Kalahandi (Lingaraj Mishra): Following a legal battle and formal requests by the Odisha Private Nursing School & College Association, the Indian Nursing Council (INC) has taken a historic decision for the current academic year (2026-27). The Association had filed a writ petition (WPC No. 30169) in the Odisha High Court. In this case, arguments were presented regarding the interests of the students and the issue of vacant seats. Following this, the Indian Nursing Council (INC) has allowed admissions for B.Sc. Nursing this year at the “zero percentile” level. As a result, thousands of students across India, including those from Odisha, have gained the opportunity to pursue a B.Sc. Nursing course. This is being hailed as a major success for the Odisha Private Nursing Schools and Colleges Association. Previously, the percentile requirement had acted as a barrier, preventing many eligible students from securing admission and leaving numerous seats vacant. Now, the INC has opened the door for admissions at the “zero percentile” mark. This success has been achieved following the directions of the Hon’ble High Court in WPC No. 30169, initiated by the Association. As a result of this decision, children from rural areas and poor tribal families will be able to fulfill their dreams of pursuing nursing education. This is welcome news not only for Odisha but for aspiring nursing students across all of India.
