Odisha teachers to get Sambalpuri makeover

Bhubaneswar: Finally the blandness of bichrome will be swapped for the vibrancy of Sambalpuri artistry as the Odisha government is planning to change the dress code of teachers of the government schools in state.

Odisha Handlooms, Textiles & Handicrafts Minister Snehangini Chhuria informed that the new dress code will be implemented within a month.

According to sources, the dresses will be provided to all the primary and high schools prior to the start of the next academic session. Adequate amount of dress materials will be provided by Sambalpuri Bastralaya and Boyanika.

"Arrangements are being made to supply adequate number of uniforms to schools on behalf of Sambalpuri Bastralaya and Bayanika. Later, the dress code would be implemented at college levels and for school students in the next phase," Minister Chhuria said.

In the next phase, the new dress code will be implemented for teachers in colleges and subsequently, steps will be taken to make Sambalpuri the dress code for school students as well.  However, School and Mass Education Minister Badri Narayan Patra said no formal decision has been taken as far as students are concerned.

The decision of the government has drawn appreciation from all quarters. Experts feel that such a move will give a much needed boost to the weavers and lead to their development.