Access to digital learning and opportunities in public service have received a boost in Odisha, with the state Cabinet approving two decisions aimed at reducing barriers for students and civil services aspirants.
 

The Cabinet has approved the expansion of free campus Wi-Fi under the Odisha Shikshanet scheme and removed the restriction on the number of attempts for the Odisha Civil Services (OCS) Examination. Together, the decisions address two different stages of opportunity: access to learning resources during college and a fairer chance to compete for government positions. Under the Odisha Shikshanet scheme, the government will provide free, secure and high-speed Wi-Fi in 601 Government and Aided Colleges across the state. The scheme has an approved outlay of Rs 393.62 crore for three years, covering FY 2026-27 to FY 2028-29. It builds on the first phase, which covered 130 colleges.