Odisha Govt Introduces 11.25% Reservation for SEBC Students in Higher Education Admissions

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha State Cabinet has approved a decision to introduce an 11.25% reservation for students from Socially and Economically Backward Classes (SEBC) in admissions to State Public Universities and government-aided Higher Secondary and Higher Education institutions.

This policy, effective from the academic year 2025-26, will apply to institutions under the School & Mass Education, Higher Education, Odia Language, Literature & Culture, and Sports & Youth Services Departments.

The initiative establishes a uniform reservation framework, allocating 22.5% for Scheduled Tribes (ST), 16.25% for Scheduled Castes (SC), 11.25% for SEBC, 5% for Persons with Disabilities (PwD), and 1% for Ex-Servicemen (ESM). This policy covers a wide range of programs, including Higher Secondary Schools, Undergraduate and Postgraduate courses, Teacher Education, LL.B., Integrated Law Courses, Bachelor in Performing Arts, and B.P.Ed./M.P.Ed. courses.

Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, this move aims to promote access, equity, and inclusion, boost the Gross Enrolment Ratio, and create enhanced educational opportunities for marginalized and disadvantaged communities in Odisha, according to an official release.