- Minister Bimal Bora inaugurates new academic and library building at Government College of Arts and Crafts

- Announces ₹1 crore grant for further development of the institution

Guwahati, 20 August (HS): Assam’s Minister of Culture, Industries, Commerce and Public Enterprises, Bimal Bora, on Wednesday inaugurated a new academic and library building at the Government College of Arts and Crafts, Bhashistha. Speaking on the occasion, he emphasized that “art plays an important role in the upliftment of society.”

The Minister noted that the institution, established in 1947 as the Guwahati Art School by Jibeswar Barua and later upgraded to a college, has faced several challenges over its 79-year journey. The newly inaugurated building, he said, would help address one of its major shortcomings.

Bora also announced that the college would soon be equipped with an extensive library collection, modern facilities and even an art gallery. For this purpose, he declared a grant of ₹1 crore and directed officials to prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) in coordination with the Public Works Department.

During the event, the Minister visited a student art exhibition and toured the craft department. The ceremony was attended by alumni, faculty members, and students of the college.

In his welcome address, Principal Dr. Navjit Deka expressed gratitude for the new infrastructure, while Additional Chief Secretary of the Culture Department, Dr. B. Kalyan Chakravarthy, highlighted Assam’s rich artistic and cultural heritage. Director of Cultural Affairs Rahul Chandra Das also spoke on the occasion.

After the inauguration, students briefed the Minister about various problems faced by the institution.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash