The Odisha government approved the Gyanodaya - Shiksharu Samruddhi scheme on July 1, 2026. This plan will provide free education for eligible students. It covers classes from Kindergarten to Postgraduate levels. The program starts with the 2026-27 academic year . This fulfills a government promise. The aim is to remove financial barriers to education. Over 32 lakh students are expected to benefit annually. This includes students from weaker economic backgrounds.
Free Education Expansion
Previously, education in Odisha was free from KG to Class 8. The new scheme extends this to Class 12. It also covers undergraduate and postgraduate courses. This applies to students in government and government-aided institutions. The Chief Minister stated this on social media. He said no student will be denied education due to cost. Students will also not have to drop out mid-study.
Scheme Details and Scope
The Gyanodaya scheme targets regular courses. It includes students in State Public Universities. Government Colleges and aided colleges are also covered. However, self-financing courses are not included. Unaided institutions and PPP-mode institutions are excluded. Professional and technical programs are also not part of the scheme.
Financial Allocation
The Odisha State Cabinet approved the initiative. They chaired the meeting on July 1, 2026. The government allocated funds for the scheme. The first year's expenditure is Rs. 895.57 Crore . The next five years will see an expenditure of Rs. 5,467.55 Crore . This financial commitment supports the long-term goal of free education.
Expected Outcomes
The government expects several positive outcomes. These include increased student enrollment. Dropout rates are projected to decrease. Student retention in schools and colleges should improve. The scheme aims to encourage more youth to pursue higher education. This initiative aims for equal educational opportunities for all Odia students.
