Odisha’s Gyanodaya scheme guidelines exclude professional courses

The Story in Brief

The New Indian Express reports that Odisha's Higher Education Department has issued operational guidelines for the Gyanodaya-Shikshya Ru Samruddhi scheme, offering free KG to PG education. The scheme covers regular UG and PG courses in state public universities and government-aided colleges, including Sanskrit institutions. However, five categories are excluded: self-finance courses, professional courses such as BEd, LLB, MBA, MCA, and others; private unaided institutions, PPP-run colleges, and students enrolled via distance or open mode. Eligible students must secure admission through SAMS and maintain at least 75% marks. Institutions cannot collect any fee covered under the scheme, but may charge optional fees like seminar, excursion, or alumni fees with proper approval.