Bhubaneswar: In a significant move towards bolstering the security and well-being of girl  students, the Empowered Finance Committee (EFC) of the Odisha government has cleared the ‘Shaktishree’ initiative.

The scheme, which carries a total financial outlay of Rs 236 crore, is set to be implemented across Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) for a five-year period spanning 2025-26 to 2029-30.

A holistic framework for empowerment

Chaired by the Secretary of the Finance Department, the EFC appraised the scheme as a comprehensive state-wide initiative. Unlike traditional safety programmes, Shaktishree integrates physical security with mental wellness. The committee specifically lauded the inclusion of mental health and emotional well-being as key components, viewing them as essential for the ‘holistic empowerment’ of students.

The initiative has several strategic pillars

 Shaktishree Empowerment Cells: Dedicated units within HEIs to manage the programme.

 Shakti Apa Mentorship: A mentorship programme supported by district-level selection committees.

 Enhanced Surveillance: Installation of CCTV systems in 82 HEIs (excluding universities and aided colleges) during the first year, followed by annual maintenance.

 SAFE Campaign & Campus Audits: Regular safety audits and the establishment of a formal Code of Conduct to ensure inclusive environments.

Strict Oversight and Implementation

The EFC has mandated a rigorous administrative structure to ensure the scheme's success. A District Level Committee, led by the Collector/ADM and including the SP, CDMO, and other senior officials, will oversee the selection of ‘Shakti Apa’ mentors. Furthermore, the Principals of District Nodal Colleges have been designated as Conveners responsible for consolidating compliance reports from all institutions.

To maintain the programme’s quality, the committee directed that the ‘Shakti Swarupini’ workshop be held annually for capacity building. The financial plan also includes an additional 1 per cent for Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) and a 1 per cent contingency fund.

Financial Roadmap

According to the expenditure breakdown, a significant portion of the budget is allocated to recurring costs.

Empowerment Cells: Funding will scale from approximately Rs 16.10 crore in 2025-26 to over Rs 23.58 crore by 2029-30.

 Campus Safety Audits: Annual audits for 746 HEIs are projected to cost roughly Rs 3.73 crore initially, rising with annual adjustments.

 CCTV Infrastructure: An initial non-recurring expenditure of Rs 10.35 crore is earmarked for hardware installation in the first year.

The scheme will undergo a formal review after three years to assess its impact before a fresh appraisal is undertaken. The proposal has now been recommended for final approval by the Chief Minister.