Speakers at a book launch on Monday hailed author Dr Humaira Ishfaq for her literary work on the progressive writing movements in India and Pakistan. A large number of book lovers and literary persons were present on the occasion. National Language Authority (NLA) Chairman Dr Anwar Ahmad chaired the session and gave his critical input on the book Taraqqi Pasand Tanqeed. He said, “Progressive movements in India and Pakistan have reconnected Adab with Asal Zindagi (which translates as literary work and actual life).” “[Only] few people devoted their lives for literature and Humaira Ishfaq is one of them,” he said. While commenting on her work on the progressive movement, Ahmad admired the author for her efforts to bring forth the scattered and forgotten work of great writers and said such work requires extreme dedication and hard work. SDPI Senior Adviser Shafqat Kakakhel gave introduction and explored the links between sustainable development and literature. He said sustainable development encapsulates all aspects of life where literature plays important role in influencing thought process. After industrial revolution literature was instrumental in the 20th century movements such as preservation of environment and natural resources, he went on to add. SDPI Senior Adviser Ahmad Salim deliberated on Humaira Ishfaq’s work on the poet, playwright and critic Mukhtar Siddiqui. “I myself was interested to work on Mukhtar but then Humaira approached me to work on him and I am glad that she has done a great job. I congratulate her for doing great job doing justice with the personality of Mukhtar Siddique,” he added. Ahmad Salim also recounted his days with Mukhtar and described him as a person with creative mind, humble attitude and progressive ideology. Eminent critic Dr Najeeba Arif spoke on Humaira Ishfaq’s work on Dr Rasheed Jahan. She said, “Change in society starts with thought process which is initiated by literature and writers.” She congratulated Humaira and said, “I can see the making of another Rasheed Jahan, who struggled for the cause of ordinary in her writings and pave the way for positive change in society.”