Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Cabinet on Monday approved the establishment of Model Schools at the Gram Panchayat level under the newly introduced Godabarisha Adarsha Vidyalaya (GAV) Scheme, marking a major step towards strengthening the state’s school education system.
The GAV scheme aims to create a robust network of model schools across the state, aligned with the vision of the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, and the state’s flagship NIPUN Odisha programme. The focus will be on inclusive, equitable, and quality education, with special emphasis on Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) skills to ensure holistic child development.
In the first phase (2025-26 to 2027-28), the state government plans to construct 2,200 model schools at the Gram Panchayat level, with a total outlay of ₹12,000 crore. Each school will require an estimated investment of ₹5 crore, though the final cost will be determined through Detailed Project Reports (DPRs).
According to the government, these schools will not only provide modern infrastructure and innovative teaching practices but also encourage active community involvement in shaping the learning ecosystem. By doing so, the initiative seeks to reduce educational disparities and empower children socially and academically.
The GAV scheme, named after eminent Odia writer Godabarisha Mishra, reflects Odisha’s vision of creating a transformative and inclusive education ecosystem that ensures every child, irrespective of background, has access to opportunities for growth and empowerment.
