The Odisha government has released ₹14.34 crore as the second instalment to eligible higher education institutions under its Gyanodaya–Shiksha Ru Samruddhi (KG-to-PG Free Education) Scheme for the 2026–27 academic session. The latest release represents 15% of the approved assistance under the programme and takes the total amount disbursed through the first two instalments to ₹23.90 crore.

The funds were released by the Odisha Higher Education Department through the Student Academic Management System (SAMS). The first instalment of ₹9.56 crore, equivalent to 10% of the approved assistance, had already been provided to eligible institutions following the first phase of undergraduate admissions for the academic year.

Second Instalment Supports Scheme Implementation

The phased funding is part of Odisha's implementation of its KG-to-PG free education initiative, which aims to reduce financial barriers for eligible students pursuing higher education.

“The phased release of funds will support the effective implementation of the scheme, and ensure that eligible students receive the benefits of free education without financial barriers,” said Suryabanshi Suraj, Odisha Higher Education Minister.

The statement comes as the state continues to roll out financial assistance to institutions covered by the programme. The funding is transferred to eligible institutions through the state's academic management system, allowing the government to support the implementation of the fee-related provisions.

Who Can Benefit From the Scheme?

The Gyanodaya scheme covers eligible students enrolled in regular undergraduate and postgraduate programmes offered by state public universities, government colleges and government-aided private colleges. Students covered by the scheme are required to pay only the prescribed examination fee, according to the report.

The initiative forms part of Odisha's wider effort to extend free education support from the school level through postgraduate education. By providing financial assistance to participating institutions, the government is seeking to make higher education more accessible to students who meet the eligibility requirements.

The scheme's implementation also places emphasis on institutional funding. Rather than requiring eligible students to bear the covered institutional fees themselves, the government provides financial support to participating institutions through the phased instalment system.

₹23.90 Crore Released So Far

With the latest ₹14.34 crore payment, Odisha has now released ₹23.90 crore through the first and second instalments for the 2026–27 academic year. The first instalment amounted to ₹9.56 crore, while the second instalment accounts for ₹14.34 crore.

The second payment had also been indicated earlier by Minister Suryabanshi Suraj. In a September 11 update, he said the second instalment would amount to ₹14.34 crore, representing 15% of the approved assistance, following the first instalment of ₹9.56 crore.

The latest disbursement marks another step in Odisha's ongoing implementation of the KG-to-PG free education programme. As further instalments are released during the academic year, the funding mechanism will continue to support eligible institutions and students covered under the scheme.