In a recent hearing that underscores the Supreme Court’s commitment to enhancing educational resources across India, Justices Aniruddha Bose and PV Sanjay Kumar presided over a public interest litigation (PIL) aimed at establishing libraries in rural areas. This initiative is designed to foster reading habits among villagers, contributing to the holistic education and development of children. The case, brought forth by Advocate-on-Record Swati Jindal on January 3, has prompted the apex court to issue notices to all states and union territories, signaling a nationwide push for educational enrichment.
The Shift Towards Digital Libraries
During the proceedings, Additional Solicitor General Vikramjit Banerjee informed the Court of ongoing plans for the digitization of textbooks and the establishment of e-libraries. This announcement sparked a light-hearted yet poignant exchange between Justice Kumar and Banerjee, highlighting the evolving landscape of reading and education.
Justice Kumar, in a moment of levity, inquired,
“Mr ASG, the joy and feel of turning over a new page, where is it available on those digital readers – what do you call it? Tinder?”
Banerjee corrected the mix-up, clarifying that the device in question was a Kindle, not the dating app Tinder. Justice Kumar’s humorous confusion underscored a deeper dialogue about the sensory experiences associated with traditional reading, which digital formats might not replicate.
Justice Kumar remarked with a smile, acknowledging the correction.
“Yes. Tinder is a dating app,”
Banerjee seized the opportunity to advocate for the necessity of adapting to digital mediums, stating and emphasizing the importance of embracing new technologies in the realm of education and reading;
“Nowadays everything is conveniently available in e-form. Be it Economist, etc. The way we consumed traditionally has to change my lords,”
Embracing Change in the Digital Era
This exchange between the justices and the ASG reflects a broader conversation about the balance between digital innovation and the preservation of traditional reading experiences. As India moves towards greater digital accessibility, the Supreme Court’s discussion highlights the need to consider how these changes impact educational practices and cultural habits.
The push for rural libraries, coupled with the integration of digital resources, represents a dual approach to ensuring that education remains accessible and enriching for all segments of the population. By fostering a love for reading in both physical and digital formats, the initiative aims to bridge the gap between traditional and modern learning methods, ensuring that the joy of discovery through reading remains undiminished in the digital age.
