Silchar: The Summer Vacation Workshop 2025, a vibrant district-wide initiative spearheaded by the Department of Cultural Affairs, Government of Assam, in collaboration with the Cachar District Administration, drew to a colourful close on Saturday with cultural showcases across 14 centres in all 7 Legislative Assembly Constituencies (LACs) of Cachar.

The 15-day programme, launched on July 11, aimed to provide school students with a creative and constructive outlet during their summer break. From classical and contemporary dance to vocal music, recitation, theatre, yoga, and basic martial arts, the workshop saw enthusiastic participation from hundreds of students under the guidance of local cultural experts, trainers, and educators.

At the valedictory function held at Jagai Mathura Higher Secondary School in Lakhipur LAC, Minister for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Barak Valley Development, and Mines and Minerals, Kaushik Rai, addressed the gathering as Chief Guest.

Applauding the initiative, he said, “This workshop reflects the Assam Government’s commitment to nurturing grassroots talent and preserving our rich cultural heritage. The discipline and energy shown by students is inspiring. Such platforms are vital in shaping confident, creative, and culturally conscious citizens.”

The Lakhipur leg of the programme was jointly conducted with Barak Upatyaka Bangya Sahitya O Sanskriti Sammelan, Lakhipur Samiti, which played a key role in coordinating training sessions and cultural activities. Minister Rai also distributed certificates and interacted with young participants, many of whom took the stage to showcase their skills during the closing ceremony.

Meanwhile, in Udharbond LAC, the closing events were held at Kashipur Vallabhbhai Patel School and the DIET Centre. Local MLA Mihir Kanti Shome, who attended as Guest of Honour, lauded the programme’s blend of cultural and physical learning.

“Our youth are full of promise, and this initiative channels that potential in the right direction. I thank Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma and the Cultural Affairs Department for enabling such empowering platforms,” he said. Shome also praised the dedication of instructors and school authorities, describing them as “mentors who plant the seeds of excellence.”

The workshop created ripples of excitement and engagement even in rural corners of the district. From bustling town campuses to remote schools, the initiative drew active participation and appreciation from parents, local leaders, and educators. For many children, especially those from underserved communities, the sessions offered a rare opportunity to explore their interests beyond academics.

Cachar Deputy Commissioner Mridul Yadav, IAS, noted that the Summer Vacation Workshop 2025 stands as one of the district’s most expansive and inclusive cultural outreach programmes in recent years. He credited the seamless coordination between the District Commissioner’s office, local organising committees, and school authorities for the successful execution across all 14 venues. “The transformation of classrooms and school halls into vibrant creative spaces has set a new benchmark for community-based cultural education,” he said.

More than just a summer engagement, the initiative is being hailed as a model of holistic youth development—one that blended heritage, creativity, discipline, and teamwork. As the curtains fell, the applause, smiles, and performances reflected the programme’s far-reaching impact.

With strong support from the government and community stakeholders, there is growing hope that the Summer Vacation Workshop will return each year—stronger, wider, and even more inclusive—nurturing a generation of confident and culturally rooted youth in Cachar.

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