UGC Announces Grand New Delhi World Book Fair 2026 in Bharat Mandapam: 9 Days of Books, Culture & Academic Showcase
New Delhi, January 8, 2026 — In a major cultural and educational announcement, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has confirmed that the New Delhi World Book Fair (NDWBF) 2026 will be held from January 10 to January 18 at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.
The fair, one of India’s most anticipated literary events, is set to bring together publishers, authors, students, educators and readers from across India and abroad for nine days of book celebrations, intellectual exchange and cultural activities.
An autonomous body under the Ministry of Education, the 2026 edition marks the 53rd year of the New Delhi World Book Fair. The event has grown into one of the largest book fairs in the world, offering a massive platform for literary discovery, academic engagement and business networking.
Grand New Delhi World Book Fair 2026 in Bharat Mandapam
The NDWBF 2026 promises to be bigger and more diverse than ever before. Spread across over 40,000 square metres of exhibition space in Halls 2–6 at Bharat Mandapam, the fair is expected to host over 1,000 publishers and close to 3,000 stalls featuring literature from India and around the world. Participation is anticipated from more than 30 countries, highlighting the event’s growing international stature.
In a move that underscores its global outreach, the State of Qatar will participate as the Guest of Honour, showcasing its rich literary and cultural heritage. Spain has also been highlighted as the Focus Country, with both nations contributing their unique voices to this year’s global literary dialogue.
Entry to the fair will remain free for all visitors, a decision aimed at promoting greater accessibility and encouraging wider participation from students, families and book lovers alike.
New Delhi World Book Fair 2026: Theme & Highlights
The central theme of NDWBF 2026 is “Indian Military History: Valour and Wisdom @ 75,” paying tribute to the Indian Armed Forces and their role in shaping the nation’s modern history since independence. A specially curated Theme Pavilion will bring this concept to life through books, exhibitions, visual installations and live programmes.
As per organisers, the theme pavilion will cover a wide spectrum of military history topics, featuring over 500 books on defence, strategy and leadership. Talks, panel discussions and book launches are scheduled with renowned authors, military experts and veterans, providing rich context and deep insights into India’s defence legacy.
Academic Focus & UGC’s Role
In a first for NDWBF, the UGC and the Ministry of Education will facilitate a dedicated Ministry of Education Pavilion aimed at showcasing the academic achievements of universities, higher education institutions (HEIs), and autonomous bodies under the ministry’s purview.
Educational bodies will be able to set up stalls within this pavilion to present their research outputs, publications, innovations, student work and institutional initiatives. The move reflects a concerted effort to bring India’s rich academic ecosystem into the spotlight, encouraging collaboration and discovery among scholars, students and visitors.
UGC has urged all HEIs to circulate details about the fair widely among students and faculty, and to actively encourage participation and visits throughout the nine days of the event.
Engaging for All Ages
The fair is designed to appeal to a broad audience, with a vibrant Children’s Pavilion, interactive sessions, storytelling hours, workshops and literary activities aimed at young readers and families. Cultural events, performances and author interactions are expected to run daily, making it a comprehensive cultural event beyond just book sales and exhibitions.
Complementing the physical exhibition, digital initiatives like the National e-Library—offering free online access to thousands of books—will further enhance the literary experience for visitors both onsite and online.
Anticipation & Impact
As Delhi prepares to host the World Book Fair, excitement among literary communities and the public alike is building. From students planning group visits to publishers finalising their stall strategies, NDWBF 2026 is positioned as a literary hub that goes beyond commerce to celebrate reading, research, culture and international dialogue.
With its blend of academic focus, global participation and cultural richness, the New Delhi World Book Fair 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark event in India’s cultural calendar, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to literacy, learning and intellectual exchange.
