Jashore: Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury emphasized today the importance of adopting modern technology-based initiatives to safeguard the country’s ancient books, manuscripts, and cultural heritage. ‘Cultural institutions should be made more effective and people-oriented to engage the young generation with history, literature, and culture,’ he stated during an exchange-of-views meeting, where he served as the chief guest following his visit to the district Shilpakala Academy and the Jessore Institute Public Library in Jashore.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Nitai Roy Chowdhury had earlier visited several traditional cultural institutions in Jashore, engaging in discussions with their officials and stakeholders. During his visit, he explored the ongoing activities, infrastructure conditions, and historical significance of these institutions. He expressed satisfaction after inspecting the rare manuscripts, ancient scripts, and valuable book collections preserved at the library, describing them as invaluable assets of the nation’s history and intellectual heritage.
Later, at a discussion meeting attended by local cultural personalities, distinguished citizens, and relevant officials, the speakers underscored the potential, limitations, and various challenges faced by these institutions. They called for effective government support to expand cultural activities, modernize infrastructure, and preserve heritage.
The minister acknowledged Jashore as a rich hub of Bangladesh’s art, literature, and culture, emphasizing that the region’s cultural heritage is not only a local asset but also a source of national pride. He assured that the government is committed to preserving, developing, and promoting this heritage globally. He also guaranteed that necessary measures would be implemented to address the problems and challenges faced by these institutions, with the Ministry of Cultural Affairs continuing to provide overall support for infrastructure development, preservation of rare collections, and expansion of cultural activities.
Senior district administration officials, officers of the district Shilpakala Academy, members of the governing body of the Jessore Institute Public Library, and local cultural personalities were present at the meeting.