Why Has Assam Declared 2025 as the 'Year of Reading'?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Assam declared 2025 as the 'Year of Reading'.
- Financial grants of Rs 25,000 for 1,000 young writers.
- District-level book fairs with budgets of Rs 5 lakh.
- Government employees to receive Rs 1,000 book grant.
- A variety of literary events planned statewide.
Guwahati, July 28 (NationPress) In a transformative effort to cultivate a reading culture throughout the state, Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced Monday that 2025 will be recognized as the 'Year of Reading.' This initiative aims to promote literary involvement among both the youth and the general populace, as reported by government officials.
On the social media platform X, the Chief Minister highlighted the key components of this ambitious literary movement.
"Assam embraces the joy of reading," he emphasized, detailing the financial support and extensive literary events planned as part of this initiative.
To bolster the voices of budding writers in regional literature, the state government will grant Rs 25,000 each to 1,000 aspiring young authors throughout Assam.
Moreover, the Assam Publication Board is set to organize district-level book fairs with an allocation of Rs 5 lakh for each fair, while co-district headquarters will receive Rs 2.5 lakh for similar events.
In a bid to promote personal reading habits and lifelong learning, every government employee in Assam will benefit from a Rs 1,000 book grant.
Officials anticipate that this initiative will stimulate book purchases and circulation in local languages and genres.
The 'Year of Reading' will also feature a variety of literary programs, including state-wide book marathons, reading festivals, and specially curated literary events in educational institutions and public venues.
These initiatives are expected to engage students, readers, and authors alike, thereby enriching Assam's cultural tapestry.
Experts and educators have expressed their support for the announcement, deeming it a crucial intervention in today's digitally distracted age.
"This is a bold and visionary initiative," stated a senior academic from Gauhati University.
"Reading is essential for critical thinking, and such a campaign could inspire a generational change."
As 2025 nears, Assam is set to embark on a journey towards a more literate, thoughtful, and culturally dynamic future.
The Chief Minister has indicated that the Assam government is eager to implement various measures to enhance reading habits among the youth in rural regions as well.