Meet Odisha's Abhimanyu Who Followed His Dreams to Land in ISRO

Kandhamal: Nothing is impossible for those who believe. And Abhimanyu Mallick of Odisha's Kandhamal has evinced that with strong determination and dedication, one can achieve anything till s/he keeps the dreams alive. Getting an opportunity to serve the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) as a scientist, this tribal youth from Khajuripada Simbali village has become an epitome of success through hard work.

After completing his schooling, unlike the fortunate kids, Abhimanyu had to walk 5 kms every day to reach Kusumendi panchayat road due to absence of non-motorable roads in his village, to pursue higher studies. Despite family's financial constraints, Abhimanyu completed his Mechanical Diploma and started working with a private company in Kolkata as a Design Engineer. Later in 2007, he managed to clear the examination conducted by ISRO.

Currently, Abhimanyu is posted as a Scientist in Rocket Wing at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) or Sriharikota Range (SHAR), a rocket launch centre operated by the ISRO in Andhra.

"My father wanted me to continue my studies but the financial conditions posed a barrier. So I worked with a private company to manage my further studies. I am a part of the rocket team now and I hope whatever responsibilities I'll be assigned, I'd do that with same level of dedication," said Abhimanyu.

"My son is moving places and has made us proud. He fulfils all our needs," says Baidei Mallick, a proud mother."

"As friends, we are proud of Abhimanyu. In fact the whole village is proud of him," said a local.