Bhubaneswar, 07 January (H.S.):Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Wednesday launched the ‘Godabarish Mishra Model Primary School Scheme’ at Banpur and laid the foundation stones for 118 model primary schools across the state, marking a major push towards strengthening the foundation of primary education in Odisha.

On this occasion, the Chief Minister stated that the initiative reflects his personal childhood experiences as a student from a modest tribal family, as well as his long-term vision for creating a strong and inclusive educational ecosystem for future generations.

Under the first phase of the programme, the state government has approved an investment of ₹12,000 crore for the development of 2,200 primary schools. The objective is to provide children with a world-class learning environment, equipped with modern infrastructure and improved academic facilities.

“The core focus of our government is to strengthen the foundation of primary education,” Majhi said, adding that the successful implementation of ‘Nipun Odisha’ and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 will ensure that every student gains essential knowledge and skills from an early age.

The Chief Minister also emphasised that the initiative goes beyond infrastructure development. The government is giving equal importance to teacher recruitment, capacity building, and skill enhancement, alongside the modernisation of schools.

Expressing confidence in the long-term impact of the programme, Majhi said the model primary schools will play a pivotal role in building a ‘Prosperous Odisha’ by 2036. He noted that these institutions would serve as key pillars in shaping a generation of students who are academically strong, socially responsible, and capable of leading the state towards inclusive growth.

“The children of today will study, grow, and emerge as the true torchbearers of a developed Odisha,” the Chief Minister said, reiterating the government’s commitment to providing every child with access to quality education.

The foundation stone-laying ceremony for the 118 Godabarish Mishra Model Primary Schools was held during a special programme in Banpur. The Chief Minister said the overarching goal of the initiative is to ensure that future generations receive quality education, build a bright future, and become the driving force behind a ‘Samruddha Odisha’ (Prosperous Odisha).

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda