Odisha school teachers to visit homes of students if they remain absent for 7 days or more

In a move aimed at protecting child rights and checking prolonged absenteeism in schools, the Directorate of Elementary Education (DEE), Odisha, has issued a directive instructing school authorities to conduct home visits for students remaining absent for seven days or more.

As per an official notification issued by the DEE on January 8, 2026, all District Education Officers (DEOs) and Block Education Officers (BEOs) have been advised to ensure that schools take immediate steps in this regard. 

The directive has been issued following a communication from the Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (OSCPCR).
Quoting the notification, the DEE stated, “Advisory to school authorities for home visit of students remaining absent for one week & more.” It further mentioned that the advisory has been issued “regarding protection of child rights… for information and necessary action.”

The notification clearly directs field-level officers to act promptly. “You are, therefore, requested to take necessary steps at your level,” the letter addressed to all DEOs and BEOs reads.

Under the new instruction, if any student remains absent from school for more than seven days, teachers or school authorities must visit the student’s home to ascertain the reasons behind the absence and take appropriate corrective measures.

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The directive has also been formally communicated to the Chairperson of OSCPCR and the Additional Secretary to the Government, School and Mass Education Department, for information.

Officials said the step is intended to prevent dropouts, ensure student safety, and strengthen monitoring at the grassroots level.