Bhubaneswar, Feb 4: The Odisha School Education Programme Authority (OSEPA) has issued a directive to all District Education Officers (DEOs) to ensure the distribution of free school uniforms to Shishu Vatika students studying in government and government-aided schools across the state by February 15, 2026.

In a letter sent to the DEOs, OSEPA confirmed that during the 2025-26 academic year, every Shishu Vatika student will receive a free uniform, with a budget of Rs 1,000 allocated per student. The necessary funds have already been released to districts for this purpose.

OSEPA clarified that the uniforms for Shishu Vatika students must adhere to the same standards set for Class I students, including specifications related to color, quality, quantity, logo, and overall design.

The distribution will be carried out by utilizing existing procurement processes and adhering to the financial guidelines for Classes I to VIII. Uniforms will be supplied through pre-selected Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Micro and Small Enterprises, or School Management Committees that have been approved by the District Level Committee, led by the Collector. No new tenders or expressions of interest will be required for this academic year.

OSEPA further emphasized that all DEO-cum-District Project Coordinators must personally monitor the distribution process to ensure that the uniforms are provided within the stipulated timeline.