Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government on April 4 marked the beginning of the academic journey for young learners through the State-Level Pravesh Utsav and ‘Khadi Chuan’ (initiation into learning) programme, with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi personally participating in the ceremonial start of education for children.
The event, held at Raj Bhavan Government Upper Primary School in Bhubaneswar, aimed to promote education as a celebration and encourage enrolment at the foundational level. During the programme, the Chief Minister interacted warmly with children, guiding them to write their first words—‘Maa’ (mother) and ‘Bapa’ (father)—on slates, symbolising the beginning of their academic journey.
Addressing the gathering, Majhi said that the state government is striving to celebrate the initiation of education in every village and locality, thereby motivating parents to enrol their children in schools. He reiterated that the government’s goal is to achieve 100 per cent enrolment across Odisha and ensure that no child is left out of the education system.
In a bid to make children comfortable and reduce their hesitation, the Chief Minister engaged them in simple conversations, asking about their parents, homes, and daily routines. His interactive approach helped create a friendly learning environment and boosted the children’s enthusiasm for education.
Majhi also visited an exhibition showcasing teaching-learning materials developed under flagship initiatives such as ‘Nipun Odisha’ and ‘Padhiba, Gadhhiba Odisha’. He distributed educational kits among students and appreciated their creativity at drawing stalls. Some children also presented their handmade drawings to the Chief Minister.
Speaking to parents, Majhi highlighted that the ‘Khadi Chuan’ ritual—touching chalk as a symbol of learning—is a sacred tradition in Odia culture. He noted that the government has institutionalised this practice since last year to strengthen early education. To boost enrolment this year, around 500,000 invitation letters have been distributed to families across the state.
The Chief Minister emphasised that the government is committed to fostering curiosity and respect for learning among children, rather than fear. As part of the National Education Policy implementation, Anganwadi centres will be gradually integrated with ‘Shishu Vatika’ to ensure a smooth transition into formal schooling.
Further outlining the government’s vision, Majhi announced plans to establish model primary schools in every village to strengthen foundational education. These institutions will be named ‘Godabarish Mishra Adarsh Primary Schools’ and will be developed on five acres of land with an estimated investment of ₹6 crore each. The schools will be equipped with parks, playgrounds, and modern learning facilities to provide a holistic environment for children.
Appealing to the media, the Chief Minister urged them to play a proactive role in transforming the education drive into a mass movement. He also advised teachers to treat students with care and empathy, encouraging them to identify and nurture each child’s unique talents.
On the occasion, Majhi flagged off an education awareness vehicle to spread awareness about enrolment and early education across the state.
The programme was attended by School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond, MLAs Babu Singh, Prashant Kumar Jagdev, and Ananta Narayan Jena, Bhubaneswar Mayor Sulochana Das, social worker Jagannath Pradhan, Department Secretary N. Thirumala Naik, and OSEPA Project Director Ananya Das, among other dignitaries.
