Education / Odisha govt announces monthly allowance for private aided college principals

Bhubaneswar, Nov 4: The Odisha government has announced a monthly allowance for in-charge principals of private aided colleges across the State, officials said on Wednesday.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has approved the proposal, under which eligible principals will receive incentives ranging from Rs5,000 to Rs10,000 per month depending on their place of posting.

The decision is expected to benefit in-charge principals serving in private aided colleges under the 488 and 662 categories. Around 641 colleges across Odisha are likely to come under the scheme.

Incentive Based on Posting

Under the approved framework, in-charge principals posted within their home district or in developed urban areas will receive a monthly allowance of Rs5,000.

Those serving outside their home district will be entitled to Rs7,000 per month. Principals posted more than 300 km away from their home district or residence will receive a monthly incentive of Rs9,000.

For principals working in geographically remote and difficult regions, the allowance has been fixed at Rs10,000 per month. Eligibility under this category will be determined by a designated committee.

Strengthening Higher Education

According to the Chief Minister's Office, the initiative is aimed at encouraging lecturers and faculty members to accept the additional responsibility of heading colleges located in distant and underserved areas.

The government believes the measure will help ensure the smooth functioning of academic and administrative activities in private aided colleges while addressing challenges related to leadership vacancies in educational institutions.

Financial Outlay

The State government is expected to spend nearly Rs6 crore annually on the scheme. Officials said the benefit will come into force from the date of issuance of the formal government notification.

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Chief Minister Majhi expressed hope that the decision would motivate more teachers to take charge as in-charge principals and contribute to the efficient management of colleges, ultimately strengthening the higher education ecosystem in Odisha.

The move is being seen as a significant step towards recognizing the additional responsibilities shouldered by in-charge principals and improving governance in the State's private aided college sector.