The Assam cabinet on Sunday approved making the state’s history and geography mandatory subjects for classes 6, 7, and 8, following the recommendations of the Justice (retd) Biplab Kumar Sharma committee, as quoted by the TNN. This move ensures that students will no longer have the option to skip these subjects, aiming to strengthen knowledge of Assam’s geography and historical heritage.Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said in conversation with the TNN that students in these classes will study social science, history, and geography, with each subject carrying 50 marks. “While this may slightly increase the academic burden, it is essential to enrich the understanding of Assam among young learners,” Sarma added to the TNN.Curriculum changes and academic structureThe new curriculum will make social science, history, and geography compulsory from class 6 onwards. Previously, students could choose optional subjects in these areas. The Justice Biplab Kumar Sharma committee, formed to implement Clause 6 of the 1985 Assam Accord, recommended this move to emphasise the cultural and geographical roots of the state, as reported by the TNN.Sarma in discussion with the TNN highlighted that the decision reflects the government’s commitment to education reforms that focus on local context. Schools will integrate these subjects into the existing timetable, ensuring equal weightage in assessment.Major educational projects approved alongside curriculum changeIn another development, the Assam cabinet approved a joint project between the state government and Dassault Systems India Pvt Ltd at Assam Engineering College, Guwahati. Spread over 5,000 sq. ft. and costing Rs 243 crore, the project will provide courses in aerospace & defence, automotive, and electric vehicles. “The state government will contribute Rs 43 crore, while Dassault Systems will invest Rs 200 crore,” Sarma told the TNN. The project is expected to begin around January 15.The cabinet also approved the establishment of Assam’s second sainik school at Longvaku in Karbi Anglong district near Diphu. Estimated to cost Rs 335 crore, 80% will be funded by the Union defence ministry and 20% by the state government. “The tender process is complete, and construction will start in January. The Centre has already released Rs 100 crore,” Sarma added to the TNN. Currently, Assam has only one sainik school in Goalpara district.With these decisions, the Assam government aims to bolster both academic knowledge and technical education infrastructure in the state, as reported by the TNN.
