Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has congratulated Champa Raspeda, a remarkable young woman from the Didayi tribal community in Malkangiri district, who has made history by becoming the first girl from her community to qualify for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Examination (NEET) and secure admission to study MBBS.
Nityananda Gond, Minister of ST & SC Development, Minorities & Backward Classes Welfare Department, was present on the occasion.
Champa, a resident of Amlibeda village, cracked the NEET after receiving coaching at a private institute in Balasore. She has been offered admission to Fakir Mohan Medical College and Hospital, Balasore, a testament to her hard work and determination.
The Didayi tribe, one of the 13 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) of Odisha, traditionally relies on shifting cultivation, forest gathering, and small-scale farming.
Chief Minister Majhi praised Champa’s achievement, stating that her strong determination and dedicated work will inspire the youth of Odisha.
“Her success will be a source of inspiration for all the youth of our state. I wish her a bright future,” he said. Champa’s journey is particularly notable, given the financial hardships she faced, which forced her to discontinue her BSc studies. However, with guidance from her former science teacher Utkala Keshari Dash, she pursued her dream of becoming a doctor.
Champa aims to serve her community and eradicate superstitions, as many villagers often resort to sorcery and superstitions for minor ailments. Her achievement marks a significant step toward empowerment and social transformation for the Didayi tribe.
