Odisha likely to shut 195 schools

Odisha government is likely to close down a total 195 schools due to low attendance by students.
The School and Mass education department has identified schools where less than six students were on the rolls. It has asked the school authorities to consult school management committee members and explain why action would not be taken for less attendance of students, official sources said.
School and Mass Education minister Debi Prasad Mishra said the course of action will be decided only after replies to the show cause notices are received.
The state government's move came as authorities faced problems in proper implemention of provisions under the Right to Education Act.

Due to low attendance, the school authorities face problems in implementng mid-day meal scheme, appoint teachers and others, an official said.
Mishra said the government would take steps to accomodate the students of the closed schools in nearby institutions.