Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury today visited the district Shilpakala Academy and the Jessore Institute Public Library in Jashore. Photo: PID

DHAKA, May 17, 2026 (BSS) – Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury today said that modern technology-based initiatives must be adopted to preserve the country’s ancient books, manuscripts, and cultural heritage.

“Cultural institutions should be made more effective and people-oriented to engage the young generation with history, literature, and culture,” he said.

He made the remarks while addressing an exchange-of-views meeting as the chief guest after visiting the district Shilpakala Academy and the Jessore Institute Public Library in Jashore.

Earlier, Nitai Roy Chowdhury visited several traditional cultural institutions in Jashore and exchanged views with their officials and stakeholders.

During the visit, he inquired about the ongoing activities, infrastructure conditions, and historical significance of the two institutions. He also expressed satisfaction after inspecting the rare manuscripts, ancient scripts, and valuable book collections preserved at the library.

The minister described these collections as invaluable assets of the nation’s history and intellectual heritage.

Later, he joined a discussion meeting attended by local cultural personalities, distinguished citizens, and relevant officials.

Speakers at the meeting highlighted the potential, limitations, and various challenges faced by the institutions. They sought effective government support for the expansion of cultural activities, modernization, and preservation of heritage.

The minister said Jashore is a rich hub of Bangladesh’s art, literature, and culture, and that the region’s cultural heritage is not only a local asset but also a source of national pride. He added that the government is working to preserve, develop, and promote this heritage globally.

He assured that necessary measures would be taken to address the problems and challenges faced by the institutions. At the same time, he said the Ministry of Cultural Affairs would continue providing overall support for infrastructure development, preservation of rare collections, and expansion of cultural activities.

Senior district administration officials, officers of the district Shilpakala Academy, members of the governing body of the Jessore Institute Public Library, and local cultural personalities were present at the meeting.