Odisha Assembly Witnesses Heated Debate Over Anwesha Yojana
The Odisha Assembly on Tuesday turned into a battleground of words as legislators debated the effectiveness of the Anwesha Yojana, a flagship scheme aimed at supporting SC/ST students.
Congress members accused the government of failing to deliver on its promises, alleging that the Anwesha portal remained closed during the 2025–26 financial year and that admissions did not take place.
Party leader Rama Chandra Kadam charged that tribal students were left without proper facilities for accommodation, food, and transport, claiming the Chief Minister and the concerned minister were insensitive to the struggles of tribal communities.
Responding to the criticism, SC/ST Development Minister Nityananda Gond defended the scheme, highlighting its achievements.
He informed the House that 20,000 SC/ST students are currently enrolled across 163 educational institutions in 11 districts. The government has allocated Rs 158.08 crore for the scheme in 2025–26 and is considering extending it for another five years.
Gond emphasised that the government remains committed to tribal welfare and will ensure the scheme continues to empower marginalised students through education.
The debate underscored the political fault lines over welfare delivery and the challenges of ensuring equitable access to education for Odisha’s tribal communities.
