The decision to celebrate 2025 as the Year of Books is both timely and relevant, addressing the urgent need to adapt to changing readership trends
The Assam state cabinet’s decision to designate 2025 as the Year of Books is a visionary and timely initiative, applauded widely across the state and beyond. With changing readership trends and a noticeable decline in traditional reading habits globally, this initiative reflects Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s commitment to fostering a culture of reading books in Assam.
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An official from the Publication Department of the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, speaking to GPlus on condition of anonymity, highlighted the challenges in book sales. “Last year, the department’s book stall at the Guwahati Book Fair sold books worth Rs. 2 lakh, but this year, in five days, sales only amounted to Rs. 45,000,” the official noted, attributing the decline to unappealing content. Notably, the department published only one book in 2024, which focused on schemes launched by the Centre.
On a brighter note, Badal Sutradhar and Sujit Mandal of Sahitya Academy, Kolkata, observed better sales in Guwahati this year, attributing the improvement to a more accessible venue at Khanapara compared to Chandmari. They emphasised that quality content plays a crucial role in attracting readers.
Antar Atreya, author of the national bestseller The Clash of Hari Hara, expressed optimism about the state government’s initiative. “Publishers now have to actively reach readers. Content is readily available online, and if the content is good, readers will still buy books,” he said, reaffirming his belief in the enduring appeal of well-crafted literature.
Writer Dhruba Hazarika provided a reflective perspective on the changing dynamics of reading habits. “The traditional mode of reading has reduced over the decades,” he said, citing the growing obsession with digital media. However, he stressed that reading, whether digital or print, fosters critical thinking and empathy. “Wisdom gained from reading often comes with time and experience,” he added, emphasising that adapting to modern trends wisely is essential.
Retired IAS officer and writer Swapnanil Barua outlined strategic steps to revive interest in print media and books. He suggested catering to niche audiences with hyper-local content, offering personalised book recommendations, and organising book clubs. Barua also advocated for integrating technology with print, such as augmented reality (AR) features and interactive QR codes in books, to enhance engagement. Additionally, he highlighted the importance of visually appealing designs and high-quality materials in drawing readers back to physical books.
Santosh Nair, head of digital at The Hindu Group, noted that while reading habits persist, consumption behaviours have changed. A college student at the Guwahati Book Fair, however, raised concerns about affordability. “Some books are very expensive. Even if we want to read, we cannot afford them,” the student said, suggesting that reducing book prices could make reading more accessible to all.
A librarian at a central university in Assam emphasised the need for educators to foster reading habits. “While book-reading habits have declined, every batch still has dedicated readers,” the librarian said. He suggested that mandatory assignments requiring book references could encourage students to read more. A school teacher echoed this sentiment, adding that collaboration between parents and teachers is vital in instilling a love for reading among students.
A source in the Publication Board of Assam revealed that while agencies monitor print media readership, there is no comprehensive survey to gauge book-reading habits. Plans are underway to conduct such a study, reflecting the government’s seriousness about promoting reading among the youth.
The chief minister inaugurated the Assam Book Fair, urging people to begin the New Year with positivity by visiting the fair. “Though the Assam Book Fair has commenced in Guwahati, we have taken a decision to encourage everyone to read more,” he said. The chief minister also encouraged residents in areas without book fairs to purchase books from local shops and develop a reading habit.
The decision to celebrate 2025 as the Year of Books is both timely and relevant, addressing the urgent need to adapt to changing readership trends. By prioritising quality content, affordability, and accessibility, Assam’s initiative can set a benchmark for other states to follow. This visionary move not only underscores the importance of preserving the tradition of reading but also highlights the state’s readiness to innovate and evolve in the digital age. Chief Minister Sarma’s efforts are lauded for aligning with the aspirations of modern readers while cherishing the timeless value of books.
Experts and readers agree that quality content and accessibility are critical to achieving the goals of the Year of Books. By addressing these concerns and fostering collaboration among educators, publishers, and policymakers, Assam can create a thriving culture of reading and make 2025 a landmark year in its literary history.