Assam Makes History and Geography Compulsory for Classes 6–8

The Assam government has introduced a major curriculum reform by approving history and geography as compulsory subjects for students in classes 6, 7 and 8. The decision, adopted by the state cabinet led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, aims to strengthen students’ understanding of Assam’s cultural, historical and geographical identity.

Curriculum Reform Based on Committee Recommendations

The move follows recommendations of the Justice Biplab Kumar Sharma committee, constituted to reinforce local knowledge within the school curriculum. Students will now study social science, history and geography as mandatory subjects, each carrying 50 marks. The change removes the earlier option of bypassing these subjects.

Focus on Strengthening State Knowledge

Officials emphasised that early exposure to the state’s historical and geographical context will improve civic awareness and cultural connection among young learners. Schools will integrate the revised subjects into the existing timetable, ensuring balanced weightage and structured learning outcomes for middle-school students.

Major Educational Projects Cleared by the Cabinet

Alongside curriculum changes, the cabinet approved a Rs 243 crore collaboration with Dassault Systems India at Assam Engineering College. The project will offer training in aerospace, defence, automotive and electric vehicle technologies. The state will fund Rs 43 crore, while Dassault Systems will invest Rs 200 crore, with the initiative set to begin in mid-January.

Exam Oriented Facts

• History and geography are now compulsory for classes 6–8 in Assam.
• Each subject will carry 50 marks under the revised structure.
• A Rs 243 crore Dassault Systems project was approved at Assam Engineering College.
• Assam’s second sainik school will be set up at Longvaku in Karbi Anglong.

Infrastructure Boost with New Sainik School

The cabinet also sanctioned the establishment of a second sainik school in Karbi Anglong district at a cost of Rs 335 crore. The Union defence ministry will contribute 80 per cent of the funding, with the state covering the rest. Construction is expected to begin soon, complementing broader efforts to enhance educational infrastructure across Assam.