Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik unveiled a new scholarship scheme named ‘Nutana Unnata Abhilasha Odisha’ on Monday, aimed at empowering undergraduate and postgraduate students in the state and supporting them in their educational pursuits.
The scheme, launched through a video conference by Chief Minister Patnaik, seeks to provide financial assistance to the youth of Odisha, enabling them to pursue higher education and excel in their academic endeavors. Senior official VK Pandian, who joined the program in Sambalpur, Angul, and Deogarh, interacted with students from 57 colleges to elaborate on the details of the scheme.
Under the ‘Nutana Unnata Abhilasha Odisha’ scheme, eligible students will receive varying amounts of scholarship based on their category. General and OBC students will receive Rs 9,000 and Rs 10,000, respectively, while SC/ST and ‘Nirman Shramik’ students will be awarded Rs 10,000 and Rs 11,000, respectively. The scholarship amount will be directly credited to the bank accounts of eligible students by March 5.
A total of 28,112 students from the three districts of Sambalpur, Angul, and Deogarh received the scholarship amount in their bank accounts on the launch day itself.
In addition to the scholarship scheme, the Odisha government also announced plans for the introduction of the ‘Nabin Odisha Magic Card’. This innovative smart card system will serve as a comprehensive platform for engaging and empowering the youth of the state, fostering academic development, personality enhancement, skill acquisition, and employment opportunities.
The ‘Nabin Odisha Magic Card’ will operate on a points-based system, with cardholders earning points through various activities and achievements. These points will determine the cardholder’s eligibility for upgraded card levels, including ‘Silver’, ‘Gold’, and ‘Platinum’, each offering additional privileges and benefits.
Key features of the ‘Nabin Odisha Magic Card’ include access to concessions on transportation fares, phone recharge facilities, online academic courses, tuition classes, ‘earn while you learn’ opportunities, volunteering programs, and access to sports stadiums during national and international matches.
Furthermore, the Odisha government plans to collaborate with the private sector to enhance the benefits offered through the smart card system, ensuring comprehensive support and opportunities for the state’s youth.
Online registration for the ‘Nabin Odisha Magic Card’ will commence on March 5, with card distribution scheduled to begin on August 15, providing students with a valuable resource for personal and professional development.
