Pinaki Chouhan The morning air in Guwahati buzzed with anticipation as a group of high school students gathered at the city bus stand, their backpacks slung over shoulders and cameras dangling from necks, ready for a cultural trip to Shillong. Excited chatter filled the bus as friends jostled for window seats, their voices blending with the rumble of the engine and the scent of freshly brewed tea from the roadside stalls. Teachers tried to maintain some order, reminding students of the itinerary while the students’ eyes sparkled at the thought of scenic hills, cascading waterfalls, and bustling local markets awaiting…