Digital vs. Literary: Young Minds Debate the Future of Reading

Delhi Public School Budgam hosted the Soz Cup, an inter-school debate competition on the theme “Digital Media is Killing the Habit of Reading Literature.” Seven schools participated: Doon International School Srinagar, Army Public School, DPS Srinagar, DPS Budgam, G.D. Goenka School, Foundation World School, and Birla Open Minds International School.

The competition explored the tension between digital media’s immediacy and literature’s enduring value. Students examined how technology is reshaping reading habits and what might be lost—or gained—in the transition. Arguments ranged from concerns about shortened attention spans to optimism about digital platforms expanding access to books.

The jury comprised Mr. Noor ul Shahbaz, Senior Lecturer in Law; Mr. Irfan Dar, Assistant Professor of English; and Mr. Khursheed Ahmad Dar, writer, teacher, and columnist. Dr. Naheed Soz, Senior Advisor, Ms. Glory George Principal of DPS Budgam, and Mr. Mehfooz, Dean of Co-curricular Activities, served as distinguished guests.

DPS Budgam took first place. Fatima Farooq and Dayim Turi of Class XI impressed judges with clear reasoning and persuasive delivery. DPS Srinagar, represented by Syed Esa and Irfan, secured second position. Doon International School’s Abdul Hanan and Abiz Aijaz placed third. Dayim Turi of DPS Budgam was named the Best Speaker for his combination of analytical depth and eloquence.

The Department of English at DPS Budgam organized the event, earning praise for its execution and thematic relevance. The Soz Cup provided students an opportunity to develop critical thinking and public speaking skills while engaging with contemporary challenges to literary culture.

In her address, Dr. Naheed Soz commended participants for their intellectual engagement, noting that “true learning lies in the courage to think, question, and express.” The judges praised the quality of arguments and encouraged continued dialogue on the evolving role of reading in a digital age.

The event concluded with recognition that while technology changes how we read, the need for thoughtful, critical minds remains constant.