The Odisha government has taken an important step towards increasing access to higher education for underprivileged ST and SC students. Beginning this year, the government will provide one-time financial assistance of Rs 50,000 to ST and SC students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds pursuing general degree courses at any state government institution.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik made the announcement at a Tribes Advisory Council meeting.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik emphasised his government's commitment to improving socioeconomic conditions and meeting tribal communities' educational needs.

"Our focus has been on education, livelihood, and the protection of their rights," he said.

The government has launched a number of initiatives to help tribal communities, including the formation of Special Development Councils (SDCs) to promote, protect, and preserve tribal culture and traditions. This year, the programme has reached 172 blocks in 23 districts, benefiting over 84 lakh tribal people.

Over the last two decades, the state has made remarkable progress in the education sector, increasing the number of high schools from 215 to 422 and establishing 62 higher secondary schools.

Odisha has also submitted a proposal to the union government for the expansion of the Odisha PVTG Empowerment and Livelihoods Improvement Programme.

This programme aims to be implemented in newly notified 1,138 PVTG (Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group) villages for a period of seven years from 2024-25 onwards. These efforts reflect the government's commitment to uplifting underprivileged communities and ensuring their holistic development.