Three sisters along with their cousin have successfully cleared the NEET exam, earning spots in government medical colleges across Odisha. This achievement highlights the struggles of a tribal family from Kandhamal district, where five children are now on their path to becoming doctors.

The family, which relies on a migrant worker as its primary income source, has prioritized education despite facing financial challenges. They believe that dedication and hard work can help them rise above their circumstances.

FROM ONE NEET SUCCESS TO FIVE FUTURE DOCTORS

Bibhisan Naiak, the oldest at 25, is the first in his family to pass the NEET exam. He is currently interning at Saheed Laxman Naik Medical College in Koraput. His sister, Monalisa Pradhan, 23, is already a second-year student at the same institution. Additionally, Sunemi, 20, Ashriya, 18, and Meenakshi, 19, have all cleared the entrance exam and are now pursuing MBBS degrees at medical colleges in Puri, Bolangir, and Bhawanipatna.

Meenakshi, raised by Brushi Naiak and Anusaya, who are Brushi’s younger brother Jishiya Pradhan’s children, is also part of this inspiring story. Anusaya expressed, “All are my children. We have nine members in the family, including two younger sons still in school,” while sitting in their modest home.

The children received their education in Daringbadi and completed their intermediate studies in Nayagarh.

‘WE HAVE WITNESSED OUR PARENTS’ STRUGGLE’

Bibhisan, who is poised to be the first doctor in his family, mentioned that he provided guidance to Monalisa during her NEET preparations. “I helped my sister Monalisa prepare for NEET, and she passed with ease. This success motivated me to bring the other three to Berhampur for coaching for a few days,” he recounted.

Regarding the family’s financial situation, Bibhisan shared that his father contributed a small amount, while he also taught local children. To further support their education, he has taken out a loan of Rs 6 lakh.

He emphasized the importance of excelling academically as the only path out of poverty. “We have seen our parents’ struggles. They inspire us to maintain a simple lifestyle while striving for high achievements. There were times we went hungry, but we never lost sight of our education goals,” Meenakshi stated.

FATHER WORKS IN FIELDS AND MIGRATES FOR WORK

Brushi Naiak, who only completed up to Class 2, understands the significance of education and has dedicated his life to ensuring his children have opportunities to study. He cultivates crops like paddy, ginger, and turmeric on their small land and often migrates for labor to support his children’s educational needs.

The family also benefits from government assistance programs for those living below the poverty line. “I am unsure how they have achieved this, but my immediate worry is funding the education of all five children, which is increasingly challenging,” Brushi told PTI.

He added, “They have taken some loans, but more financial support is needed for books and supplies. Medical education is costly.”

‘MY ROLE IS TO PROVIDE FOR AND GUIDE THE CHILDREN’

Anusaya, who has no formal education, recognizes the value of her children’s education, even if she cannot comprehend their studies. “My job is to cook for the family and guide the children,” she stated with a smile.

Sunemi Pradhan, who is now enrolled in an MBBS program, remarked that the siblings grasped their financial reality from a young age. “We understood poverty early on, and we try to live within our means, considering our parents’ financial situation,” she explained. Ashriya added that they have witnessed their father’s anxiety over their financial struggles.

“We have seen our father worry about his inability to do more for us, and we strive to improve our situation,” she said.

FAMILY SEEKS GOVERNMENT SUPPORT

Jishiya Pradhan, Brushi’s brother, has urged the state government to provide aid to alleviate their financial burdens. “Our children will serve the community as doctors, and the entire village is proud of them,” he expressed. As they prepare to venture beyond their village, the children remain committed to their roots, assisting Brushi with farming and caring for the family’s livestock.