In a significant push for educational reforms, Odisha has secured approval for a total of 762 PM SHRI schools, marking a major milestone under the current government.
School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond today announced in the state assembly that prior to 2024, the state had no PM SHRI schools. Following the new administration’s efforts, the central government initially allocated 462 such schools to Odisha. Subsequent discussions between the state government and Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan led to an additional 300 schools being approved, bringing the total to 762.
Minister Gond emphasised the government’s commitment to strengthening the education system across the state. As part of these initiatives, the recruitment process for 1,500 special educators dedicated to teaching differently-abled children in various schools is already underway. These teachers will ensure inclusive education, providing modern and advanced learning opportunities for students with disabilities.
In addition to expanding access to quality education, the government has reopened 46 schools that were previously closed due to low enrollment (fewer than 20 students). Plans are also under consideration to reopen four more such institutions. The minister advised that any demands for reopening closed schools should be submitted to the district committee for review.
Addressing concerns about dropout rates raised by MLA Subhasini Jena during the question hour, Minister Gond highlighted several measures implemented to curb dropouts. These include child tracking surveys, the “Asa School Jiba” (Let’s Go to School) campaign to re-enroll children, village-level school enrollment drives, and awareness programs through “Pravesh Utsav” (Entry Festival). The government has also ensured 100% enrollment initiatives in schools, along with provisions like free uniforms, bicycles, and other incentives.
Previously, the PM Poshan scheme provided mid-day meals up to Class 8, but under the Chief Minister’s directives, it has been extended through the CM Poshan Yojana to cover Classes 9 and 10 as well. Currently, this benefits over 10.8 lakh students across the state.
On the dropout front, the minister shared district-specific progress, noting that in Balasore, out of 329 identified dropouts, 300 have been successfully re-enrolled, with efforts ongoing for the remaining 29. Statewide, out of 1,83,216 dropout students, 60,729 have been brought back into the mainstream education system under the current government’s tenure.
These developments underscore Odisha’s focus on inclusive, accessible, and quality education, aiming to reduce dropouts and enhance infrastructure for all students, including those with support needs.
