Odisha CM Announces Free Education from KG to PG

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Friday announced that the state government will introduce free education from Kindergarten (KG) to Postgraduate (PG) level, positioning the move as a major social welfare initiative aimed at making education more accessible and easing financial pressure on households.

The announcement was made during a press conference held in Bhubaneswar to mark the completion of two years of the BJP government in the state.

Describing education as a critical tool for social and economic transformation, Majhi said the proposed initiative would ensure that students are not forced to discontinue studies due to financial limitations. He claimed Odisha would become the first state in India to implement fee-free education covering all stages from early schooling to postgraduate studies.

According to the Chief Minister, the policy is expected to particularly benefit students from economically weaker families and expand opportunities for higher education across the state.

Reviewing his government’s performance, Majhi said the administration has prioritised development-oriented governance and inclusive growth since assuming office in 2024.

He stated that 121 schemes have been implemented over the past two years and said these interventions have supported the government’s larger objective of building a prosperous and developed Odisha.

The Chief Minister said the state government has worked with a focus on delivering public services and accelerating development outcomes under the “double-engine government” model.

Majhi also criticised the previous BJD government, questioning its development record during its 24-year tenure and alleging that key infrastructure and public service gaps remained unresolved despite prolonged governance.

He claimed that issues such as uninterrupted electricity supply and road connectivity in several villages had not been adequately addressed earlier and said his government has taken steps to improve basic infrastructure delivery.

Highlighting ongoing development initiatives, the Chief Minister referred to the launch of the ‘Mission PoWaR’ programme focused on strengthening access to power, water and roads across the state.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to equitable growth, Majhi said efforts are being made to ensure development benefits reach every region and section of society.