Second State-level Publishers Conference in city

Mysuru: Observing that the Government must do more for promotion of Kannada books and publications, renowned Publisher of the city, T.S. Chayapathi of Talukina Venkannaiah Smaraka Granthamaale, who is also the Chairman of the Second State-level Publishers Conference, appealed  the Government to allot a minimum of Rs.10 crore for the single window scheme of the Libraries Department.

He was delivering the presidential address of the day-long Second State-level Publishers Conference organised by Kannada Book Authority (KBA) at Maharaja’s College Centenary Hall here this morning.

Pointing out that the publishing industry has made huge progress using the latest technology and techniques, Chayapathi regretted that students nowadays seem to be more dependent on online mode of learning rather than reading or referring books.

Bemoaning that the Book Authority is purchasing only seven books of each Publisher, Chayapathi said that the Authority should give preference for quality books in procurements.

Maintaining that the launching of single window scheme has helped publication of books on a large-scale, Chayapathi however said that at the same time, it is regretful to note that the publishers are failing to publicise or advertise their publications.

Observing that one hardly sees any advertisement in newspapers on publication of books, he said that, however, digital publishing has come to the fore these days, which can cut costs.

Digital library concept

Pointing out that the digital library concept is gaining popularity these days, he said that according to the Libraries Department Director, Karnataka stands first in digitalisation of Libraries.

Recalling his journey in the field of publication, Chayapathi said that just as the saying ‘For every successful man, there is a woman behind,’ his wife always came for his support in his work.

Contending that it is vital for a Publisher to have promotional ability, he said that this quality, coupled with his vast experience, has made him what he is today.

Kannada Book Authority Chairman Dr. Nandeesh Hanche, in his address, said that the Government has sanctioned Rs.1.5 crore for ‘Abhijatha Kannada Sahitya Kalyana Yojane’. But it is not an easy task to get funds released by the bureaucracy, he noted.

Pointing out that an e-Book initiative has been launched for Kannada literary works, he said that the Authority has planned to create a new website where Publishers can upload their books for reaching out to the readers.

A total of 165 Publishers and writers from across the State attended this event, while the organisers had expected that about 500 would turn up. The event featured lectures on the challenges and opportunities  and other related issues concerning the Publishing industry.

Suttur Mutt Seer Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Swamiji graced the occasion.

In-Charge Mayor Sunanda Palanetra, Karnataka Publishers Association President Prakash Kambathalli, Kannada Book Authority Member Dr. R.B. Gadigemath, Administrative Officer Kiran Singh and others were present. Meanwhile, the week-long Kannada Book Mela, organised by the Authority will conclude today.