Bhubaneswar: The state-level Sargiful Mahotsav 2025 concluded successfully with a grand valedictory ceremony, bringing to a close a vibrant three-day celebration of students’ talent, creativity and cultural expression. The valedictory programme was graced by Niyananda Gond, Minister for School and Mass Education, ST & SC Development, Minority and Backward Classes Welfare, Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities.
Several senior officials were present on the occasion, including B. Parameswaran, Commissioner-cum-Secretary; Laxman Kumar Mallik, Director, SC; Jugaleswari Dash, Director, OBC; Sudhakar Sabor, Director, SCSTRTI and Member Secretary, ATLC; Sujata Mishra, Special Secretary; Banita Das, Financial Advisor-cum-Special Secretary; and Devendra Kumar Nanda, Additional Secretary.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister encouraged the students and extended his best wishes for their bright future. He said that “Sargiful” symbolises purity and serves as a unique platform to identify, nurture and showcase the hidden talents of children. He noted that the enthusiastic participation of students from across the state made the festival vibrant and meaningful. Emphasising the objective of the festival, the Minister said it aims to bring the talents of students studying in departmental schools and hostels onto a public platform and support their holistic skill development. He also congratulated the officers and staff of the department for the successful organisation of the state-level event.
Highlighting the government’s efforts to reduce school dropout rates, Gond said financial assistance is being extended to students through the Madho Singh Hatho Kharcha Yojana. He added that initiatives such as the Child Tracking Survey and the “Aasa School Jiba” campaign are playing a crucial role in bringing dropout children back into the education system. He underlined the need for collective efforts from all stakeholders to ensure the success of these initiatives.
The three-day Sargiful Mahotsav witnessed the participation of 1,160 students and teachers across 22 competitions spanning academics, arts, culture and sports. Meritorious students were awarded by the chief guest during the valedictory ceremony. In addition, five best-performing Eklavya Model Residential Schools were felicitated, while 10 students who excelled in the CBSE board examinations from Eklavya schools were also honoured. The department also recognised 50 best high schools and 10 best higher secondary schools under its administration, marking a fitting conclusion to the festival celebrating excellence and creativity among students.