Starting from the academic year 2025–26, the Odisha Higher Education Department has introduced an 11.25% reservation for Socially and Economically Backward Classes (SEBC) in all government and government-aided colleges across the state. This reservation will be applicable for admissions into both higher secondary (+2) and undergraduate (+3) courses. The move aims to improve access to higher education for underrepresented communities and foster inclusive growth in the state’s education system. The decision follows a thorough review of enrollment disparities and social equity indicators. Students belonging to the SEBC category will now have dedicated seats during admission, provided they hold valid certification. With this reform, Odisha joins the list of progressive states actively working to expand educational opportunities for socially and economically marginalized groups. The policy will be implemented through the SAMS Odisha admission portal, and all institutions have been instructed to revise their intake matrices accordingly.