Reinstate book post service

The net financial gain from scrapping Book Post is negligible, but the cultural and educational losses are incalculable. Reinstating this service is not just advisable—it is imperative.

In a move that epitomizes the adage "penny wise, pound foolish," the Central government's decision to abolish the Book Post service on December 18 has sparked outrage among stakeholders, including the publishing industry, bibliophiles, and the general public.

The arbitrary decision, made without any prior consultation or announcement and scooped by this newspaper, has left many questioning the government's commitment to literacy and education.

The Book Post service, which offered concessional rates for books and periodicals, has been a lifeline for publishers and readers alike.

For instance, a 5-kg parcel of books that earlier cost 80 to send will now cost 229—a nearly threefold increase.