Assam floods: Free textbooks dispatched, study aid funds launch Thursday, says CM Sarma
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday, 5 August announced a stepped-up relief drive for flood-affected families across the state, confirming that fresh textbooks have already been sent to all affected districts and that financial assistance for students to purchase study materials will be rolled out on Thursday, 6 August. Schools in flood-hit regions are scheduled to reopen on 10 August, the Chief Minister said after personally visiting inundated villages.
Education Relief Measures
In a post on social media platform X, Chief Minister Sarma said, “Fresh textbooks have already been dispatched to all affected districts, while uniforms are on the way. Financial assistance for buying study materials will also be launched tomorrow and schools will reopen on Aug 10 -- these are information I shared with my young friends today.” The announcement signals a priority focus on restoring continuity of education for children displaced by the floods.
Insurance Claims and Uninsured Victims
Chief Minister Sarma also directed insurance companies to fast-track the settlement of flood-related claims. “Insurance companies must expedite the settlement of flood-related claims with urgency and compassion,” he said. For residents without insurance coverage, the Chief Minister assured full state government backing. “For those who are uninsured, like this civil society member, our Government will stand firmly with them and extend every possible support,” he added.
Ground-Level Visits and Rehabilitation Commitment
During his field visits to flood-affected villages, the Chief Minister heard first-hand accounts of loss and displacement from residents. Reflecting on those interactions, Sarma said, “Walking through the flood-affected villages, I heard stories of loss, resilience and hope. I am personally taking note of their concerns and will ensure every affected family receives timely support and the assistance needed to rebuild.”
Broader Relief Operations
The Assam government has been conducting relief distribution, damage assessment, and rehabilitation work across multiple flood-hit districts. Special emphasis has been placed on restoring educational infrastructure, rebuilding damaged homes, and supporting families who lost crops and livelihoods in the deluge. This comes amid one of the state's recurring annual flood crises, which typically affect millions across the Brahmaputra floodplains each monsoon season.
With schools set to reopen on 10 August, the focus now shifts to whether relief supply chains — textbooks, uniforms, and financial transfers — reach students in the most remote affected areas before that deadline.