Odisha Makes Odia Compulsory in All State Schools

Odisha has taken a significant step toward preserving its linguistic heritage by making Odia compulsory across all schools in the state. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced the directive during the concluding ceremony of the *Odia Paksha* celebrations, emphasizing the government's commitment to promoting the mother tongue from an early age.

As part of this initiative, more than 18,000 copies of *Odia Barnabodha* and *Shishu Lekha Pustak* will be distributed to students. Officials stated that the move aims to deepen students' understanding of Odia language, literature, and traditions while ensuring its wider usage in academic settings.

The decision reflects a broader effort to strengthen cultural identity and ensure that future generations maintain a strong connection with their linguistic roots. The government has also committed to expanding educational infrastructure and aligning these initiatives with national education objectives, reinforcing the role of regional languages in inclusive learning.