Odisha Chief Minister Kicks Off Keonjhar Tour with Education Sector Announcements
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi commenced his four-day official visit to Keonjhar district on Saturday, starting with the centenary celebrations of Chandrasekhar Government High School. In his address, Majhi emphasized the state government's unwavering commitment to bolstering the education sector, outlining several key initiatives and financial allocations aimed at transforming schooling infrastructure and quality across Odisha.
Major Teacher Recruitment and Regularization Efforts
The Chief Minister revealed that significant strides have been made in addressing teacher shortages. Over the past eighteen months, approximately 20,000 teachers have been appointed, with recruitment currently underway for an additional 45,000 teaching positions. Furthermore, Majhi announced the regularization of 13,000 schematic teachers, providing them with permanent status and benefits, a move expected to enhance job security and morale within the education workforce.
Substantial Budget Allocation and Infrastructure Development
Highlighting the government's financial commitment, Majhi disclosed that the School and Mass Education Department has been allocated more than Rs 31,997 crore in the 2026–27 state budget, constituting 10.3% of the total outlay. This substantial funding is earmarked for various educational enhancements, including the establishment of Adarsh Primary Schools. The first phase of this initiative has already seen projects initiated in 2,200 panchayats, with the goal of having one model primary school in each panchayat to improve access to quality education in rural areas.
Grants and Land Support for Chandrasekhar Government High School
In a significant boost for the host institution, Chief Minister Majhi announced a grant of Rs 3 crore specifically for infrastructure development at Chandrasekhar Government High School, commemorating its centenary. Additionally, he declared support under the Godabarish Mishra Adarsh Primary School Scheme, providing Rs 10 crore and seven acres of land to further educational facilities in the region, underscoring the government's focus on local development.
Upgrading Schools and Improving Literacy
Majhi also detailed broader state-wide educational reforms, noting that 800 schools across Odisha are being upgraded into centres of excellence under the PM Shri Yojana. This initiative is complemented by the Skilled Odisha Mission, which aims to enhance basic literacy and numeracy skills among students, ensuring a strong foundation for future learning and workforce readiness.
Infrastructure Inaugurations During the Visit
Earlier on Saturday, the Chief Minister arrived by helicopter at Bodapalasa village in the Sadar block, where he inaugurated a 100-metre bridge over the Ardei river, a critical infrastructure project expected to improve connectivity and transportation for local communities. Subsequently, Majhi traveled to Langalkanti village in the Ghatagaon block to inaugurate an underpass on the Panikoili–Rimuli stretch of National Highway-20, further demonstrating the government's commitment to enhancing regional infrastructure alongside educational advancements.
This visit marks a comprehensive effort by the Odisha government to address both educational and infrastructural needs in Keonjhar district, with Chief Minister Majhi's announcements reflecting a holistic approach to development and public welfare.
