Odisha will offer free education in all government institutions from kindergarten to postgraduate levels. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced the universal free education policy. The initiative aims to provide access to education for all students in the state.
The scheme is expected to begin this academic year. The state cabinet is set to approve the final details. This policy covers schools and colleges under three departments: School Education, Mass Education, and Higher Education.
Statewide Implementation and Support
The state plans to hire more teachers. They have already hired 26,615 staff in the last two years. An additional 45,000 teachers will be recruited. This expansion supports the new, expanded education program.
Four new state universities are planned. Eighteen government colleges have opened in underserved areas. The Godavarish Mishra Adarsh Primary School scheme is building model schools in every village panchayat. This ensures early childhood education access.
Odisha Joins Other States with Free Education Initiatives
Odisha becomes one of several Indian states expanding college affordability. Similar initiatives exist in other regions:
- Kerala: Introduced free education up to graduation in government and aided colleges starting January 2026. Previously, free education ended at Class 12.
- Tamil Nadu: Offers free undergraduate education (BA, BSc, BCom) in government and aided colleges since the 2007-08 academic year.
- Maharashtra: For the 2024-25 academic year, fees are waived for women from Economically Weaker Sections and Other Backward Classes with family incomes below ₹8 lakh for higher professional courses.
The new policy ensures public education is available to people of all ages and genders. It covers all educational levels without exception.
