Letters to the EDITOR: Assam Budget 2025–26: Initiative to empower young writers

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Assam Budget 2025–26: Initiative to empower young writers

In a far-sighted and sincerely commendable step, the government of Assam has announced a unique and culturally enriching initiative to support young literary talent in the state. As part of the 2025–26 state budget, financial assistance of Rs 25,000 each will be provided to 1,000 aspiring writers. This announcement is more than just a monetary allocation—it is a visionary move that recognises the critical role of literature, creativity, and self-expression in shaping an enlightened, inclusive, and culturally vibrant society.

Assam has always been home to a rich tapestry of languages, folklore, and literary traditions. From the early contributions of Srimanta Sankardev to the works of contemporary authors, literature in the state has long served as a vehicle of social reflection, resistance, identity, and reform. Yet, in recent years, young writers—especially those from marginalised and rural communities—have struggled to access resources, publishing opportunities, mentorship, and exposure. This initiative directly addresses those gaps and paves the way for a more equitable literary ecosystem.

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, the state has increasingly focused on cultural preservation alongside economic and infrastructural development. His government has consistently promoted educational and youth-oriented schemes, but this latest move to support creative expression marks a significant shift towards a more humanistic model of governance. By recognising that art and literature are foundational to a society’s emotional and intellectual fabric, the government has demonstrated a rare sensitivity that often escapes conventional policymaking.

Credit is equally due to Assam Finance Minister Ajanta Neog, whose inclusive and far-sighted budget reflects a profound understanding of holistic development. Her emphasis on creating platforms and support systems for the youth—especially in the creative sector—reveals a progressive outlook that embraces both tradition and innovation. At a time when development is often measured solely in terms of GDP, investments, and technology, this literary push reminds us that ideas, dreams, and stories are equally vital indicators of growth. The Rs 25,000 grant is expected to serve multiple purposes. Young writers can use it to acquire books and reference materials, participate in workshops or literary festivals, attend mentorship sessions, invest in digital tools, or explore self-publishing options. Importantly, the assistance helps reduce the financial anxiety that often prevents many talented individuals from nurturing their creative ambitions. It provides not just funding but validation—and that, for a young writer, can be life-changing.

This initiative also has the potential to become a model for other states in India. By investing in the cultural capital of the youth, Assam is setting a precedent in recognising that literary voices are not just decorative elements of society—they are engines of thought, empathy, and progressive dialogue. The diversity of languages and dialects spoken across Assam—including Assamese, Bodo, Karbi, Mising, Dimasa, and other indigenous tongues—will now find more avenues of expression and preservation through young creators.

Initial responses from the literary community, educators, cultural organisations, and youth groups have been overwhelmingly positive. Writers from different parts of the state have voiced their appreciation, stating that this kind of governmental encouragement was long overdue. It sends a strong and reassuring message to emerging voices that their art matters—that their efforts to make sense of the world through words will not go unnoticed or unsupported.

Looking ahead, this initiative could lead to the formation of literary circles, community libraries, young authors’ collectives, and peer networks. If implemented with transparency and accessibility, it might even inspire cross-regional collaborations and multilingual literary experimentation. For readers, it promises the excitement of discovering new voices. For Assam, it is an investment in imagination—an act of trust in the transformative power of words. This initiative by the Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma-led government, supported by Finance Minister Ajanta Neog, is deeply sincere in both its intent and potential impact. It represents a shift in the way we define development—not merely as economic growth, but as cultural flowering, intellectual empowerment, and the nurturing of human potential in all its forms. Assam is not just building roads and industries—it is also building storytellers, poets, essayists, and thinkers who will shape the soul of the state in the years to come.

Heramba Nath,

Hindumaizali, Kamrup

A well deserved success

Congratulations Team India for their cheering success on winning the ICC ODI Champion's Trophy 2025! A great factor that contributed throughout the trophy chase was the unbeatable team spirit. Nevertheless, Kohli's finest knock in the semifinal and an impactful inning of Rohit Sharma in the final paid off in the team's overall achievements. Possibly they were conscious of Indian cricket admirers' expectation that coaxed them to rise on the occasion. I'd like to make a limited point here for the national selectors, while selecting the India team, to lay emphasis on the current form and performance in the case of old and exhausted players, as capable replacements are available from among the surfeit of new talents already tested and waiting on the wings, which may be equally applicable in both men's and women's teams.

Pannalal Dey

Guwahati.