The National Law University Odisha (NLUO) was established in the year 2009 under The National Law University Orissa Act, 2008 (Act 4 of 2008) passed by the Odisha State Legislature and commenced its academic activities in the academic year 2009-10.The University has received recognition from the University Grants Commission (UGC) under Section 12(B) of the UGC Act, 1956, and has been receiving grants under the XIIth Plan. The degrees offered are recognised by the Bar Council of India. It is also an associate member of the UGC-INFLIBNET, and a participant in the National Knowledge Network under the Ministry of Information Technology and Communication, Government of India.