‘India Losing Reading Habit’: CMD Upendrra Rai Urges Intellectual Revival

Upendrra Rai, Chairman and Managing Director of Bharat Express News Network, delivered a compelling address at the inauguration of the Kailash Gautam Memorial Library at Kashi Prasad Singh Intermediate College in Prayagraj. The speech presented a sharp critique of declining reading habits and their impact on intellectual vitality.

Addressing students as the chief guest, CMD Upendrra Rai emphasised that a nation once regarded as a global knowledge leader now faces a concerning erosion in reading culture.

The address highlighted the urgent need to restore intellectual engagement through books.

CMD Upendrra Rai illustrated the value of knowledge by recounting an anecdote from the life of Julius Caesar.

During a violent sea storm, Caesar reportedly ordered the disposal of gold and silver to save weight but safeguarded books. The reasoning reflected a belief that knowledge enables future wealth creation.

CMD Upendrra Rai further cited global figures such as Mark Zuckerberg, Bill Gates, and Elon Musk. The address noted that these leaders dedicate substantial time exclusively to reading despite vast resources.

The comparison underscored a stark contrast with declining reading enthusiasm in India.

The address expressed concern that limited intellectual pursuit contributes to a shortage of global academic recognition, including Nobel achievements.

CMD Upendrra Rai linked this trend to weakening educational depth and mental discipline.

The concluding remarks drew attention to an overreliance on historical pride without adequate focus on future-oriented thinking.

CMD Upendrra Rai urged students to utilise the library not merely for examinations but for intellectual expansion and global competitiveness.

The address reinforced the indispensable role of books in shaping informed, capable, and forward-looking individuals.

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