The Baloch Students Action Committee (BSAC) has said that books are central to intellectual and cognitive development, marking World Book Day with a call to promote reading culture.
In a statement, the group’s central spokesperson said books remain the foundation of progress, adding that nations which advanced historically did so by placing knowledge and reading at the centre of their development.
He said books are among the most effective sources of awareness and understanding, noting that societies which maintained a strong connection with reading became more conscious and developed over time.
Referring to historical trends, he said dominant powers have long used books to promote their own narratives, while during colonial periods, local centres of learning and libraries were often targeted in efforts to weaken indigenous societies intellectually.
The spokesperson said that despite global advancements in knowledge and research, the decline in reading habits was a matter of concern, adding that the struggle against ignorance “begins with books” and that writers and intellectuals play a key role in shaping social thought.
In the context of Balochistan, he said the culture of reading appeared to be weakening, leading to a growing disconnect among young people from their history, culture and identity.
However, he noted that many young people continue to show strong interest in books, actively engaging in reading and participating in intellectual activities.
The organisation dedicated World Book Day to what it described as “conscious and knowledge-seeking youth” in Balochistan, saying they could play a role in driving future intellectual and social change.