Bhubaneswar: Odisha has taken a bold leap towards its vision of "KG to PG, Free Education." In a landmark decision, the State Cabinet has approved Gyanodaya - Shiksharu Samruddhi, a transformative scheme designed to make quality education accessible, equitable, and affordable for lakhs of students across the State.
Beginning with the 2026-27 academic session, the initiative will waive admission fees for students enrolled in Classes IX to XII in Government and Government-Aided schools, as well as those pursuing Undergraduate and Postgraduate programmes in State Public Universities, Government Colleges, and Government-Aided Colleges. With education from Kindergarten to Class VIII already free, this scheme completes the government's ambitious promise of free education from KG to PG.
Officials emphacised that the programme aims to ensure no deserving student is denied education due to financial hardship. By easing the burden on families, especially those from economically weaker sections, the scheme is expected to boost enrolment, reduce dropouts, and encourage uninterrupted pursuit of higher education.
The Cabinet has earmarked an estimated Rs 895.57 crore for the first year and Rs 5,467.55 crore over five years, benefitting over 32 lakh students annually. Exclusions apply to self-financing courses, unaided institutions, PPP-mode institutions, and professional or technical programmes.
Aligned with the National Education Policy 2020 and Odisha's Vision 2036 and 2047, Gyanodaya is more than a fee waiver, it is a pledge to build a skilled, empowered generation and a knowledge-driven, inclusive Odisha.