By Amrit Pal Sidhu
Chandigarh, October 12, 2026:
T.S. Central State Library, Sector 17, Chandigarh, has launched a week-long Library Orientation Week-cum-Nasha Mukt Bharat Awareness Programme in government schools across Chandigarh from October 12 to 16, 2026.
The initiative aims to promote reading habits among schoolchildren, familiarise them with library resources and services, and sensitise them to the harmful effects of substance abuse. The programme commenced today with 300 children at Government Senior Secondary School, Sector 10, Chandigarh.
Mrs. Neelam Bansal, Librarian Incharge, T.S. Central State Library, was also present on the occasion and addressed the audience. She encouraged students to make effective use of library resources for learning, personal growth and positive engagement.
Dr. Neeza Singh, Librarian, T.S. Central State Library, is organising the initiative as part of the library’s ongoing efforts to extend its services beyond the library premises and connect with young readers through educational and community outreach activities. In her interaction, she motivated the children to read books. Ms Pinky gave a brief about the T. S. Central State library.
There was an engaging awareness performance on ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat’ using puppets. The play entitled ‘Maut Ke Saudagar’ was presented by 16 children associated with Vriddhi NGO under the direction of theatre artist Mr. Subhasis Neogi. Through an interactive and creative storytelling approach, the performance conveyed the message of making healthy choices and staying away from drugs and other harmful substances.
Mrs. Pranita Biswas of Vriddhi NGO and Mr. Subhasis Neogi, theatre artist, were also present during the programme. The participation of children in the puppet performance added an interactive dimension to the awareness campaign and helped communicate its message in an engaging and accessible manner.
The Principal appreciated the initiative and thanked T.S. Central State Library for organising this meaningful programme for the benefit of students.
As part of this week-long initiative, 10 government schools in Chandigarh will be covered through library orientation and Nasha Mukt Bharat awareness activities. The programme seeks to strengthen the connection between schools and public libraries while encouraging children to embrace reading as a constructive and enriching habit.
Through this initiative, T.S. Central State Library reaffirms its commitment to promoting literacy, nurturing young minds and contributing to the vision of a drug-free society by combining the power of reading with creative awareness activities