Uzbekistan has initiated a nationwide reading competition titled "Shield of Spirituality" among military personnel and cadets. Approved by a presidential decree, the contest offers winners valuable prizes, including electric cars and cash awards.

The competition will be held annually starting in 2026, comprising four stages. Participants include conscripts, contract soldiers, cadets from military academies, and students of military lyceums. The national stage will identify the best in each category.

Four winners will receive the top prize from the Supreme Commander-in-Chief: an electric car and a diploma. Second and third places will be awarded cash prizes of 100 and 70 BMR (41.2 and 28.8 million Uzbek soums), respectively.

An additional incentive involves a reduction in service duration: conscripts who secure prize positions will have their service term shortened by one month. This initiative aligns with broader efforts in Uzbekistan to support cultural reading, including financial aid for authors, translators, readers, and bookselling entrepreneurs through the Reading Culture Development Fund.

Source: podrobno.uz