Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik launches scholarship scheme for higher education students

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik launched a scholarship program designed for higher education students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate courses on February 26.

Known as the 'Nutana Unnata Abhilasha Odisha' scheme, its objective is to empower the youth of the state and support their educational pursuits, according to officials.

While Naveen Patnaik launched the scheme through video-conference, senior official VK Pandian joined the programme in Sambalpur, Angul and Deogarh.

The senior official said all students who are eligible will get the scholarship amount in their bank accounts by March 5, 2024. 

A total of 28,112 students from the three districts of the state received the amount of scholarship in their bank accounts on Monday.

The chairman of Nabin Odisha, Pandian, announced that the next initiative of the state government will be the 'Nabin Odisha Magic Card.' 

This points-based smart card is envisioned to actively involve and empower the youth, fostering their academic development, personality growth, skill enhancement, and employment opportunities.

These cards will grant users access to a range of amenities, including discounted fares for bus, train, and flight tickets, as well as benefits like phone recharge, online academic courses, tuition classes, "earn while you learn" opportunities, volunteering prospects, and entry to stadiums during national and international matches, among other offerings, he added.