Odisha to Implement NEP 2020 from 2025-26, Introduces ‘Shishu Vatika’ for Early Education

Bhubaneswar: Odisha is set to implement the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 in a phased manner starting from the 2025-26 academic session, bringing significant reforms in the state’s education system. The Department of School and Mass Education has announced a structured approach to align with NEP guidelines, focusing on foundational learning, curriculum revisions, and early childhood education.

As part of these reforms, the minimum age for Class I admission has been revised to six years or above, with the age eligibility deadline extended to September 1 instead of the previous cut-off of March 31. Additionally, the state has introduced Shishu Vatika in all primary schools to provide pre-school education for children aged five and above. The Shishu Vatika initiative, which aligns with NEP 2020, will commence across the state from April 2, utilizing existing infrastructure and trained teachers.

To support foundational learning, Odisha launched the Nipun Odisha program in September 2024, emphasizing literacy and numeracy skills. The initiative was marked by the launch of the Nipun song and logo by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and has since been promoted through awareness events across districts.

For early education, the state is adopting Jaadui Pitara, an NCERT-developed digital learning tool designed to enhance foundational education through interactive content, stories, and activities. The e-Jaadui Pitara mobile app offers educational resources in Odia, benefiting teachers, parents, and students. The state has also developed Jaadu Pedi materials, which will be supplied to all primary schools, and integrated into a teacher training module called Prayog.

The Odisha government has taken proactive steps to align its curriculum with national standards. A high-level task force, chaired by the Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary, has been working on NEP 2020 implementation strategies. In February 2025, a State Steering Committee was formed under the leadership of Prof. Nityanand Pradhan, Former Principal of RIE, Bhopal, to develop State Curriculum Frameworks (SCF) based on the National Curriculum Framework (NCF). This committee has already conducted three meetings, with the fourth scheduled for March 26-30. Additionally, a State-Level Committee for reviewing syllabi and textbooks is under active consideration.

As part of the transition, Odisha plans to introduce new NCERT-aligned textbooks for Classes I-VIII in the 2026-27 academic year. The NEP 2020 framework also emphasizes multilingual education, integrating mother tongue-based learning, and the use of technology in teaching. Basic literacy and numeracy will be prioritized in all schools up to Class III.

To celebrate the start of the new academic session and the introduction of Shishu Vatika, Odisha will host Pravesh Utsav and Khadi Chhuan events on April 2. Invitation letters, personally signed by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, are being distributed to parents of eligible children through the district administration. The initiative aims to create a welcoming and engaging atmosphere in schools, encouraging early childhood learning through interactive activities.

The Odisha government’s commitment to implementing NEP 2020 reflects its dedication to transforming the education system, ensuring quality learning, and equipping students with essential skills for the future.