IN an era dominated by digital media, Pakistan faces a significant decline in book reading culture among its youth.

A survey by Gallup Pakistan revealed that only 28 per cent of Pakistanis claimed tohave ahabit ofreadingbooksbeyond academic texts.

More alarmingly, another survey highlighted that 75pc of students do not engage in any form of book reading, underscoring a pervasive disinterestin literature. This downward trend in reading is concerning, especially consideringthat Pakistan`s literacy rate for youth aged 15-24 stands at approximately 62pc.

A significant portion of our young chooses digital content over traditional books. The rise of smartphones and social media has reshaped their priorities. On average, students spend 6-9 hours daily scrolling social media platforms, leaving little room for books.

While technology offers convenience, it promotes quick bits of information over deep reading, eroding vocabulary and imagination. Even e-books, once seen as saviours, struggle to compete with visual content available on various platforms.

The consequences of this shift are profound. Reading books is essential for developing critical thinking, empathy and a broader understanding of the world.

The decline in reading culture has been linked to a decrease in these vital skills, which are crucial for personal development and societal progress.

There is no doubt that this alarming trend threatens intellectual growth, critical thinking and national progress.

Syed Taha R abbani Islamabad