Bhubaneswar, Sept 4: The Odisha School and Mass Education (S&ME) Department has issued revised guidelines to provide financial assistance to students who die or suffer permanent disability in accidents at school, while commuting to or from school, or during school-related activities.

The new guidelines, issued on Friday, replace the provisions notified through Department Letter No. 468 dated March 25, 2015. Under the revised system, students from Shishu Vatika to Class XII will be covered.

Rs 2 Lakh for Death or Permanent Disability

In case of death or permanent disability caused by a road accident, eligible students will receive Rs 2 lakh as financial assistance.

The government will also provide up to Rs 30,000 for shifting an injured student to a higher medical facility and Rs 10,000 towards transportation expenses. Students will be entitled to free treatment at government health facilities.

Who Will Receive the Assistance?

The ex-gratia amount will be paid to the student's mother or father. In case neither parent is available, the assistance will be handed over to a guardian identified by the District Collector.

Approval from the Headmaster, District Collector, District Education Officer (DEO) and Block Education Officer (BEO) will be required for the release of the assistance.

Importantly, the approved amount must reach the parent or identified guardian within 24 hours of approval, ensuring timely financial support to affected families.

Road Accidents Remain a Major Concern

The revised guidelines come amid continued concerns over road safety in Odisha. According to the figures cited in the department's communication, the State recorded 1,13,325 road accident cases over the last decade.

In 2024, Odisha registered 12,375 road accident cases, resulting in 6,483 deaths.

The new provisions are aimed at providing immediate financial and medical support to students and their families in the event of serious accidents.