A scheme named Odisha Shikshanet has been sanctioned by the Odisha State Cabinet, which will cost Rs 393.62 crore for the purpose of providing high-speed Wi-Fi connection to 601 government and aided colleges. In terms of the scheme, all the students who register would get free internet usage data of 1 GB per day.
This scheme is scheduled to be launched within three years, from 2026 to 2029. It will benefit more than six lakh students and teachers of the state. This decision was taken after a Cabinet meeting held under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.
Odisha Shikshanet Scheme 2026: Key Highlights
Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
Scheme Name | Odisha Shikshanet Scheme |
Approved Budget | ₹393.62 crore |
Approval Authority | Odisha State Cabinet |
Chief Minister | Mohan Charan Majhi |
Colleges Covered | 601 Government and Aided Colleges |
Beneficiaries | Over 6 lakh students and faculty members |
Daily Free Data | Up to 1 GB per student |
Implementation Period | 2026–2029 |
Internet Facility | Free High-Speed Wi-Fi |
Main Objective | Digital Connectivity in Higher Education |
Odisha Shikshanet Scheme: Objectives And Key Features
The Odisha Shikshanet initiative aims to strengthen digital infrastructure in higher education institutions and reduce the digital divide among students. The major features of the scheme include:
Free Wi-Fi Connectivity: High-speed internet facilities will be provided across 601 government and aided colleges.
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Daily Data Benefits: Registered students will receive up to 1 GB of free internet data every day on campus.
Digital Learning Resources: Students and faculty members will be able to access online journals, digital libraries and educational platforms.
Centralised Monitoring: A dedicated monitoring system will oversee bandwidth distribution, cybersecurity and content filtering.
Infrastructure Development: The approved budget will cover hardware installation, optical fibre bandwidth and maintenance.
Three-Year Implementation: The project will be implemented between 2026 and 2029.
Odisha Cabinet Approves Other Key Decisions Alongside Shikshanet
Apart from the Odisha Shikshanet scheme, the State Cabinet approved several other proposals concerning public services, recruitment opportunities and agricultural procurement. One of the key decisions involves removing the attempt limit for eligible candidates appearing in the Odisha Civil Services (OCS) Examination. The Cabinet also approved a procurement target of 53 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of rice for the Kharif Marketing Season (KMS) 2026-27.
According to the Chief Minister's Office, these decisions are aimed at expanding opportunities, strengthening governance and accelerating development across Odisha.