Ekushey Book Fair extended

The on-going Ekushey Book Fair deadline has been extended until March 17, this year.

K M Khalid, the state minister for the ministry of cultural affairs, confirmed the matter to media on Sunday.

He said, “March 17 marks the birthday of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. So, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina extended the deadline of the book fair until March 17.”

KM Khalid said, “Initially, we were panicked about the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. At a stage, it was decided to postpone the fair. Later, the premier instructed to start the fair from February 15. Gradually, the publishers, sellers and concerned people urged to extend the deadline. We informed them that we would consider extending the fair if the Covid infection rate drops.”

During her inaugural speech, the premier hinted to extend the book fair until March 17, and the good news is that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina approved the deadline on Sunday morning, added the state minister.

The state minister also urged the book fair visitors to follow health guidelines when they are inside the fair premises.