Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has congratulated Champa Raspeda from Malkangiri district for becoming the first girl from the Didayi tribe to clear the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) on her first attempt. Champa’s remarkable achievement paves the way for her to pursue an MBBS degree at Fakir Mohan Medical College & Hospital in Balasore and has brought pride to her community.
In a post on social media platform X, CM Majhi extended his heartfelt wishes to Champa, praising her hard work, determination, and success.
“Her achievement is an inspiration for all the youth of Odisha. I hope she becomes an excellent doctor and serves the poor and underprivileged,” he said.
Champa’s journey to success has been marked by perseverance and sacrifice. Born into a family of small farmers in Malkangiri, she faced numerous challenges from a young age. At just five years old, her father carried her across 20 kilometers of hilly terrain to enroll her in the Didayi Education Complex at Nandiniguda. Her education continued despite long commutes and financial hardship.
She studied up to Class 10 at a hostel in Chitrakonda, 60 kilometers from home, completed her Plus II education at Gobindapalli High School and pursued a science degree at Balimela College. The turning point in her academic career came when she met Utkal Keshari Das, a science teacher from Balasore, who recognised her passion for learning.
Initially unsure about her future, Champa had applied for a Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed) course. However, Das encouraged her to pursue medicine. Despite initial resistance from her financially struggling family, Das promised to support her by providing coaching and covering expenses. After five months of dedicated coaching, Champa successfully cleared the NEET examination on her first attempt.
Champa credits her success to the unwavering support of her father and teacher Das. Her achievement is not only a personal triumph but also a milestone for the Didayi community, which has long struggled with limited access to healthcare and education.
Her story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for many youths from marginalised communities across Odisha.
