Industry Odisha Bureau, Sept 25: The Odisha government has released the second instalment of Rs 14.34 crore to eligible higher education institutions under its KG to PG Free Education scheme for the academic year 2026-27.
The amount represents 15% of the approved financial assistance under the Gyanodaya-Shiksha Ru Samruddhi scheme. The Higher Education Department transferred the funds through the Student Academic Management System (SAMS).
Earlier, the department had released Rs 9.56 crore as the first instalment. This had accounted for 10 percent of the approved assistance. With the latest release, the total amount disbursed to eligible institutions has reached Rs 23.90 crore.
Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj said the phased release of funds would help institutions implement the scheme. Moreover, it would also enable eligible students to pursue education without financial difficulties. The scheme is expected to benefit over 32 lakh students every year.
The Gyanodaya-Shiksha Ru Samruddhi scheme, notably, covers students enrolled in regular undergraduate and postgraduate courses at state public universities, government colleges and government aided private colleges.
Eligible students receive a complete waiver of admission fees and are required to pay only the prescribed examination fee. The initiative aims to make higher education more affordable and reduce the financial burden on students and their families.
Meanwhile, the programme also covers students from Classes 9 to 12. As per information on the official website, Odisha has become the first state in India to provide free education from KF to PF in government and government aided institutions through a complete admission fee waiver.
