Odisha Government Introduces Financial Aid for Students Affected by School Accidents

New Financial Support for Students in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: The government of Odisha has declared a financial assistance program offering Rs 2 lakh to families of students who either die or sustain permanent disabilities due to accidents occurring in schools, during commutes, or while participating in school activities, as per an official announcement.

The order, released by the School and Mass Education Department on Thursday, specifies that this aid will be directed to the parents or legal guardians of the affected students.

This initiative will extend to students from Sishu Vatika up to Class 12 who are enrolled in state-run and aided institutions, including Odisha Adarsha Vidyalayas (OAVs) and Odisha Model Adarsha Vidyalayas (OMAVs).

According to the new regulations, families of students will receive Rs 2 lakh in the event of accidental death or permanent disability.

The government highlighted that accidents can lead to tragic loss of life, unforeseen medical costs, and varying degrees of disability, which can significantly hinder a student's educational journey.

Additionally, the scheme offers support for injured students who require advanced medical care outside their district, allowing for assistance of up to Rs 30,000 for transfers.

Students who need to stay in a district headquarters hospital for more than three days will also qualify for transportation aid of up to Rs 10,000.

Eligible students will have access to free treatment at government hospitals and can also benefit from other assistance programs like Ayushman Bharat, the Chief Minister's Relief Fund (CMRF), and Red Cross support, where applicable.

The authority to approve the ex-gratia assistance has been granted to the headmaster or principal of the school, Block Education Officer (BEO), District Education Officer (DEO), and District Collector.

Once the assistance is sanctioned, the funds must be deposited into the guardian's bank account within a 24-hour timeframe, as stated in the order.