International Children’s Book Fair, New Delhi

Long before the advent of books as we know them today, storytelling was a cherished tradition, with grandparents, often grandmothers, regaling children with tales passed down through generations. Across ethnic communities, elders have played and continue to play a crucial role in narrating folklore and ethnic mythology to children. From oral communication, the transition to writing occurred gradually, evolving from bark and leaves to stone and metal tablets, until the discovery of paper and the invention of printing revolutionized communication.

As books began to be written, children’s literature emerged, often mirroring the enchanting stories told by grandmothers at twilight. These stories served the dual purpose of entertainment and education, laying the foundation for the development of children’s literature.

Today, children’s literature has evolved significantly from its early days. A plethora of attractively produced books covering various subjects and written specifically for children are now available. The pivotal role of literature in nurturing a child’s personality is universally acknowledged, with classic tales from Indian epics like the ‘Panchatantra,’ ‘Hitopadesha,’ ‘Ramayana,’ and ‘Mahabharata’ captivating generations of children.

The inception of children’s books in India dates back over a century, with Bengal being the pioneer in publishing the first-ever children’s book. Pandit Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar’s collection of stories narrated to neighborhood children was among the earliest publications. However, there was a lack of sustained and creative efforts to produce indigenous reading material for children that combined education and entertainment.

Fifteen years ago, the renowned artist, cartoonist, and scholar, Shankar, founded the Children’s Book Trust with the objective of publishing attractive and engaging books for children in various Indian languages and English at an affordable cost. Over the years, the Children’s Book Trust has released 300 titles in English and Indian languages catering to children of all age groups.

In celebration of the International Year of the Child, the Children’s Book Trust organized the International Children’s Book Fair in New Delhi from November 10-19, 1979, dedicated to the children of the world. The event aimed to promote children’s literature as a catalyst for a better world. In commemoration of this occasion, the P & T Department is delighted to issue a commemorative stamp, acknowledging the significance of children’s literature in shaping young minds and fostering a brighter future.