Bhubaneswar: Marking the completion of two years in office, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Friday announced that the state government will provide free education from Kindergarten (KG) to Postgraduate (PG) level, a move aimed at easing the financial burden on students and their families.

Addressing a press conference on the occasion, the Chief Minister said the decision would particularly benefit students from economically weaker sections, ensuring that financial constraints do not become a barrier to higher education. He claimed Odisha would become the first state in the country to implement such a comprehensive free education initiative.

"The government has decided to introduce fee-free education from KG to PG. This will be a major support for all students, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds, and will reduce the financial pressure on families," Majhi said.

During his address, the Chief Minister also launched a sharp attack on the previous BJD government, questioning its record during its 24-year tenure. He alleged that despite being in power for over two decades, the earlier administration had failed to provide basic amenities to citizens.

"During the so-called 24 years of good governance, how many times were people able to question the government? Even today, you know the answer. Citizens were deprived of basic facilities, and the previous government could not ensure 24-hour electricity supply or proper road connectivity to every village," he said.

Majhi asked what had prevented the previous dispensation from achieving these goals, asserting that his government has taken concrete steps to bridge the developmental gap. He highlighted the launch of the 'Mission PoWaR' (Power, Water, and Roads) programme as part of the government's efforts to strengthen infrastructure and improve public services.

Reflecting on the BJP government's two-year journey in Odisha, the Chief Minister said the administration has functioned as a "people's government" since assuming office exactly two years ago.

"From the day we took charge, we have worked together with the people for the progress of Odisha. The double-engine government has delivered a double impact," he said.

According to the Chief Minister, the state government has implemented 121 schemes over the last two years, which he claimed have contributed significantly to the vision of building a prosperous Odisha.

He further reiterated that the previous government had failed to extend basic infrastructure and essential services to every village, while his administration remains committed to ensuring inclusive development across the state.