Bhubaneswar. 22nd Aug 2025:The Odisha government has decided to provide free uniforms and essential school supplies to children enrolled in Anganwadi centers across the state. The first-grade children in Anganwadi centers will receive school uniforms, shoes, socks, T-shirts, track pants, caps, and ID cards. The cost per child will be around ₹1,000.
According to the information, for the current academic year, a total of 310,839 Anganwadi children in the state will receive these uniforms. The total expenditure for this initiative will be ₹31.83 crore. The School and Mass Education Department is preparing the plan.
Minister of Mass Education, Nityananda Gand, stated that this initiative will ensure children attend school happily, improve their learning experience, and prevent school dropouts.
Following the National Education Policy 2020, the Odisha government launched Anganwadi centers on April 2, aiming to strengthen primary education. Children will study in a pleasant and child-friendly environment, keeping their mental development in mind. The government has also arranged midday meals for the children. Additionally, letters have been sent to the department to provide ₹1,000 per child to ensure economically weaker children get all necessary school supplies.