Bhubaneswar: The state cabinet has approved a significant proposal to introduce a new reservation policy in higher education institutions. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced this decision, marking a crucial step toward enhancing educational access for underprivileged communities. 
New Reservation Policy Implemented in Educational Institutions: Chief Minister


Key Highlights of the Reservation Policy  

Under this new policy, 11.25% of seats in government and government-aided higher education institutions will be reserved for students belonging to the Socially and Economically Backward Classes (SEBC). This policy will come into effect from the 2025–26 academic year and will apply to state-run universities, colleges, and other higher education institutions.  

Courses Covered Under the Reservation Policy  

The reservation will be implemented in the following programs:  
  • Undergraduate (UG) and Postgraduate (PG) courses under the Higher Education Department.  
  • Teacher education and law programs.  
  • Higher secondary (+2) and vocational teacher training courses under the School and Mass Education Department.  
  • Bachelor’s programs in Odia language, literature, culture, and performing arts.  
  • B.P.Ed and M.P.Ed programs under the Sports and Youth Services Department.  

Existing Reservation Quotas Remain Unchanged  

In addition to the new SEBC reservation, the existing quotas for other categories will continue as follows:  
  • 22.5% for Scheduled Tribes (ST)  
  • 16.25% for Scheduled Castes (SC)  
  • 5% for Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan)  
  • 1% for ex-servicemen and their dependents  

Aligning with National Education Policy (NEP) 2020  

This initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes inclusive and equitable educatio. The policy aims to:  
New Reservation Policy Implemented in Educational Institutions: Chief Minister


  • Increase enrollment rates (Gross Enrollment Ratio - GER) among marginalized communities.  
  • Bridge social and economic gaps by ensuring better access to education.  
  • Strengthen the participation of disadvantaged students in higher education and employment.  

Expected Impact  

By implementing this reservation policy, the government seeks to:  
  • Promote social justice by providing equal opportunities.  
  • Enhance the quality of education for economically weaker sections.  
  • Boost overall literacy and skill development in the state.  
This progressive move is expected to bring transformative changes in Odisha’s education sector, ensuring that students from all backgrounds have fair access to higher learning opportunities.