Tamil Nadu Government Allocates Rs 8.45 Crore for District Book Fairs in 2026-27

The Tamil Nadu government has sanctioned Rs 8.45 crore to organise book fairs across all 38 districts during the 2026-27 financial year. The initiative aims to promote reading habits and improve access to books for students, readers and publishers throughout the state.

According to a Government Order issued by the School Education Department on October 9, 2026, the expenditure will be met from the revised estimates for the 2026-27 financial year.

Book Fairs to Be Held in All 38 Districts

The Tamil Nadu government introduced the district-level book fair initiative in 2022-23. During its initial year, districts were divided into three categories based on their funding requirements.

Under the original funding arrangement, Category A districts received Rs 17.5 lakh each, Category B districts received Rs 14 lakh each, and Category C districts received Rs 12 lakh each. The government sanctioned a total of Rs 4.965 crore for organising book fairs during that year.

The programme continued in 2023-24 and 2024-25, with additional government funding for district-level literary events.

Annual Book Fairs From 2026-27

The latest government order provides for book fairs to be organised annually in every district from the 2026-27 financial year onwards. The allocation of Rs 8.45 crore will cover expenses associated with conducting these events across Tamil Nadu.

The initiative is expected to bring book fairs closer to local communities, reducing the need for readers and students to travel to major cities to participate in literary events.

Boost for Reading and Literary Activities

District-level book fairs provide opportunities for publishers, authors, students and book lovers to interact and explore a wide range of publications. The annual programme is also expected to encourage reading among young people and strengthen literary activities throughout Tamil Nadu.

With dedicated funding for all 38 districts, the state government aims to expand access to books and promote a stronger reading culture across urban and rural areas.