From struggle to success: OCS warriors inspire with determination and dreams

Obstacles can never become barriers in the path of success. In the face of dedication and perseverance, every difficulty eventually gives way. One should never stop dreaming, even after facing limitations. This is not just a saying; rather, it has been proven true by some students from humble families who have achieved success in the recently announced OPSC Odisha Civil Services (OCS) 2023 examination. 

Smrutisikha, Nilima, Sangram, and Tuku — each one of them has reached the destination of success by walking the road of struggle. Coming from modest families and ordinary surroundings, they have tasted the sweetness of victory in one of the toughest examinations, emerging as true warriors.

Among them is Smrutisikha Bhoi, the golden girl from Sonepur. Visually impaired since childhood, she has conquered every barrier in her path to reach the peak of success. Remarkably, in her very first attempt, she secured an impressive 335th rank in the OCS exam. For the parents who once considered her a burden at birth, Smrutisikha has today brought immense pride and honour, turning their doubts into tears of joy and triumph. 

"Divyang brothers and sisters can also move forward in their studies and become part of the mainstream of the society. They should recognise their talent and advance. Their families should support them in their studies and other fields so that they will be able to move forward in their lives," said Smrutisikha Bhoi.

Keonjhar district’s Harichandanpur block has much to celebrate as Naksatra Nilima Kumari Nayak from Nuagaon achieved success in her very first attempt at the Odisha Civil Services (OCS) examination. Despite hailing from a remote region, she aspired to join administrative services after completing higher education. Unsatisfied with her position as a Junior Assistant at Telkoi Girls’ High School, she dedicated herself to OCS preparation. Her success has brought immense pride not just to her family but also to Telkoi Girls’ High School.

"I belong to a rural area and I have seen children there who are not aware of the importance of schooling. After coming to the administrative sector, I will focus on how they will be part of the mainstream of society and how they will be able to understand the importance of education," said Naksatra Nilima Kumari Nayak.

From Nuapada district's Komna block, another shining example is Tuku Tandi, who comes from a humble farmer's family. Though his parents struggled with financial hardships, they never let it hinder their son’s dreams. With determination and hard work, Tuku cleared the OCS examination in his first attempt, securing an impressive 287th rank. His achievement has inspired many in his region.

"I am very happy. I was aiming to join the Odisha Administrative Service. I will work in the department that will be provided to me by the government," said Tuku Tandi.

Adding to these success stories is Sangram Hikaka from Jeypore block in Koraput district. A dedicated student pursuing his postgraduate studies in English at Vikram Dev University, Sangram has faced his share of challenges, having lost his father, while his mother works as a Class-IV employee. Despite these hardships, his relentless focus on academics and perseverance led him to crack the OCS examination. With this milestone behind him, Sangram now sets his sights on the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).

"I had the plan 'A' from the very beginning to crack UPSC and join all the India service. However, I could not clear two examinations. Then I planned to grab a state service so that with a job in hand, I can pursue all All-India Service fearlessly," said Sangram Hikaka.