Bhubaneswar: Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati on Saturday felicitated Champa Raspeda, the first girl from the primitive Didyai tribe to qualify the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET).
Champa, a native of Amlibeda village in Malkangiri district, has secured admission to an MBBS course at a government medical college after clearing NEET. She visited Raj Bhavan along with her brother, where officers from the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Research and Training Institute (SCSTRTI) and her mentor, teacher Utkala Keshari Das, accompanied her.
During the interaction, the Governor enquired about her journey—the challenges of pursuing education from a remote village, her schooling, and the support she received in coaching. Praising her grit and perseverance, Kambhampati said Champa’s achievement is not only a proud moment for the Didyai community but also for the entire state.
“Her success will serve as a powerful inspiration for children from tribal and rural backgrounds, motivating them to overcome obstacles, pursue their aspirations, and aim high in life,” the Governor said.
As a token of encouragement, he presented her with a mobile phone and a laptop bag, and assured her of all possible support in her academic journey.
