Talent is a gift, but what makes it shine is the determination to nurture it. With willpower comes courage- the courage to push beyond limits and discover what we’re truly capable of.

We’ve all heard stories of individuals who inspire generations by proving that self-belief and perseverance can move mountains. Odisha too is home to such stories; tales of grit and triumph against all odds. Today, we bring you the story of Champa Rasbeda, the first woman from the Didayi community to clear the NEET exam.

The Didayi tribe- Life amidst nature

Champa belongs to the Didayi tribe of Odisha. Known locally as Gatah, the community lives close to nature in the remote forests of Koraput and Malkangiri. Farming on wetlands and hill slopes sustains them, with fruits like papaya, mango, and jackfruit, along with seasonal vegetables, forming the backbone of their livelihood.

Life here is simple, rooted in tradition and resilience. But it is also marked by challenges- limited access to healthcare, education, and other basic facilities often keeps opportunities out of reach. Yet, the Didayis remain deeply connected to their land, preserving their way of life with dignity.

Champa’s journey- A dream beyond limits

Born in Amlibeda, a small village in Malkangiri, Champa grew up amidst these struggles. Her father, Lachmu Rasbeda, is a marginal farmer, while her mother manages the household. Resources were scarce, but Champa’s dreams soared higher than her circumstances.

She had seen her community suffer from a lack of medical care, with many attributing illnesses to black magic. This only strengthened her resolve to become a doctor- to bring real healthcare and real hope to her people.

Champa often credits her teacher, Utkal Keshari Das, whose encouragement gave her the confidence to chase this dream. Later, she moved to Balasore to join a private coaching centre- far from home, but closer to her goal. Every hour of study carried a single purpose- to carve a better future for herself and her community.

Inspiration also came from others, like Mangala Muduli, the first woman from the Bonda tribe to clear NEET, whose achievement gave Champa the belief that her dream was possible too.

Breaking barriers, Lighting the way

Champa’s success is more than a personal milestone; it’s a turning point for her community. She stands as a role model for the Didayi people, showing that education and determination can rewrite destinies.

Her story is proof that no obstacle, be it poverty, isolation, or lack of opportunity, is insurmountable when matched with resilience. Today, Champa is not just a NEET qualifier; she is a beacon of possibility for countless others across Odisha and beyond.

The lesson we take

Champa’s journey is a reminder that courage and conviction can transform lives. She has opened a new path for others to believe in themselves, to dream bigger, and to chase those dreams with persistence.

Let us celebrate and support such stories. Because in every triumph like Champa’s lies the spark that pushes an entire community, and perhaps all of us, forward.