Bhubaneswar: In a significant step towards implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the Odisha Government has decided to introduce 10 ‘bagless days’ every academic year for students of Classes VI to VIII in schools across the state.
The initiative is aimed at reducing academic pressure on students while encouraging experiential, activity-based, and skill-oriented learning. During these designated days, students will participate in a range of educational and co-curricular activities without carrying their school bags, promoting a more engaging and practical learning environment.
The School and Mass Education Department has issued detailed guidelines and a revised timetable that allocates specific periods for bagless sessions, school-based activities, vocational exposure, and hands-on learning experiences. The move aligns with the NEP’s emphasis on holistic education and the development of life skills beyond traditional classroom instruction.
Officials said the bagless days will provide students with opportunities to explore areas such as art, crafts, sports, local occupations, environmental awareness, community engagement, and other experiential learning activities. The objective is to make education more enjoyable, interactive, and relevant to real-world situations.
The department has directed all District Education Officers, Block Education Officers, and school authorities to ensure strict implementation of the new provisions during the academic year. Schools have been asked to plan and conduct meaningful activities that support students’ overall development while adhering to the guidelines issued by the government.
Education experts have welcomed the initiative, noting that reducing the burden of textbooks and encouraging practical learning can help improve student engagement, creativity, problem-solving abilities, and social skills.
The introduction of bagless days forms part of Odisha’s broader efforts to align its school education system with the goals of NEP 2020, which seeks to transform learning through flexibility, innovation, and a stronger focus on holistic development.
Officials expressed confidence that the initiative will create a more student-friendly learning environment and help foster curiosity, confidence, and lifelong learning among young learners across the state.
-OdishaAge
