was held virtually in conjunction with the International Conference on Sustainable and Responsible Mining in Hyderabad, with Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy officiating. In his message, he lauded NLCIL for its efforts in promoting reading habits and contributing to India’s development goals under the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.
Day 2 witnessed a warm welcome to dignitaries and enthusiastic participation from employees, families, and volunteers. With smiles, greetings, and the spirit of knowledge sharing, the fair continued to bring the community together in celebration.
— NLC India Limited (Official) (@nlcindialimited) July 7, 2025
Let the joy of reading grow!… pic.twitter.com/FTE8CjooHG
Collector’s Library Announcement: A Cultural Milestone for Cuddalore
The Collector’s announcement marks a major step toward enhancing literary infrastructure in the region. The proposed library is expected to serve as a hub for students, researchers, and the public, fostering knowledge-sharing, digital literacy, and access to diverse reading resources.
With NLCIL’s consistent efforts in organizing one of the longest-running book fairs in the state, and the state government’s commitment to building new knowledge spaces, Cuddalore is poised to become a regional cultural and intellectual center.
Hon’ble Justice R. Subramanian emphasised the enduring value of books in today’s digital age, reminding the audience that “Books keep the mind active – in a world dominated by screens, we must not overlook the power of reading.”
— NLC India Limited (Official) (@nlcindialimited) July 7, 2025
His words resonated with readers of all ages and… pic.twitter.com/oyBuA88cCw
About NLC India Limited
NLC India Limited is a Navratna Public Sector Undertaking under the administrative control of the Ministry of Coal, Government of India. Established in 1956, the company is headquartered in Neyveli, Tamil Nadu. It is a pioneer in lignite mining and thermal power generation in the country.
