Report by Santanu Ganguly, New Delhi: Niyogi Books released it’s latest title “In Search of a New Afghanistan” (written by Sujeet Sarkar) on 10th July, 2012 at an impressive function held at the India International Centre, New Delhi.
 
Chief Guest, Dr. Shashi Tharoor (Member of Parliament & Former Minister of State for External Affairs) released the book and highly appreciated the efforts and inputs of the Author and the Publisher in producing this well researched and yet intimate account of contemporary Afghanistan. “This first hand analysis by Sujeet Sarkar is both informative and insightful” he said.
 
The author Sujeet Sarkar made an interesting presentation (which was appreciated by the audience) attempting to release one from the rhetorics, perceptions & opinions on Afghanistan. This was followed by an interactive session with the audience comprising of the art, literary and cultural stalwarts of the city along with the media.
 
Bikash D Niyogi (Managing Director, Niyogi Books) said, “it is a pleasure and privilege to publish this title which provides a daring new outlook and new perceptions of this war ravaged country.”
 
Sujeet Sarkar is engaged in promoting and strengthening democratic governance and civil society in fragile and conflict-prone countries, over the past fifteen years. Currently working as an international advisor, in a globally reputed organisation; Sarkar is supporting the portfolio of governance and civil society in selected countries across Africa and Asia, including Afghanistan.
 
The idea of writing In search of a New Afghanistan emerged during the phase of his active stay in Afghanistan.Sarkarís governance related work has been considered as a frontline model in Afghanistan, and has been recommended for broader replication, in other conflict-ridden countries.
 
 Where is present-day Afghanistan heading? Will the dream of a new and stable Afghanistan, elude the international community, and more importantly its own denizens, forever? On the eve of the departure of the Western forces, in the midst of a resurgent Taliban and growing speculation around the stability of this country, In search of a New Afghanistan takes an incisive look into Afghanistan, with an attempt to apprise the international audience about this conflict-ridden country, post 9/11. An easy-to-understand tale, for all and sundry, it is a bold attempt to release one from the mainstream rhetoric, perceptions and opinion on Afghanistan.
 
The book undertakes a fresh probe into the development and reconstruction process of Afghanistan, post 9/11 and provides valuable insight into the contemporary challenges confronting Afghanistan today? It provides a daring new outlook, denouncing several myths that colour common global perception of this war-ravaged country. Further, several lesser known facts are unveiled, helping to create an alternative understanding about Afghanistan, for the first time.
 
That Afghanistan can be a fascinating place to live in and even fall in love with, despite the ongoing hurdles, is difficult to comprehend for most. These fascinating aspects are dwelt upon, while, elaborating, the thrill and challenges of working in Afghanistan, from ground zero.
 
NIYOGI BOOKS has been successfully publishing illustrated books on a wide variety of subjects; books which are rich and eclectic in content and treatment, coupled with a penchant for aesthetic design. The publications are moderately-priced and are easily accessible and available to all sections of readers and book lovers, bookstores, libraries and institutions.
The dedicated, experienced and professional team members of Niyogi Books are sincerely involved in every stage of the publishing process—be it the selection, sourcing, research and commissioning of subjects and authors; the evaluation, editing and designing of manuscripts or the production, promotion, marketing and distribution of the books. As a team we are engaged in fresh creative pursuits, keeping in mind our country’s rich heritage along with global paradigm shifts and contemporary talking points.

Mr. Bikash D. Niyogi, the MD of Niyogi Books, said, "Our quarterly newsletter Reading Corner—an attractive broadsheet—is a newsworthy herald and a pleasant read. Circulated widely among book lovers to bring to the forefront literary issues, our current and forthcoming publications and their authors and subjects, the newsletter also touches upon our book launches, events, awards and aspirations. Our authors have made exclusive and unrivalled contributions over the years through extensive and careful research. A reader-friendly approach, quality images and lucid language have lent value to our publications, rendering them worthwhile and exclusive; ensuring their long shelf life. Our commitment towards best quality books at an affordable price for all will remain forever".

The success of our initial venture has lent us hope and encouragement to stride forward with added confidence and expand our realm of publication. Our recent foray into fiction, translations, cookery and cuisine as well as self-help books has received a warm welcome and appreciation from all and sundry. Our titles have been short-listed for prestigious awards like the Man-Asian Literary Prize, Gourmand Award, Vodafone Crossword Book Award and have also received several awards from the Federation of Indian publishers.

IN SEARCH OF A NEW AFGHANISTAN
ISBN: 978-93-81523-42-1, Page: 274, Size: 216 x 140 mm, Book Printing Paper (Black & White)

Price: INR 395/-