The Odisha School and Mass Education Department has issued new guidelines to provide ex‑gratia assistance to students in case of accidental death, permanent disability, or serious accident‑related medical treatment.
The provisions cover students from Sishu Vatika to Class XII in government and government‑aided schools, as well as Odisha Adarsha Vidyalayas (OAVs) and Odisha Model Adarsha Vidyalayas (OMAVs).
Under the new rules, families of students who suffer accidental death or permanent disability will receive Rs 2 lakh. For serious injuries requiring transfer outside the district for advanced treatment, transportation assistance up to Rs 30,000 will be provided. Students undergoing treatment for more than three days at a district headquarters hospital will be eligible for up to Rs 10,000 in transport support.
Treatment at government hospitals will be free, with additional support available under schemes such as Ayushman Bharat, CMRF, and Red Cross.
The department has emphasised that sanctioned amounts will be released within 24 hours of approval by competent authorities, including the Headmaster, BEO, DEO and District Collector.
In case of accidental death, the ex‑gratia amount will be paid with priority to the mother, followed by the father if the mother is not alive, and then a guardian identified by the District Collector.
Officials said the initiative aims to ensure timely financial support and reduce hardship for families during crises.
