MITHI: Poets, writers, historians and social activists on Sunday paid tribute to Amar Rai Singh Rajput for authoring Munhjo sahra sudke tho (my desert sobs), which highlighted chronic issues of drought-hit Thar.

Speaking at the launching ceremony held at Benazir Bhutto Complex under the auspices of the Sindh Graduates Association in collaboration with a number of social organisations working in Thar, they said that the bool< was a document on the crisis facing Thar these days.

Ameer Bux Shar, a writer, said that Thar needed attention of not only the government but also its educated people like Rai Singh.

Prof Noor Ahmed Jhanji said that instead of giving them alms Tharis should be provided basic necessities of life at their doorsteps.

1Juman Darbadar, poet and nationalist leader, said that only way to rid Thar of its massive problems was to launch a movement. Books and social media had so far created great ripples, he said.

Poet and environmentalist, Baharo Mal Amrani, said that Thar despite callous and indifferent attitude of governments was fast transforming and the day was not far when Tharis would stand up for their rights.

Writer and former president of Thar Bar Council Advocate Rai Singh Sodho said the writer had again depicted the sorry state affairs of the region.

Noted columnist and writer of three books on Thar, Khalid Jogi, said that Thar was facing multiple and chronic issues and deforestation was assuming alarming proportions in the desert.

Many other speakers also spoke.