Assam Floods: Children Dry Soaked Books on Road, Government Promises Free Replacements
A viral video showing children in Assam laying out their flood-damaged books on a dry road to dry in the sun has prompted the state government to announce free replacement textbooks for all affected students.
The clip, widely shared on social media, depicts children spreading notebooks, textbooks, and other study materials on stretches of road after floodwaters receded. The books, covered in mud and soaked, were salvaged from homes in the hope they could still be used. Many viewers expressed concern over the recurring impact of floods on education in the state.
In response, Assam Education Minister Ranoj Pegu stated on X (formerly Twitter) that the government will distribute free replacement textbooks to all students whose materials were damaged. “The textbooks will be dispatched as soon as schools reopen, ensuring that students can resume their learning without disruption. Education must continue, even in the face of adversity,” Pegu wrote.
He also noted that he had assessed the flood damage across several districts and instructed the Assam State Textbook Production and Publication Corporation to prepare for resupplying free textbooks. Inspectors of Schools and district education officers have been directed to coordinate the distribution.
The floods, caused by relentless monsoon rain over the past week, have inundated several districts, including Nagaon, Cachar, and Barpeta. Thousands of people have been displaced, and road connectivity has been disrupted in many areas.
The viral video drew a range of reactions. One user commented, “Every year the same tragedy. The government must take strict action and implement permanent flood control measures so no child has to suffer like this again.” Another wrote, “We fought for education reforms and accountability. This is the spirit of youth, books being dried, knowledge is the biggest treasure. Stay Strong Assam. This will pass. Help is on the way.”
Floods in Assam are an annual challenge, often affecting the education of thousands of children. The government’s promise of free replacements aims to ensure that students can continue their studies without additional financial burden. However, many citizens have called for long-term solutions to mitigate the recurring devastation.
