Odisha introduces 11.25% reservation for SEBC students in higher education

Bhubaneswar: In a significant move toward promoting educational equity, the Odisha State Cabinet has approved a 11.25% reservation in admissions for students from Socially and Economically Backward Classes (SEBC).

The policy will apply to all state public universities and government-aided higher secondary and higher education institutions, beginning with the current academic year (2025–26).

Making the announcement, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi told reporters that the reservation will be applicable in all government-run higher education institutions across the state.

“The SEBC category students will be given 11.25% seat reservation in admission. This policy will be implemented from the current academic session,” the Chief Minister said after chairing the Cabinet meeting.

The decision is aimed at enhancing access, equity, and inclusion in higher education by expanding opportunities for marginalized communities and increasing the Gross Enrolment Ratio in the state.

The reservation policy will be implemented uniformly across institutions under various departments, including School & Mass Education, Higher Education, Odia Language, Literature & Culture, and Sports & Youth Services.

With this move, Odisha’s revised reservation structure in higher education stands as follows:

• Scheduled Tribes (ST): 22.5%
• Scheduled Castes (SC): 16.25%
• Socially and Economically Backward Classes (SEBC): 11.25%
• Persons with Disabilities (PwD): 5%
• Ex-Servicemen (ESM): 1%

The initiative aligns with the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes inclusive and equitable education. The state government expects the policy to significantly benefit students from underrepresented backgrounds while promoting diversity across its academic institutions.