Odisha CM Mohan Majhi Launches School Enrolment Drive, Initiates ‘Khadi Chhuan’ Ritual For Children In Odisha
Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday attended the state-level Pravesh Utsav and Khadi Chhuan programme, symbolically inducting young children into formal education and reaffirming the government’s commitment to universal enrollment.
The event was held at a government high school near Raj Bhavan in Bhubaneswar; where the Prime Minister personally guided the children to write their first words – “Maa” (mother) and “Bapa” (father) – on blackboards using chalk, marking the traditional start of their academic journey.
Engaging warmly with the children, Majhi created a friendly and encouraging atmosphere by engaging them in simple conversations about their family, food habits and hometown. His approach, similar to that of an experienced teacher, helped facilitate children’s first learning experiences.
Emphasizing the importance of early education, the Prime Minister said festival-like celebrations of Vidyarambha in villages and districts encourage parents to enroll their children in schools. “No child in the state should be deprived of education,” he said.
Majhi also visited an exhibition showcasing teaching-learning materials developed under Nipun Odisha and Padhiba, Gadhhiba Odisha initiatives. He distributed educational kits to children and appreciated the creativity of some students at drawing stands where they presented their drawings to him.
Highlighting the cultural significance of Khadi Chhuan, he said the ritual has been institutionalized at the government level since last year to strengthen registration incentives. Nearly five lakh invitations have been distributed across the state this year to ensure 100 percent registration.
The Prime Minister also stated that anganwadi centers will be gradually integrated into pre-school education systems in line with the National Education Policy.
Calling on the media to act as a bridge between government initiatives and the public, Majhi called for raising awareness about the importance of education. He also advised teachers to nurture children with care and identify their abilities for holistic development.
On the occasion, he flagged off an education awareness tool to promote enrollment across the state.
School and mass education minister Nityananda Gond, local legislators, Bhubaneswar Mayor Sulochana Das and senior officials were present at the event.
