Odisha Announces Free Education from KG to PG in Government Institutions

In a significant move to expand access to education, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has announced free education in all government institutions from kindergarten to postgraduate level. The announcement was made as the BJP government completed two years in office, with the chief minister describing the initiative as a landmark step towards making education truly universal and accessible.

Addressing the occasion, Majhi said the comprehensive free education policy would benefit students across the state, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds who often face financial barriers in pursuing higher studies.

“Our government has taken historic steps towards making education truly free and universal. Through a comprehensive free education system from KG to PG, every student in the state, especially those from economically disadvantaged sections, will benefit,” the chief minister said.

The announcement coincided with the observance of the World Day Against Child Labour, underscoring the government's emphasis on keeping children in classrooms rather than entering the workforce prematurely. Stressing the importance of safeguarding children's rights, Majhi said every child deserves access to education, protection and growth opportunities.

“Every child deserves a book in hand, not a burden on their shoulders,” he said, reiterating the state's commitment to preventing child labour and promoting education. He highlighted welfare initiatives such as the Shahid Madho Singh Haata Kharcha Yojana, which supports children from vulnerable communities in continuing their education.

The chief minister also used the occasion to reflect on the BJP government's two-year tenure in Odisha. In a message shared on social media, he said the state had entered a new phase of development under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He cited progress in key sectors including education, healthcare, women's empowerment, farmers' welfare, agriculture, industry and infrastructure development.

Majhi said transparency, accountability and public participation remain the guiding principles of his administration. Thanking the people of Odisha for their support, he reaffirmed the government's commitment to building a developed and prosperous state through inclusive growth and good governance.

The newly announced KG-to-PG free education initiative is expected to become one of the state's most ambitious education reforms, potentially expanding educational opportunities for thousands of students across Odisha.