"Orunodoi" (meaning sunrise), started in 1846 by an American missionary was the first newspaper in Assam. It was  also  the first newspaper in Assamese.

Though "Orunodoi" was launched primarily for the propagation of Christianity, its contribution towards advancement of Assamese literature, culture and society was immense. Along with concentration on news with international coverage, the newspaper regularly featured critiques on literature, science, etc. The publication initiated the Assamese middle class into a literary movement. In fact, Ananda Ram Dhekial Phukan described as the Raja Ram  Mohan Roy of Assam, Hem Chandra Barua recognised as the Panini of Assamese language and Gunabhi Ram Barua eulogised as the Vidyasagar of Assam started their literary careers in the pages of "Orunodoi". It was the first journal to publish the ethnological studies of various tribes of the then Assam like the Aka, Adi and Khamti. The pages of "Orunodoi" also waged war against the social evils of opium, alcohol etc.

The role played by "Orunodoi" in the establishment of a separate identity for Assamese language is well   recognised.

Though this newspaper had to close down, the publication played a significant role in raising the levels of public awareness and its popular appeal led to other newspapers being launched. In later period other Assamese newspapers and journals continued the good work for the advancement of Assamese language and literature. During the Independence movement, the pioneering newspapers were "Assamiya", "Assam Bilasini", "Assam Sevak" and "Advocate of Assam". The newspapers published from Sylhet district, then a part of Assam also supported the non-cooperation movement. Among the prominent publication s from that district were "Deshbrata", "Janashakti" and "Surma".

The journalists in Assam have always participated in the struggle to protect the freedom of the press whenever it was under threat. There have been instances of journalists who suffered death at the hands of extremists.

The Department of Posts is happy to commemorate 150 years of Newspapers in  Assam through issue of this stamp.

Source : Information Folder issued by Indian Posts & Telegraph Department, Government of India