In a significant recognition of its innovative efforts to promote reading and learning in rural areas, ‘Project DREAM’ (Dedicated Reading Rooms for Empowerment, Awareness and Motivation), an initiative of the Nagpur Zilla Parishad, has been featured on a Special Cover issued by the Department of Posts, Government of India. The honour is expected to provide the project with nationwide visibility and recognition. Launched last year under the vision of Vinayak Mahamuni, Chief Executive Officer of Nagpur Zilla Parishad, Project DREAM aims to foster a culture of reading, encourage learning, enhance awareness, and support personality development among students and rural residents. The initiative also seeks to bridge the digital divide by introducing villagers to modern technology. Under the project, 103 state-of-the-art libraries have been established across villages in Nagpur district.

 

Unused or underutilised buildings have been transformed into modern reading rooms equipped with educational resources and digital facilities. According to Vedant Pathak, Chief Minister’s Fellow associated with the project, preparations are underway to establish 100 more such libraries in the district, given the encouraging response from rural youth. The Special Cover was released at a function held at the Nagpur General Post Office (GPO). The event was attended by Dr Kamalkishore Futane, Additional CEO; Kapil Kalode, Deputy CEO; Nilesh Gund, Education Officer (Primary); Nikhil Bhuyar, Deputy Education Officer (Primary); Vedant Pathak, Chief Minister’s Fellow; Sujitkumar Landge, Senior Postmaster; and other officials from Zilla Parishad and Department of Posts.