Prime Minister to Inaugurate Book Fair and Present Ekushey Padak on February 26

Culture Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury confirmed this special schedule on Saturday, February 21, adding that all necessary preparations are being finalized. According to the official plan, the Prime Minister will preside over a morning ceremony in the capital to honor distinguished personalities with the Ekushey Padak for their outstanding contributions to various fields. Later in the afternoon, he will travel to the Bangla Academy and Suhrawardy Udyan premises to formally open the traditional Book Fair, which remains the most significant literary event in Bangladesh.

This edition of the book fair holds particular significance due to several unique factors and a supportive stance from the government. In a major show of support for the creative industry, the authorities have completely waived stall rents for all participating publishing houses to ease their financial burden. While the fair is starting later than its traditional February 1st date following the recent political transition, anticipation remains exceptionally high among writers, readers, and publishers alike. Security and logistical arrangements have been heightened to manage both high-profile events smoothly, and the rent waiver is expected to encourage a more vibrant participation from the literary community.