Addressing a largely attended gathering, Naik admitted that he never thought of writing in English in the past. Commenting on his switch from Konkani to English writing, Naik said: “I wanted to have my book written in English because the children of today are more comfortable and familiar with English.”
In her speech, noted author and chief guest Maria Aurora Couto regretted that reading habits were not inculcated seriously in schools. She pointed out that even when publishers, book companies and NGOs visit schools on their own, they have received poor support from schools.
Sujata Noronha, the guest of honour, and Frederick Noronha also spoke at the function. Jose Lourenco compered the function.
