Prioritize reading over social media, says AP Creative and Cultural Committee chief to youth

Andhra Pradesh State Creative and Cultural Committee Chairman P. Tejaswi on Wednesday released a book authored by a student at PB Siddhartha Arts and Science College in Vijayawada.

Literature has the power to influence generations and the written word plays a vital role in building a better society, said P. Tejaswi, Chairman, Andhra Pradesh State Creative and Cultural Committee.

She was speaking after unveiling Nachchite Malli Kalustana (If You Like It, We Will Meet Again), a collection of short stories by R. Sravanthi, B.Sc. student of PB Siddhartha Arts and Science College, on Wednesday.

Describing books as “an amazing technology comparable to a time machine”, Ms Tejaswi emphasized the importance of reading. She noted that Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates reads about 50 books a year, while entrepreneur Elon Musk’s habit of reading nearly 10 hours a day has helped him excel in technology.

She urged young people to reduce their addiction to social media and urged them to spend more time reading and developing new ideas. Rather than seeking to migrate abroad in search of opportunities, India should strive to become a country that attracts talent from around the world, she said.

Ms. Tejaswi said the state government has introduced reforms to give greater recognition to young achievers through the Ugadi Awards.

Nimmagadda Lalitha Prasad, convener of the committee, received the first copy of the book, congratulated the student and presented her with a cash prize of ₹10,000.

B.Sc. Chemistry student Bhuvanasri reviewed the collection. Principal Meka Ramesh, Dean Rajesh C. Jampala, Librarian Vanisri and the author also addressed the gathering.

Published – 29 Jul 2026 21:15 IST