New Delhi: The British Council has announced the launch of Reading Challenge 2026, a four-week reading program for children aged 5 to 12 years at the British Council Library in Delhi. The initiative will run from June 1 to June 28 and is centered on the theme ‘Discover Your Story’.The program is designed to encourage children to develop reading habits through books that match their personal interests and imagination. Registration for the initiative is open for both members and non-members until May 28.The program focuses on independent reading.The latest edition of the annual reading initiative departs from fixed reading lists and allows participants to choose books of their choice across genres, authors and themes. The program aims to help children explore reading independently, building confidence and curiosity through stories and ideas.Participants will participate in reading sessions and activities spanning four weeks at the British Council Library in New Delhi. Along with reading, children will also engage in storytelling sessions, discussions, creative writing exercises and interactive activities designed around books and imagination.The initiative is divided into two age categories – 5 to 8 years and 9 to 12 years. An orientation session will be held for participants on May 30 before the program begins in June.Certificates and medals for participantsChildren who successfully complete the Reading Challenge 2026 program will receive a certificate and medal from the organizers. According to the British Council, these activities are planned to make reading more engaging and exploratory for young participants.The participation fee has been fixed at Rs 1000 for British Council members and Rs 1500 for non-members. The challenge is open to all eligible children regardless of membership status.The British Council said the program is part of its efforts to promote reading, creativity and engagement with literature among young learners through interactive experiences at its Delhi library.The British Council is the UK’s international organization for cultural relations and educational opportunities. It works in arts, culture, education and the English language in more than 200 countries and territories. According to the organization, it will reach 600 million people globally during 2024-25.
