Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan will formally inaugurate the State-level celebrations to mark the National Reading Day at the Kanakakkunnu Palace on June 19.The observance is being organised under the aegis of the P.N. Panicker Vigyan Vikas Kendra in memory of P.N. Panicker. Extensive programmes have been arranged as part of the celebrations.Addressing a media conference here on Tuesday, General Education Minister N. Samsudheen said the primary objective of the celebration is to promote reading and inspire the younger generation to develop reading habits.As part of the campaign, one lakh reading gatherings will be organised in public spaces across the country, including police stations, railway stations, bus stands and other public spaces. Reading Day pledges will be administered among students, with special emphasis on anti-drug awareness.Teachers who have received national-level recognition will be honoured through a ‘Guru Vandanam’ programme as part of the campaign.The month-long observance will feature a variety of programmes, including reading quiz competition, poetry recitation, essay writing, word competitions, drawing contests, mass runs, discussion forums, seminars and Reading Day processions.Moreover, schools will set up P.N. Panicker reading corners. Awareness programmes against alcohol and drug abuse, street plays, book discussions and interactions with literary personalities will also be organised. Published - June 16, 2026 08:37 pm IST