Odisha's tribal boy shines in JEE (Advanced)

Rayagada: Creating history of sorts, tribal boy Pradeep Himrika of Rayagada district not only brought laurels to the tribal community but also set an example for the physically challenged students by qualifying JEE (Advanced) entrance exam, the results of which were declared on Sunday.

A native of Adubuda village under Kalyansinghpur block of the district, Pradeep has not only cracked the test with 3rd rank but also topped in the category of differently-abled tribal students in India by securing 144 marks in the entrance exam.

Aspiring to be an IAS officer, this tribal boy wants to pursue higher studies in an IIT Institute.

He has completed his 10th from Bisamcuttack Navodaya Vidyalaya and Plus Two in Science stream from Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya Kottayam, Kerala.

"We are very happy and overwhelmed with the achievement of our son," expressed Pradeep's parents, Salupu and Kante Himirika.

However, owing to financial problems Pradeep's father Salupu has urged the government authorities to grant him financial assistance for higher studies.