How Indian Army Converted A Bus Stand Into Street Library

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Have you heard of a bus stand being converted into a street library?

Well, the novel initiative was taken up by the 18 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) unit of Indian Army in a village in south Kashmir to help local students prepare for competitive exams and higher studies.

Within days of the library becoming functional, it has become an instant hit among students of higher classes in Ranipura, Chittisigpura, Kejrival and Devipora villages, Hindustan Times reported.

Seeing senior boys and girls engrossed in books, students from primary classes demanded from Commanding Officer 18 RR Lt Col Rohit Jha that story books be arranged for them.

Lt Col Jha gladly ordered some comics which conveyed a social message and books which will enhance their knowledge, officials said.

According to local residents, the transformation of the bus stand at Devipora-Chittisingpora junction in Anantnag district, which was burnt down by miscreants in 2016, is quite remarkable. So much so that it has now become a ‘hub of knowledge’.

As soon as the library opens in the morning, children flock to the bus stand. They are then joined by youngsters who are preparing for competitive exams and higher studies.

Story books have been donated by families of Army officers and others. The Rashtriya Rifles has also tied up with ‘Books of India’ society, which has agreed to supply books for this noble cause.

The library has a notice board to announce arrival of new books, besides pasting Quick Response or QR code of national level entrance exams and a guide on how to be a part of the Army.