NEW DELHI: The Rudraprayag district administration on Saturday launched the “Donate One Book, Plant a Tree of Knowledge” campaign under the Harela initiative, with district magistrate Vishal Mishra inaugurating the drive by donating a book and calling on residents to contribute to building a shared repository of knowledge.Speaking at the launch, Mishra said that just as people plant trees and renew their commitment to nature during the Harela festival, donating books can help spread knowledge across the community.He said a single good book can change an individual’s life and serve as a source of inspiration and guidance for future generations, urging every resident to donate at least one book of their choice to help build a lasting repository of knowledge for the district.According to the district administration, the donated books will be made available to students, youth, aspirants preparing for competitive examinations and the general public.Highlighting the enduring value of books, Mishra said they retain their relevance across generations by carrying knowledge, values, experience and ideas that continue to guide society.He said the campaign aims not only to collect books but also to cultivate a reading culture, encourage knowledge sharing and provide constructive direction to young people. Appealing for wider participation, the district magistrate urged departmental officers and staff, elected representatives, teachers, social organisations, NGOs and citizens to actively support the initiative.He asked every individual to contribute at least one useful and inspirational book, saying that even a small donation can significantly impact a needy student’s future.Expressing confidence in the campaign, Mishra said collective community participation would help transform the initiative into a wider movement while reinforcing the importance of knowledge across the district.Chief development officer Rajendra Singh Rawat, additional district magistrate Shyam Singh Rana, district development officer Manvinder Kaur, chief medical officer Ram Prakash, district finance and statistics officer Sandeep Bhatt, chief agriculture officer Lokendra Bisht, district supply officer KS Kohli, district social welfare officer TR Maletha, sub-divisional magistrate (Ukhimath) Anil Rawat, along with officers and staff from various departments, were present at the launch.
