Nabarangpur, Aug 21: In a tale of grit, resilience, and sheer determination, Dhabaleswar Pujari, a bright student from Odisha’s Nabarangpur district has overcome extreme poverty and personal hardship to secure a seat in Saheed Laxman Nayak Medical College, Koraput, through NEET UG 2025.

Born into a financially struggling household in Tentulikhunti block in the tribal dominant district, Dhabaleswar’s father abandoned the family when he was just three. Raised solely by his mother, Kanchan Pujari, a domestic worker, he studied up to Class 10 under her care. Despite scoring 80% in matriculation, he couldn’t afford college admission.

Dhabaleswar’s academic journey was revived when social worker Malay Panigrahi from Kosagumuda block stepped in, funding his Plus Two Science education privately. The tribal boy excelled again, scoring 88% in Class 12 Board Exam.

With no money for buying a smart phone or taking any formal coaching, Dhabaleswar migrated to Andhra Pradesh as a daily wage labourer, saving enough to buy a smartphone and books. Then, he prepared for NEET Exam using only YouTube tutorials.

After two failed attempts, Dhabaleswar cracked NEET UG 2025 on his third try with 376 marks, securing a state rank of 3858. He was allotted a seat at SLN Medical College and Hospital, Koraput.

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However, Dhabaleswar’s dream of becoming a doctor, inspired by frontline COVID-19 warriors, now faces a new hurdle: money.

Admission fees of Rs 37,950, along with hostel charges, uniforms, books, and medical equipment, push the total cost of his five-year MBBS journey around Rs 7 lakh, an amount far beyond his reach.

With no financial backing, Dhabaleswar is now appealing for government support to continue his education.

Local leaders, including Nabarangpur MLA Gouri Shankar Majhi, have expressed willingness to support him. “Strong willpower is the key to success, and Dhabaleswar has proved it. I will personally fund his education.” MLA Majhi said.

Dhabaleswar’s inspiring story has triggered conversations across Odisha about the need for systemic support for meritorious students from underprivileged backgrounds.

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