States » EastPosted at: Oct 13 2026 11:15PM


Odisha Cabinet approves Rs 284 crore scheme for free textbooks to Class IX, X students

Bhubaneswar, Oct 13 (UNI) The Odisha government will provide free textbooks to students of Classes IX and X in government and government-aided secondary schools across the state, with the Cabinet approving a five-year scheme involving an estimated outlay of Rs 284.07 crore to benefit around 28.7 lakh students.
The proposal was approved at a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday night.
The scheme, titled “Supply of Free Textbooks”, aims to ensure equitable access to quality education, ease the financial burden on economically weaker families, improve enrolment in government schools and reduce dropout rates. It is also expected to facilitate a higher transition rate from elementary to secondary education.
The scheme will be implemented over five years, from 2025-26 to 2029-30, covering students of Classes IX and X in government and government-aided secondary schools, excluding those covered under the SC and ST category.
The procurement of paper, printing, transportation and distribution of textbooks will be carried out through a transparent, competitive and cost-effective process in accordance with the provisions of the Odisha General Financial Rules (OGFR), applicable procurement guidelines and government instructions issued from time to time.
The School and Mass Education Department will put in place a robust mechanism to collect, verify and validate beneficiary data through field-level verification. It will also ensure that textbooks are printed and supplied to all schools well before the commencement of each academic session.
UNI DP
Tags: #Odisha Cabinet approves Rs 284 crore scheme for free textbooks to Class IX# X students
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