Current Affairs - State - Discussion

Odisha launched the Bidesh Sikhyabruti scholarship scheme on August 23, 2026, to provide financial assistance to meritorious students from Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe communities who pursue higher education abroad. Each year, 50 students will be selected, provided they secure admission to international institutions ranked among the Top 200 in the QS World University Rankings. Each beneficiary can receive up to ₹25 lakh per annum, covering tuition, accommodation, living expenses, international travel, medical insurance, and incidental costs. Odisha also became the first Indian state to implement a universal free education policy from Kindergarten to Post-Graduation in July 2026.