Assam Govt to Gift Books at Official Events, Promotes ‘Year of Books’

GUWAHATI: In a significant move to promote reading, the Assam government has announced that all official presents given during government events would now be in the form of books. This decision was highlighted during the Assam Budget 2025 presentation, reinforcing the state’s commitment to fostering a culture of learning and literature.

Additionally, the government has decided to provide a one-time grant of Rs. 1,000 to each government employee for purchasing books. Earlier, as the state stepped into 2025, the Assam government had declared the year as the “Year of Books.” These steps align with the larger vision of promoting knowledge and literacy across Assam.

The Assam government also announced that they will provide financial support of Rs. 25,000 each to 1000 young writers with a focus on those contributing to creative, scientific, and academic writing. This was announced in the budget speech of Finance Minister Ajanta Neog on March 10.

Moreover, financial support will be provided for organizing Grantha Mela as approved by Assam Prakashan Parishad, where Rs. 5 lakh will be allocated to the district and Rs. 2.5 lakh will be allocated to co-district headquarters, respectively. This initiative aims to encourage people to develop a habit of reading and engage in intellectual development and personal growth.

Meanwhile, Assam Finance Minister Ajanta Neog tabled a Rs. 2.63 lakh crore budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year, with a projected deficit of Rs. 620.27 crore.

ALSO READ: Assam Budget 2025: Crackdown on Crime, Boost for Women & Peace

ALSO WATCH: