Bhubaneswar: In a landmark initiative aimed at expanding educational opportunities and promoting social equity, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced that the state government will provide free education from kindergarten (KG) to postgraduate (PG) level for students from economically weaker sections.
The announcement reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that financial hardship does not prevent deserving students from accessing quality education. Under the initiative, students from disadvantaged economic backgrounds will be able to pursue their studies from the foundational stage through higher education without the burden of educational expenses.
Speaking on the importance of education as a tool for social transformation, the Chief Minister emphasized that the scheme is designed to promote inclusive development and create equal opportunities for all sections of society. The initiative is expected to benefit thousands of students across the state, particularly those who face financial barriers in continuing their education beyond school.
The move is also aimed at improving enrolment and retention rates, reducing school and college dropouts, and encouraging more students to pursue higher education. By extending support up to the postgraduate level, the government seeks to strengthen Odisha’s human resource base and equip young people with the skills and qualifications needed for future employment and economic advancement.
Education experts have described the decision as a significant step toward making higher education more accessible and affordable. The scheme is expected to contribute to long-term socio-economic development by empowering students from weaker sections and enabling them to participate more effectively in the state’s growth story.
The announcement underscores the Odisha government’s focus on education, social welfare and inclusive growth, with the objective of ensuring that every student has the opportunity to realize their academic aspirations regardless of economic circumstances.
-OdishaAge
