The ongoing search for new Director at National Book Trust (NBT) may end on 29th December 2014. According to sources in HRD Ministry, the final interview in selecting new director will take place on 29th December 2014 and an announcement will be made just before the New Delhi World Book Fair or in the mid week of January 2015.

If sources within the ministry are to be believed the incumbent Director M A Sikandar may be given more important portfolio within the HRD Ministry. Popularly know to be Kapil Sibal man, he has been credited in bringing National Book Trust to the global platform through professionalism and smart marketing technique. He is complimented in bringing out the best out of his staff and inculcating professional attitude and work culture that’s been rarely seen in an government establishment. He is credited of successfully organising book fair in Srinagar, a place where no central government official ever dared to go. His approach was duly appreciated by the ministry and the separatist in J&K. He is credited to taking NBT to Tier II & II cities and making it popular amongst masses. His credibility got shot in arms when Prime Minister Narendra Modi asked him to sign MoU on behalf of NBT and China for 2016 New Delhi World Book Fair. He is serving his second extension, this reflects the confidence HRD Ministry has in his ability and professionalism.

It is said that out of 70 people who applied for the post, 10 were shortlisted and 3 were selected for the final interview. Of the three, two are bureaucrats and one technocrat. With Sikandar setting the bar high, it will be worth watching how the new appointee takes on the challenges. Either ways, its NBT’s gain!