In Brief
- Odisha approves free textbooks for 28.7 lakh students.
- State sanctions ₹500 crore for urban drainage scheme.
- Textbook initiative aims to support student education statewide.
- Drainage scheme focuses on improving urban infrastructure.
The Odisha Cabinet has sanctioned free textbooks for approximately 28.7 lakh students across the state on 13 October, 2026. This initiative is intended to facilitate better access to educational resources and support students in their academic pursuits.
Simultaneously, the Cabinet approved a ₹500-crore urban drainage scheme aimed at improving the drainage infrastructure in Odisha’s cities. The project seeks to address urban waterlogging and enhance sanitation and public health conditions. These approvals reflect the state government's commitment to developing educational facilities alongside improving essential urban infrastructure. Officials believe these measures will contribute to the overall socio-economic growth of Odisha.
