Odisha Govt Reconstitutes Task Force for NEP-2020 Implementation

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has reconstituted a task force to oversee the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP-2020) in the state. The School & Mass Education Department issued an official notification on Thursday detailing the new structure of the task force, which will be led by the Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary as its Chairperson.

The task force will include 13 Ex-officio Members, along with Expert Members as Special Invitees from various educational and developmental organizations such as UNICEF, Central Square Foundation (CSF), AKSHARA Foundation, Language Learning Foundation (LLF), PRATHAM, and a nominee from the Higher Education Department.

The notification stated, “After careful consideration, the government has reconstituted the task force under the Chairmanship of DC-cum-ACS to suggest measures for implementing NEP-2020 in Odisha.”

Additionally, six Thematic Sub-Committees have been formed to focus on different components of NEP-2020. These sub-committees will include representatives from other government departments, directorates under the School & Mass Education Department, and experts in the education sector.

The Chairperson of the task force has also been empowered to invite other experts or relevant individuals to attend specific meetings to discuss particular issues regarding the smooth implementation of the policy. The aim is to ensure that the state adapts to the comprehensive changes recommended by the NEP-2020 in a manner that enhances the education system.

The National Education Policy, introduced in 2020, emphasizes holistic and multidisciplinary education, early childhood care, and a significant shift in the structure of the Indian education system. Odisha’s reconstituted task force is expected to provide strategic guidance to implement these reforms in the state effectively.