Imphal, May 20: Art and Culture Minister Ph Parijat today informed that an eight member committee has been formed to work for the revival of the razed State Central Library and has urged the public to contribute their mite so as to restore the library.

Interacting with news persons at his Old Secretariat Complex office chamber this afternoon, the Minister said that the committee will function under his chairmanship with the Chief Librarian of State Central Library H Debendra nominated as member secretary.

The committee members, besides canvassing for management fund, will scour for new books to be purchased and will also provide suggestions to the Chairman from time to time on matters concerning the revival of the Library, he said.

Parijat also informed that a new account of the Central Library has been opened at MG Avenue branch of the State Bank of India and urged the people, organisations and voluntary bodies to come forward and donate generously to the library fund.

Donations and monetary held can be sent through cheques/drafts in the name of the Chief Librarian.

Expressing strong resentment at the destruction of the Library building along with invaluable books, the Minister estimated the total loss at over Rs 2 crores.

He also disclosed that the Raja Rammohan Roy Foundation, Kolkata has approve the proposal to extend financial assistance to revive the Central Library with allocation of Rs 36 lakhs and further assurances to provide over Rs 1 crore as expenditures in collecting necessary books from enthusiasts.

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