Odisha Expands Education and Food Security Initiatives: Major Quota Increases Announced

The Odisha government has increased quotas for Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe students and introduced reservations for the Socially and Economically Backward Classes in medical and technical education, while also unveiling a new scheme to provide additional rice to beneficiaries under state food security programs.

The Odisha government has taken a significant step by enhancing quotas for Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe students, alongside introducing reservations for Socially and Economically Backward Classes (SEBC) in medical and technical education. This decision was made during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, indicating a strategic move towards educational inclusivity.

The quota for ST students has been increased from 12% to 22.5%, and for SCs from 8% to 16.25%. An 11.25% reservation has been created for OBC students, identified as SEBC in Odisha. This change will impact universities, colleges, ITIs, and polytechnics across various educational fields, expanding opportunities for these communities at multiple academic levels.

Additionally, the state has announced the 'Mukhyamantri Annapurna Yojana' for 2026-27, aimed at enhancing food security. Beneficiaries of the National and State Food Security Schemes will receive an extra 5 kg of rice monthly without cost. These initiatives underline Odisha's commitment to improving access and welfare for its underrepresented populations.

(With inputs from agencies.)