The Government of Odisha has announced a significant new initiative to enhance early childhood education by appointing Sishu Sevikas (childcare assistants) in around 45,000 government primary schools across the state. These assistants will support Sishu Vatikas—pre-primary classes designed for children aged 5 to 6 years—which are being established as part of the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 from the academic year 2025–26.

The primary role of Sishu Sevikas is to assist with non-teaching responsibilities, allowing schoolteachers to focus entirely on educational activities. Their duties will include helping children with hygiene tasks, such as hand-washing and toileting, ensuring they receive meals properly, distributing books and toys, maintaining a daily record of each child’s well-being, and providing emotional comfort. They will also accompany children during school assemblies, recess, and other non-classroom activities. Importantly, Sishu Sevikas are not allowed to engage in teaching, scolding children, or providing any kind of medical treatment.

These positions will be funded through the Samagra Shiksha scheme, and Sishu Sevikas will receive a monthly honorarium on par with Mid-Day Meal (MDM) cooks. The appointment will be made based on student enrolment numbers and local school requirements.

This initiative is aligned with the state’s broader educational reforms under NEP 2020, particularly the foundational stage of the new 5+3+3+4 structure. It aims to improve the learning environment for young children by ensuring they are cared for and supported, both emotionally and physically, while also reducing the workload on teachers. Overall, the inclusion of Sishu Sevikas is seen as a progressive step toward improving the quality of pre-primary education and creating a more nurturing and effective learning space in government schools across Odisha.