In a historic achievement for Odisha, Champa Rasbeda, a young girl from the Didayi tribal community in Amri Behda of Malkangiri district, has become the first-ever Didayi girl to clear the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET), paving her way towards a career in medicine. This remarkable milestone has not only brought immense pride to her family but also ignited hope and inspiration across her community, which has long struggled with lack of educational and healthcare opportunities.

Champa completed her matriculation and Plus II studies at government-run schools before moving to Balasore for advanced NEET coaching at a private coaching centre. She credited her high school teacher, Utkal Keshari Das, for his constant guidance and motivation during her preparation. Despite the challenges of financial hardship, poor health facilities, and limited educational infrastructure, Champa remained determined to achieve her dream of becoming a doctor. She revealed how her teacher inspired her by narrating the story of Mangala Muduli, the first doctor from the Bonda tribe who cleared NEET last year. That story became a turning point in Champa’s journey, giving her the confidence to persevere against all odds.

The Didayi community, one of the most marginalized tribal groups in Odisha, has never produced a doctor or anyone in a high-profile professional career. Champa’s success marks a new chapter in the history of her tribe, proving that education can be a powerful tool for transformation. Speaking about her achievement, Champa said her dream has always been to serve her villagers. She noted that her community lacks a hospital, forcing villagers to often rely on sorcery and superstitions even for minor illnesses. As a daughter of the soil, she believes people will trust her medical advice, enabling her to eradicate harmful superstitious practices and bring scientific healthcare closer to her people.

Champa comes from a humble farming family, with her father working as a farmer and a household comprising three sisters, four brothers, and her parents. The news of her NEET success brought joy and celebration not only within her family but also across the entire village, as relatives and neighbors rejoiced at the breakthrough. With her NEET success, Champa Rasbeda is set to join the Fakir Mohan Medical College, where she will begin her journey to become a doctor. She expressed heartfelt gratitude to her coaching centre, her teacher, and all well-wishers who supported her throughout her educational path. Champa’s story stands as a beacon of hope for Odisha’s tribal students, especially girls, who face structural barriers in pursuing higher education. Her journey proves that with determination, mentorship, and community support, even the toughest odds can be overcome.