Assam’s Bajali takes on screen time with Best Reader contest for students

The Elementary Education Department in Assam’s Bajali organised a district-level Best Reader Competition at the office of the District Elementary Education Officer on Wednesday, September 2, as part of an initiative to promote a reading culture among school students.

The competition was organised under the initiative of District Elementary Education Officer Simanta Deka, with the aim of encouraging students to develop an interest in books and reading.

Speaking about the initiative, Deka said the competition was conceived against the backdrop of students spending increasing amounts of time on mobile phones. The programme seeks to encourage them to return to books and develop regular reading habits.

The competition was conducted in three stages, beginning at the school level, followed by the mandal level and finally the district level.

The district-level competition was held on Wednesday, with students who qualified through the earlier stages participating in the final round.

Three experienced judges conducted and evaluated the competition. All participants will be awarded certificates, while prizes will be given to the students who secure the top positions.

The Elementary Education Department said the initiative is aimed at nurturing a lasting reading culture among children and encouraging them to explore the world of books beyond their digital engagement.