Himangshu Ranjan Bhuyan
(himangshur1989@gmail.com)
Books are an indispensable part of human life. They provide us with new
knowledge, acquaint us with history, and bring joy through stories. Our state, Assam, has always been rich in books and literature. From ancient inscriptions to modern-day publications, Assam takes pride in its literary heritage. However, in recent times, the widespread use of digital media and the increasing busyness of people’s lives have gradually reduced the attraction towards books. The enthusiasm for reading among people is diminishing, which is undoubtedly a concerning trend for the state. In light of this situation, the Assam government has recently decided to place special emphasis on promoting a culture of books and reading in the state. In the 2025-26 Assam budget, the government has declared the upcoming year as the “Year of the Book,” with the aim of supporting writers, encouraging reading habits, and making books more accessible to everyone. This is undoubtedly a positive and commendable initiative.
The ‘Year of the Book’ is an effort to bring books closer to people. Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, many people today spend more time on mobile phones, social media, and other digital platforms. As a result, the habit of reading books has declined. The government aims to change this by introducing new policies and financial support to reignite society’s interest in books. They also wish to support young writers so that they can continue writing and publishing their works. Assam has a rich literary history, and this initiative will help preserve this tradition.
One of the most significant decisions in the budget is providing financial assistance to young writers. Writing is not easy; it requires time, effort, and dedication. Many young writers face difficulties in publishing their books due to a lack of funds. To support them, the government has decided to provide Rs 25,000 each to 1,000 young writers. This will help them create new literary works and publish their writings. With this support, young writers will feel motivated and can focus on their creativity without worrying about financial constraints. This will lead to more books being written and published in Assamese and other languages.
The government also aims to cultivate a culture of reading and buying books among people. One way to achieve this is by organising book fairs across the state. The budget has allocated Rs 5 lakh for book fairs in district headquarters and Rs 2.5 lakh for smaller towns. Currently, book fairs are held annually in major cities like Guwahati, Tezpur, Dibrugarh, and Jorhat, as well as in many smaller towns. However, with this initiative, book fairs will be organised in every district and rural area in the coming year, bringing together publishers, writers, and readers and opening new horizons for literature. The general public will have the opportunity to explore new books, meet authors, and purchase books. Book fairs inspire enthusiasm for reading, especially when children, students, and the younger generation visit them, motivating them to read more.
Another important step in the budget is making books a significant part of government events. Traditionally, government employees receive gifts like gamosa or flowers during events. The government now plans to change this tradition by gifting books instead of conventional items. This will encourage the habit of reading.
The government is also encouraging people to gift books on special occasions. Nowadays, people often give expensive gifts like clothes or jewellery during birthdays, weddings, or anniversaries. The government is promoting the idea of gifting books instead. Books are thoughtful and meaningful gifts that provide knowledge. A book gifted to someone stays with them forever. This idea will help build a strong reading culture in Assam. If elders start gifting books, the younger generation will also understand the importance of books and develop reading habits from an early age.
Another notable initiative is providing financial assistance to government employees for purchasing books. Each government employee will receive a one-time grant of Rs 1,000 to buy books. This step highlights that reading is not just for students or writers but is equally important for working professionals. When government employees cultivate a reading culture, their knowledge will expand, enabling them to serve the public better and inspire others to read. This initiative will encourage many people to visit bookshops and buy books of their choice.
Books are not just essential for reading; they help build an intelligent and healthy society. A society that reads more develops advanced thinking and skills. Readers understand things deeply and make better decisions in life. Books also help preserve history and culture. Many ancient traditions, folktales, and stories are documented in books. When people read these, they learn about their roots and heritage. Therefore, promoting books is crucial for Assam’s future.
By declaring the ‘Year of the Book,’ Assam has set an example for other states. In many places, libraries are closing, and bookshops are struggling to survive. People spend more time online and read fewer books. However, Assam aims to change this trend. Through book fairs, support for young writers, and reviving reading habits, the government is striving to bring books back into people’s daily lives. This initiative will support the publishing industry, create more opportunities for writers, and make books more accessible to everyone.
The impact of this effort will be seen in the coming years. If successful, Assam will become a hub of knowledge and creativity. Schools and colleges will benefit as students become more attracted to good books. Libraries will become more active. Assam’s publishing industry will flourish, and more books will be published in various languages. Reading habits will enhance people’s critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
The Assam government’s decision to recognise books as a cultural asset is a visionary step. Books are not just pages with words; they carry knowledge, emotions, history, and dreams. They shape society and enrich people. If this movement gains momentum, Assam will witness a bright future where reading becomes a common habit, literature thrives, and knowledge is respected.
The ‘Year of the Book’ should not be just a one-year project; it should mark the beginning of a movement to bring books back into people’s lives. The success of this effort depends on how the people of the state respond to it. The Assam government has taken a strong step in the right direction. Now, it is up to the people to embrace this change and make books an integral part of their lives again. If every individual, family, educational institution, and community shows interest in books, this movement will succeed. The government has provided financial support and taken various steps to promote books. Now, it is up to the people of Assam to make reading an essential part of their daily lives.