BHUBANESWAR (India CSR): In a major decision aimed at revamping primary education and boosting religious tourism, the Odisha Cabinet on Monday approved multiple landmark proposals, including the establishment of 2,200 primary schools under the Godabarish Adarsha Vidyalaya (GAV) scheme and the beautification of Maa Tarini Temple at Ghatagaon, Keonjhar.
₹12,000 Crore Push for Education
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, briefing the media after the Cabinet meeting, announced that the state will invest Rs. 12,000 crore over three years (2025-26 to 2027-28) to establish 2,200 model primary schools across the state.
Each Gram Panchayat (GP) will have at least one model primary school, named after poet Godabarish Mishra, as part of the government’s mission to strengthen the education system.
“The previous government let the primary education system collapse. Schools were left with broken walls, painted in the name of 5T transformation,” Majhi alleged, targeting the former BJD regime.
The CM said the GAV scheme aligns with the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, and the NIPUN Odisha vision, focusing on inclusive and quality education.
While the estimated cost for each school is around Rs. 5 crore, the final figure will depend on the Detailed Project Report (DPR).
Also Read: Odisha to Invest Rs. 12,000 Crore for Primary School Revolution I India CSR
Maa Tarini Temple Beautification at ₹226 Crore
The Cabinet also cleared a Rs. 226 crore project for the beautification and development of Maa Tarini Temple at Ghatagaon in Keonjhar district.
The project, spread over 59.206 acres, will include:
- 216-bed guest house
- Pilgrimage centre and interpretation centre
- Food plaza and watch tower
- Market complex and coconut store
- Prasad hall for 500 people
- Cloak room and allied facilities
Out of the total outlay, ₹80 crore is earmarked for land acquisition, and Rs. 146 crore for development works. The project is expected to be completed within 24 months, after which the temple is expected to emerge as a major religious tourism hub in India.
Labour and ESI Reforms for Business Ease
The Cabinet also approved amendments to labour laws, namely the Factories Act, 1948 and the Odisha Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, 1956. These reforms are expected to reduce compliance burdens and encourage entrepreneurship.
Key changes include:
- Mandatory registration for establishments employing 20 or more workers.
- Work hours extended from 9 hours to 10 hours daily with at least a 30-minute rest after six hours.
- Women can work night shifts, with their written consent and safety measures ensured.
- Double wages for employees working beyond 10 hours a day or 48 hours a week.
“These reforms will not only ease business operations but also increase employment opportunities, especially for women, while ensuring employee welfare,” Majhi said.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Decision | Details | Cost/Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Godabarish Adarsha Vidyalaya Scheme | 2,200 model primary schools across Odisha | ₹12,000 crore (2025–2028) |
| Maa Tarini Temple Beautification | Guest house, pilgrimage centre, plaza, watch tower & facilities | ₹226 crore; 24 months |
| Labour Reforms | Extended hours, women night shifts, double wages, easier registration | From 2025 |
A Transformative Cabinet Agenda
The Odisha Cabinet’s latest decisions mark a strong shift towards revamping education, modernizing governance, and boosting cultural tourism. With heavy investments in both social infrastructure and economic reforms, the Majhi-led government has signaled its commitment to inclusive growth and empowerment at the grassroots level.
(India CSR)
