Odisha govt reviewing centre’s proposal to abolish ‘no detention policy’: Mass Education Minister

Odisha government is reviewing the abolishment of the ‘no detention policy’ proposed by the central government, said School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond on Saturday.

Speaking to media, Gond said that the central government has issued guidelines on this matter, prompting discussions at the state level.

The minister stated that implementing the ‘no detention policy’ could instil discipline and a sense of responsibility among students. Detailed discussions and evaluations are being conducted regarding this proposal, the Minister said. 

“Following the Centre’s directive, we are reviewing the newly introduced policy with all stakeholders and necessary action will be taken accordingly,” Gond said.

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What is ‘no detention policy’?

The No Detention Policy is an education reform introduced under the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, in India. It mandates that no student can be held back or expelled from school until they complete Class 8 (ages 14–15). The policy was aimed at reducing dropout rates and ensuring universal education.

What if the ‘no detention policy’ is abolished?

Recently, the central government decided that students failing the annual examinations in Classes 5 and 8 would not be promoted to the next grade. Instead, they would be given a two-month retest opportunity. If they fail to clear the retest, they would remain in the same class. However, schools will not be allowed to expel students until they complete Class 8.