GUWAHATI: The annual Assam Book Fair 2023–24, organised by the Publication Board of Assam and All Assam Publishers and Book Sellers Association, is set to take place in Silchar from December 1–10, marking its expansion beyond Guwahati.
Pramod Kalita, the secretary of the Publication Board of Assam, announced this development to the media on Monday, emphasising the extensive preparations underway for the event in smaller towns like Silchar, as per media reports.
The upcoming fair will be hosted at the Police Parade Ground, a decision made earlier this year to extend the reach of the prestigious Assam Book Fair beyond Guwahati.
Kalita acknowledged the challenges faced by book sellers and publishers in the post-COVID-19 scenario, expressing the fair's significance in providing relief to the industry. Anticipating a positive response, he highlighted the diverse collection of quality books to cater to the interests of avid readers.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is expected to participate in the fair, while Education Minister Ranoj Pegu will preside over the inaugural session scheduled for December 1 at 3 PM, media reports further stated.
The ceremony will witness the presence of renowned literary figures, including author-journalist Anuradha Sarma Pujari, novelist Tilottama Mazumdar from Kolkata, and folk researcher Amalendu Bhattacharjee, alongside Selina Hossain, president of Bangla Academy Dhaka, as per reports.
Kalita reportedly further revealed the diverse participation of book sellers and publishers from various parts of the country, encompassing Assam, Tripura, West Bengal, and even Bangladesh. To enhance the fair experience, various contests with attractive prizes totaling ₹1 lakh have been organised for students and book enthusiasts.
