Malkangiri: Defying physical disability and overcoming financial hardship, a Class X student of PM SHRI Government High School in Sindhrimal under Malkangiri district has cleared the matriculation examination by writing with her feet.
Lakshmi Khemudu, a resident of Bandhiguda village under Sindhrimal panchayat, was born with a locomotor disability that left both her hands non-functional. Coming from a economically weaker family, she depends entirely on her parents for her daily needs. Her father works as a daily wage labourer, while her mother is a homemaker.
Despite her condition, Lakshmi refused to treat disability as a limitation. With consistent effort and determination, she trained herself to write using her feet. She appeared for the board examination without the assistance of a scribe, even though the option was made available to her, and successfully passed with a D grade.
Speaking after her result, Lakshmi said she was happy with her achievement and is determined to continue her studies. “I have passed my matriculation exam and I am very happy. I will now study Plus II. In the future, I want to become a teacher and support my parents,” she said.
Beyond Barriers: Malkangiri Girl Lakshmi Khemudu Writes Matric Exam With Her Foot
District Education Officer Chittaranjan Panigrahi praised her achievement, calling it an inspiration for students across the district. “Lakshmi has proved that physical disability cannot limit talent, education or determination. Her courage will motivate many children,” he said.
Though unable to walk or sit without support, Lakshmi has learned to hold a pen between her toes to write, a skill she developed through long practice and determination.
Her journey to the examination hall was marked by challenges, but her resilience ensured success. Her achievement has been widely appreciated in the locality, with teachers, students and residents congratulating her for turning adversity into accomplishment.
