Ukhrul: The Assam Book Fair is set to take place at the Veterinary College Field in Khanapara, running from December 27 to January 7. Organized jointly by the Publication Board Assam and the All Assam Publishers and Book Sellers Association, the event will feature a diverse array of publishers and booksellers from across India and neighboring countries.
Also read | Assam Book Fair begins in Guwahati
The change in venue follows the unavailability of the Assam Engineering Institute playground, the event’s traditional location, due to ongoing construction work on the GNB flyover.
This year’s fair is expected to host over 150 stalls showcasing books across genres and languages. However, unlike previous editions, Bangladeshi publishers will not participate this year due to ongoing bilateral issues between India and Bangladesh, as confirmed by Pramod Kalita, Secretary of the Publication Board Assam.
Must read | MHA Introduces Border Pass for Myanmar Nationals; COCOMI Condemns Move
Special events, including book launches, literary discussions, and cultural programs, are planned to enhance the experience for visitors. Organizers aim to attract a larger audience at the spacious new venue, with improved amenities and parking facilities expected to accommodate the increased footfall.
The Assam Book Fair has grown into a prominent literary event in the Northeast region, fostering a love for reading and offering a platform for local and international publishers to connect with readers.
Also read | Living with floods: Dhemaji District Assam
The publication board, which was created by the State government in 1958 with the aims of sponsoring, encouraging and assisting in the literary field of activities, had organised Guwahati Book Fair in the city since the Eighties where the then publication secretary and eminent author Chandra Prasad Saikia took the lead from the front.
Also read | After New Governor, Manipur to Get New Chief Secretary