Odisha Shikshanet Scheme to Provide Free WiFi in 601 Colleges

The Odisha Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, has approved the Odisha Shikshanet scheme with an investment of Rs 393.63 crore over three years (2026-27 to 2028-29). The initiative will provide free, secure and high-speed WiFi facilities in 601 government and aided colleges, benefiting more than six lakh students and faculty members. Each student will get up to 1 GB of free internet data daily on campus for education, research and skill development.

The scheme will cover WiFi installation, network management, cybersecurity and maintenance. Students will also gain access to digital libraries, e-books, virtual classrooms, SWAYAM courses and competitive examination resources. The programme will expand the first phase, which already covers 130 colleges.

In another major decision, the Cabinet approved the Kharif Marketing Season 2026-27 paddy procurement policy, setting a target of 78 lakh tonnes. Farmers will receive Rs 3,100 per quintal, including MSP and input assistance, with payments transferred to Aadhaar-linked bank accounts within 24–48 hours. Eligible sharecroppers will also be included in the procurement process.

The Cabinet further cleared a 600 MW Upper Indravati Pumped Storage Project at Ranibahal in Kalahandi district. The project will be developed by Odisha Hydro Power Corporation Limited at an estimated cost of Rs 4,708.64 crore.