Odisha Makes a Giant Leap in School Education: Climbs to 5th Rank in India's Performance Grading Index

In a matter of pride for the state, Odisha jumped to 5th rank in the national School Education Performance Grading Index (PGI 2.0) of the country, a record jump from its 14th rank all the way back in 2019. Odisha's score of 595.6 has also earned it win the PRACHESTA-3 grade for the academic year 2023-24, the state's rising commitment towards quality education.

Underlying this achievement is Odisha's innovative 5T policy — Technology, Transparency, Teamwork, Time, and Transformation — that has in just a short while given a facelift of sorts to some 7,000 schools. It was the result of the collective efforts of teachers, parents, education officers, and supporting staff, as stated by ex-Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, who proclaimed, "The 5T initiative has brought a sea change in Odisha's school education."

What particularly impresses Odisha in this year's rankings is its showing under the 'access' category, where it came in at the upper range (941–1000) over states like Kerala, otherwise high placed in school education indicators. It is a measure of the reach and inclusiveness of schooling that reflects Odisha's very high priority for enrolment of students, retention, and building of infrastructure.

State's rise in rankings is not mere numbers — it's the story of collective action, visionary leadership, and systemic change. From improved classrooms to enhanced teacher education and data-driven decision-making, Odisha is changing school education in India.

As Odisha continues the building momentum, education insiders think that the state will soon be a national model for public school reform. The PRACHESTA-3 ranking not only confirms the achievements to date but also presents higher opportunities for policy innovation and student-focused development in the coming years.